tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85680721617934724902024-03-13T22:15:27.865-08:00Mormonism-Unveiled: Fact Vs. FancyMormonism-Unveiled provides a discussion of Latter-day Saint (Mormon) doctrines, practices, and current events from the pro-LDS point of view. In Mormonism-Unveiled, note that I speak only for myself and do not officially speak on behalf of the LDS Church. Get all the facts before you join. Mormonism may not be for everyone - but it might be for YOU.Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.comBlogger932125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-82206804526125636252015-09-25T22:19:00.002-08:002015-09-30T13:16:42.831-08:00LDS Church Disavows Julie Rowe's Prophecies, But Take No Action Against HerRemember <a href="http://julieroweprepare.com/">Julie Rowe</a>? She's an active, believing member of the LDS Church who had a NDE (Near-Death Experience) and who chose to document and discuss it in two separate books, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/A-Greater-Tomorrow-Julie-Rowe/dp/0996097406/ref=pd_bxgy_14_img_2/182-3873819-2281568?ie=UTF8&refRID=1RK8T41E56EZKYZ9HSSC"><i>“A Greater Tomorrow: My Journey Beyond the Veil”</i></a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Time-Now-Julie-Rowe/dp/0996097414"><i>“The Time is Now”</i></a>. Triggering much interest and discussion was a host of end-time prophecies she published in these books. One of her more extensive interviews was aired by KTKK in Salt Lake back in June 2014; some of the material was presented in <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2014/06/julie-rowe-discusses-her-nde-book.html">this previous post</a>. NDEs are sometimes also referred to as OBEs (Out-Of-Body Experiences).<br />
<br />
But Julie Rowe is back in the news. On September 15th, 2015, the Daily Mail, one of the United Kingdom's most widely-read news sources, <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3235487/The-heavens-let-loose-powers-darkness-rage-Mormon-woman-s-prophecy-world-ending-month-predicted-Utah-s-fatal-flash-floods.html">published an article</a> claiming the Rowe predicted the fatal flash floods that afflicted southern Utah earlier this month. The Daily Mail also claimed that Rowe's books say September 2015 will see the beginning of the end of the world, and that doom will come via a catalog of natural disasters and a series of plagues. They also claim she said that the USA will be invaded by foreign soldiers and martial law declared. Rowe also allegedly said she has she has now given up eating fish after one vision showed the world's seas being poisoned by the fallout from the Fukushima nuclear disaster in 2011. The real takeaway from this article is that Julie Rowe has amassed an estimated 10,000 "fans", and that she has contributed to an upsurge in sales of dried food and everyday essentials from specialist shops such as Emergency Essentials.<br />
<br />
But even before the publication of this article, the LDS Church was mindful of Julie Rowe's growing reach, and concerned about the message she was putting forth. In a <a href="https://si.lds.org/bc/seminary/content/binary-content/binary-content/news-tim-gurr/publication_caution---a_greater_tomorrow_my_journey_beyond_the_veil_04-statements-in-circulation3831.pdf">written caution sent on August 31st, 2015 to the various seminaries and Institutes of Religion</a>, the LDS Church distanced itself from the material in Julie Rowe's books:<br />
<br />
<blockquote><i>“Although Sister Rowe is an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, her book is not endorsed by the Church and should not be recommended to students or used as a resource in teaching them. The experiences she shares are her own personal experiences and do not necessarily reflect Church doctrine or they may distort Church doctrine.”</i></blockquote><br />
On Thursday September 10th, LDS Church spokesman Doug Andersen released a <a href="http://kutv.com/news/local/lds-church-flags-members-book-about-latter-day-calamities-as-potential-misleading">follow-up statement to KUTV Channel 2</a> about the warning to seminary and institute instructors.<br />
<br />
<blockquote><i>"The internal memo does not constitute an official Church statement but serves as a routine reminder to teachers from Seminaries and Institutes of Religion of their responsibility to teach from the scriptures and church leaders. People who read her books should recognize that they are personal accounts and do not necessarily reflect church doctrine."</i></blockquote><br />
Rowe, who lives in the Midwest (although the <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3235487/The-heavens-let-loose-powers-darkness-rage-Mormon-woman-s-prophecy-world-ending-month-predicted-Utah-s-fatal-flash-floods.html">Daily Mail</a> says she has a home in Tucson), responded to the church's warning in the <a href="http://kutv.com/news/local/lds-church-flags-members-book-about-latter-day-calamities-as-potential-misleading">following statement to KUTV</a>, aired on September 10th:<br />
<br />
<blockquote><i>"I agree that the curriculum for LDS church classes should only come from sources recognized by the LDS Church as being authoritative. My story is not intended to be authoritative nor to create any church doctrine. It is simply part of my personal journey that I have chosen to share in hopes that it can help people to prepare for the times we live in by increasing their faith in Christ and by looking to our prophet and church leaders for guidance."</i></blockquote><br />
Consequently, it is unlikely her local bishop or stake president has taken any action against her, except maybe to counsel her in private. She does generate some robust discussion in cyberspace, even on such pro-Mormon websites as <a href="http://www.ldsfreedomforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=40086">LDS Freedom Forum</a>. A huge five-page thread exists <a href="http://www.ldsfreedomforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=39954">HERE</a> which shows that a plurality of respondents do not believe her claims.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
NDEs/OBEs are best evaluated by initializing against scripture. If the scripture does not rebut the message delivered by the person, then it can be evaluated and incorporated into one's life as needed. If it does conflict with scripture, then it ought to be discarded. <br />
<br />
And just because an NDE prophecy doesn't occur doesn't mean there was intentional deception. Many prophecies are conditional. For example, in the Bible, Jonah was commanded to call the city of Nineveh to repentance, otherwise it would be destroyed. But Jonah got cold feet and instead decided to dabble in marine biology. After three days studying the digestive system of a large fish, he decided that he now knew more tha enough about the inner workings of fish and was prepared to go to Nineveh. He went - he cried repentance - and surprise, they repented. No destruction. <br />
<br />
Since I resumed activity in the LDS Church last December, Stake and ward leadership have given us much counsel about the future. But none of it has been catastrophic. They sense that things are beginning to get rough, but have merely counseled us to pay tithing, become templeworthy, attend to our family histories, and upgrade our food storage. Our stake president expressed concern that Alaska could be in for some financial trouble, but since he also serves in Governor Bill Walker's administration, he would know that. The bottom line -- do what the Lord has already told us to do, and trust in Him to get us through any future tribulation that might be coming. In fact, it might be better if we prayed that tribulation might be deferred or deflected if there are a sufficient number of righteous people in our area. The latter is why we are being told to <i>"hasten the work"</i> and warn our friends and neighbors.<br />
<br />
Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-16527938573974444042015-09-22T14:54:00.002-08:002015-09-29T18:06:50.234-08:00Passing Of Elder Richard G. Scott Opens Up Third Vacancy On LDS Quorum Of The Twelve<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpsDwKnFY76VnitqKM3LYy_VDjbTc9uBLd_c9ebWjq1q5NkyQ9JIqb9m9gLXhpU6a8KWPNyg1gobX9id962QwlL1oDa2doRzJrfoO28Dd5ypUj5ol6IsThoezuXgQybuZzyrGQ9eMTJrvJ/s1600/elder-scott.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpsDwKnFY76VnitqKM3LYy_VDjbTc9uBLd_c9ebWjq1q5NkyQ9JIqb9m9gLXhpU6a8KWPNyg1gobX9id962QwlL1oDa2doRzJrfoO28Dd5ypUj5ol6IsThoezuXgQybuZzyrGQ9eMTJrvJ/s200/elder-scott.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>A third vacancy on the LDS Church's Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has just opened up as <a href="http://www.ksl.com/?sid=35787105&nid=148&title=elder-richard-g-scott-dies-at-86&fm=home_page&s_cid=topstory">Elder Richard G. Scott passed away due to causes incident to old age on Tuesday September 22nd, 2015</a> at home surrounded by his family. Elder Scott was hospitalized in April 2015 due to gastrointestinal bleeding and after his release from the hospital, the Church said he had experienced a fading memory incident due to age, and was no longer fully able to participate in meetings of the Quorum of the Twelve at this time. <br />
<br />
<b>UPDATE September 23rd:</b> <a href="http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/funeral-services-scheduled-on-temple-square-for-elder-richard-g-scott?cid=HP_TU_9-22-2015_dPAD_fFANN-SCTT_xLIDyL1-A_">Funeral services will be held in the Tabernacle on Temple Square</a> on Monday, September 28th, 2015, at 11:00 a.m. MDT. The funeral will be open to the public ages 8 and older. They will be broadcast live via MormonNewsroom.org and LDS.org, along with a host of other media sources. There will be no public viewing. Expressions of sympathy can be posted on Elder Scott's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lds.richard.g.scott">official Facebook page</a> or emailed to condolences at ldschurch.org. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Church’s General Missionary Fund at <a href="https://www.ldsphilanthropies.org/donations/lds-church/missionary-fund.html?cde1=1673">give.lds.org/elderscott</a>.<br />
<br />
<b>UPDATE September 29th:</b> <a href="http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/elder-richard-g-scott-funeral-services">On September 28th, approximately 2,500 people filled the historic Tabernacle to capacity for the funeral of Elder Scott</a>, while many others attended the services in the overflow seating of the nearby Assembly Hall. Thousands more watched the broadcast live in English, Spanish and Portuguese on LDS.org and on the Church satellite system. The service, held under the direction of the First Presidency, was attended by general authorities and auxiliary leaders of the Church, as well as community and civic leaders and members of Elder Scott’s family. Church President Thomas S. Monson presided over the services, which were conducted by President Henry B. Eyring, first counselor in the First Presidency.<br />
<br />
Elder Scott served as an apostle since 1988. Before that, he served on the First Quorum of the Seventy beginning on April 2, 1977, and served as a member of the presidency of that quorum from October 1983 until he was called as an apostle. One of his most notable secular accomplishments was service working on Admiral Hyman Rickover's staff directing development of nuclear fuel for naval and land based power plants. On that team, he worked on the design of the nuclear reactor for Nautilus, the first nuclear-powered submarine, and on the first land-based nuclear power plant. <br />
<br />
Elder Scott was married to the late Jeanene Watkins, who preceded him in death in 1995. Together, they had seven children, two of which preceded their parents in death. <br />
<br />
Other sources of information:<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/elder-richard-g-scott-dies-at-age-86?cid=HP_TU_9-22-2015_dPAD_fANN-SCTT_xLIDyL1-A_">Church announcement on Mormon Newsroom</a><br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/elder-richard-g-scott-mind-scientist-soul-apostle-god">Full biography on Mormon Newsroom<br />
<br />
</a>It is quite likely that the successors to L. Tom Perry and Boyd K. Packer will be named and presented to the Church at the upcoming <a href="https://www.lds.org/church/events/october-2015-general-conference?cid=HP_FR_9-18-2015_dCN_fEVT_xLIDyL2-2_&lang=eng">185th Semiannual General Conference</a> to be held on October 3-4. There's also a possibility that a successor to Elder Scott will also be named at this time despite the recency of his passing. Through the power of revelation, the successors will be identified to President Thomas S. Monson, who will then convene the remaining quorum members to ratify the selection. <a href="https://www.lds.org/prophets-and-apostles/unto-all-the-world/calling-an-apostle-of-god?lang=eng">Read more about this process on LDS.org</a>. <br />
<br />
Nevertheless, it is natural to speculate on the identity of likely successors. And such speculation is harmless so long as it does not cross the line into formal campaigning for a specific person. Since most apostles are selected from the First Quorum of the Seventy, it is only natural to look there first. The Church is also looking to diversify its senior leadership, although it uses diversity as a means to an end rather than an end unto itself, so Seventies from Latin America, Asia, and Africa may get a closer look than usual. <br />
<br />
-- <a href="https://www.lds.org/church/leader/ulisses-soares?lang=eng">Elder Ulisses Soares</a>. A Brazilian national, Elder Soares is not only a member of the First Quorum of the Seventy, but is also a member of the seven-man <a href="https://www.lds.org/church/leaders/presidency-of-the-seventy?lang=eng">Presidency of the Seventy</a>. The length of Elder Soares's service, his relatively young age (57), and the strong growth of the Church in Latin America and particularly in Brazil make him a most attractive candidate. By selecting Elder Soares, the Church will signal to Latin Americans that they have finally "arrived" in the upper reaches of Church government and will give them a living symbol to further burnish their testimonies.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="https://www.lds.org/church/leader/ronald-a-rasband?lang=eng">Elder Ronald A. Rasband</a>. An American born in Utah, he also serves in both the quorum and the presidency. Elder Rasband not only gains visibility by his frequent Conference talks, but on September 15th, gave <a href="http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/religious-freedom-is-fairness-for-all">an important talk at BYU-Provo about religious liberty</a>. The timing of this talk, so close to General Conference, opens up speculation that the Church was "showcasing" him. <br />
<br />
-- The third choice is a bit tougher. The Church could play it safe and select either L. Whitney Clayton, Donald L. Hallstrom, or Richard J. Maynes to fill an apostle vacancy. All are veterans of lengthy service as seventies. If the Church desires to promote an Asian to the apostleship, it could select Yoon Hwan Choi, who is comparatively young. A real wild card would be <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_W._Sitati">Joseph W. Sitati</a>, a native of Kenya who not only has served as a seventy for over six years, but is currently the editor of Ensign, Liahona, New Era, and The Friend magazines. While the LDS Church is not as numerically strong in Africa as it is elsewhere, it it growing fast in some sections, and the selection of an African apostle could jumpstart Church growth there.Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-25545364988852316752015-07-17T22:24:00.001-08:002015-07-17T22:24:53.700-08:00LDS Missionary Elder Ricardo Alberto Cuevas Magdaleno Passes Away From Sudden Illness In Costa RicaCosta Rica media sources have been reporting this for the past two days, but were withholding the name of the decedent. Now the <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/765677661/20-year-old-missionary-serving-in-Costa-Rica-passes-away-LDS-Church-says.html?pg=all">Deseret News</a> is reporting that 20-year-old Elder Ricardo Alberto Cuevas Magdaleno, a missionary serving in the Costa Rica San Jose East Mission, passed away in his sleep of unknown causes sometime during the night of July 14-15, 2015. Elder Cuevas was from the Xalapa Mexico Stake. His companion, who was also from Mexico, was not identified.<br />
<br />
But the <a href="http://news.co.cr/expat-on-mormon-mission-found-dead-in-costa-rica/40246/">Costa Rica Star</a> (English) published additional details in their July 16th story. Elder Cuevas, a veteran of six months mission service in Sarapiqui in northeast Costa Rica, has been approved for his mission despite suffering from chronic asthma and other pulmonary issues; <a href="http://diarioextra.com/Noticia/detalle/264625/encuentran-muerto-misionero-mormon">he had a supply of medication on hand</a>. But he originally requested the Sarapiqui area because he felt that's where God wanted him to serve. On the evening of July 14th, Elder Cuevas told his companion that he had not felt well in the last few days, and decided to skip the customary end-of-day briefing and Bible study. His companion offered to take him to the hospital, but Elder Cuevas declined, saying his life in God’s hands. In the morning, when Elder Cuevas failed to emerge from his bedroom, his companion entered and found he had passed away during the night. First responders rendered a preliminary diagnosis as a respiratory arrest, but the medical examiner will make the final call. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://diarioextra.com/Noticia/detalle/264625/encuentran-muerto-misionero-mormon">Diario Extra</a> also published a story (Spanish) which can be easily translated using Google Translate.<br />
<br />
Elder Cuevas developed a reputation as a kind young man who always traveled on foot or bicycle, wore buttoned-up and crisply pressed white shirts, and who was very respectful and passionate about his religion. He is the <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2009/10/partial-list-of-lds-missionaries-who.html">fourth LDS missionary to have given his life in service to the Lord</a> while on a mission in 2015.<br />
<br />
<b>Note:</b> <a href="http://www.mormonmissionprep.com/call-process/mission-application-form/">LDS members are allowed to serve full-time missions with chronic medical conditions if a physician certifies their ability to serve and ensures they know the medications they need to stabilize and control their condition</a>. It is the missionary's responsibility to ensure he or she has the medications available. <br />
<br />
Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-38448171337248250012015-07-15T12:06:00.001-08:002015-07-17T22:34:47.889-08:00Anti-Mormon Utah Carpetbaggers From Tri-Grace Ministries Try To Spoil Open House For Indianapolis-Area LDS Temple<b>Update July 17th: Here's a short video showing the interior of the Indianapolis Temple.</b><br />
<br />
<b><a href="https://youtu.be/hkiTk8clS1Y">https://youtu.be/hkiTk8clS1Y</a></b><br />
<br />
<iframe width="450" height="275" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hkiTk8clS1Y" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
As the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints prepares for the <a href="http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/open-house-begins-for-the-indianapolis-indiana-temple">open house</a> for the new temple located in the Indianapolis suburb of Carmel, Indiana, Satan has decided to show up to cast his negative vote -- using a bunch of anti-Mormon Utah carpetbaggers as his handmaidens.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2015/07/14/mormon-temple-christian-opponents/30167063/">Activists from the Utah-based Tri-Grace Ministries plan to set up a tent across the street to declare what they think is "the truth" about the LDS Church</a>. They fired their first volley last week when they took out a 12-page advertising supplement in community newspapers in Carmel, Westfield and Zionsville that warn about the so-called "deception" of the religion. <a href="http://www.4witness.org/tri-grace-ministries/">Tri-Grace Ministries founder Chip Thompson</a> claims that the LDS Church is not telling the truth and Mormons are not following what Jesus taught. <br />
<br />
So far, LDS Church officials have refused to dignify Tri-Grace Ministries with a response. But other Christians in the local area see through the hatred and bigotry spewed by this bogus ministry. Chris Duckworth, pastor of <a href="http://newjoy.org/">New Joy Lutheran Church</a> (ELCA) in Westfield, was irked by the advertising supplements and was quoted as follows:<br />
<br />
<blockquote><i>"We don't treat people, who have been seriously picked on, in that way. We know better than that. We are better than that."</i><br />
<br />
<i>"If my Mormon brother says he's a Christian, I'll accept his word at that. We might disagree in theology or have differences in opinion about what core tenets of Christianity are. But I'm not going to deny him the right to call himself what he or she in their faith believe they are."</i></blockquote><br />
Pastor Duckworth adds considerably more detail on <a href="http://newjoy.org/mormon-bashing/">his church's website</a>. He plans to attend the LDS open house, and he further writes:<br />
<br />
<blockquote><i>"Theological differences between the Mormon Church and the Lutheran Church are real. But so too is the unfair treatment our neighbors, friends, and fellow children of God of the Mormon Church receive to this day. My friends and neighbors don’t deserve to receive, on their doorstep, such a publication. I cannot remain silent. I have to speak out.<br />
<br />
For me, living a life of faith is not about projecting my faith into the public square to the detriment of others, or seeking public assets – be they government or business – to enshrine and propagate my faith through their power and reach. Instead, living a life of faith is about coming to the defense of my neighbors, seeking the good of the community – particularly the most vulnerable and “least of these” (Matthew 25:40) – living into the promises of the coming Kingdom of God, and having the opportunity to worship and live according to the dictates of faith."</i></blockquote><br />
Although Pastor Duckworth does not claim to hold either the Aaronic or Melchizedek Priesthood, there is no question that the Lord is working through him and that he does access the Holy Spirit. Pastorship is a function of priesthood, and the Lord will recognize and use his ministry so long as he acts in a Christ-like manner. At his level of knowledge and light, Pastor Duckworth is a champion for Christ.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.trigrace.org/Home.html">A visit to the Tri-Grace Ministries website</a> shows that their sole objective is to denigrate and defame Mormonism. There is absolutely no effort on their part to actually win souls for Christ. <b>During a time period when traditional Christian values are under attack by the elite nationwide, waging civil war against fellow Christians is tantamount to treason against God</b>.<br />
<br />
The open house will take place from July 17th through August 8th; details available at <a href="http://www.ldschurchtemples.com/indianapolis/">the dedicated website</a>. On August 23rd, the temple will be formally dedicated, after which time only templeworthy LDS members will be allowed admittance. The temple, which will become the 148th operational temple in the world, will serve approximately 30,000 LDS members who currently go to the Louisville, Chicago, and Columbus temples. Read the <a href="http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/multimedia/file/indianapolis-indiana-temple-fact-sheet-pdf">complete fact sheet on the temple</a> for further details about its construction and composition.Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-66493905250633762502015-07-10T11:57:00.001-08:002015-07-10T11:57:08.803-08:00President Boyd K. Packer Lauded For Legacy Of Christ-Like Love And Service At Funeral Service On Temple SquareAt the funeral of President Boyd K. Packer held in Salt Lake City on July 10th, 2015, <a href="http://www.ksl.com/?sid=35435797&nid=148&title=president-monson-others-president-packer-a-diligent-devoted-disciple-of-christ&s_cid=queue-3">LDS Church President Thomas S. Monson noted that President Packer left a legacy of Christ-like service and love</a>. He and other speakers also characterized President Packer a talented teacher, scriptorian, artist, example, friend and leader. President Packer died at home on July 3 at the age of 90 after serving as a general authority of the LDS Church for just over 53 years. <br />
<br />
The funeral was held at 11:00 A.M. at the more traditional Salt Lake Tabernacle on Temple Square rather than at the more modern Conference Center. And yes, although President Packer was an Apostle, he was also assigned to a home ward and home stake, and, in a touch of class, his bishop and stake president were invited to join the other VIPs up on the stand. <a href="http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/funeral-services-on-temple-square-honor-president-boyd-k-packer">Speakers included President Monson, President Packer's son Elder Allan F. Packer of the Seventy, and Elders M. Russell Ballard and Dallin H. Oaks, both of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles</a>; President Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor in the First Presidency, conducted the service. It was also reported that the most senior-remaining apostle on the Quorum, Rusell M. Nelson, has assumed the duties of President of the Quorum.<br />
<br />
The entire service is now available on YouTube. The video embedded below is 2 hours and 10 minutes long. Navigation highlights:<br />
<br />
-- The first 38 minutes consist of music from the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.<br />
-- At the 38 minute point, the motorcade pulls up. The casket is removed and escorted into the Tabernacle by the VIPs.<br />
-- At the 58 minute point, the service actually begins, conducted by President Eyring.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://youtu.be/k5LeNcBmwrc"><b>https://youtu.be/k5LeNcBmwrc</b></a><br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="240" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/k5LeNcBmwrc" width="450"></iframe> <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.heraldextra.com/news/local/lds/president-boyd-k-packer-remembered-as-teacher-father-artist-and/article_a121055c-20fb-5a98-a1e0-20d5bbb27c2a.html">A private burial service took place at the Brigham City Cemetery following the funeral</a>. There will be no public viewing. In lieu of flowers, the apostle's family has asked contributions be made to the <a href="https://familysearch.org/">LDS Family History Center</a>. Donation instructions are available at <a href="https://www.ldsphilanthropies.org/">LDS Philanthropies</a>.<br />
<br />
Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-89694715058348895692015-07-08T23:56:00.001-08:002015-07-08T23:56:37.915-08:00Once Again, Elder D. Todd Christofferson Said Mormons Can Support Secular Same-Sex Marriage Without Jeopardizing Church Membership Or Temple WorthinessOne would think that when a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles speaks out on Church doctrine and policy, that would put an end to the controversy. But apparently some local leaders don't always get the message -- as <a href="http://www.ldsfreedomforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=39309">a member of LDS Freedom Forum points out</a>.<br />
<br />
<blockquote><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>barrattasu » Wed Jul 08, 2015 9:11 pm</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">I have a temple recommend interview on Sunday and I am having a serious internal dilemma. I have asked several people who serve in a bishopric if I can have a temple recommend and believe that gay marriage should be legal. I even asked a counselor in my current bishopric. <b>He said that the bishopric talked about this specific question and they would not give a recommend to anyone that admits to supporting gay marriage</b>. I have a friend who is a counselor in another bishopric and he went to the Stake President with this question. <b>HIs Stake President said that you absolutely could have a recommed and support gay marriage</b>. I did clarify with those who said I couldn't have a recommend if I support gay marriage, that it was simply agreeing with gay marriage that makes me ineligble. They said to refer to the question that states do you sympothize or agree with any individual or group.... I told them that the question/answer form that was given along with the statement to be read said that a persons membership is not in question if they support gay marriage. They said this is true but you can't have a temple recommend. My feeling is that there will be enough confusion that the Church will further clarify this situation. Has anyone run into this before or heard anything in regards to this in there local ward/branch?</span></blockquote><br />
It's already been clarified. In March 2015, during an interview by KUTV, Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve spoke out on this issue. He made it perfectly clear that LDS members who support secular same-sex marriage will not sacrifice their membership or temple worthiness. Here's the video of the interview:<br />
<br />
<b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XybDk3CEoHg">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XybDk3CEoHg</a></b><br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="250" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XybDk3CEoHg" width="450"></iframe><br />
<br />
There's also a <a href="http://thoughtsonthingsandstuff.com/christofferson-interview-the-transcript/">written transcript of the interview</a>. Here's the key excerpt:<br />
<br />
<blockquote><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Reporter:</b> Members of the LDS Church have been watching this too, around the the country, and it brings up the question as they’re dealing with these issues, maybe within their families, or trying to understand how maybe religious freedom applies to them within the church. Obviously the church has its doctrine, but can members of the church, say, support gay marriage or other things that are related to this bill <i>[Utah SB 296]</i> that the Church teaches against – can they support that?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Christofferson:</b> Well there is a diversity of opinion among church members in that regard and you know that’s always been true I guess on many subjects over the years over the decades and we don’t have qualms about that. We urge people to take part, for example, in the political process and we don’t tell them how to vote or who to vote for but that they exercise their own good judgment and make their decisions. Obviously that’s different than when somebody attacks the church, you know per se, or tries to hinder its work. But anybody pursuing their view of what ought to happen in the community – that’s what we hope to see, frankly. In a way you saw it here in the legislature. The vast majority of legislators in Utah are members the LDS Church and you see a wide variety of opinions in them and among them as you do in our at the federal level in the US and in other countries. So if we’re trying to get everybody to sing the same song and say exactly the same thing we’re failing miserably, but you saw that in this case as in most I hope people do work to come together on what can be the best solution for everybody.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Reporter:</b> I know that in one of the temple recommend interview questions it asks do you agree with elements that are against the church and I guess, I mean, could it be interpreted that if people supported gay marriage that would be agreeing with something that was against the church? <i>[Ed. Note: The specific question reads "Do you support, affiliate with, or agree with any group or individual whose teachings or practices are contrary to or oppose those accepted by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?"]</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Christofferson:</b> Well it’s not do you agree with a person’s position or an organization’s position – it is are you supporting organizations that promote opposition or positions in opposition to the church.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Reporter:</b> So would supporting gay marriage threaten somebody’s membership in the church if they went out say on Facebook or Twitter and actively advocated for it?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Christofferson:</b> That’s not an organized effort to to attack our effort or attack our functioning as a church, if you will.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Reporter:</b> So members can hold those beliefs even though they’re different from what you teach at the pulpit?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Christofferson:</b> Yes. And we..you know, our approach in all of this, as Joseph Smith said, is persuasion. You can’t, he said, you can’t use the Priesthood and the authority of the church to dictate. You can’t compel, you can’t coerce. It has to be gentleness, persuasion, love unfeigned as the words are in the scripture.</span></blockquote><br />
As <a href="http://www.sixteensmallstones.org/lds-apostle-d-todd-christofferson-did-not-say-that-it-is-okay-for-lds-members-to-support-same-sex-marriage/">blogger J. Max Wilson later pointed out on June 28th</a>, Elder Christofferson did NOT say that there is nothing wrong with Church members supporting same-sex marriage. He merely said that expressing personal support for same-sex marriage in social media would not be cause for discipline, so long as it wasn’t part of an organized effort to undermine the church. LDS members who support same-sex marriage are still out of harmony with Gospel principles. But the Church will tolerate their erroneous views in the hope that over time they will be persuaded to repent.<br />
<br />
So if a bishop threatens to withhold a temple recommend from someone who has supported secular same-sex marriage, the best advice is to simply remind him that an apostle has ruled otherwise. Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-53646044935798167782015-07-07T23:14:00.001-08:002015-07-15T10:59:52.864-08:00Glassell Park LDS Chapel Severely Damaged By Brush Fire In The Los Angeles Area<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmbVYBixDG4GEVAED-HZwHNgYSQLOX-srqsHPWl8UwGdjxggA8-JklieR5KrrjOXLyGYVkTV1Av6ttdei92UZHGQLwIPs7R1MpsbqY6rOs_gid-pAbvakE4zAGm5YkYPIi53al6pXxFQ4X/s1600/glassell-park.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmbVYBixDG4GEVAED-HZwHNgYSQLOX-srqsHPWl8UwGdjxggA8-JklieR5KrrjOXLyGYVkTV1Av6ttdei92UZHGQLwIPs7R1MpsbqY6rOs_gid-pAbvakE4zAGm5YkYPIi53al6pXxFQ4X/s400/glassell-park.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Screenshot from KTLA video</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Two congregations of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are temporarily without a sanctuary as the Glassell Park chapel located in northeast Los Angeles was severely damaged by a brush fire on July 7th, 2015. The most complete news stories are available from <a href="http://ktla.com/2015/07/07/l-a-firefighters-battle-blaze-burning-church-in-glassell-park/">KTLA Channel 5</a> and <a href="http://mynewsla.com/crime/2015/07/07/glassell-park-fire-spreads-to-mormon-church/">MyNewsLA</a>; this post summarizes the highlights.<br />
<br />
It began as a quarter-acre brush fire at the intersection of the Glendale Freeway and North Verdugo Road, first reported at 2:38 P.M. But the fire burned uphill, spreading to the eaves of the chapel located at 3845 Fletcher Drive. A reported 185 firefighters were eventually involved in suppressing the blaze, and while firefighters initially appeared to have knocked back the flames, the blaze erupted in the building’s attic, sending heavy black smoke over the area. Flames then burned through the roof, a portion of which collapsed and sent firefighters scrambling for ladders to get off the top of the structure. Fire crews then went into a defensive mode, pouring water on the blaze to drown the flames. Some flames spread to nearby palm trees. Two hours and 14 minutes later, the fire was suppressed, and firefighters assisted local church leaders in recovering documents and valuables from insider the chapel. Two firefighters were injured; <a href="http://abc7.com/news/200-firefighters-battle-church-fire-in-glassell-park/834084/">one's in good condition despite an arm injury and the other in fair condition after complaining of dizziness</a>. The very steep pitched roof with tiles was cited as increasing the difficulty of suppression. The official cause of the brush fire has not been determined. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.theeastsiderla.com/2015/07/brush-fire-threatens-glassell-park-church/">The Eastsider</a> published a timeline of events relating to the fire and has some good photos.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.myfoxla.com/story/29495669/brush-fire-burns-church-in-glassell-park">Bishop Carlos Diaz of the Fletcher Ward said</a> <i>"It's really sad news. I grew up in here so I know this building really well. It's a real tragedy."</i> James Jenks, a former bishop of the church, said most of the interior damage was confined to the kitchen and some of the classrooms. The chapel area was spared. He also stated that over 1,000 people attended services at the building (KTLA reported 400 people, but the MyNewsLA report seems more realistic). According to maps.lds.org, the resident congregations are the Fletcher Ward and the Arroyo Ward, both part of the Spanish-speaking <a href="http://www.ldschurchtemples.com/statistics/unit/east-los-angeles-california-stake-(spanish)/">East Los Angeles California Stake</a>. The congregations will disperse to other nearby chapels to worship for the foreseeable future.<br />
<br />
<b>Update July 15th:</b> On July 14th, <a href="http://abc7.com/news/mormon-church-vandalized-after-fire-in-glassell-park/852160/">graffiti was discovered on the remains of the Glassell Park chapel</a>. It looks more like gang graffiti rather than any anti-Mormon tagging. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwyaRBfH5Q1X_9oAt53hc7J4HbqyvDEJxMUbEM249aRsoFHQnPplVywEGZp0mV1g5OtWiq3G_geKdat1XYIuHD504ayC2ByCPPNNKhD5v5rsKAfKKY3AUS759z8mW2BzscI1E86f0z1zjV/s1600/glassell-park-2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwyaRBfH5Q1X_9oAt53hc7J4HbqyvDEJxMUbEM249aRsoFHQnPplVywEGZp0mV1g5OtWiq3G_geKdat1XYIuHD504ayC2ByCPPNNKhD5v5rsKAfKKY3AUS759z8mW2BzscI1E86f0z1zjV/s400/glassell-park-2.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Screenshot from KABC video</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Police confirm the graffiti is the work of a known tagging crew. The paint appears to be fresh and may have taken the suspects several nights to complete.<br />
<br />
Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-1860651838851943672015-07-05T21:46:00.004-08:002015-07-05T21:48:25.712-08:00Reaction To The LDS First Presidency's SCOTUS Marriage Letter From The Airport Heights WardThe <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/07/lds-churchs-first-presidency-issues.html">pastoral letter on the SCOTUS gay marriage decision from the First Presidency</a> of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was read at my local ward, the Airport Heights Ward of the <a href="http://www.ldschurchtemples.com/statistics/unit/anchorage-alaska-north-stake/">Anchorage Alaska North Stake</a> today (July 5th), and there was little to no reaction from Church members.<br />
<br />
Adult males (Melchizedek Priesthood) and females (Relief Society) met together, where the bishop personally read the letter. Young Men and Young Women met separately in a combined group and heard the letter from the first counselor. After the bishop read the letter, there was only one question posed. A ward member wanted to know where he could get his own copy of the letter. He was steered to the LDS website (LDS.org). The bishop emphasized that we were not to mistreat any ward members who support secular same-sex marriage. The letter was not referred to in either Sunday School or in Sacrament Meeting. What was interesting is that during Sacrament Meeting, we went out of our way to show that the SCOTUS decision did not weaken our patriotism to the federal government by singing The Star-Spangled Banner (everyone in the chapel stood up for this) and America The Beautiful.<br />
<br />
Other LDS members posting on <a href="http://www.ldsfreedomforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=39233&start=30">LDS Freedom Forum</a> reported similar reactions at their respective congregations, with one exception:<br />
<br />
<blockquote><b>gkearney » Sun Jul 05, 2015 12:48 pm</b><br />
Bishop read it to the Priesthood YW/RS in their respective meetings. HE offered to let the quorums/classes discuss it following. None of them did. Very uneventful.<br />
<br />
<b>davedan » Sun Jul 05, 2015 12:55 pm</b><br />
We had our 5-min combined meeting with Relief Society, and Priesthood. The Bishop read the First Presidency Message and asked for questions. There were no questions. We separated for our usual lessons.<br />
<br />
<b>Bpalmer » Sun Jul 05, 2015 4:06 pm</b><br />
Ours was read today in priesthood opening exercises and the RS had it read to them during their meeting. No response from anyone. The Bishop did say that if anyone had any issue they were invited to meet with him privately.<br />
<br />
<b>WikiUp » Sun Jul 05, 2015 7:58 pm</b><br />
Letter read today.<br />
<br />
Bishop requested all in attendance (children, youth, adults, visitors) at Sacrament Meeting remain in the chapel at the close of Sacrament meeting.<br />
<br />
After close of Sacrament Meeting, the 1st Councilor read the letter to all. Nobody departed from the Chapel before or during the reading. All were offered to come up to the front of the chapel and discuss any questions or concerns with the bishopric.<br />
<br />
No questions or responses. Dismissed for Sunday School classes. Didn't hear any informal discussion afterwards.<br />
<br />
Youth had discussion meetings with Bishopric during YM/YW time.<br />
<br />
<b>idahommie » Sun Jul 05, 2015 8:32 pm</b><br />
Bishop read the letter in priesthood meeting, RS and Sunday school with the youth, so the Aaronic Priesthood got a double dose. No questions were raised.<br />
<br />
<b>Indy » Sun Jul 05, 2015 6:52 pm (this was the exception)</b><br />
The adults were requested to meet today during the last 15 minutes of SS when the letter would be read. After reading the letter then Bishop gave a personal talk and followed up with Q&A. The questions were well thought out and the meeting went about 15 minutes longer then the allotted 15 minutes and ranged from BSA to not allowing the facilities in any way for receptions etc. for gay couples. There were several statements by members as to how this is not over, the Scotus had overstepped their bounds, and there were several legal steps that will be tried. I was impressed by the questions and responses. I did notice that the most liberal members declined to attend the meeting. The bishop said anyone that had personal issues that they did not want to express could meet with him in private.<br />
<br />
The letter or the Bishop said that we still have freedom of religion, and the family proclamation is still the Churches stance on the subject. I am was grateful for the reassurances, but still feel this is going to be a fight in the near future -- gays wanting to be sealed, etc.</blockquote>Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-48725693821690513782015-07-03T22:38:00.002-08:002015-07-10T11:58:31.514-08:00A True Champion For Christ Passes Away: May President Boyd K. Packer Rest In Peace (1924-2015)Less than five weeks after the passing of Elder L. Tom Perry, another champion for Christ has passed away, opening up a second vacancy on the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. On July 3rd, 2015, <a href="http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/president-boyd-k-packer-dies-at-age-90">President Boyd K. Packer died at home from causes incident to old age</a>. He was 90 years old. <a href="http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/president-boyd-k-packer-the-artistry-of-an-apostle">President Packer was born September 10th, 1924, the 10th of 11 children</a>, in Brigham City, Utah. He is survived by his wife, Donna, and their 10 children, one of whom is Elder Allen Packer of the First Quorum of Seventy. He is also survived by 60 grandchildren and 103 great-grandchildren.<br />
<br />
<b>Update July 4th: <a href="http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/funeral-services-scheduled-for-president-boyd-k-packer">Funeral services will be held in the Tabernacle on Temple Square on Friday July 10th</a> at 11:00 A.M. MDT. The funeral will be open to the public ages 8 and older. The Temple Square gates and the Tabernacle doors will open at 9:30 A.M. Those wishing to attend should be in their seats by 10:30 A.M. Overflow seating will be available in the Assembly Hall and the North Visitors’ Center on Temple Square. There will be no public viewing, and a private burial service will take place at the Brigham City Cemetery following the funeral.</b><br />
<br />
-- See video of the funeral <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/07/president-boyd-k-packer-lauded-for.html">HERE</a>.<br />
<br />
President Packer was serving as president of the Quorum of the Twelve at the time of his passing, a position he held since February 3rd, 2008. Prior to that, he served as acting president of the Quorum of the Twelve since June 5th, 1994. <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865631931/President-Boyd-K-Packer-champion-of-families-master-teacher-resolute-defender-of-LDS-doctrine.html?pg=all">He was ordained an apostle on April 9th, 1970, and served for over 53 years as one of the Church's general authorities</a>. He was the fifth longest-serving general authority in LDS history; <a href="http://img.deseretnews.com/images/article/graphic/1561543/1561543.jpg">only David O. McKay, Heber J. Grant, Joseph Fielding Smith, and Wilford Woodruff</a> served longer as general authorities. As the senior apostle, President Packer was next in line to succeed President Thomas S. Monson should that have become necessary; with Packer's death, <a href="http://www.ldsfacts.net/apostle1.htm">Elder Russell M. Nelson becomes the senior apostle</a>, and will be set apart as the new President of the Quorum of the Twelve in the near future. <br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865631941/Timeline-President-Boyd-K-Packer.html">Timeline of President Packer's life</a>.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865631932/Photos-A-photographic-look-at-Elder-Boyd-K-Packers-life-and-service.html">A photographic look at President Packer's life and service</a>.<br />
<br />
President Packer was one of the foremost defenders of LDS doctrine. He took seriously the apostolic responsibility of a watchman; namely, to be on the lookout for trends that will take us where we do not want to go, teachings that seem harmless and appealing on the surface but will destroy the faith of our youth, and individuals who cannot take counsel nor get beyond ego, thus dragging themselves and others down. He raised alarms against immorality, the disease of profanity, bad music, the plague of pornography, and substances that interfere with the delicate feelings of spiritual communication -- coffee, tobacco, liquor and drugs. His direct approach earned him sharp criticism from anti-Mormons, some ex-Mormons, and even progressive Mormons who are uncomfortable with the LDS Church being populated with "peculiar people". But President Packer refused to skirt issues in order to save feelings; he said the Church could not change because some wished or wanted it, because the Lord's words are not to be adjusted by experiments or theories of men. In 1993, President Packer cited intellectuals, feminists, and gays as three great dangers to the Church; while the problem with gays proved to be over-stated, the problems with intellectuals and feminists continue. <br />
<br />
The best summary of President Packer's life is an 8-page Deseret News article entitled <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865631931/President-Boyd-K-Packer-champion-of-families-master-teacher-resolute-defender-of-LDS-doctrine.html?pg=all"><i>"President Boyd K. Packer, champion of families, master teacher, resolute defender of LDS doctrine, dies at 90"</i></a>.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ksl.com/index.php?nid=968&sid=33350763&pid=1">Tributes to President Packer poured in from numerous sources</a>, to include Utah Governor Gary Herbert, Utah Senators Orrin Hatch and Mike Lee, the Rt. Rev. Scott B. Hayashi, Episcopal Bishop of the Diocese of Utah, and Monsignor Colin F. Bircumshaw, administrator for the Catholic Diocese of Salt Lake City.<br />
<br />
It's unknown when the two vacancies on the Quorum will be filled. <a href="http://www.sltrib.com/home/2694694-155/now-mormonism-needs-two-new-apostles">The First Presidency could choose to wait for the next LDS General Conference in October or name replacements in the intervening months</a>. The last time the church's Quorum of the Twelve Apostles had a two-man vacancy came in July 2004, with the deaths of apostles David B. Haight and Neal A. Maxwell. Dieter F. Uchtdorf and David A. Bednar were named in October that year as replacements. The <a href="https://www.lds.org/church/leaders/quorums-of-the-seventy?lang=eng">First Quorum of the Seventy</a> is often considered a Triple AAA farm club for the Quorum of the Twelve, but apostles have been selected from other sources. Elder Russell M. Nelson was a heart surgeon, and Elder Dallin H. Oaks, who was ordained an apostle just weeks after Nelson, was a Utah Supreme Court justice.<br />
Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-87627962272214624062015-07-02T22:45:00.000-08:002015-07-02T22:45:07.407-08:00Cohabiting Couples Can Apparently Be Baptized Into The LDS Church In The Philippines Without Getting Officially Married FirstNormally, cohabiting couples who desire baptism into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints face a soul-searching choice: They must either get married or else discontinue the sexual part of their relationship until marriage. The Church Handbook of Instructions, Volume 1 (16.3.11, page 145) states the following regarding cohabitation and baptism:<br />
<br />
<blockquote><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Persons Who Have Been Cohabiting out of Wedlock</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">A baptismal candidate who has been cohabiting out of wedlock with a person of the opposite gender must either marry the person or cease living with the person before he or she can be baptized.</span></blockquote><br />
So I was absolutely gobsmacked when I read on <a href="http://www.ldsfreedomforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=14&t=39238">LDS Freedom Forum</a> that LDS authorities in the Philippines are apparently permitting cohabiting couples to be baptized into the Church without discontinuing their cohabitation or upgrading it to official marriage. The source of the information appears unimpeachable -- it was published on June 2nd, 2015 by Elder Bradyn Balatico English, who is assigned to the Philippines San Pablo Mission. <a href="http://elderbradynenglish.blogspot.com/2015/06/rain.html">Elder English writes the following</a>:<br />
<br />
<blockquote><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">We have had more success in our work and our numbers are improving. The area presidency <a href="http://www.ldsfreedomforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=14&t=39238#p621531">(currently Ian S. Ardern, President; Shayne M. Bowen, First Counselor; and Larry J. Echo Hawk, Second Counselor)</a> recently released a new rule that as long as two people have been living together for 5 years or more, they are allowed to be baptized, just because it is really hard for people here to get married or to get a divorce. Which means that one of our investigators who has really been wanting to be baptized is now able to. It also means that we will probably be having about 5 baptisms this month. I think that I'm more excited for my companion than I am for myself, just because I still have so many memories from my first baptism.</span></blockquote><br />
There has been no confirmation of this published by LDS Church Headquarters in Salt Lake City. But even so, don't get excited, cohabiters. Special rules set forth by an area presidency apply only to that area. If you live anywhere else, you will still have to discontinue your cohabitation or upgrade it to marriage to get baptized.<br />
<br />
Elder English is right about the exceptional difficulties facing Filipinos who want to get married or divorced. A June 25th, 2015 in The Atlantic entitled <a href="http://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2015/06/divorce-philippines-annulment/396449/"><i>"Ending a Marriage in the Only Country That Bans Divorce"</i></a> tells the story. Since divorce is illegal in the Philippines (except for Muslims), the only way to end a marriage legally is through annulment, which can be a lengthy and expensive process. An annulment ends a marriage, but differs from divorce in important ways. The parties, for instance, must prove that the marriage was never valid to begin with. Under Philippine law, reasons can include one or both parties having been below the age of 18 when they got married, either party having an incurable sexually transmitted disease, or cases of polygamy or mistaken identity. Infidelity and physical abuse are not the list of acceptable reasons for a marriage to be declared invalid under Philippine law. A petitioner seeking to leave a marriage for those or any number of other reasons has to try to prove that his or her spouse is suffering from psychological incapacity such as narcissistic personality disorder. Furthermore, annulment cases may drag on for 4 years or more, and court fees, which typically amount to nearly $400 just to file paperwork, can exceed the average monthly wages of Filipino workers, which a 2012 International Labor Organization study estimated at less than $300.<br />
<br />
So why did the Area Presidency pick five years as the standard? <a href="http://www.ldsfreedomforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=14&t=39238#p621638">Here's where the five-year rule comes into play</a>. <br />
<br />
<blockquote><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Common law marriage, or common law cohabitation as it is called in the Philippines, is viewed by the law in terms of its effect on property relations and ownership. The Family Code expresses the guideline that a man and a woman who have lived together for at least 5 years and are not legally encumbered to marry are considered as husband and wife. This means, then, that all the properties that were acquired during the period of their union are considered as community or joint property, and are governed by rules on equal ownership. This also goes for wages and salaries earned by both or one party in the cohabitation agreement. If one or both parties however, are legally impeded, but are still living together, the law states clearly that only those properties or acquisitions where there was actual contribution made by both parties will be deemed as common property.</span></blockquote><br />
Since cohabitation of five years or longer is considered marriage for property and ownership reasons, this means the Area Presidency isn't prescribing an exception to the existing cohabitation rule, but is merely interpreting it more flexibly to reflect the unique circumstances prevalent in the Philippines. Undoubtedly the Area Presidency not only prayed about this in advance, but got permission from Salt Lake before implementing this interpretation. So the LDS Church is NOT relaxing their baptism standards. Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-24212267073864625752015-07-01T21:29:00.001-08:002015-07-01T21:29:13.462-08:00LDS Church's First Presidency Issues Pastoral Letter On SCOTUS Same-Sex Marriage Decision, Affirms And Explains Present Doctrine On MarriageOn June 26th, 2015, after the U.S. Supreme Court, by a 5-4 vote, invalidated all restrictions against secular same-sex marriages nationwide, the Church of Jesus Christ promptly issued <a href="http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/supreme-court-decision-will-not-alter-doctrine-on-marriage">the following statement</a> to inform the world that the church will not change its doctrinal position on marriage:<br />
<br />
<blockquote><i>"The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints acknowledges that following today's ruling by the Supreme Court, same-sex marriages are now legal in the United States. The Court's decision does not alter the Lord's doctrine that marriage is a union between a man and a woman ordained by God. While showing respect for those who think differently, the Church will continue to teach and promote marriage between a man and a woman as a central part of our doctrine and practice."</i></blockquote><br />
However, the LDS Church has followed up on June 29th by issuing a <a href="http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/top-church-leaders-counsel-members-after-supreme-court-same-sex-marriage-decision">pastoral letter</a> under the signature of the First Presidency that will be communicated to LDS congregations throughout the United States beginning on Sunday July 5th. Because the subject is considered unsuitable for children younger than 12 years old, the letter will not be read at Sacrament Meeting as is usually done with other pastoral letters, but will be read to adults, Young Men and Young Women in their various quorum meetings. The three parts of the letter are reproduced below:<br />
<br />
<blockquote><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Part 1: Introduction:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">OFFICE OF THE FIRST PRESIDENCY</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">47 EAST SOUTH TEMPLE STREET, SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH 84150-1200</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">June 29, 2015</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">TO: General Authorities; General Auxiliary Presidencies; and the following leaders in the United States and Canada: Area Seventies; Temple, Stake Mission and District Presidencies; Bishops and Branch Presidents</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Dear Brethren and Sisters:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Enclosed is a statement by the Council of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve in response to the recent Supreme Court decision legalizing same-sex marriage in the United States. The statement also pertains to the situation in Canada. Local leaders are asked to meet with all adults, young men, and young women on either July 5 or July 12 in a setting other than sacrament meeting and read to them the entire statement.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Also included is background material which may be helpful in answering questions that arise.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Stake presidents are asked to see that bishops receive copies of this letter and the enclosures.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Sincerely yours,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Thomas S. Monson</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Henry B. Eyring</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Dieter F. Uchtdorf</span></blockquote><br />
What normally happens in my ward is that the High Priests Group and the Elders Quorum will meet together, during which time the pastoral letter will be read by a member of the Bishopric/Branch Presidency. Because Young Men are mentioned separately, the Aaronic Priesthood Quorums may assemble separately to hear it. <br />
<br />
<blockquote><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Part 2: Response: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">RESPONSE TO THE SUPREME COURT DECISION LEGALIZING SAME‐SEX MARRIAGE IN THE UNITED STATES</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">June 29, 2015 </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Because of the recent decision of the United States Supreme Court and similar legal proceedings and legislative actions in a number of countries that have given civil recognition to same‐sex marriage relationships, the Council of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter‐day Saints restates and reaffirms the doctrinal foundation of Church teachings on morality, marriage, and the family. As we do, we encourage all to consider these teachings in the context of the Plan of Salvation and our Heavenly Father’s purposes in creating the earth and providing for our mortal birth and experience here as His children.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Marriage between a man and a woman was instituted by God and is central to His plan for His children and for the well‐being of society. “God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth” (Genesis 1:27‐28). “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh” (Genesis 2:24). Strong families, guided by a loving mother and father, serve as the fundamental institution for nurturing children, instilling faith, and transmitting to future generations the moral strengths and values that are important to civilization and vital to eternal salvation.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">A family built on marriage of a man and a woman is the best setting for God’s plan of happiness to thrive. That is why communities and nations generally have encouraged and protected marriage between a man and a woman, and the family that results from their union, as privileged institutions. Sexual relations outside of such a marriage are contrary to the laws of God pertaining to morality.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Changes in the civil law do not, indeed cannot, change the moral law that God has established. God expects us to uphold and keep His commandments regardless of divergent opinions or trends in society. His law of chastity is clear: sexual relations are proper only between a man and a woman who are legally and lawfully wedded as husband and wife. We invite all to review and understand the doctrine contained in “The Family: A Proclamation to the World.”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>Consistent with our fundamental beliefs, Church officers will not employ their ecclesiastical authority to perform marriages between two people of the same sex, and the Church does not permit its meetinghouses or other properties to be used for ceremonies, receptions, or other activities associated with same‐sex marriages. Nevertheless, all visitors are welcome to our chapels and premises so long as they respect our standards of conduct while there.<br />
<br />
The gospel of Jesus Christ teaches us to love and treat all people with kindness and civility -- even when we disagree. We affirm that those who avail themselves of laws or court rulings authorizing same‐sex marriage should not be treated disrespectfully. Indeed, the Church has advocated for rights of same-sex couples in matters of hospitalization and medical care, fair housing and employment, and probate, so long as these do not infringe on the integrity of the traditional family or the constitutional rights of churches.<br />
<br />
The Church insists on its leaders’ and members’ right to express and advocate religious convictions on marriage, family, and morality free from retaliation or retribution. The Church is also entitled to maintain its standards of moral conduct and good standing for members.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">As members of the Church, we are responsible to teach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to illuminate the great blessings that flow from heeding God’s commandments as well as the inevitable consequences of ignoring them. We invite all to pray that people everywhere will have their hearts softened to the truths God established in the beginning, and that wisdom will be granted to those who are called upon to decide issues critical to society’s future.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">THE COUNCIL OF</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">THE FIRST PRESIDENCY AND</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">QUORUM OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER‐DAY SAINTS</span></blockquote><br />
The three italicized paragraphs are the most important takeaways. First, the Church states that its officers will not perform same-sex marriages, and its facilities will not be used for any ceremonies or gatherings related to a same-sex wedding. Second, the Church reminds us that the gospel of Jesus Christ requires us to treat ALL people with kindness and civility, and that guaranteeing constitutional protection for gays in other areas is appropriate. Finally, the Church insists on its right to set membership standards and on the right of members to express religious convictions on marriage.<br />
<br />
<blockquote><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Part 3: Background Q & A:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Background Material for Bishops and Branch Presidents</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">On the U.S. Supreme Court Decision on Same‐sex Marriage</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">The Church has provided a statement dated June 29, 2015, prepared by the Council of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles regarding the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision legalizing same‐sex marriage in the United States. The response reaffirms the divinely‐revealed reasons and proper doctrinal context for the Church’s unequivocal position regarding matters of morality, chastity, marriage, and the family. As the response notes, the Church’s teachings on these subjects are grounded in the scriptural declarations of God’s eternal plan for the salvation and exaltation of His children and are framed in “The Family: A Proclamation to the World.” While the statement stands on its own, below is additional information that may be helpful to you in responding to questions that may arise.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">For much of human history, civil laws have generally been compatible with God’s laws. Unfortunately, there have been notable exceptions to that pattern. For example, it is legal in the United States to perform an abortion on an unborn fetus. However, this practice is not morally acceptable before God. (See Handbook 1, 17.3). The consumption of alcohol, while contrary to God’s law, is legal in most nations of the world, but the physical and social toll for doing so is a painful matter of record. So, too, with issues of unchaste sexual behavior, whether it be heterosexual or homosexual in its orientation. As the First Presidency has previously said and as this current response affirms, “Changes in the civil law do not, indeed cannot, change the moral law that God has established. God expects us to uphold and keep His commandments regardless of divergent opinions or trends in society” (First Presidency letter on “Same‐ Sex Marriage,” January 9, 2014).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b><i>Q: What is the Church’s Policy on Homosexual Relations?</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">A: “Homosexual behavior violates the commandments of God, is contrary to the purposes of human sexuality, and deprives people of the blessings that can be found in family life and in the saving ordinances of the gospel. Those who persist in such behavior or who influence others to do so are subject to Church discipline. Homosexual behavior can be forgiven through sincere repentance. “If members engage in homosexual behavior, Church leaders should help them have a clear understanding of faith in Jesus Christ, the process of repentance, and the purpose of life on earth.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">“While opposing homosexual behavior, the Church reaches out with understanding and respect to individuals who are attracted to those of the same gender. “If members feel same‐gender attraction but do not engage in any homosexual behavior, leaders should support and encourage them in their resolve to live the law of chastity and to control unrighteous thoughts. These members may receive Church callings. If they are worthy and qualified in every other way, they may also hold temple recommends and receive temple ordinances” (Handbook 2, 21.4.6).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b><i>Q: Does the authorization of same‐sex marriage affect my right to religious freedom?</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">A: Our individual right to religious freedom is protected by the First Amendment to the United States’ Constitution and by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. As we exercise that right, we must also exercise tolerance and respect toward others’ rights but do so without condoning behavior that goes contrary to the laws of God. “While we strive for the virtue of tolerance, other commendable qualities need not be lost. Tolerance does not require the surrender of noble purpose or of individual identity. The Lord gave instruction to leaders of His restored Church to establish and maintain institutional integrity—‘that the Church may stand independent’ (D&C 78:14)” (Elder Russell M. Nelson, “Teach Us Tolerance and Love,” April 1994 general conference). How do I respond respectfully to those who consider the Church’s position on this matter unchristian? Our objection to same‐sex marriage is not based on animosity toward anyone, but on our understanding of God’s purposes for His children. For us, the issues are not simply “tolerance” and “equality.” The issues are the nature of marriage and the consequences of redefining a divinely established institution. In addition, redefining marriage in the law can have profound consequences for society, particularly for children. Mothers and fathers matter, and they are not interchangeable. “On the subject of public discourse, we should all follow the gospel teachings to love our neighbor and avoid contention. Followers of Christ should be examples of civility. We should . . . be good listeners and show concern for the sincere belief [of others.] Though we may disagree, we should not be disagreeable. We should be wise in explaining our position and, in doing so, ask that others not be offended by our sincere religious beliefs and the free exercise of our religion” (Elder Dallin H. Oaks, “Loving Others and Living with Differences,” October 2014 general conference).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b><i>Q: What if I have reservations of my own regarding the Church’s position on this subject?</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">“Members who...have doctrinal questions should make a diligent effort, including earnest prayer and scripture study, to find solutions and answers themselves. Church members are encouraged to seek guidance from the Holy Ghost to help them in their personal lives and in family and Church responsibilities.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">“If members still need help, they should counsel first with their bishop. If necessary, he may refer them to the stake president. “...Stake presidents who need clarification about doctrinal or other Church matters may write in behalf of their members to the First Presidency” (Handbook 2, 21.1.24).</span></blockquote>Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-35725967982623096622015-04-08T12:23:00.001-08:002015-04-08T12:23:54.747-08:00What Did Boyd K. Packer Really Mean When He Said "Some Things That Are True Aren't Very Useful"?One of the statements by an LDS General Authority which has been frequently used as grist for the propaganda mills of anti-Mormons is the following statement attributed to President Boyd K. Packer of the Quorum of the Twelve, namely <i>"Some things that are true aren't very useful"</i>. <a href="http://mormoncurtain.com/topic_boydkpacker.html">Anti-Mormons impugn the motives of Elder Packer and claim his intent was to cover up controversial LDS history</a>.<br />
<br />
President Packer first uttered the statement back on August 22nd, 1981 during a talk entitled <i>"The Mantle Is Far, Far Greater Than The Intellect"</i>, delivered to Church Educational System (CES) educators at Brigham Young University-Provo. The specific occasion was a CES symposium on the Doctrine and Covenants and Church History. President Packer's interest in this issue was prompted by his early work with CES, when he found that a number of teachers had become wholly secularized, leading to confusion by and substantial problems for teachers and students. The full 11-page address is available for free at <a href="https://si.lds.org/bc/seminary/content/library/talks/ces-symposium-addresses/the-mantle-is-far-far-greater-than-the-intellect_eng.pdf">THIS LINK</a>. Here is the statement, embedded in context:<br />
<br />
<blockquote><i>"There is a temptation for the writer or the teacher of Church history to want to tell everything, whether it is worthy or faith promoting or not. Some things that are true are not very useful."</i></blockquote><br />
According to the <a href="http://mormonmission.blogspot.com/2008/01/boyd-k-packer-my-hero.html">Mormon Mission blog</a>, President Packer discussed four cautions:<br />
<br />
1. There is no such thing as an accurate, objective history of the Church without consideration of the spiritual powers that attend this work.<br />
<br />
2. There is a temptation for the writer or the teacher of Church history to want to tell everything, whether it is worthy or faith promoting or not.<br />
<br />
3. In an effort to be objective, impartial, and scholarly, a writer or a teacher may unwittingly be giving equal time to the adversary.<br />
<br />
4. The final caution concerns the idea that so long as something is already in print, so long as it is available from another source, there is nothing out of order in using it in writing or speaking or teaching.<br />
<br />
According to <a href="http://en.fairmormon.org/Mormonism_and_history/Boyd_K._Packer%27s_talk:_%22The_Mantle_is_Far,_Far_Greater_Than_the_Intellect%22">FairMormon</a>, President Packer was not speaking to Mormon historians, but to CES employees. CES employees are not hired to provide a so-called <i>"fair and balanced perspective"</i> on Church history and doctrine, but to provide faith-promoting education by teaching LDS doctrine and promoting faith in its young people. Why would the LDS Church be obligated to give equal time to the opposition on their own flagship campus? One would expect the LDS Church to teach religious history in its seminaries and institutes, which is distinct from secular history. President Packer also pointed out that the historian or scholar who delights in highlighting the weaknesses and imperfections of present or past leaders in the name of so-called <i>"transparency"</i> destroys faith, and that a destroyer of faith -- particularly one within the Church, and more particularly one who is employed specifically to build faith -- places himself in great spiritual jeopardy. Furthermore, the problem with these <i>"true"</i> statements is not that they're not true, but that they're used in such a way or context as to give a misleading or even false impression. Church history can be as misleading as gossip and much more difficult, often impossible to verify. President Packer's concern was strictly with what happens in Church institutions, not with what happens in non-Church venues in which historians may participate.<br />
<br />
The passage of time has not changed President Packer's mind. In July 2007, the LDS Church published the <a href="http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/president-packer-interview-transcript-from-pbs-documentary">transcript of an interview he gave to PBS</a> for their documentary <a href="http://www.pbs.org/mormons/"><i>The Mormons</i></a> in which he reiterated this principle (HW is Helen Whitney, the interviewer):<br />
<br />
<blockquote><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">HW: Is there a conflict between a faith-promoting work of scholarship and factual scholarship? Is there a conflict at all? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">BKP: There can be. <b>Some things that are true aren’t very useful</b>. And there are those in the past who have looked at the leaders of the Church, for instance, and found out that they’re human and want to tell everything. There are steps and missteps that don’t help anything. Some think that to be totally honest they have to tell everything. They don’t. If they’ve got the mindset for that, then they’re always grumbling — they have an appetite for it. They’re free to do that, but it isn’t really productive, it doesn’t really make anybody happy. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Someone you knew, say when you were in college, made a terrible mistake. You knew about it, and it was forgiven and lived beyond. There’s little purpose in going back and digging that out and speaking of it when their children might be present — a lot of things that are true historically aren’t very useful and don’t generate happiness.</span></blockquote><br />
The second part of this excerpt is important, because it addresses the tendency of the elite to crucify public figures in the media for past indiscretions. What value is derived from dredging up a past indiscretion from which an individual has long since repented? The only purpose such <i>"transparency"</i> can serve is to divide and polarize. Our national obsession with race is an example of this problem; why do some LDS members continue to obsess with the Priesthood ban against blacks when it was resolved in 1978 and we know through revelation that all those who were denied the Priesthood through no fault of their own will be offered it in the spirit world? Either one believes it, or one doesn't. And if one doesn't, is it really wise and productive for one to hold an entire 15 million member church hostage to one's lack of faith?<br />
<br />
President Packer was not trying to suppress truth. He merely wants the Church Educational System to fulfill its primary mission -- to help grow faith and develop testimonies. Controversial Church history can be discussed in other venues, in other ways, and at other times. The LDS Church has sought to allay the historical doubts of members by publishing <a href="http://mormonessays.com/">a series of essays</a> about historical events which are more forthcoming than in the past, so the Church clearly has no desire to <i>"cover anything up"</i>.Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-16695205306959442432015-04-06T12:57:00.002-08:002015-04-06T13:46:44.147-08:00#ISustain Campaign: Faithful Mormons Fire Back Against Seven Dissidents Who Voted Not To Sustain First Presidency And The Twelve At LDS General Conference<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQT3Bg8mMvCB2mYvssYdHOspxt77lbDpR7oMKSTNTF64CFpv2AlbnRLvFdRpbPHDDyj4VAhPnA0rAUYFFZkcHRcx4GsOJ_Mac6UuR6x6jvmTuklE6UD_FAhOfBAK_5tv1i5jSKrYDgRr6N/s1600/i-sustain.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQT3Bg8mMvCB2mYvssYdHOspxt77lbDpR7oMKSTNTF64CFpv2AlbnRLvFdRpbPHDDyj4VAhPnA0rAUYFFZkcHRcx4GsOJ_Mac6UuR6x6jvmTuklE6UD_FAhOfBAK_5tv1i5jSKrYDgRr6N/s1600/i-sustain.png" height="316" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From the #ISustain campaign</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
After at least seven LDS members at last count raised their hands in opposition to sustaining the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve on April 4th, 2015 during the <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general_4.html">Saturday Afternoon General Session</a> of the 185th Annual General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, faithful LDS members are launching a counter-offensive online to show that the dissidents do not speak for rank-and-file Church members. They have launched the #ISustain campaign.<br />
<br />
But first, let's have a roundup of all the information published by the Utah media about the dissidents as of April 6th. The primary media sources are <a href="http://fox13now.com/2015/04/04/5-hands-among-thousands-mark-rare-votes-of-dissent-during-lds-churchs-general-conference/">KSTU Channel 13</a> and the <a href="http://www.sltrib.com/news/2365694-155/all-is-not-well-in-zion?fullpage=1">Salt Lake Tribune</a>, and the dissidents reportedly were motivated by and announced their intentions in advance on the <a href="http://anyopposed.org/press-release-mormons-to-cast-opposing-vote-at-lds-general-confernce/">AnyOpposed.org</a> website. At last count, there were at least seven dissidents. Six of them attended the session at the Conference Center and also shouted <i>"Opposed"</i>, while one of them was in attendance at the Tabernacle, which was designated one of the overflow venues for those unable to get tickets into the Conference Center. Four of the dissidents have been identified by name. At the Conference Center were Don Braegger, M'lisa D. Martinez Glyndwr, Micah Nickolaisen, while Laura Pennock was at the Tabernacle; all identified as LDS members, and Braegger's "pedigree" includes service in a bishopric and a member of a stake presidency. After the No votes were manifested, President Dieter Uchtdorf made a brief statement regarding those who opposed the proposals, saying <i>“We invite those who oppose any of the proposals to contact their Stake Presidents. My dear brothers and sisters, we thank you for your faith and prayers in behalf of the leaders of the church.”</i> Unlike in previous similar situations, the dissidents were not asked to leave by security. <a href="http://ldsliving.com/story/78523-dissenting-votes-at-conference-everything-you-need-to-know">LDS Living</a> published an explanation of the voting procedure.<br />
<br />
After the session, Don Braegger said he filled a Mormon mission and served in an LDS bishopric and stake presidency, and his concerns are the perception that LDS history is rife with disturbing episodes, that the faith does not treat lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons fairly or offer wide enough roles for women. Separately, Laura Pennock said she is also is unhappy with the excommunications of Ordain Women founder Kate Kelly and podcaster John Dehlin, and M'lisa D. Martinez Glyndwr opined that her efforts to speak with local leaders about their concerns have been fruitless, characterizing the stake presidency as a "glass ceiling". <br />
<br />
Meanwhile, faithful LDS members are already firing back and proclaiming their renewed loyalty to Jesus Christ, his top servants, and the Church. <a href="http://lds.net/blog/buzz/lds-news/isustain-campaign-evolves-vocal-oppositions-conference-church-leadership/">LDS.net</a> reports the emergence of the #ISustain campaign, where LDS members are pledging their continued loyalty towards the Brethren. Loyalty does NOT mean infallibility; it simply means AUTHORITY. We recognize that the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve has been chosen by the Lord, set apart under proper authority, and, to the best of our knowledge, have engaged in no ethically or morally disqualifying behavior while in office. A good example of this was posted by April McMurtney, who also published a blog post to <a href="http://www.somethingtoshoutabout.org/president-monson-i-sustain-you/">SomethingToShoutAbout.org</a> <br />
<br />
<blockquote><i>“So, to sustain my prophet, whom I love dearly, I will do something to show my support. I will defend him. I will share his words. I will do what I have been counseled to do during this conference and all the others. Then, slowly, I will begin to become something better. I will not just say I will do something, or intend to be better, or raise my hand without thought. I will commit to KEEP TRYING, until I become more like my Savior. I think that’s what he would want, and what the Lord would want.”</i></blockquote><br />
One LDS member may have gotten a bit carried away and reproved the seven with a bit too much <i>"sharpness"</i>. <a href="http://www.sltrib.com/lifestyle/faith/2369877-155/byu-assistant-football-coach-under-fire">BYU running backs coach Mark Atuaia tweeted Saturday that those opposed should go see their stake presidents</a>, as President Dieter Uchtdorf suggested to opponents, <i>"Then find me and oppose those beloved men in front of me and witness how I sin,"</i> Atuaia tweeted. Many respondents accused Atuaia of bullying; later, he backed down a bit, acknowledging he could have phrased his reaction to the conference opposers better. But he will not apologize for standing up for Thomas S. Monson, his counselors and the Quorum of the Twelve to those that oppose them. He maintains the dissidents did not follow protocol, which is to raise one's hand but not speak when voting to sustain or not sustain leaders. But <i>"sharpness"</i> should never mean <i>"abuse"</i>; it means clarity, and must always be accompanied by an increase of love thereafter (<a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/121.43">D&C 121:43</a>).<br />
<br />
No weapon formed against us will prosper. <br />
<br />
As for the fate of the "seven", it is too early to speculate about disciplinary councils. The real problem is not so much that they raised their hands to vote No, but that they appeared to have orchestrated it in advance. Undoubtedly, the four who identified themselves by name will be called in by their bishops and asked to explain themselves, but they'll be offered an opportunity to repent and recant before facing disfellowshipment or excommunication. If they have temple recommends, they will likely be pulled. Because Don Braegger is the most outspoken, holds the Melchizedek Priesthood, and has a portfolio of past leadership positions, he is the one most likely to be subject to a disciplinary council, but just as Denver Snuffer, Kate Kelly, and John Dehlin were offered numerous opportunities to repent in advance, the same consideration will be given to Braegger. Sadly, <a href="http://www.reddit.com/r/exmormon/comments/31j32b/i_am_don_braegger_i_also_voted_opposed_ama/">this post by Braegger on Reddit</a>, along with his subsequent responses, indicate he may already be on his way out of the LDS Church in his heart.<br />
Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-12655315177147388422015-04-05T14:29:00.002-08:002015-04-05T14:32:22.319-08:00Summary Of 185th Annual LDS General Conference, Sunday Afternoon General Session: Elder Robert D. Hales Gives A Powerful Defense Of Religious LibertyThe 185th Annual General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints continued on Sunday afternoon, and what a great way to commemorate Easter Sunday! My personal highlight was the powerful defense of religious liberty articulated by Elder Robert Hales, who explained that liberty originated with our Heavenly Father, has been opposed and distorted by Satan, and why it is important for us as Latter-day Saints to respect the religious liberty of others. Elder Joseph Sitati also became another of the many speakers to offer an explanation and defense of traditional marriage.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.sltrib.com/csp/mediapool/sites/sltrib/Pages/gallery.csp?cid=2364962&pid=2345358">Salt Lake Tribune photo gallery of Conference</a>. <br />
-- <a href="http://www.ksl.com/?sid=34106022&nid=1164&title=photos-185th-general-conference-of-the-church-of-jesus-christ-of-latter-day-saints&s_cid=queue-2">KSL Channel 5 photo gallery of Conference</a>.<br />
<br />
Other Sessions:<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/03/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general.html">Summary of General Women's Session</a><br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general.html">Summary of Saturday Morning General Session</a><br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general_4.html">Summary of Saturday Afternoon General Session</a><br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general_14.html">Summary of Saturday Evening Priesthood Session</a><br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general_5.html">Summary of Sunday Morning General Session</a><br />
<br />
For the first time, the LDS Church provides immediate real-time summaries of the talks on their <a href="https://www.lds.org/church/news/2015-april-general-conference/2015-april-general-conference-at-a-glance">Conference At A Glance Page</a>; nice innovation, but I also choose to provide my traditional summaries. Video and audio archives will be available on the <a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/sessions/2015/04?lang=eng">designated General Conference page</a> shortly after the Conference; written transcripts will be posted later in the week. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ldsconf?f=realtime&src=hash">LDSConf Twitter</a> also used as a source. For the time being, I have posted short summaries of the highlights of each talk along with any pertinent personal impressions. Links posted below take you directly to the Deseret News account of the talk.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625801/Elder-Robert-D-Hales-Preserving-agency-protecting-religious-freedom.html">Elder Robert D. Hales, Quorum of the Twelve:</a> For some reason, Elder Hales does not get as much public attention as the other apostles. Maybe today's talk will garner the public attention he richly deserves, because Elder Hales spoke of agency. He's grateful for our freedom of religion, freedom of speech, and freedom of assembly, and acknowledges that agency was always part of the plan of salvation and exaltation. Agency is so important to the Father that the desire to take it away caused Lucifer and his followers to be cast out forever. But even from his fallen position, Satan continues to oppose and undermine agency and religious freedom; he deliberately promotes a confused definition of religious freedom. In contrast, where the spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. Elder Hales outlines four cornerstones of religious liberty: freedom to believe, freedom to share beliefs with others, freedom to form a church, and freedom to live one's faith not only at home and church, but also in public places. But he adds that all of the cornerstones apply to all religions, so he charges us to be tolerant of all religions. No one should criticize, persecute, or attack an individual for what he or she believes about God. As disciples of Jesus Christ we have the responsibility to work together. In the final analysis, Elder Hales finds that how we live our religion is far more important than what we may say about our religion.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625802/Elder-Kevin-W-Pearson-Stay-by-the-tree.html">Elder Kevin W. Pearson, First Quorum of the Seventy:</a> Elder Pearson wants us to stay by the "tree" (the Tree of Life as outlined in Lehi's vision) and endure to the end, which is not only a hallmark of true discipleship, but is also essential to eternal life. He cautioned us to resist two of Satan’s most powerful tools, distraction and deception. Casual obedience and lukewarm commitment can weaken faith; enduring to the end requires total commitment to the Savior and to our covenants. Elder Pearson suggested six important principles to help individuals endure to the end. First, don’t forget to pray; second, come unto Christ and be perfected in Him; third, press forward with faith; fourth, use the Book of Mormon as the key to spiritual survival; fifth, avoid distraction and deception; and finally, stay by the tree.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625803/Elder-Rafael-E-Pino-The-eternal-perspective.html">Elder Rafael E. Pino, First Quorum of the Seventy:</a> Elder Pino became the second speaker to deliver a talk in a language other than English (Spanish is his native language); some people on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ldsconf?f=realtime&src=hash">Twitter</a> criticized the use of voiceovers rather than subtitles for translation. In any event, Elder Pino spoke about the eternal perspective, noting that the eternal perspective of the gospel leads us to understand the place that we occupy in God’s plan, to accept difficulties and progress through them, to make decisions, and to center our lives on our divine potential. Understanding the plan of happiness devised for us by our Heavenly Father provides us with that eternal perspective. Elder Pino added that it is extremely important that we do not make decisions of eternal value from the perspective of mortality; decisions affecting eternity require a gospel perspective. He concluded that not having an eternal perspective can lead us to have an earthly perspective as our personal standard and to make decisions that are not in harmony with the will of God.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625812/Elder-Neil-L-Andersen-6Thy-Kingdom-Come7.html">Elder Neil L. Andersen, Quorum of the Twelve:</a> Elder Andersen talked about the worldwide growth of the Church, and attributes it in part to the Lord's miracles. We marvel as we watch Him open doors we cannot open and perform miracles we can scarcely imagine. Elder Andersen explained why the Church selected Thailand, Ivory Coast, and Haiti for new temples. He spoke of continued growth of the Church in Haiti after a devastating earthquake in 2010; the faithful example of Sathit Kaivalvatana, a faithful member in Thailand who overcame an accident in which he was paralyzed and serves as president of the Bangkok Thailand North Stake; and the growth of the Church in the Ivory Coast, where two couples started a Sunday School 30 years ago and there are now eight stakes and 27,000 members. He asked the congregation if they could see the hand of God moving His work forward in Haiti, Thailand and the Ivory Coast.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625805/Elder-Jorge-F-Zeballos-If-You-Will-Be-Responsible.html">Elder Jorge F. Zeballos, First Quorum of the Seventy:</a> Elder Zeballos identified two primary responsibilities for Latter-day Saints: First, to seek their own salvation; and second, to help others realize their salvation. These responsibilities, freely accepted and entrusted to us, must define our priorities, our desires, our decisions and our daily conduct. Four principles he suggests will enable us to accomplish this mission include learning our duty, making the decision, acting accordingly, and willingly accepting the Father's will. <br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625806/Elder-Joseph-W-Sitati-Be-Fruitful-Multiply-and-Subdue-the-Earth.html">Elder Joseph W. Sitati, First Quorum of the Seventy:</a> Elder Sitati was yet another speaker who spoke in defense of traditional marriage, but within the context of the three fundamental charges given by God to His children found in <a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/pgp/moses/2.28?lang=eng">Moses 2:28</a>: Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it, and have dominion over over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. Elder Sitati noted that physical bodies are a blessing from God that provide God’s children the opportunity to experience life on earth, and that marriage between a man and a woman is the institution that God ordained for the fulfillment of the charge to multiply. Furthermore, it is a marriage performed in the temple where covenants are honored that creates the best experience of love and preparation for a fruitful life, as the promise given to those sealed in the covenant of eternal marriage is that the adversary will never have power to undermine the foundation of their eternal companionship.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625810/Elder-Russell-M-Nelson-The-Sabbath-is-a-Delight.html">Elder Russell M. Nelson, Quorum of the Twelve:</a> Elder Nelson made a pitch for Sabbath observance, saying that the fullness of the earth is promised to those who keep the Sabbath Day holy. But although the Sabbath was given as a perpetual covenant -- a constant reminder that the Lord may sanctify His people -- Elder Nelson also pointed out that it was the Savior who taught that the Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath. Christ wanted us to understand that the Sabbath was His gift to us, granting real respite from the rigors of daily life, and opportunity for spiritual and physical renewal, and not for amusement or daily labor. Elder Nelson rejects the notion of publishing long Pharasaical laundry lists of "don'ts" on the Sabbath, instead deciding that his conduct and attitude on the Sabbath constituted a sign between him and his Heavenly Father. With that understanding, he no longer needed lists of dos and don’ts. Some of the more common worthy Sabbath activities include attending Sunday services, partaking of the sacrament, tending to Church callings, performing family history work, and reaching out to those who are lonely or in need. <br />
<br />
Unlike in the past, President Uchtdorf closed the Conference rather than President Monson.<br />
<br />
From the Bloggernacle: Reaction from rank-and-file LDS around the Web.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.feministmormonhousewives.org/2015/04/sunday-afternoon-conference-session/">Feminist Mormon Housewives:</a> One commenter opined that the Brethren are "really beating the drum on gay marriage this year". <br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://timesandseasons.org/index.php/2015/04/genconf-sunday-afternoon-session/">Times & Seasons:</a> The usual bulletized summaries of the talks.<br />
Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-62963792276890536642015-04-05T11:28:00.000-08:002015-04-05T14:30:52.017-08:00Summary Of 185th Annual LDS General Conference, Sunday Morning General Session: Three New Temples Planned, Including One In HaitiThe 185th Annual General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints continued on Sunday morning with the announcement that, after a two-year hiatus on new temples, the Church is planning to build three new temples. One of the proposed locations is unsurprising and seemingly past due; Bangkok, Thailand. But the other two are a surprise and illustrate that sometimes the Lord sees things differently than us mere mortals: Abidjan, Ivory Coast and Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Looks like the Lord has finally bestowed some long-delayed mercy upon those two troubled lands. But this session of Conference was also marked by specific outreach towards Latter-day Saints considered "less active", as two speakers, Sister Rosemary Wixom and Elder Brent Nielson, pointed to prospective paths back to full activity.<br />
<br />
Other Sessions:<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/03/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general.html">Summary of General Women's Session</a><br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general.html">Summary of Saturday Morning General Session</a><br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general_4.html">Summary of Saturday Afternoon General Session</a><br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general_14.html">Summary of Saturday Evening Priesthood Session</a><br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general_97.html">Sunday Afternoon General Session</a><br />
<br />
For the first time, the LDS Church provides immediate real-time summaries of the talks on their <a href="https://www.lds.org/church/news/2015-april-general-conference/2015-april-general-conference-at-a-glance">Conference At A Glance Page</a>; nice innovation, but I also choose to provide my traditional summaries. Video and audio archives will be available on the <a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/sessions/2015/04?lang=eng">designated General Conference page</a> shortly after the Conference; written transcripts will be posted later in the week. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ldsconf?f=realtime&src=hash">LDSConf Twitter</a> also used as a source. For the time being, I have posted short summaries of the highlights of each talk along with any pertinent personal impressions. Links posted below take you directly to the Deseret News account of the talk.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625791/President-Thomas-S-Monson-6Blessings-of-the-Temple7.html?pg=all">President Thomas S. Monson:</a> It was during this talk that President Monson made the surprising announcement of new temples planned for Thailand, Ivory Coast, and Haiti. According to him, there are currently 144 temples in operation worldwide, with five being renovated and 13 more under construction. In addition, 13 temples, which were previously announced, are in various stages of preparation before construction begins. In 2015, the Church anticipates rededicating two temples and dedicating five new temples that are scheduled for completion. But President Monson also made a pitch for the blessings of the temple, citing two stories to drive the message home. Temples not only provide rest for our souls and a respite from the cares of our lives, but also offer a dimension of spirituality and a feeling of peace which will transcend any other feeling which could come into the human heart. <br />
<br />
NOTE: <a href="http://www.ksl.com/?nid=1284&sid=34115737">The five new temples are scheduled for dedication this year</a> are in Córdoba Argentina (May 17), Payson Utah (June 7), Trujillo Peru (June 21), Indianapolis Indiana (dedication, Aug. 23), and Tijuana Mexico (Dec. 13). The two temples being rededicated this year after renovations are completed are Mexico City Mexico (Sept. 13), and Montreal Quebec Canada (no date yet set). The other temples under renovation are in Idaho Falls, Fiji, and Freiberg, Germany. <br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625792/Sister-Rosemary-M-Wixom-Returning-to-faith.html">Sister Rosemary M. Wixom, Primary General President:</a> Sister Wixom was tailoring her talk towards less-active members. She cited the classical example of a woman who was active, but developed questions that had increasingly difficult answers. These prompted even more questions that shook the foundations of her faith. Despite a support system from her bishop and ward members, she became less active. After reading a book of Mother Teresa's writings, she began the slow journey back to activity, but she had to start with basic gospel truths. She purchased a Primary Children’s Songbook and read the words of the songs. She also continued to study the scriptures. Soon, this woman accepted a calling as the Primary pianist, which allowed her to strengthen her testimony of the truths she did know in a place she felt safe.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625793/Elder-Jose-A-Teixeira-Seeking-the-Lord.html">Elder Jose A. Teixeira, First Quorum of the Seventy:</a> Elder Teixeira spoke of the need to deepen understanding of the teachings of Jesus Christ. The more individuals understand the role of Christ, the more conscious they become of their purpose in mortality, which is to have joy. Elder Teixeira encouraged members to have interactions with the teachings of Christ every day, and touted the small and simple gestures and acts as being particularly instrumental. To prevent today's networked lifestyle from removing us from what is essential, Elder Teixeira gave three habits to establish healthy online activity: First, visit the Church’s official website for resources; second, subscribe to the Church’s official social networks; and third, make time to set aside mobile devices. <br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625794/Bishop-Grald-Causs-Is-it-still-wonderful-to-you.html">Bishop Gerald Causse, First Counselor Presiding Bishopric:</a> With the Gospel flooding over the entire earth and temples seemingly everywhere, Bishop Causee cautioned members against taking our Heavenly Father's marvels for granted. He suggested three things to help members see, hear, feel and marvel at the gospel available to them: First, never tire of discovering or rediscovering the truths of the gospel; second, anchor faith in the plain and simple truths of the gospel; and third, seek and cherish the companionship of the Holy Ghost.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625796/Elder-Brent-H-Nielson-Waiting-for-the-prodigal.html">Elder Brent H. Nielson, First Quorum of the Seventy:</a> Elder Nielson also reached out towards less-active members, using the Prodigal Son analogy. Since his sister left the Church, he has been affected personally. But he never stopped loving his sister, and his mother kept placing his sister on the prayer roll of the local temple. Finally, his sister felt impressed to watch the sessions of Conference in 2009 and began her slow journey back. The idea is that just because someone chooses to walk out of the Church doesn't mean we have to lock the door behind them; we continue to love that person, we watch, we pray and we wait for the Lord’s hand in their lives to be revealed. <br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625798/Elder-Jeffrey-R-Holland-Where-justice-love-and-mercy-meet.html">Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, Quorum of the Twelve:</a> Elder Holland spoke on the significance of the Atonement. He noted that understanding the fall of Adam and Eve is required to adequately comprehend the significance of the Atonement. Because we were subsequently born into that same fallen world and would also transgress the laws of God, we also were sentenced to the same penalties that Adam and Eve faced. This fallen state would leave all men without hope of immortality or eternal life. But a Savior was prepared to overcome the Fall through the sacrifice of God’s only begotten Son. That Atonement would achieve complete victory over physical death, unconditionally granting resurrection to every person who has been born or ever will be born into this world. Mercifully it would also provide forgiveness for the personal sins of all, from Adam to the end of the world, conditioned upon repentance and obedience to divine commandments. A logical confluence of justice and mercy; the Atonement represents the mercy without which we cannot return to the Father.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625797/President-Dieter-F-Uchtdorf-The-gift-of-grace.html">President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Second Counselor First Presidency:</a> In teaching of the divine gift of God's grace, President Uchtdorf said it does not merely restore one to a state of innocence. The Father’s aim is much higher: He wants His sons and daughters to become like Him. This will lead to heights we can scarcely comprehend; namely, exaltation in the celestial kingdom, where we, surrounded by our loved ones, receive of the fulness and glory of the Father. We become heirs of the Father and joint heirs with Jesus Christ.<br />
<br />
President Uchtdorf gave an interesting explanation of the relationship between grace and obedience (another way of describing faith and works). He acknowledged that salvation cannot be bought with the currency of obedience, but is purchased by the blood of the Son of God. So why is obedience stressed? President Uchtdorf explained that we obey the commandments of God out of love for Him, adding that trying to understand God’s gifts of grace with all our heart and mind gives us all the more reasons to love and obey our Heavenly Father with meekness and gratitude. As we walk the path of discipleship it refines us, it improves us, it helps us to become more like Him, and it leads us back to His presence. Thus faith justifies, and works sanctify.<br />
<br />
From the Bloggernacle: Reaction from rank-and-file LDS around the Web.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.feministmormonhousewives.org/2015/04/april-2015-sunday-morning-session/">Feminist Mormon Housewives:</a> Surprisingly detailed and upbeat summaries of the talks, free of the male-bashing which normally characterizes this source. Talks by Sister Wixom and Elder Nielson received some acclaim. <br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.millennialstar.org/april-2015-conference-sunday-morning-session/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TheMillennialStar+%28Millennial+Star%29">Millennial Star:</a> Faith-promoting summaries of talks. President Uchtdorf's talk drew some acclaim.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://timesandseasons.org/index.php/2015/04/sunday-morning-session-of-general-conference-2/">Times & Seasons:</a> Good bulletized summaries of each talk.<br />
<br />
Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-87452730306809215792015-04-04T18:24:00.002-08:002015-04-05T14:31:11.000-08:00Summary Of 185th Annual LDS General Conference, Saturday Evening Priesthood Session:The 185th Annual General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints continued with the Priesthood Session this evening. Counsel given to Melchizedek and Aaronic Priesthood holders was of the more traditional variety. Elder M. Russell Ballard delivered one of the more important talks, urging young men to raise the bar and better prepare themselves for missionary service, while discussing the missionary selection process in greater detail. President Monson delivered his first talk of the Conference, and, while looking more and more his age, was no less eloquent than he has been in the past. <br />
<br />
Other Sessions:<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/03/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general.html">Summary of General Women's Session</a><br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general.html">Summary of Saturday Morning General Session</a><br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general_4.html">Summary of Saturday Afternoon General Session</a><br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general_5.html">Sunday Morning General Session</a><br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general_97.html">Sunday Afternoon General Session</a><br />
<br />
For the first time, the LDS Church provides immediate real-time summaries of the talks on their <a href="https://www.lds.org/church/news/2015-april-general-conference/2015-april-general-conference-at-a-glance?cid=HP_SA_4-4-2015_dPAAST_fCHNWS_xLIDyL2-2_&lang=eng">Conference At A Glance Page</a>; nice innovation, but I also choose to provide my traditional summaries. Video and audio archives will be available on the <a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/sessions/2015/04?lang=eng">designated General Conference page</a> shortly after the Conference; written transcripts will be posted later in the week. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ldsconf?f=realtime&src=hash">LDSConf Twitter</a> also used as a source. For the time being, I have posted short summaries of the highlights of each talk along with any pertinent personal impressions. Links posted below take you directly to the Deseret News account of the talk.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625769/Elder-M-Russell-Ballard-The-greatest-generation-of-young-adults.html">Elder M. Russell Ballard, Quorum of the Twelve:</a> Elder Ballard is considered the designated "technology wonk" of the Quorum, and he lived up to that billing. However, this was embedded within a challenge he issued to bishops, parents and prospective missionaries to raise the bar for full time missionary service. Elder Ballard said that what we need now is the greatest generation of young adults in the history of the Church, to respond with whole heart and soul. We need vibrant, thinking, passionate young adults who know how to listen and respond to the whisperings of the Holy Spirit. Elder Ballard also discussed the missionary selection process at length, characterizing it as a marriage of technology and revelation. He explained that a member of the Quorum of the Twelve assigns every missionary to his or her mission. The prospective missionary’s photograph comes up on a computer screen together with key information provided by the bishop and stake president. When the picture appears, the Apostle looks into the eyes and reviews the answers to the missionary recommendation questions. For that brief moment, it seems as if the missionary is personally present responding directly. Then, by the power of the Spirit and under the direction of President Monson, the Church assigns the missionary to one of the Church’s 406 worldwide missions. <br />
<br />
Sounds quite similar to the process used by Joseph Smith to translate the unsealed portion of the Golden Plates into the modern Book of Mormon. View the character, study it out in his mind, ask the Lord if it is right, then get the answer.<br />
<br />
Elder Ballard then posed nine questions the prospective missionary should be able to answer affirmatively:<br />
<br />
– Do you read the scriptures?<br />
– Do you kneel in prayer daily?<br />
– Do you fast and donate a fast offering each month?<br />
– Do you think deeply about the Savior during the Sacrament?<br />
– Do you try to keep the Sabbath day holy?<br />
– Are you honest at home, church and work?<br />
– Do you avoid looking at pornography and photos that might embarrass you?<br />
– Are you careful with your time? (Avoid Tinder and Snapchat).<br />
– Is there anything in your life you need to change and fix beginning tonight?<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625771/Elder-Ulisses-Soares-Yes-we-can-and-will-win.html">Elder Ulisses Soares, First Quorum of the Seventy:</a> Elder Soares continued a new tradition begun at the October 2014 Conference by delivering his talk in Portuguese; simultaneous translation into English was available. He spoke about the war against sin that we wage daily, and cited Captain Moroni during the middle portion of the Book of Mromon as an ideal example of a total spiritual warrior, saying that all of us need to become modern Captain Moronis in order to win the wars against evil. He cited the example of a deacon who reproved some of his friends for accessing porn on their cell phones, and the ridicule he received in response, except for one individual who followed his counsel. Elder Soares warned us against allowing ourselves to be confused by popular messages that are easily accepted by the world and that contradict the doctrine and true principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ, saying that many of these worldly messages represent nothing more than an attempt of our society to justify sin. <br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625770/Brother-Larry-M-Gibson-Fatherhood-2-our-eternal-destiny.html">Brother Larry M. Gibson, former First Counselor in the Young Men General Presidency:</a> Since he was just released from the position today, this could be considered his "farewell address". He cited an example from his own childhood which drove home the importance of thinking about the eternal destiny his Heavenly Father has for him. His father showed him a silver dollar, explaining that if it was melted down and mixed with the right ingredients, it would become silver nitrate, which forms the reflective surface of a mirror. His father warned him that if he focused only on the silver, all he would see is himself and, like a veil, it would keep him from seeing clearly the eternal destiny Heavenly Father has prepared just for him. His father then gave him the silver dollar to keep as a reminder of that principle. And fatherhood is the eternal destiny of a man.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625773/President-Dieter-F-Uchtdorf-On-being-genuine.html?pg=all">President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Second Counselor in the First Presidency:</a> Authenticity was the watchword of President Uchtdorf's address, as he sought to convince people of the need to be genuine. He cited the historical example of the Potemkin villages in Russia which misled Catherine the Great as to the true condition of the peasants in her empire; such misinformation can potentially be destructive. Likewise, Priesthood holders should avoid trying to cover their sins, or to gratify their pride or vain ambition through hypocrisy. Mistaking the form of godliness for the power thereof can result in us directing our outward expressions of discipleship to impress others for personal gain or influence rather than to serve. <br />
<br />
President Uchtdorf added that the Church is not an automobile showroom, where we put ourselves on display so that others can admire our spirituality, capacity or prosperity. It is more like a service center, where vehicles in need of repair come for maintenance and rehabilitation. And all of us at one time or another need repair, maintenance and rehabilitation? We come to church not to hide our problems but to heal them.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625774/President-Henry-B-Eyring-Priesthood-and-personal-prayer.html">President Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor in the First Presidency:</a> President Eyring discussed the importance of enjoying the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost. Often there is little to no time for prior preparation, particularly when faced with a situation warranting the administration of a Priesthood blessing. The power to speak and act in God’s name requires revelation, which requires the companionship of the Holy Ghost. And receiving guidance from the Holy Ghost as one studies the words of prophets will take more than casual listening and reading; we will need to pray and work in faith to put the words of truth down into our hearts. We must pray that God will bless us with His Spirit, that He will lead us into all truth and show us the right way.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625775/President-Thomas-S-Monson-The-priesthood-2-a-sacred-gift.html?pg=all">President Thomas S. Monson:</a> President Monson characterized the Priesthood as one of the most precious gifts ever bestowed upon mankind. He noted that he formed his conscientious habits back when he was the secretary of his deacon's quorum and took great pride in maintaining the records meticulously. From there, doing all he can to the very best of his ability has been his goal in any position he has ever held. Preident Monson noted that he has witnessed the power and strength of the Priesthood time and time again, and marvels at the miracles it has wrought, citing one noteworthy healing incident while he was in the Navy. President Monson concluded: “As bearers of the priesthood of God, we are engaged in the work of the Lord Jesus Christ. We have answered His call; we are on His errand. Let us follow in His footsteps. Let us live by His precepts. By so doing, we will be prepared for any service he calls us to perform. This is His work. This is His Church. Indeed, He is our captain, the King of Glory, even the Son of God.”<br />
<br />
LDS Peanut Gallery: Reaction from rank-and-file Mormons on the Web.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.feministmormonhousewives.org/2015/04/april-2015-conference-priesthood-session/">Feminist Mormon Housewives:</a> President Uchtdorf's talk received positive feedback as it usually does from this source, otherwise not much of consequence.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.millennialstar.org/april-2015-general-conference-priesthood-session-2/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TheMillennialStar+%28Millennial+Star%29">Millennial Star:</a> Good faith-promoting summaries of the talks. Geoff noted that it appeared President Monson was laboring a bit with health problems by his speech. <br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://timesandseasons.org/index.php/2015/04/genconf-priesthood-session-notes/">Times & Seasons:</a> Good bulletized summaries of the talks. <br />
<br />
Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-90692984899942787372015-04-04T14:29:00.001-08:002015-04-06T11:57:10.965-08:00Summary Of 185th Annual LDS General Conference, Saturday Afternoon General Session: LDS Church Membership Now At 15,372,337<b><i>Update: Post updated April 6th to reflect the new report that there were seven dissenters who voted No, that all but one of them were at the Conference Center, and that four of them have now been identified by name.</i></b><br />
<br />
The 185th Annual General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints continued on Saturday afternoon. This is generally the "housekeeping" session when changes in policies and leadership are announced. <a href="http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/new-general-authorities--young-men-presidency-and-primary-presidency-changes-announced?cid=social_20150404_43267586&adbid=584450449626902528&adbpl=tw&adbpr=10047382">The Church announced five new General Authorities, a new Young Men general presidency, a new counselor in the Primary general presidency and 53 Area Seventies</a>. You can read more details about the new auxiliary leaders <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625745/New-auxiliary-leaders-announced-during-LDS-general-conference.html">HERE</a>.<br />
<br />
There was an attempt by at least seven dissidents to disrupt this portion of the Conference by deliberately casting dissenting votes against the sustaining of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve; <a href="http://anyopposed.org/press-release-mormons-to-cast-opposing-vote-at-lds-general-confernce/">the dissidents planned this in advance</a>. According to <a href="http://fox13now.com/2015/04/04/5-hands-among-thousands-mark-rare-votes-of-dissent-during-lds-churchs-general-conference/">KSTU Channel 13</a> and a later story by the <a href="http://www.sltrib.com/news/2365694-155/all-is-not-well-in-zion?fullpage=1">Salt Lake Tribune</a>, four of the dissidents were identified as Don Braegger, M'lisa D. Martinez Glyndwr, Micah Nickolaisen, and Laura Pennock. All but Pennock were at the Conference Center; Pennock was in the overflow venue at the Tabernacle. President Dieter Uchtdorf made a brief statement regarding those who opposed the proposals, saying <i>“We invite those who oppose any of the proposals to contact their Stake Presidents. My dear brothers and sisters, we thank you for your faith and prayers in behalf of the leaders of the church.”</i> <br />
<br />
According to the <a href="http://www.sltrib.com/lifestyle/faith/2365694-155/all-is-not-well-in-zion">Salt Lake Tribune</a>, Braegger said he filled a Mormon mission and served in an LDS bishopric and stake presidency, and his concerns are the perception that LDS history is rife with disturbing episodes, that the faith does not treat lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons fairly or offer wide enough roles for women. Separately, Pennock said she is also is unhappy with the excommunications of Ordain Women founder Kate Kelly and podcaster John Dehlin. It should be noted that <a href="https://www.facebook.com/410211199071047/photos/a.615857668506398.1073741834.410211199071047/822894787802684/?type=1&reply_comment_id=823380471087449&total_comments=1&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R5%22%7D">Ordain Women has denied any connection</a> with this AnyOpposed group.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://ldsliving.com/story/78523-dissenting-votes-at-conference-everything-you-need-to-know">LDS Living</a> explained the voting procedure:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>In the event that member concerns are raised in this manner, the Church Handbook 2, which applies to all Church meetings, explains the protocol for dealing with these issues:<br />
<br />
“If a member in good standing gives a dissenting vote when someone is presented to be sustained, the presiding officer or another assigned priesthood officer confers with the dissenting member in private after the meeting. The officer determines whether the dissenting vote was based on knowledge that the person who was presented is guilty of conduct that should disqualify him or her from serving in the position” (<a href="https://www.lds.org/handbook/handbook-2-administering-the-church/callings-in-the-church/19.3#193">19.3</a>).</blockquote><br />
The annual demographic report, compiled as of December 31st, 2014, was issued. There are now 3,114 stakes, 406 missions, 561 districts, 29,621 wards, 85,147 missionaries, and three new temples (144 temples total). Membership of record is now 15,372,337, up by 290,309 from <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2014/04/summary-of-184th-annual-lds-general_5.html">15,082,028 members in December 2013</a> and 14,782,483 in December 2012. Read the complete statistical report <a href="http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/2014-statistical-report-for-2015-april-general-conference">HERE</a>.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.sltrib.com/csp/mediapool/sites/sltrib/Pages/gallery.csp?cid=2364962&pid=2345358">Salt Lake Tribune photo gallery of Conference</a>. <br />
-- <a href="http://www.ksl.com/?sid=34106022&nid=1164&title=photos-185th-general-conference-of-the-church-of-jesus-christ-of-latter-day-saints&s_cid=queue-5">KSL Channel 5 photo gallery of Conference</a>.<br />
<br />
Other Sessions:<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/03/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general.html">Summary of General Women's Session</a><br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general.html">Summary of Saturday Morning General Session</a><br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general_14.html">Saturday Evening Priesthood Session</a><br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general_5.html">Sunday Morning General Session</a><br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general_97.html">Sunday Afternoon General Session</a><br />
<br />
For the first time, the LDS Church provides immediate real-time summaries of the talks on their <a href="https://www.lds.org/church/news/2015-april-general-conference/2015-april-general-conference-at-a-glance?cid=HP_SA_4-4-2015_dPAAST_fCHNWS_xLIDyL2-2_&lang=eng">Conference At A Glance Page</a>; nice innovation, but I also choose to provide my traditional summaries. Video and audio archives will be available on the <a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/sessions/2015/04?lang=eng">designated General Conference page</a> shortly after the Conference; written transcripts will be posted later in the week. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ldsconf?f=realtime&src=hash">LDSConf Twitter</a> also used as a source. For the time being, I have posted short summaries of the highlights of each talk along with any pertinent personal impressions. Links posted below take you directly to the Deseret News account of the talk.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625732/Elder-David-A-Bednar-6Therefore-They-Hushed-Their-Fears7.html">Elder David A. Bednar, Quorum of the Twelve:</a> Elder Bednar explained how fear can be dispelled through a correct knowledge of and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Trust and confidence in Christ and a ready reliance on His merits, mercy and grace lead to hope through His Atonement in the resurrection and eternal life. The power of the Atonement makes repentance possible and quells the despair caused by sin; it also strengthens us to see, do and become good in ways that we could never recognize or accomplish with our limited mortal capacity. Elder Bednar also said that three principles are central to hushing fears in a contemporary world: Look to Christ, build upon the foundation of Christ, and press forward with faith in Christ. Elder Bednar also spoke of Godly fear, which he characterized as a righteous fear producing a deep feeling of reverence, respect and awe for the Lord Jesus Christ, obedience to His commandments, and anticipation of the final judgment and justice at His hand. Unlike worldly fear that creates alarm and anxiety, Godly fear is a source of peace, assurance and confidence.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625737/Elder-D-Todd-Christofferson-Why-marriage-why-family.html">Elder D. Todd Christofferson, Quorum of the Twelve:</a> Continuing the pro-family pushback, Elder Christofferson became the fourth speaker to address the sanctity of traditional marriage today. He identified marriage as being one of four things necessary to realize God’s plan of happiness, the others being the creation of earth as a dwelling place, the condition of mortality, and a redemption from the Fall of Man in the Garden of Eden. Elder Christofferson pointed out that marriage is more than love; it creates a link in the chain of generations. It is marriage, not love, that joins two together before God and man. God ordained marriage as an essential step towards living with Him again. Because the plan is so simple, clear, and important, Satan uses every possible strategem to try to distort the truth of it. But those who, through no fault of their own, do not receive the blessings of marriage need not fear; the Atonement has anticipated, and in the end will compensate for, all loss.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625738/Elder-Wilford-Andersen-The-music-of-the-gospel.html">Elder Wilford W. Andersen, First Quorum of the Seventy:</a> Elder Anderson likened the Gospel to dancing and music, explaining that while the dance steps of the Gospel are the things we do; the music of the Gospel is the joyful spiritual feeling that comes from the Holy Ghost. Our problem is that sometimes in our homes, we successfully teach the dance steps, but are not as successful in helping our family members to hear the music. Elder Andersen suggested that to hear the "beautiful music" of the Gospel, we must keep their lives attuned to the correct spiritual frequency and to avoid the use of coercion; no power of the Priesthood is to be used except by persuasion, by long suffering, by gentleness and meekness, by love unfeigned, and by kindness. To those who struggle to hear the music of the Gospel in their homes, keep practicing.<br />
<br />
<i>Note: Elder Andersen's talk resonated particularly strong with many people on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ldsconf?f=realtime&src=hash">LDSConf Twitter</a>.</i><br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625741/Elder-Dale-G-Renlund-Latter-day-Saints-keep-on-trying.html">Elder Dale G. Redlund, First Quorum of the Seventy:</a> Elder Redlund spoke of the need for Latter-day Saints to keep on trying to live the gospel, explaining that a saint is actually a sinner who keeps on trying. He explained that God cares a lot more about who we are, and who we are becoming, than about who we once were, so we should continue to strive to live the doctrine of Christ — exercising faith, repenting, making and renewing the covenant of baptism and receiving the Holy Ghost as a constant companion. Only Satan would have us believe that our sins are too great to be forgiven. Even more importantly, we must allow others room to keep on trying.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625744/Elder-Michael-T-Ringwood-Truly-good-and-without-guile.html">Elder Michael T. Ringwood, First Quorum of the Seventy:</a> Elder Ringwood spoke of the need to be more anxious to serve than to have dominion. Such people are not motivated by the possibility of receiving titles or authority, but are disciples of Christ, going about doing good continually and are trying to please their Heavenly Father. One does not need a formal calling in the Church to serve the Lord. <br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625747/Elder-Quentin-L-Cook-The-Lord-is-my-light.html">Elder Quentin L. Cook, Quorum of the Twelve:</a> Elder Cook became the fifth speaker to deliver an explicit pro-family message during this Conference. He explained that the role of the family in God’s plan is to bring us happiness, to help us learn correct principles in a loving atmosphere and to prepare us for eternal life. Elder Cook also noted that traditions of religious observance in the home -- family prayer, scripture study, family home evening, priesthood blessings and Sabbath day observance -- need to be imbedded in the hearts of children. And in this effort, husbands and wives are equal partners; husbands and wives are equal, but their respective roles are different and complementary. <br />
<br />
Elder Cook also rebutted accusations that more members are leaving the Church today, and that there is more doubt and unbelief than in the past, saying <i>“The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has never been stronger. The number of members removing their names from the records of the Church has always been very small and is significantly less in recent years than in the past. The increase in demonstrably measurable areas, such as endowed members with a current temple recommend, adult full-tithe payers and those serving missions, has been dramatic."</i> The numbers cited earlier bear this out -- the LDS Church gained 290,309 new members in 2014.<br />
<br />
LDS Peanut Gallery: Reaction from rank-and-file Mormons on the Web.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.feministmormonhousewives.org/2015/04/saturday-afternoon-live-blog/">Feminist Mormon Housewives:</a> Most of the discussion was about the actions of the dissidents, although Elder Redlund's talk was lauded by the original poster.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.ldsfreedomforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=38123">LDS Freedom Forum:</a> A designated thread for the entire Conference.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.millennialstar.org/april-2015-general-conference-saturday-afternoon-session/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TheMillennialStar+%28Millennial+Star%29">Millennial Star:</a> Good set of faith-promoting summaries.<br />
Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-66336027292050431262015-04-04T11:01:00.001-08:002015-04-05T14:32:05.588-08:00Summary Of 185th Annual LDS General Conference, Saturday Morning General Session: Promoting Traditional Marriage And Family, Resisting The Devaluation Of MenOn April 4th, 2015, the 185th Annual General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which officially began with the <a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/sessions/2015/04?lang=eng">General Women's Session</a> on March 28th, resumed on Saturday morning. It was marked by several vigorous defenses of traditional marriage and family values, and a call by the Relief Society General President to resist the devaluation of men promoted by the dominant secular culture. The <a href="http://www.sltrib.com/lifestyle/faith/2364962-155/monson-skips-opening-remarks-as-mormon">Salt Lake Tribune</a> took note of the fact that President Thomas S. Monson did not give a talk at this session, although he was present and plans to give a talk later. The British media have already picked up on the Conference with an article in the left-wing Guardian provocatively entitled <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/apr/04/mormon-leaders-same-sex-marriage"><i>"Mormon leaders decry same-sex marriage and counterfeit lifestyles"</i></a>. <br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.sltrib.com/csp/mediapool/sites/sltrib/Pages/gallery.csp?cid=2364962&pid=2345358">Salt Lake Tribune photo gallery of Conference</a>. <br />
-- <a href="http://www.ksl.com/?sid=34106022&nid=1164&title=photos-185th-general-conference-of-the-church-of-jesus-christ-of-latter-day-saints&s_cid=queue-2">KSL Channel 5 photo gallery of Conference</a>.<br />
<br />
Other Sessions:<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/03/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general.html">Summary of General Women's Session</a><br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general_4.html">Summary of Saturday Afternoon General Session</a><br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general_14.html">Saturday Evening Priesthood Session</a><br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general_5.html">Sunday Morning General Session</a><br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general_97.html">Sunday Afternoon General Session</a><br />
<br />
For the first time, the LDS Church provides immediate real-time summaries of the talks on their <a href="https://www.lds.org/church/news/2015-april-general-conference/2015-april-general-conference-at-a-glance">Conference At A Glance Page</a>; nice innovation, but I also choose to provide my traditional summaries. Video and audio archives will be available on the <a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/sessions/2015/04?lang=eng">designated General Conference page</a> shortly after the Conference; written transcripts will be posted later in the week. For the time being, I have posted short summaries of the highlights of each talk along with some pertinent personal impressions. Links posted below take you directly to the Deseret News account of the talk.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625721/President-Henry-B-Eyring-Is-Not-This-the-Fast-that-I-Have-Chosen.html">President Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor in the First Presidency:</a> President Eyring focused upon the commandment and the blessings of the law of the fast. This is pertinent because observant LDS members fast on the first Sunday of each month and donate what they would have spent on the two missed meals as a fast offering. We give a generous fast offering through our bishop or branch president for the benefit of the poor and the needy, and the funds will then be used to help people in need, some of whom will be people close to an individual, possibly even a family member. Ward and stake leaders pray and fast for the revelation to know whom to help and what help to give; that which is not needed locally will become available to bless other Church members across the world. Fasting can confer additional spiritual benefits on top of prayer; it can heal and change hearts. This reminds me of the Biblical verse (<a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/nt/Matt/17">Matthew 17:21</a>) on how to deal with particularly stubborn spiritual adversaries; namely, <i>"this kind goeth not out but by prayer AND fasting"</i>. <br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625722/President-Boyd-K-Packer-The-Plan-of-Happiness.html">President Boyd K. Packer, President of the Quorum of the Twelve:</a> Launched the opening session with a vigorous defense of traditional marriage and family values. Marriage is more than romance; it's a full-blown life partnership. Mature love has a bliss not even imagined by newlyweds. But true love requires reserving until after marriage the sharing of procreative powers. When entered into worthily, this process combines the most exquisite and exalted physical, emotional, and spiritual feelings associated with the word love. But President Packer also assured worthy people who are unable to bear children or who do not marry that God remains our Father. President Packer truly is a champion for Christ.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625723/Sister-Linda-K-Burton-Well-Ascend-Together.html">Sister Linda K. Burton, Relief Society General President:</a> Gently took issue with the anti-male rhetoric permeating society, which implies that men are dispensable. She noted that Satan is the author of the false ideas that men are inherently self-centered or that fathers are unnecessary in today’s society. Sister Burton asserted that being a father is a sacred calling, and that a father’s role as a priesthood holder serves to strengthen and protect the family. Sister Burton is convinced that a husband is never more attractive to his wife than when he is serving in his God-given roles as a worthy priesthood holder, most importantly in the home. This effectively supports LDS doctrine that men and women can only be exalted in the celestial kingdom together, not singly.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625724/Elder-Dallin-H-Oaks-The-Parable-of-the-Sower.html">Elder Dallin H. Oaks, Quorum of the Twelve:</a> Elder Oaks brought the Parable of the Sower (<a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/nt/mark/4?lang=eng">Mark 4</a>) into his talk, noting that if we are not rooted in the teachings of the Gospel and regular in its practices, any one of us can develop a stony heart, which is stony ground for spiritual seeds. He also identified the keyhole view of the Gospel, which focuses inordinately upon a particular point of doctrine or deficiency in a leader and ignores the fullness of the gospel plan and the personal and communal fruits of its harvest, as problematic. In addition, Elder Oaks cautioned against becoming seduced by prosperity theology, saying that whoever has an abundance of material things is in jeopardy of being sedated by riches and other things of the world. In the final analysis, Elder Oaks suggested that genuine conversion can only be achieved by prayer, by scripture-reading, by serving, and by regularly partaking of the sacrament to always have the Holy Spirit to be with us, counseling people to seek that mighty change of heart (<a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/alma/5?lang=eng">Alma 5:21-14</a>) that replaces evil desires and selfish concerns with the love of God and the desire to serve Him and His children.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625725/Elder-L-Whitney-Clayton-Choose-to-Believe.html">Elder L. Whitney Clayton, Presidency of the First Quorum of the Seventy:</a> Elder Clayton spoke about the value of choosing to believe in the Gospel. Elder Clayton noted that individuals must choose to believe before faith can grow. Second, belief must be put into action through means such as prayer, reading the scriptures, and making and keeping covenants. And finally, one must never give up, even in difficult spiritual times when progress seems to have slowed, in order to further grow faith. This is what makes mortality such an essential step in eternal progression; it is the only environment where our faith can immediately be tested by adversity, which serves as an isometric exercise for our character.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865625726/Elder-L-Tom-Perry-Why-Marriage-and-Family-Matters.html">Elder L. Tom Perry, Quorum of the Twelve:</a> Elder Perry spoke of his participation in a Colloquium on Marriage and Family at the Vatican in Rome, Italy. He noted that there was a powerful sense of commonality and unity felt by the various religious representatives in attendance, who numbered from among 14 different faiths and six of the seven continents. He found it remarkable to see how marriage and family-centered priorities cut across and superseded any political, economic or religious differences. But Elder Perry noted that what differentiated the LDS Church from the others represented at the Colloqium was we make it a subject of eternity; we take the commitment and the sanctity of marriage to a greater level because of our belief and understanding that families go back to before this earth was, and they can go forward into eternity. Because the media and entertainment industries wrongly depict immorality and amorality as the social norm; the Church will continue to participate in various ecumenical efforts, in sharing family-focused values in the media and social media and in sharing genealogical and extended family records to effectively counter the degeneracy of the mass media and the entertainment industry. <br />
<br />
LDS Peanut Gallery: Reaction from rank-and-file Mormons on the Web.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.feministmormonhousewives.org/2015/04/saturday-morning-session-live-blogging/">Feminist Mormon Housewives:</a> As usual, many commenters question the relevance of the family remarks to those who don't have traditional families. <br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://timesandseasons.org/index.php/2015/04/genconf-saturday-morning-session-notes/">Times and Seasons:</a> Good faith-promoting summaries of the talks.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.ldsfreedomforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=38171">LDS Freedom Forum:</a> Designated thread. President Eyring's talk attracted considerable praise. One person questions whether or not <a href="http://www.ldsfreedomforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=38171#p594513">the Church is catering too much to the gay lobby</a> with their support of Utah's nondiscrimination law. But <a href="http://www.ldsfreedomforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=38171#p594534">former BYU Professor Stephen Jones takes issue with this assessment</a>, praising Elder Perry's talk. <br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.millennialstar.org/lds-general-conference-saturday-morning-session/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TheMillennialStar+%28Millennial+Star%29">Millennial Star:</a> Another batch of good faith-promoting summaries of the talks.<br />
Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-10344408695728156562015-04-03T22:53:00.001-08:002015-04-03T22:53:35.574-08:00President Barack Obama Huddles With Four LDS General Authorities In Salt Lake City<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi1J3npB_X7is6mCh5lWdmvC3t1z_lFBE6y33bU5MGKiRxX2zjN3EUk42dPT1u8u3uganGN8QDLTss5feqNopDoVYrYpXRGEMyn42qrlNCUIqtB9eSu6CATOBZpx0PdEJ3qLPfdzQi_br2/s1600/lds-obama.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi1J3npB_X7is6mCh5lWdmvC3t1z_lFBE6y33bU5MGKiRxX2zjN3EUk42dPT1u8u3uganGN8QDLTss5feqNopDoVYrYpXRGEMyn42qrlNCUIqtB9eSu6CATOBZpx0PdEJ3qLPfdzQi_br2/s1600/lds-obama.jpg" height="95" width="200" /></a></div>President Barack Obama visited Utah for the first time on April 2nd, 2015; he has now visited 49 of the 50 states since becoming President (perhaps he's waiting to be chiseled up on Mount Rushmore before he visits South Dakota). His visit included a 20-minute huddle at the Salt Lake Sheraton Hotel with four General Authorities of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; Presidents Henry B. Eyring and Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the First Presidency, and Elders L. Tom Perry and D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve. According to <a href="http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/president-obama-meets-with-mormon-leaders-in-salt-lake-city">Mormon Newsroom</a>, President Thomas S. Monson chose not to participate, desiring to preserve his strength for the remainder of the 185th Annual General Conference. President Obama expressed his appreciation for the Church’s leadership role in balancing religious freedom and nondiscrimination and praised the Church’s worldwide humanitarian aid and disaster relief efforts, and asked for help in fixing America's broken immigration system. Church leaders expressed their appreciation to President Obama for the example he and his wife provide through their healthy marriage and family life. <br />
<br />
The visit with LDS officials was part of <a href="http://www.kutv.com/news/features/local-news/stories/Obama-lands-for-first-presidential-visit-to-Utah-110610.shtml#.VR-AxOEhE80">a larger visit</a> in which Obama met with Gov. Gary Herbert, Sen. Orin Hatch, Sen. Mike Lee, Rep. Rob Bishop (all Republicans), and Salt Lake City Mayor Ralph Becker (Democrat). Certainly the Republicans showed considerably more hospitality towards Obama than then-Salt Lake Mayor Rocky Anderson did towards George W. Bush on August 30th, 2006 <a href="http://content.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1528058,00.html">when he led an antiwar demonstration against Bush during the President's command visit to Utah</a>. Ultimately, Anderson disgraced himself and his city by refusing to show the professional hospitality expected of an elected official during a Presidential visit.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://fox13now.com/2015/04/02/obama-to-meet-with-lds-church-officials-during-utah-visit/">It is not the first time President Obama has met with LDS officials</a>. President Uchtdorf was among a group of religious leaders from various denominations who spent time with Obama in the Oval Office in April 2014 to give their input on immigration reform. And in February 2008, Michelle Obama visited Church headquarters in February 2008 on behalf of her husband, who was campaigning for his first presidential bid at the time, meeting with Elders Quentin L. Cook and M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve. Also, in July 2009, <a href="http://www.ksl.com/?sid=7218756">President Monson and Elder Dallin H. Oaks journeyed to Washington DC</a> to present Obama with a leather-bound, five-book record of Obama's family history. <br />
<br />
<b>Rank-and-File LDS Reaction:</b> <br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.millennialstar.org/pres-obama-meets-with-church-leaders-in-utah-pres-monson-skips-meeting-to-preserve-his-strength-for-conference/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TheMillennialStar+%28Millennial+Star%29">Discussed at Millennial Star</a>. One commenter thinks <a href="http://www.millennialstar.org/pres-obama-meets-with-church-leaders-in-utah-pres-monson-skips-meeting-to-preserve-his-strength-for-conference/comment-page-1/#comment-148922">President Monson was "sending a message"</a> by not showing up to meet with President Obama. <br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.ldsfreedomforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=20&t=38149">Discussion thread on the LDS Freedom Forum</a>. Most participants critical of Obama. <br />
<br />
Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-60177184428539073032015-03-29T11:41:00.000-08:002015-04-05T17:41:15.252-08:00Summary Of 185th Annual LDS General Conference, General Women's Session: Sister Bonnie Oscarson Defends The Proclamation On The Family And Traditional MarriageThe 185th Annual General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints officially kicked off on Saturday March 28th, 2015 with the General Women's Session. Yes, although it occurs a week in advance of the other sessions, the Women's Session is now considered an official part of Conference. One noteworthy innovation: For the first time, <a href="http://www.sltrib.com/blogs/2339864-155/new-policy-lets-female-reporters-attend">the LDS Church allowed female reporters access to cover the event without restriction</a>. Previously, only male reporters were allowed to cover that priesthood meeting. Eventually, even male reporters were not given media access, though they could go in and watch the proceedings without raising suspicions because they were men.<br />
<br />
Other Conference Sessions:<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general.html">Summary of Saturday Morning General Session</a><br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general_4.html">Summary of Saturday Afternoon General Session</a><br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general_14.html">Summary of Saturday Evening Priesthood Session</a><br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general_5.html">Summary of Sunday Morning General Session</a><br />
-- <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2015/04/summary-of-185th-annual-lds-general_97.html">Sunday Afternoon General Session</a><br />
<br />
Video and audio archives and written transcripts are already available on the <a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/sessions/2015/04?lang=eng">designated General Conference page</a>. However, the General Women's Session is also available on YouTube, which users of slower computers may find easier to deal with. Total time is 1:27.<br />
<br />
<iframe width="450" height="253" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/U8VIkuH6Hr0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
Summaries published below are based on the written transcripts of the talks:<br />
<br />
-- <a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/print/2015/04/filling-our-homes-with-light-and-truth?lang=eng">Sister Cheryl A. Esplin, Second Counselor Primary General Presidency:</a> Sister Esplin spoke of the need to be filled with light and Gospel truth to withstand the pressures of the world. To illustrate her point, she compared two soda cans; one filled, and the other empty. When the empty can was squeezed, it began to bend and then collapsed under the pressure. But when the unopened can was squeezed, it held firm. It didn’t bend or collapse like the empty can -- because it was filled. Compare this with our individual lives and to our homes and families. When filled with the Spirit and with gospel truth, we have the power to withstand the outside forces of the world that surround and push against us. However, if we are not filled spiritually, we don’t have the inner strength to resist the outside pressures and can collapse when forces push against us.<br />
<br />
Satan knows that in order for us and our families to withstand the pressures of the world, we must be filled with light and gospel truth. So he does everything in his power to dilute, distort, and destroy the truth of the gospel and to keep us separated from that truth. The takeaway is that we will have to do our best to hold on to whatever light and truth we currently have, especially in difficult circumstances. The answers to our prayers may not come dramatically, but we must find quiet moments to seek greater light and truth. And when we receive it, it is our responsibility to live it, to share it, and to defend it.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/print/2015/04/the-family-is-of-god?lang=eng">Sister Carole M. Stephens, First Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency:</a> Sister Stephens discussed why we each belong to and are needed in the family of God. In the premortal realm, spirit sons and daughters knew and worshipped God as their Eternal Father. In that realm, we learned about our eternal female identity. We knew that we were each a beloved daughter of heavenly parents. Our mortal journey to earth did not change those truths. We each belong to and are needed in the family of God. Earthly families all look different. And while we do the best we can to create strong traditional families, membership in the family of God is not contingent upon any kind of status -- marital status, parental status, financial status, social status, or even the kind of status we post on social media.<br />
<br />
Sister Stephens noted that our opportunity as covenant-keeping daughters of God is not just to learn from our own challenges, but also to unite in empathy and compassion as we support other members of the family of God in their struggles, as we have covenanted to do. If we are to be successful in our sacred responsibilities as daughters of God, we must understand the eternal significance of and our individual responsibility to teach truths about our Heavenly Father’s plan for His family. The takeaway is that the sisters belong, are loved, and are needed. They have a divine purpose, work, place, and role in the Church and kingdom of God and in His eternal family.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/print/2015/04/defenders-of-the-family-proclamation?lang=eng">Sister Bonnie L. Oscarson, Young Women General President:</a> Being that this Conference marks the 20th anniversary of the Proclamation On The Family, Sister Oscarson's talk proceeded along this theme. She noted that when President Gordon B. Hinckley first read <i>“The Family: A Proclamation to the World”</i> 20 years ago, we were grateful for and valued the clarity, simplicity, and truth of this revelatory document. Little did we realize then how very desperately we would need these basic declarations in today’s world as the criteria by which we could judge each new wind of worldly dogma coming at us from the media, the Internet, scholars, TV and films, and even legislators. The proclamation on the family has become our benchmark for judging the philosophies of the world, and she testified that the principles set forth within this statement are as true today as they were when they were given to us by a prophet of God nearly 20 years ago. Sister Oscarson did acknowledge that life rarely goes exactly according to plan for anyone, and she is aware that not all women are experiencing what the proclamation describes. But it is still important to understand and teach the Lord’s pattern and strive for the realization of that pattern the best we can.<br />
<br />
There are three principles taught in the proclamation which especially need steadfast defenders. The first is marriage between a man and a woman. We are taught in the scriptures, “Nevertheless neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman without the man, in the Lord.” For anyone to attain the fulness of priesthood blessings, there must be a husband and a wife sealed in the house of the Lord, working together in righteousness and remaining faithful to their covenants. This is the Lord’s plan for His children, and no amount of public discourse or criticism will change what the Lord has declared. We need to continue to model righteous marriages, seek for that blessing in our lives, and have faith if it is slow in coming. We need to be defenders of marriage as the Lord has ordained it while continuing to show love and compassion for those with differing views.<br />
<br />
The second principle which calls for our defending voices is elevating the divine roles of mothers and fathers. We eagerly teach our children to aim high in this life. We want to make sure that our daughters know that they have the potential to achieve and be whatever they can imagine. We hope they will love learning, be educated, talented, and maybe even become the next Marie Curie or Eliza R. Snow. <br />
<br />
And the third principle we need to stand and defend is the sanctity of the home. We need to take a term which is sometimes spoken of with derision and elevate it. It is the term homemaker. All of us -- women, men, youth, and children, single or married -- can work at being homemakers. We should make our homes places of order, refuge, holiness, and safety. Our homes should be places where the Spirit of the Lord is felt in rich abundance and where the scriptures and the gospel are studied, taught, and lived. What a difference it would make in the world if all people would see themselves as makers of righteous homes. Let us defend the home as a place which is second only to the temple in holiness. The takeaway is that today's women have opportunities and possibilities which no other generation of women has had in the world. Let us help build the kingdom of God by standing up boldly and being defenders of marriage, parenthood, and the home. The Lord needs us to be brave, steadfast, and immovable warriors who will defend His plan and teach the upcoming generations His truths.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/print/2015/04/the-comforter?lang=eng">President Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor First Presidency:</a> President Eyring assured the women that the Savior knows them and loves them, and that they have felt His love for those seated around them. They are your sisters, spirit daughters of our Heavenly Father. He cares for them, understands all their sorrows, and wants to succor them. President Eyring's message to them is that they can and must be an important part of His giving comfort to those who need comfort. the women can play your part best if they know more of how He answers those prayers for help. Jesus Christ gave this sweet promise: “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”<br />
<br />
The burdens His faithful servants must carry in life are made lighter by His Atonement. The burden of sin can be taken away, but the trials of mortal life for good people can still be heavy burdens.<br />
Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-66972581581415355602015-02-16T15:06:00.001-09:002015-02-16T15:06:49.805-09:00Cleaning The Chapel Is Not Only About Saving Money For The LDS Church, But Also About Building Character Through Additional Service OpportunitiesOne of the practices of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints which has triggered some controversy and attracted <a href="http://mormoncurtain.com/topic_wardcleaning.html">criticism from anti-Mormons</a> is the practice of asking Church members to participate in the weekly cleaning of our chapels during the past 14 years. An <a href="http://www.standard.net/Faith/2015/02/14/Congregation-Cleans-Buildings">article published in the Ogden Standard-Examiner</a> on February 5th, 2015, highlights this practice. Here's the critical excerpt:<br />
<br />
<blockquote><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">For the last several years, members of LDS congregations worldwide have been asked to clean their own buildings, replacing what was once the task of janitors hired by the church. Though meetinghouses still hire out help for repairs, congregation member volunteers do the weekly cleaning.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">According to church leaders, the primary purpose of member participation is to benefit and bless all, including the youth and less active by providing opportunities to serve. It also reinforces and deepens respect for the Lord’s houses of worship. It is noted that the opportunity to clean the meetinghouse is not about saving money, but about a spiritual opportunity to show respect to the Lord.</span></blockquote><br />
An <a href="http://www.nearingkolob.com/obedient-prophet-clean-church/">unofficial estimate from a Mormon-skeptic blog, Nearing Kolob</a>, projects that the Church saves $50 million per year in janitorial costs worldwide by having members clean the chapel. This estimate has not been confirmed by the LDS Church. <br />
<br />
In my ward, we share the task with two other congregations, so it becomes our turn every three months. Because I was inactive, it was a great opportunity to get involved and serve at a level at which I could do so. I have since resumed regular activity in the Church (and I may have to change my user nickname :lol:). Participation in this effort is not a criterion for temple worthiness.<br />
<br />
But how, when, and why did this practice evolve? This practice began with a <a href="http://www.ldschurchnewsarchive.com/articles/35144/Caring-for-Churchs-meetinghouses.html">letter from the First Presidency sent to various Church leaders in the Fall of 1998</a> calling upon the membership to assume a greater responsibility for cleaning and caring for Church meetinghouses. As a result, a number of full-time janitors became redundant as professional cleaning became restricted to big-ticket items such as carpet shampooing. In an <a href="https://www.lds.org/ensign/1999/06/news-of-the-church?lang=eng">article published in the June 1999 edition of Ensign</a>, then-Presiding Bishop H. David Burton explained the change more fully. While Bishop Burton admitted that this was partially prompted by the fact that members no longer donated excess funds above normal tithing and fast offering levels, reducing available revenue to pay for fully professional cleaning, the real issue was that respect and appreciation for Church buildings by the membership, particularly among young people, had eroded. The change provided a greater opportunity for individual Church members to develop greater personal character and receive more eternal blessings by participating in the cleaning of their buildings; their sacrifice would prompt them to accord greater honor and respect and love for our beautiful houses of worship. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.nearingkolob.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/letter-cleaning1.jpg">Additional refinements were announced in June 2010</a>. The main point of coordination and leadership of this program is through stake presidents, the high councilor assigned as the stake physical facilities representative and the bishops and branch presidents. The LDS Church published <i><a href="https://www.lds.org/bc/content/ldsorg/callings/meetinghouse-care/Cleaning%20Cards%203x5%20V6.pdf?lang=eng">"Cleaning Cards"</a></i> which laid out the weekly tasks. Typical tasks for Church members include vacuuming the chapel, classrooms, corridors, and foyers; cleaning rest room floors, wiping counters, and replacing paper products; cleaning chalkboards, drinking fountains, and kitchen areas; sweeping the cultural hall floor, platform area, and exterior entrance walks; picking up debris; emptying trash and relining wastebaskets; setting up and putting away chairs and tables; cleaning and repairing hymnbooks, folding chairs, and sacrament trays; cleaning grounds, parking lots, landscaped areas, and adjacent Church-owned property; planting, weeding, and caring for flower beds; and removing snow from sidewalks as needed. Most often this is done on Saturday. Depending on the number of people who show up, the tasks can take anywhere from 45 minutes to three hours.<br />
<br />
For the tougher cleaning tasks, <a href="https://www.lds.org/callings/meetinghouse-care/effective-leadership/ward-building-rep?lang=eng">facilities management personnel</a> enter meetinghouses once a week to perform the more difficult maintenance responsibilities, such as refinishing cultural hall floors, cleaning the grouting in rest rooms, and shampooing carpets. They also maintain the equipment used by members and stock the cleaning supplies necessary for members to perform their roles.<br />
<br />
Personally, from the perspective of one who has participated in this endeavor frequently, there is another reason this is a good idea. Cleaning the chapel can be a humbling experience. It reminds us not to get too full of ourselves. It further reminds us that, although not all work is equally valued by society, the Lord believes there is equal dignity in all work. It might even persuade us to behave more charitably towards the <i>"hewers of wood and drawers of water"</i> in our society whose jobs we don't want to do but whose products and services we're quick to use. Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-64350569536068278412015-02-10T13:42:00.001-09:002015-02-10T13:42:13.818-09:00Another "Tare" Plucks Itself: Mormon Stories Editor John Dehlin Excommunicated From The LDS Church, LDS Church Issues Official StatementIn the Parable of the Sower presented in <a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/nt/matt/13.24-30%2C36-43?lang=eng#23">Matthew Chapter 13</a>, Jesus Christ discusses wheat and tares. He cautioned against prematurely gathering up the tares, since there is a danger of gathering up wheat also. From Matthew 13:28-30:<br />
<br />
<blockquote><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">28 He said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The servants said unto him, Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">29 But he said, Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">30 Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn.</span></blockquote><br />
Nevertheless, there is no constraint against the tares plucking themselves before the appointed time. And just as both Denver Snuffer and Kate Kelly revealed themselves to be tares, so they have now been joined by John Dehlin, the editor of <a href="http://mormonstories.org/">Mormon Stories</a>. On February 10th, 2015, Dehlin reported that he had received written notification of his excommunication from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. <a href="http://fox13now.com/2015/02/08/lds-church-disciplinary-council-for-john-dehlin-of-mormon-stories-concludes-no-decision-sunday/">The decision grew out of his disciplinary council held on Sunday, February 8th, triggered by his public support of same-sex marriage, the LGBT community and the Ordain Women movement, as well as his decade-long website and podcast, Mormon Stories</a>. He had been given a <a href="http://www.cachevalleydaily.com/news/state/article_955f2334-7d36-5992-8978-1497497b877d.html">number of preliminary warnings by his priesthood chain of command over the past decade</a>, so the disciplinary council was not a surprise.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/media/pdf/1484938.pdf">Read the text of the official excommunication letter published by the Deseret News</a>.<br />
<br />
Dehlin's Mormon Stories website was specifically tailored to reach out to LDS members who had doubts regarding doctrine and practices of the LDS Church. One of the outcomes Dehlin frequently cited in his defense was that his outreach prevented many of these doubters from leaving the Church altogether. Nevertheless, the disciplinary council felt this had become outweighed by Dehlin's belief that the Book of Mormon and Book of Abraham are fraudulent and by his rejection of the LDS Church being the true church with power and authority from God. Dehlin also took some heat over the financial compensation he receives from the Mormon Stories website; for his work, <a href="http://www.sltrib.com/home/2146441-155/mormon-facing-excommunication-makes-his-living">Dehlin received nearly $90,000 in 2013</a>, according to his foundation's public financial records. A <a href="http://www.sltrib.com/home/2155830-155/dehlin-the-rest-of-the-story">detailed response by Dehlin was published by the Salt Lake Tribune</a> on February 9th in which he points out that his work was supported by voluntary contributions, that had pledged he would use the money to help pay for groceries, health insurance and medical bills (both of which he pays out of pocket), employment taxes, clothing for my children, tuition, etc., and believes he has used the money exactly as promised<br />
<br />
When Dehlin arrived at the North Logan Stake Center on February 8th, he was greeted by up to a maximum of 200 supporters. Dehlin gave a brief address to his supporters, but counseled them against behaving abusively, <a href="http://www.ksl.com/?nid=148&sid=33422568">asking a few who were displaying uncomplimentary posters about Stake President Bryan King to put them away</a>. The <a href="http://www.cachevalleydaily.com/news/local/article_cd39c25e-b0b4-11e4-9210-c779d2142461.html">Cache Valley Daily</a> reports that the hearing, which began at 6 P.M. MST, lasted four hours, and that Dehlin characterized it as difficult, sad and at times heart-wrenching. Dehlin also said that five people — three family members and two friends -- were permitted to speak on his behalf before the council consisting of 15 regional LDS church leaders. Most commonly this includes the Stake Presidency and the 12-member Stake High Council. Dehlin opined that evidence presented by church leaders seemed to paint him in the worst possible light, making it hard for him to imagine an outcome other than excommunication. <br />
<br />
Nevertheless, President King decided to pray and wait a day or two before making a decision regarding John Dehlin to ensure that he was not merely reacting to the heat of the moment. But the council concluded that although they acknowledge Dehlin's right to criticize the Church and to share his opinions, they cannot allow him to continue as a member in good standing. <a href="http://www.patheos.com/blogs/danpeterson/2015/02/excommunication.html">BYU Professor Daniel Peterson served on disciplinary councils as a bishop</a> and notes that they are always sad occasions; he believes excommunication should always be a last resort.<br />
<br />
After being notified of his excommunication, Dehlin gave a short statement to the <a href="http://www.sltrib.com/home/2163720-155/mormon-critic-john-dehlin-is-excommunicated">Salt Lake Tribune</a>:<br />
<br />
<blockquote><i>"My wife, Margi, and I are proud to stand in support of both free expression and gender/marriage equality within Mormonism...While we are saddened that the LDS Church has chosen to excommunicate me for publicly supporting these values, we support the church's right to make this decision."</i></blockquote><br />
Another statement attributed to Dehlin was published by <a href="http://www.ksl.com/?nid=148&sid=33422568">KSL Channel 5</a>:<br />
<br />
<blockquote><i>“Margi and I would like to express our appreciation to President Bryan King and others who assisted in this very difficult process. Our observation is that President King worked very hard to comply with church policies and direction, during what we know was a very difficult time personally for him and his family. We respectfully request that President King be shown respect for his professionalism and commitment to LDS Church leadership and policies, and we express our preference that any frustrations be constructively directed at examining LDS Church disciplinary policies, and not at President King personally."</i></blockquote><br />
The LDS Church does not customarily comment on the outcome of disciplinary councils. But because John Dehlin has commented publicly and because the case has stirred up such a media frenzy across the country, the Church chose to release the following <a href="http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/church-responds-to-john-dehlins-public-comments">official statement</a> (here's the most applicable portion):<br />
<br />
<blockquote><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Such councils are always far better when all involved respect the principle of confidentiality. At the very least, this principle helps those members who wish to return to full fellowship at a later date. When the member has chosen to air their grievances in public, the Church reserves the right to correct the public record. In this case, attempts have been made to create the impression that the disciplinary council convened on Sunday, February 8, 2015, and which has resulted in a loss of Church membership or excommunication of Mr. Dehlin arose largely because of his views on same-sex marriage and priesthood ordination for women. Although his stated positions on those subjects are not consistent with the Church’s teachings, they were not cited in the local leader’s letter delivered to Mr. Dehlin on February 9, which spelled out the reasons for the local council’s unanimous decision, as follows:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">-- Disputing the nature of our Heavenly Father and the divinity of Jesus Christ.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">-- Statements that the Book of Mormon and the Book of Abraham are fraudulent and works of fiction. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">-- Statements and teachings that reject The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as being the true Church with power and authority from God.</span></blockquote><br />
The Church also points out that excommunication is not necessarily the end, but can be the beginning of a new journey back to full fellowship. Dehlin is welcome to attend weekly worship services and is always welcome to return to Church membership through the grace and Atonement of Jesus Christ. He has 30 days to appeal the decision to the First Presidency.<br />
<br />
<b>Reaction:</b> Despite the dignified way in which John Dehlin reacted to his excommunication, his refusal to consider repentance ensures that <a href="http://www.ksl.com/index.php?nid=148&sid=33422568&comments=true">most LDS members approve to the council's decision</a>. Some maintain that Dehlin left the Church spiritually quite a while ago. Even some who are supportive of Dehlin concede that he might be better off outside the Church. One KSL commenter, FlaCougar, wrote <i>"He's lucky it's the LDS with excommunication and NOT ISIS with execution by beheading"</i>.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://www.ldsfreedomforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=37211">LDS Freedom Forum</a>: Surprisingly, Dehlin gets more support in this venue even though it is billed as pro-LDS. This thread is about three weeks old and provides some perspective on the evolution of opinion by rank-and-file LDS membership.<br />
<br />
-- <a href="http://mormonvoices.org/3280/excommunication-of-john-dehlin">Mormon Voices</a>: Endorses the excommunication of John Dehlin; points out that this drama has been going on since 2007. Thus the Church bent over backwards to avoid going this far. Mormon Voices explains succinctly why Dehlin's conduct constituted apostasy:<br />
<br />
<blockquote><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">As used in this context, apostasy consists of “repeatedly act[ing] in clear, open, and deliberate public opposition to the Church or its leaders.”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">John Dehlin’s behavior clearly meets this standard. For example, he provided audio files regarding LDS temple ceremonies—which are regarded as both private and sacred—to an audience of hundreds, encouraging them to share them further. He later made such files public. He also applauded and encouraged the distribution of deceptive “pass-along cards” that used the Church’s logo and typeface, apparently intended to give the impression that the Church supported same-sex marriages. He refers readers to overtly anti-Mormon works, and declares that vintage anti-Mormons Jerald and Sandra Tanner “were right. About pretty much everything.”</span></blockquote><br />
The LDS Church really didn't have much choice left, since John Dehlin refused to meet them part way.<br />
Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-71515145886788447982015-01-20T15:01:00.004-09:002015-01-20T15:07:50.155-09:00LDS Missionary Elder Nathan Castle McBride Passes Away From Heart Attack After A Ward Soccer Activity In MexicoThe first missionary fatality of 2015 has been recorded. On Friday January 16th, 2015, 20-year-old <a href="http://www.ksl.com/?nid=148&sid=33173896">Elder Nathan Castle McBride collapsed during a ward soccer activity in Mexico and subsequently passed away</a>. Elder McBride, who came from the Pasco Washington North Stake, had been serving in the Mexico Merida Mission since January 2014. A preliminary autopsy indicates that Elder McBride suffered a heart attack.<br />
<br />
His father, Robert McBride, told media outlets that after a break in the game, Elder McBride was running to get the ball when he fell down and never got back up. Although other players performed CPR and paramedics tried to resuscitate him, he was pronounced dead at a hospital.<br />
<br />
Elder McBride experienced no health problems and had been an active young man who loved hiking, fishing, pole vaulting and other sports. Missionaries are required to obtain extensive medical and dental exams before deployment. <a href="http://www.tri-cityherald.com/2015/01/19/3367820_pasco-man-20-dies-of-heart-attack.html?rh=1">Elder McBride was described as a quiet leader, well disciplined, very driven and a perfectionist who once had considered retaking a CBC math class because his grade fell below his usual A’s</a>. He amassed a 3.8 grade-point average when he got his associate degree from CBC, which was going to help him get into Brigham Young University as a transfer student after his mission. Although he had a passion for animals, as evidenced by his involvement in the 4-H program, Elder McBride wanted to become an orthopedic surgeon. <br />
<br />
Elder McBride is survived by his parents, two siblings, grandparents Elaine and Bob McBride of Benton City and Fern and Alvin Harris of Pasco, and many aunts, uncles and cousins. Robert McBride said the family is working with the American Consulate to get his son’s body home and project the funeral to occur on January 24th. <br />
<br />
A photo of Elder McBride and his companion, Elder Granilla of Puebla, Mexico, is available <a href="http://media.tri-cityherald.com/smedia/2015/01/19/22/43/1lYkC7.AuSt.13.jpeg">HERE</a>. His name will now be added to my <a href="http://mormonism-unveiled.blogspot.com/2009/10/partial-list-of-lds-missionaries-who.html">partial list of missionaries who gave their lives while on the Lord's errand</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-496462289092680082014-12-08T22:50:00.003-09:002014-12-08T22:50:59.068-09:00Motorist Dies After Crashing Into The Base Of The Lubbock LDS TempleMedia outlets are reporting that a man crashed his car into the LDS temple in Lubbock, Texas, but the temple itself only sustained minor cosmetic damage on the exterior. News video available from <a href="http://www.kcbd.com/story/27576775/car-crashes-into-mormon-temple-1-dead">KCBD NewsCenter 11</a> (doesn't embed properly).<br />
<br />
<a href="http://lubbockonline.com/local-news/2014-12-08/1-dead-after-car-crashes-structure-near-lubbock-mormon-temple#.VIaiFMka_MV">Lubbock Online</a> (5 free views per 30 days) has the most complete account so far. Cameron Tanner Alldredge, 25, was traveling east when he drove through the intersection at 7100 Genoa Avenue sometime after noon on December 8th and struck a metal fence at the east side of the intersection. According to Lubbock police, Alldredge continued east and struck a retaining wall on the west side of the temple in the 7000 block of Frankford Avenue, coming to rest at the base of the temple. No other vehicles or individuals were involved. Although first responders initially reported Alldredge had critical injuries, by 2:30 P.M. he was pronounced dead. The Lubbock Police Department is continuing to investigate to determine if there were other contributing factors, although <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KCBDNewsChannel11/posts/10152792887847034?comment_id=10152792902557034&offset=0&total_comments=33">KCBD reports</a> that Alldredge wasn't wearing a seat belt.<br />
<br />
The <a href="https://www.lds.org/church/temples/lubbock-texas?lang=eng">Lubbock Texas Temple</a>, dedicated in April 2002, serves an estimated <a href="http://www.ldschurchtemples.com/lubbock/district/">13,500 LDS members from 6 stakes and 1 district based in West Texas and Southeast New Mexico</a>:<br />
<br />
-- Abilene Texas Stake<br />
-- Amarillo Texas Stake<br />
-- Fort Stockton Texas District<br />
-- Lubbock Texas North Stake<br />
-- Lubbock Texas Stake<br />
-- Odessa Texas Stake<br />
-- Roswell New Mexico Stake<br />
<br />
Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568072161793472490.post-42033209022927351132014-11-09T23:05:00.002-09:002014-11-09T23:05:37.720-09:00LDS Members Caught Up In The Struggle Between The Ukraine And The Secessionist Donetsk RepublicMembers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have found themselves caught up in the strife between pro-government forces and secessionists in the Ukraine. In fact, pro-Kiev and anti-Kiev Mormons find themselves at odds. RT.com, formerly known as Russia Today, has published <a href="http://rt.com/op-edge/203731-ukraine-donbass-militia-mormon/">the story of one LDS member who's serving in the Donbass militia</a> in the Donetsk area, where the people are more sympathetic towards Russia. The Donbass militia has approximately 16,000 members, 70 percent who are natives of Donbass, 20 percent are from the rest of Ukraine including its western regions, and 10 percent who are volunteers from Russia. <br />
<br />
<b>Summary:</b> The man, identified only as Sergey, is married with three children, although he sent his family to the Crimea once fighting broke out in the Donbass. He is identified as an observant Mormon. Sergey has been fighting since May 21st, 2014 and participated in the bloodiest battle near Semyonovka, which is not far from Slavyansk. He was one of the first soldiers to receive a medal, and currently commands a military unit. Sergey states that three other Mormons also serve in the militia, and that 80 percent of the estimated 100 Mormons in the Donbass support the Donetsk Republic.<br />
<br />
Sergey adds that before the war, there were three LDS meeting houses in Donetsk, one in Makeyevka and one in Gorlovka, but now only 30 LDS members remain in Donetsk, meeting in private homes. All four meeting houses were taken over by the militia (a Pentecostal church was also seized by the militia), and they may be turned into hospitals if needed. Access to the Kiev Temple is denied for Sergey because of the risk he might get arrested because of his militia activities. Sergey says that the Salt Lake City Central Mission doesn’t interfere in their followers’ political life. The president of their mission, an American, left when the situation began to heat up. Local LDS members gathered humanitarian aid and took it to Semyonovka under fire through Ukrainian checkpoints, and Sergey claims that LDS leaders have sent millions of dollars to help the Donbass. <br />
<br />
Sergey is dedicated to fighting for Donbass, but does not look upon the struggle as Ukraine vs. Russia or Ukrainians vs. Russians. This shows that he's thinking about the future -- and the need for reconciliation once the conflict is resolved.<br />
Jack Mormonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08671278467022843855noreply@blogger.com0