The priesthood policy repeatedly called for attention from the Presidency and Twelve to answer borderline questions. Shortly after World War II, the Twelve asked Frederick Babbel to compile sources on the issue. In 1947, the year Jackie Robinson finally broke the color barrier in professional baseball, the First Presidency (then consisting of George Albert Smith, J. Reuben Clark, and David O. McKay) and the Twelve discussed the request by Brother and Sister Hope for patriarchal blessings. Spencer became acquainted with their story at that time and summarized in his journal the response to their request: “The Brethren seemed unified in feeling that we could not withhold the regular gospel blessings from the colored people, and that though we were unable yet to give them the Priesthood, perhaps we should not withhold from them the other blessings of the gospel [such as patriarchal blessings].” Elder Benson had described the Hopes’ faithfulness despite being asked not to attend meetings.” Presiding Patriarch Eldred G. Smith gave the Hopes their patriarchal blessings, identifying them as “associated with Manasseh,” not because of literal lineage, but consistent with his belief that blacks should be assigned to or adopted into that tribe of Israel. Spencer sometimes related the Hopes’ experiences to congregations as he preached tolerance and Christian love for all. He praised their exemplary faithfulness when it would have been so easy for them to succumb to bitterness.