Cardston Voters Overwhelmingly Reject Proposal To Lift The Alcohol Ban In Their Community By A Three-To-One Margin

It is estimated that around 80 percent of the 3,500 or so residents of Cardston, Alberta, Canada are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. So it comes as no surprise that on October 6th, 2014, voters overwhelmingly rejected a proposal to lift the alcohol ban in their community. The strength of the No vote was greater than I expected -- 1,089 against and only 347 for it, despite the fact that Mayor Maggie Kronen, who's LDS, supported the proposal. Direct consumption of alcohol is proscribed by the LDS Word of Wisdom.

If this and another related measure had both passed, it would have lifted the ban on the sale of alcohol at restaurants with a meal, at the golf course, or the recreation facility; it would not have legitimized liquor stores. But even if passed, the ban would not have immediately been lifted; it would simply have given the local government permission to ask the Province of Alberta to amend Cardston's liquor laws. Proponents, led by Cardston Citizens for Positive Progress, claimed lifting the ban would be good for business and give visitors more options for buying alcohol, while opponents, spearheaded by the Cardston Values Alliance, feared lifting the ban would weaken the traditional values which have made Cardston attractive to families. A blog entitled Cardston Plebiscite portrayed the controversy as one group of faithful Mormons contending against another group of faithful Mormons.

A second related proposal was also rejected. In response to the question "If the province would amend legislation to allow limited access in our area, are you in favour of restaurants and/or recreational facilities within the Town of Cardston selling alcohol?", 956 voted No and only 456 voted Yes.

A third proposal for Sunday sports was also rejected, possibly because it was perceived to breach the commandment to honor the Sabbath day and keep it holy. In response to the question "Are you in favour of allowing sporting events to book Town operated fields and facilities on Sundays?", 960 voted No and only 481 voted Yes.

LDS Church Headquarters took no public stand on these issues. Visit the Cardston municipal website for the remaining plebiscite results.

Will The LDS Majority Affect The Upcoming Plebiscite On Cardston's Ban On Sale Of Alcohol?

Update October 6th: Cardston voters overwhelmingly rejected the proposal to lift the alcohol ban within their city limits. The tally was 1,089 against and only 347 for it.

The city of Cardston in the extreme southern part of the Canadian province of Alberta was founded by members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1887 after traveling the Macleod-Benton Trail to Alberta in one of the 19th century's last wagon migrations. The Cardston Temple, dedicated in 1923, is the sixth oldest operating LDS temple. And Mormons continue to predominate in the community; as of 2012, an estimated 80 percent of the city's 3,500 residents are LDS members. As expected, some of the local laws reflect Mormon cultural preferences as well as the LDS Word of Wisdom favoring abstinence, including a longtime ban on the sale of alcohol within the city limits.

However, a growing number of community members believe that legalizing the sale of alcohol will bring in more revenue; Darren Atwood, the founder of Cardston Citizens for Positive Progress, says he thinks it’s time people had some options for buying alcohol in the town. So on October 6th, 2014, Cardston residents will vote on a plebiscite to determine if the ban on alcohol sales will be overturned, although Mayor Maggie Kronen says the results will not be binding upon the city council since it's up to the province to amend Cardston's liquor laws. A CJOC audio interview indicates that Mayor Kronen not only is LDS (she refers to "our" faith), but that she is personally open to changing the law for the sake of non-Mormons. The ban would only be lifted on the sale of alcohol at restaurants with a meal, at the golf course, or the recreation facility; it would not legitimize liquor stores. Despite the community's LDS majority, the LDS Church has not officially weighed in on the debate.

A second related question on the ballot is whether sports tournaments should be allowed on Sundays. The current ban on Sunday sports also reflects the city's Mormon heritage, since Latter-day Saints take honoring the Sabbath more seriously than many other Christians.

The debate over alcohol has been simmering on the Cardston Values Alliance website for nearly a year. Both sides weighed in. First, the following quote attributed to Grant Hunter:

“We moved our family to Cardston because of the strong family values that we felt this community represented. This community is not 100% LDS but there are a majority of LDS members present in the community. This was a huge drawing point to us as we felt our values would be front and centre, and not be slammed on every front. Unfortunately, there seems to be pressure to change those points that make Cardston wonderful, (ie, no Sunday sports, alcohol free town). I will support any organization that promotes maintaining these wonderful aspects of Cardston. I have heard both sides of the argument, how serving alcohol in Cardston would help restaurants make it here, or how it would make the golf course profitable. I don’t want to see these core aspects of our community changed. I have seen how detrimental these aspects are to other communities that I have lived in. Keeping things as safe and LDS friendly in this community are a high priority for me and one that I am willing to fight for. I support with all my heart the Cardston Family Values organization. I am so happy that they desire to bring to light and stop issues that will destroy the high standards Cardston presently espouses.”

This attracted a counter-response by Tonnia, which I broke into paragraphs to improve readability:

"I think what this group fails to see is that you want to make your religious views the law which is wrong. Natives have enough problems with the 'Mormons' here even though not everyone is. And do you know why? One reason is they feel 'Mormons' are acting superior to them by implementing their religion as law onto them. How can we expect to bridge the gap? Would you like living somewhere where another religion’s beliefs controlled the laws? I agree this is a great place to live, but in order for our children and our citizens to feel they have choices, we have to allow choices. Taking our choices away create more rebellion. Believe it or not, Cardston is not immune to drugs, sex and alcohol.

I solemnly believe if Sunday sports and alcohol were not banned, NO ONE would choose to use either anyways! No liqour business will see a profit, any restaraunt serving would get boycotted, and no one wants to play organized sports on Sunday anyways! Do you see what I mean? But it’s the principle that’s important! We need to show that we are accepting of others beliefs, religion, values, etc.

Being a true LDS member you will understand that we have certain unalienable rights and free agency! It is up to the individual and families, parents, etc to teach their children right from wrong and let them choose! it is not governments’ responsibility to create “values”. It is their responsibility to protect our rights to live and worship how we wish without infringing upon other people’s rights!"

Tonnia's remarks about "Mormons acting superior" have also been echoed at times in another Mormon-dominated area; namely, Utah, and it serves as a reminder that we must better strive for the middle ground between faith and fellowship. Defend our faith without sacrificing fellowship with non-Mormons. But Tonnia also needs to understand that religion impacts culture; a Mormon-dominated area will invariable have the type of laws reflecting LDS values to some degree. Residents of Cardston would do well to avoid appeals to anti-LDS demagoguery when going to the polls on October 6th.

It's one thing to permit alcohol to be sold with meals at restaurants and country clubs. But Cardston needs to avoid the plague of liquor stores vexing so many other communities. Liquor stores, by their very existence, attract too many unsavory elements. This should not be allowed to become a Trojan Horse for the ultimate establishment of liquor stores.

More Scientific Validation Of The LDS Word Of Wisdom: Swedish Study From Karolinska Institute Indicates Female Smokers May Double Their Risk Of Arthritis

I enjoy highlighting and re-publishing stories about scientific validation of the Word of Wisdom, the official health code of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They show that not only is our Heavenly Father, who went through his own mortal probation, smarter than the rest of us, but that Joseph Smith, who revealed the Word of Wisdom to the world, was truly a Prophet, Seer, and Revelator, notwithstanding his human weaknesses and imperfections.

The Daily Mail and Newsmax Health reveal the completion of a Swedish study which indicates that women who smoke incur an elevated risk of arthritis. The study, carried out by Karolinska Institute in Stockholm (choose from the Swedish-language version or the English-language version), analyzed 34,101 women aged between 54 and 89; of those, 219 suffered with the condition.

Findings: The study found that women who smoked between one and seven cigarettes daily were more than twice as likely to develop the disease as those who had never smoked. It also found that women remained twice as likely to develop the disease even 15 years after giving up smoking. Data also showed that the risk of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) increased with the length of time the woman had been smoking; for example, smoking for 25 years raised the risk 1.6 times compared with smoking for just one year. The Karolinska Institute published their own summary of the findings, which indicates that they've also been published in the science journal Arthritis Research & Therapy.

On the other hand, the Daily Mail reports in the same article that the Karolinska Institute also discovered that drinking five or more glasses of wine or beer a week can halve a person’s chance of developing RA. But this should not be interpreted as invalidating the Word of Wisdom proscription against drinking alcohol, since alcohol contributes disproportionately to so many other problems. Instead, it merely indicates that there is a specific benefit to alcohol within this particular context, and the idea is to isolate and market that specific beneficial aspect rather than denigrate the Word of Wisdom. Section 89, verses 5-7 of the Doctrine & Covenants still states "That inasmuch as any man drinketh wine or strong drink among you, behold it is not good, neither meet in the sight of your Father, only in assembling yourselves together to offer up your sacraments before him. And, behold, this should be wine, yea, pure wine of the grape of the vine, of your own make. And, again, strong drinks are not for the belly, but for the washing of your bodies"; Joseph Smith's successors, in accordance with the principle of continuing revelation, have further restricted alcohol consumption, removing it as a Sacramental emblem. The Doctrine & Covenants Student Manual also provides more background on the interpretation and history of the Word of Wisdom.

You can read all posts on this blog about scientific validation of the Word of Wisdom at this link.

Several Authoritative LDS Sources Confirm Herbal Tea Not Considered A Word Of Wisdom Violation

This question was posed on the LDS Science Review, and I was surprised at the blogger's uncertainty, since it appears the blogger is quite educated. But the answer is no, herbal tea is not considered a violation of the Word of Wisdom.

This is the conclusion put forth by LDS.About.com, which cites an April 1977 Ensign article entitled "The Do's in the Word of Wisdom" as evidence. Here's the applicable statement, republished with surrounding context:

Herbs also add variety to our meals through spices such as onions, garlic, peppers, sage, parsley, bay leaves, etc. Some herbs have medicinal properties as well. However, one should use extreme care in treating illnesses with herbs, since most have not been subjected to the careful testing required for other drugs and some contain powerful chemicals. Some people enjoy herbal teas, but even these should not replace more nutritious drinks in the diet. Always tell your physician if you are taking any herbal teas and know what the tea contains if possible. Recently an association has been identified between herbal teas and cancer of the esophagus, but further research is needed. In Utah, in the summer of 1976, three deaths were attributed to the overuse of herbs. When dealing with severe or chronic illnesses, be especially wary of herbal treatments or remedies that have not been proven effective through scientific studies. Priesthood blessings and competent medical care, not home remedies, should be obtained for treating serious disease.

Since Doctrine & Covenants 89:11 states “And again, verily I say unto you, all wholesome herbs God hath ordained for the constitution, nature, and use of man — every herb in the season thereof, and every fruit in the season thereof; all these to be used with prudence and thanksgiving”, it would be illogical to ban consumption of herbal tea. The teas considered banned by the Word of Wisdom are black, green, white, and oolong. One person nailed it down in this comment: "The tea prohibited by the word of wisdom is Camellia sinensis. Herbal teas not containing this ingredient are generally ok".

LDS Word Of Wisdom Restrictions On Meat Partially Validated By Red Meat Study From University Of Washington Documented In Nature Medicine And A Harvard Study

Although the proscription against alcohol, tobacco, coffee, and tea is the part of the Word of Wisdom that receives top billing, primarily because it affects LDS temple access, the Word of Wisdom also counsels against the excessive consumption of meat. From Doctrine & Covenants Section 89:12-13:

12 Yea, flesh also of beasts and of the fowls of the air, I, the Lord, have ordained for the use of man with thanksgiving; nevertheless they are to be used sparingly;

13 And it is pleasing unto me that they should not be used, only in times of winter, or of cold, or famine.

Note that the Lord did not impose a blanket prohibition; He merely said that meat ought to be consumed sparingly. It is up to each individual, with guidance from the Holy Ghost, to determine what is "sparingly".

But now a study which has been published in Nature Medicine implies there are also health reasons for limiting consumption of meat. According to a report from KSL Channel 5, the study, performed at the University of Washington, suggests that red meat can create conditions in your belly that can facilitate heart disease and the hardening of veins throughout the body. This is in addition to conventional wisdom, which still holds that red meat can elevate fat and cholesterol levels.

How It Works: Bacteria in your intestines can either be good or bad. Good bacteria help digest and break down food and drink. Red meat promotes a kind of bacteria that consume carnitine, a chemical often consumed as a dietary supplement and found in high levels in red meat. The only problem is that the bacteria that love red meat turn carnitine into TMAO, a chemical that hardens veins and contributes to heart disease. The more red meat you eat, the more TMAO in your system, and the greater your risk.

In the course of researching the Web to find out what thresholds of red meat consumption might be considered "safer", I found a link to a second study published on March 12th, 2012 in the Harvard Gazette. This study, conducted by Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) researchers, found that red meat consumption is associated with an increased risk of total, cardiovascular, and cancer mortality. They found that one daily serving of unprocessed red meat (about the size of a deck of cards) was associated with a 13 percent increased risk of mortality, and one daily serving of processed red meat (one hot dog or two slices of bacon) was associated with a 20 percent increased risk. They conscluded that red meat, especially processed meat, contains ingredients that have been linked to increased risk of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and cancer. These include heme iron, saturated fat, sodium, nitrites, and certain carcinogens that are formed during cooking. It should be noted that the American Society of Animal Science disputes these findings, though.

But the Harvard study went one step further -- it showed that substituting other healthy protein sources, such as fish, poultry, nuts, and legumes, was associated with a lower risk of mortality. Specifically, replacing one serving of total red meat with one serving of a healthy protein source was associated with a lower mortality risk: 7 percent for fish, 14 percent for poultry, 19 percent for nuts, 10 percent for legumes, 10 percent for low-fat dairy products, and 14 percent for whole grains.

The bottom line -- one does not necessarily need to cut meat out of the diet; if one is concerned about the effects of red meat, one can switch to poultry or fish to reduce the risk and still enjoy the effects and taste of meat products. It is unnecessary to become a vegetarian or a vegan, although there's nothing illegitimate about those alternatives. I personally restrict myself to ground beef, chicken, and fish, with occasional sausage. Fortunately, I never acquired much of a taste for steaks or roasts. But what these two studies show is the wisdom of our Heavenly Father when He counseled us to eat meat sparingly, although the Prophet Joseph Smith was not told at the time that it was red meat that would be the greatest concern. Oftentimes we're asked to accept divine wisdom primarily on faith and wait until later for the "scientific proof".

Other scientific validation for the Word of Wisdom is published on this blog and is accessible through these posts. Amazing how much "smarter" our Heavenly Father becomes the more scientific research we do, isn't it?

More Word Of Wisdom Scientific Validation: Caffeine Linked To Urinary Incontinence

On February 27th, 1833, the first President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Joseph Smith Jr, warned of the dangers of hot drinks published the Word of Wisdom. Canonized as Section 89 of the Doctrine & Covenants, he wrote "hot drinks are not for the body or belly". Subsequent Church presidents were inspired to further define "hot drinks" as coffee and tea, and made Word of Wisdom compliance a temple worthiness issue. Based on this Dialogue Journal article, the Church began to enforce the Word of Wisdom as a commandment on December 28th, 1915.

Now we have more scientific evidence showing that the Lord and His prophets were ahead of their time. A newly-released report on a survey indicates that the amount of caffeine typically found in two cups of coffee could exacerbate, if not cause, male incontinence. The research suggests men who consume the most caffeine are more likely to have the problem than those who drank the least. The Daily Mail picked up the story, but the explanation published in News-Medical.net is also useful.

The study is the result of an analysis of 3960 men who participated in the National Health and Nutritional Examination Surveys (NHANES) in 2005-2006 and 2007-08, in which it was discovered that a caffeine intake equivalent to just two cups of coffee per day (250 mg) was associated with increased prevalence of moderate-to-severe urinary incontinence (UI). The researchers looked at how many had urinary incontinence and how much caffeine they ate or drank, as well as how much water they took in from both foods and drinks. About 13 percent of the men reported a leaky bladder, but only 4.5 per cent had a problem considered moderate or severe - which is more than a few drops of urine leakage during the course of a month.

Overall, the men consumed an average of 169 milligrams of caffeine every day; the average cup of coffee contains around 125 milligrams.

-- Men in the upper quartile for caffeine consumption (>234 mg/day) were 1.72 times more likely to have moderate-to-severe UI than those in lower quartiles after adjustment for potential confounders. The Daily Mail describes them as being 72 percent more likely to have moderate to severe urinary incontinence. This is not inconsistent, but merely two different ways of describing the same results.

-- Those in the 90th percentile for caffeine intake (≥392 mg/day) were 2.08 times more likely to suffer from moderate-to-severe UI than those with lower intake.

Dr. Alayne Markland, the study's senior author from the University of Alabama, noted that the researchers also found no evidence for an association between water and total moisture intake and UI during the study. This leads to the conclusion that caffeine is the problem, perhaps irritating the bladder in some way.

All posts on this blog discussing scientific validation of the Word of Wisdom can be simultaneously displayed using the WOW Validation label.

Senator Mike Crapo Pleads Guilty To DUI, Loses License For One Year, Discloses How He Got Started Drinking

On Friday January 4th, 2013, Senator Mike Crapo (R-ID), a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, appeared in Alexandria General District Court and pleaded guilty to misdemeanor DUI. He was ordered to pay a $250 fine, complete an alcohol safety program, and relinquish his driver's license for 12 months. His 180-day jail sentence was suspended contingent upon continued good behavior, which means he'll be able to continue his Senatorial duties. In exchange for his guilty plea, prosecutors dropped a charge of failing to obey a traffic signal.

The offenses occurred on December 23th, 2012 when Crapo was stopped for running a red light. The police officer smelled alcohol, administered field sobriety tests which Crapo failed, and arrested Crapo. A blood alcohol test reportedly showed a BAC of .11. Crapo immediately took responsibility for his actions and issued an apology.

The Ogden Standard-Examiner details how Sen. Crapo got sucked into drinking. Crapo said he tried alcohol for the first time about a year ago, though he couldn’t remember the details. It was a misguided attempt to relieve stress, and he always kept his use of alcohol hidden, drinking alone in his Washington, D.C., apartment. The night of his arrest was the first time he had driven drunk. Sen. Crapo consumed as many as three vodka tonics on the night of December 22nd when he became restless, couldn’t sleep and went out for a drive. It wasn’t until he’d already been driving for about 30 minutes when he realized he was in no condition to drive and started to return home. But then he ran that red light......

Crapo said he regretted bringing shame to himself and his faith because of the arrest and he would take the appropriate measures for forgiveness and repentance in the LDS Church. Those measures will include an interview with his Priesthood chain of command, most likely his stake president. Because Crapo is penitent and it was not an aggravated DUI, I foresee no penalty beyond probation; his temple recommend may be pulled for a year, but no disfellowshipment or excommunication.

The reaction by commenters to the various media stories is excessively harsh and judgmental, and reflects how self-righteous many of the American people have become. Sen. Crapo made a mistake -- but his simple DUI involved no injury, fatality, or property damage. In our justice system, we hold someone accountable for their actual deeds, not for what could have happened. Sen. Crapo has been judged and has repented of his actions.

LDS Senator Mike Crapo Fails Field Sobriety Tests, Arrested For DUI In Alexandria, Virginia; Crapo Issues Apology

Update January 4th, 2013: Senator Mike Crapo pleads guilty to misdemeanor DUI, loses license for a year. Crapo also says he consumed vodka tonics rather than vodka shots; the difference seems academic.Updated post HERE.

On December 23rd, 2012, Senator Mike Crapo (R-ID), a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was arrested in Alexandria, VA for DUI after failing a series of field sobriety tests.

According to Alexandria police, Crapo was observed running a red light, after which he was pulled over at Hume Avenue and Mount Vernon in the Del Ray neighborhood of Alexandria at 12:45 A.M. The officer detected the smell of alcohol on the senator. Crapo then failed a series of field sobriety tests, after which he was arrested. His BAC content has now been revealed to have been .110; Virginia's limit is .08. He was released on an unsecured $1,000 bond, and has a court date scheduled for January 4th. Update December 26th: Crapo reportedly told the arresting officer that he had consumed several vodka tonics several hours prior to being stopped.

Assuming this is his first DUI offense, if Crapo is found guilty, he would be fined a minimum of $250. His driver's license will be revoked for one year, and he'll be required to install an ignition interlock device. In addition, if his BAC was .02 or higher at the time of his arrest, he'll also be required to serve a mandatory minimum 10-day jail sentence. It's possible he might be allowed to defer the jail sentence until the Senate is not in session, but he wouldn't be able to evade it. It's also possible that if his BAC had been under the limit, Crapo could have challenged the field sobriety tests used when he appears in court; BobBattleLaw discloses that five field sobriety tests are normally administered by Virginia police officers. These tests, which include nystagmus, standing on one leg, walk and turn, finger to nose, and Rhomberg balance, can be failed by someone who is not DUI.

Sen. Crapo has now issued a statement apologizing for his actions. “I am deeply sorry for the actions that resulted in this circumstance,” Crapo said. “I made a mistake for which I apologize to my family, my Idaho constituents and any others who have put their trust in me. I accept total responsibility and will deal with whatever penalty comes my way in this matter. I will also undertake measures to ensure that this circumstance is never repeated.”

The 61-year-old Crapo, who is serving his third term in the U.S. Senate through 2016, is one of four Republicans in the self-named "Gang of Eight", a bipartisan group of senators who came together to work on a budget deal to avoid the upcoming fiscal cliff. Crapo was also expected to become the ranking Republican on the Senate Banking Committee in 2013. Atlantic Wire states that Sen. Crapo is also a bishop in his local ward.

Already, many people on the left are making political hay over the arrest, with some crying out "Hypocrite!" because active Mormons observe the Word of Wisdom prohibition against the consumption of alcohol. But it's not unheard of for a Mormon to get nabbed for DUI; in January 2010, Utah State Senator Sheldon Killpack resigned his seat after being arrested for DUI. Ironically, Killpack had led the legislative effort to toughen Utah's DUI rules.

Mormonism conveys greater protection against sin, but it does not guarantee immunity from the weaknesses of the flesh. We are still down here to learn how to subject the flesh to the spirit, and it requires opposition and occasional failure to learn these lessons effectively.

More Word Of Wisdom Validation: Greek Study Reveals Enclosed Exposure To Second-Hand Smoke Can Impair Breathing Within 20 Minutes

In 1833, the Prophet Joseph Smith recorded the following in Section 89, verse 8 of the Doctrine & Covenants: "And again, tobacco is not for the body, neither for the belly, and is not good for man, but is an herb for bruises and all sick cattle, to be used with judgment and skill". Joseph Smith was not told why tobacco was not for the body. But he trusted the Lord and passed the word on to the Saints all the same.

The wisdom of that counsel has been scientifically validated once again. On October 23rd, 2012, the Daily Mail reported that a Greek study revealed than enclosed exposure to second-hand smoke can actually impair breathing within as little as 20 minutes. In the study, led by Dr. Panagiotis Behrakis of the University of Athens, the research team, also consisting of colleagues from the Hellenic Cancer Society in Greece and the Harvard School of Public Health, exposed 15 healthy participants to air heavily concentrated with smoke particles within an exposure chamber -- simulating a bar or moving car -- for 20 minutes. Researchers measured participants' total respiratory impedance, resistance, and reactance with the use of an impulse oscillometry, a noninvasive way of measuring the physical properties of respiratory movement during quiet breathing. Results showed that short-term exposure to concentrated second-hand smoke significantly and immediately impacted participants' airways, making them narrow and reducing the body’s oxygen intake. Dr. Behrakis chose to simulate cars and bars because those places are notorious for accumulating high concentrations of fine particles from smoking; non-smokers end up being forced to inhale extreme amounts directly into their lungs.

The Daily Mail story also referenced an additional study where scientists at Northumbria University reported that non-smokers regularly exposed to second-hand smoke were at risk of damaging their memory. They found that non-smokers exposed to second-hand smoke forgot almost 20 per cent more than the non-smokers who were not exposed. The Northumbria study was discussed in greater detail separately in another Daily Mail article published on September 13th, 2012.

So basically, second-hand smoke increases your chances of losing your lungs and your marbles. Unfortunately, Dr. Behrakis waxed a bit hyperbolic when discussing how governments should respond to the results, saying "Second-hand smoking is the most widespread form of violence exerted on children and workers on a global level. The whole issue needs to be recognised as a global problem of human rights violation". That's the type of "sky-is-falling" catastrophic nonsense that causes people to roll their eyes and immediately turn off. While the problem should be addressed, most people have become jaded by scare tactics. Second-hand smoke is a public nuisance, particularly for kids, but it's hardly a "human rights violation".

But it does show once again that the Lord knew what He was talking about when He revealed the Word of Wisdom to Joseph Smith. And it also shows that Joseph Smith, by recording it and passing it on, was indeed a true prophet. When a prophet speaks, it's smart to listen and to hearken.

University Of Bradford Researchers Further Validate LDS Word Of Wisdom, Find That Smoking Fathers Pass On Damaged Genes To Kids

Yet even more scientific validation of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' Word of Wisdom health code has been published. On June 24th, 2012, the Daily Mail published an article entitled "Smoking fathers pass on damaged DNA to their children raising the risk of cancer".

Although the headline itself is almost completely self-explanatory, the details are of interest. Researchers at the University of Bradford found that smoking harms the father’s DNA, and these damaged genes can be inherited by his children, increasing the risk of youngsters developing childhood cancers, particularly leukemia. Dr. Diana Anderson suggested that since a fertile sperm cell takes three months to fully develop, fathers should kick the habit 12 weeks before conceiving to avoid the risk.

The Bradford Telegraph and Argus provides even more details. In their June 25th story entitled "University of Bradford study highlights smoking risk for dads-to-be", they report that researchers used two sensitive biomarkers to measure single and double strand breaks in the DNA of the paternal blood and semen in the period around conception, as well as maternal and umbilical cord blood at delivery. The families in the study were drawn from Bradford in the United Kingdom and Heraklion on the Greek island of Crete. Information regarding the lifestyle, environmental and occupational exposures of these families, which can influence DNA, was taken from questionnaires. They then used a combined analysis of exposures and DNA biomarkers to help differentiate the role of the various exposures before conception and during pregnancy, which could result in genetic changes in the developing embryo.

Oh, and if you go back to the Daily Mail story, you'll read that scientists at the University of Glasgow have also found that men who drink lots of tea are far more likely to develop prostate cancer. They found that those who drank seven or more cups a day had a 50 per cent higher risk of contracting the disease than men who had three or fewer. The warning comes after researchers tracked the health of more than 6,000 men for four decades.

Actually, the original warning was first revealed by the Prophet Joseph Smith on February 27th, 1833. While Joseph Smith was unlikely to have been aware of any such things as "DNA markers", he was aware of the mind of the Lord, who revealed unto him this counsel subsequently published in Section 89 of the Doctrine and Covenants:

5 That inasmuch as any man drinketh wine or strong drink among you, behold it is not good, neither meet in the sight of your Father, only in assembling yourselves together to offer up your sacraments before him.

6 And, behold, this should be wine, yea, pure wine of the grape of the vine, of your own make.

7 And, again, strong drinks are not for the belly, but for the washing of your bodies.

8 And again, tobacco is not for the body, neither for the belly, and is not good for man, but is an herb for bruises and all sick cattle, to be used with judgment and skill.

Joseph Smith's successors, acting on continuing inspiration, have subsequently defined the Word of Wisdom as proscribing coffee, tea, alcohol, and tobacco. Abstinence from those four substances is the litmus test of temple access.

Want more scientific validation of the Word of Wisdom? Read my previous post from February 7th, 2012 entitled "More Scientific Validation For The Word Of Wisdom: London Researchers Discover Connection Between Smoking And Early Dementia". And my post of May 19th, 2009, entitled "Why LDS Church Leaders Imply That Cola Drinks Violate The Spirit Of The Word Of Wisdom: New Study Shows Cola Drinks Contribute To Hypokalaemia", reports on a study outlining hazards associated with cola drinks. While cola drinks are not an actionable part of the Word of Wisdom, LDS leaders have discouraged their consumption nonetheless.

Millions of Latter-day Saints chose not to wait upon the word of science. Instead, they accepted the word of a prophet, and as a result, enjoy health in their navel, marrow in their bones, can walk and not be weary, can run and not faint, and find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge. The Lord didn't tell Joseph Smith why we should obey the Word of Wisdom; instead he merely revealed it to him, and promised blessings to those who obeyed it.

As Spencer W. Kimball once said, "Faith precedes the miracle".

Oregon Mission President Instructs Missionaries Not To Baptize Medical Marijuana Users Into The LDS Church

A discussion of medical marijuana and the LDS Church has broken out on Wheat And Tares. They reference another post on Mormon Mentality in which it was reported that a mission president has actually ruled that missionaries are not authorized to baptize users of medical marijuana into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This is much more authoritative and mildly at variance with the interpretation I provided in my April 9th, 2011 post entitled "Is Medical Marijuana A Violation Of The Latter-Day Saints Word Of Wisdom Health Code?"

The specific instruction was published on page 18 of the Portland Oregon Mission Resource Handbook, under the heading “missionary helps”, and is replicated below:

“The fact that Oregon state law allows doctors to prescribe the smoking of marijuana for 'medicinal' purposes does not change the fact that marijuana remains an illegal drug according to the federal laws of the United States, and the Supreme Court of the United States specifically ruled in 2005 that federal law take precedence over state legislation in this matter. Therefore, the Church Handbook statement quoted above ('members should not use any substance that contains illegal drugs') applies in this situation. Unless we receive different instructions from the Brethren, no individual who smokes marijuana for 'medicinal purposes' can be baptized a member of the Church in this mission. The prescription drug Marinol (synthetic THC), a capsule approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, provides legal relief to those who take it. Its use under competent medical supervision is not a violation of the Word of Wisdom and therefore does not prevent a person from being baptized.”

It appears the driving issue is legality. Although many local and state laws permit medical marijuana use and distribution, federal law forbids it. Federal law takes precedence over any lesser laws, and the Twelfth Article of Faith states "We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law". Consequently, the mission president's ruling correlates directly with the Twelfth Article of Faith.

Note that the mission president uses the specific language "in this mission". This means that while the mission president is speaking for the Church, he's only applying it within the geographical confines of his stewardship. And why do I assume he's speaking for the Church? Because mission presidents, like stake presidents, are the lowest level in the Priesthood chain of command entitled to initiate direct communication with General Authorities, to include members of the Quorum of the Twelve. Consequently, I do not believe this mission president issued this guidance without first clearing it with the senior leadership of the LDS Church.

Unaddressed in the mission president's guidance is the impact upon current LDS members. How does an LDS member who uses medical marijuana answer the Word of Wisdom question during a temple worthiness interview? Base upon the guidance given above, I don't see how such a person could answer Yes when asked if he or she obeys the Word of Wisdom. This not only can lead to denial of a temple recommend, but I foresee an excessively overzealous bishop actually initiating a disciplinary council to try such a member for his membership. While the latter may be most unlikely, it is possible. A discussion on LDS.net indicates there is still some variance on how different bishops interpret and apply the guidance.

Consequently, it is imperative to disseminate this information as widely as possible to prevent any unnecessary and unpleasant surprises. In particular, missionaries have a duty to communicate this information to investigators in advance.

Now whether or not medical marijuana use should disqualify an investigator from baptism is a different issue. Personally, I have no problem with using medical marijuana as long as some law permits it; this point of view is also shared by 89 percent of respondents to Wheat And Tares online poll. However, since neither Wheat And Tares nor I are General Authorities, our opinions are not authoritative. Those whose opinions are authoritative have spoken, and have said No. So be it. Any activism to change this is better directed towards changing the federal law; identify and support candidates for the U.S. Senate and House willing to decriminalize medical marijuana at the federal level.

More Scientific Validation For The Word Of Wisdom: London Researchers Discover Connection Between Smoking And Early Dementia

On February 27th, 1833, the first President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Joseph Smith Jr, warned of the dangers of tobacco when he published the Word of Wisdom. Canonized as Section 89 of the Doctrine & Covenants, he wrote "tobacco is not for the body, neither for the belly, and is not good for man, but is an herb for bruises and all sick cattle, to be used with judgment and skill".

But the Lord did not share the technical details of the problems of tobacco with Joseph Smith; He expected the Saints to take it on faith. It wasn't until 1940 that science first discovered the problems with tobacco use after German doctors became the first to identify the link between smoking and lung cancer. Since then, more evidence of the hazards of smoking has been uncovered, including the dangers of second-hand smoke. But it shows that whenever the Lord gives a command based upon faith, objective validation eventually follows.

Now, even more scientific validation has been released. According to the Daily Mail, a group of researchers at University College London have found that smoking in men appears to be associated with a greater and more rapid onset of dementia later in life. Dr. Severine Sabia and her colleagues analyzed data using six assessments of smoking status over 25 years and three cognitive assessments over 10 years. They made four key findings.

-- Smoking in men is associated with more rapid cognitive decline
-- Men who continued to smoke over the follow-up experienced greater decline in all cognitive tests.
-- Men who quit smoking in the 10 years preceding the first cognitive measure were still at risk of greater cognitive decline, although long-term ex-smokers did not show faster cognitive decline.
-- Association between smoking and cognition, particularly at older ages, is likely to be underestimated owing to higher risk of death and dropout among smokers.

Is Medical Marijuana A Violation Of The Latter-Day Saints Word Of Wisdom Health Code?

Update February 22nd, 2012: I have learned that a mission president has instructed missionaries in his district NOT to baptize those who use medical marijuana; this can be considered an official Church position. Read updated post HERE.

Because the Word of Wisdom was discussed at the just-concluded 181st Annual General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, discussion has naturally spread to the LDS Bloggernacle. On Grace for Grace, the need to move beyond the "accountable" part of the Word of Wisdom and to consider other aspects, such as the use of wholesome herbs, fruits, grains, and the sparing consumption of meat for overall dietary management to combat and prevent obesity, is discussed. Even before the conference, Jeff Lindsay was also discussing this expanded application on Mormanity.

The "accountable" part of the Word of Wisdom is that part that affects temple worthiness as well as other specific forms of worthiness. The substances specifically and repeatedly identified by Church leadership as impacting temple worthiness are coffee, tea, tobacco, alcohol, and recreational drugs. Consequently, if one refrains from using those substances, one can truthfully answer Yes when asked if he or she abides by the Word of Wisdom during a worthiness interview.

Marijuana is generally considered a recreational drug. But what about medical marijuana? Medical marijuana has become somewhat popularized as a pain management tool for those suffering from terminal or chronic diseases. Some jurisdictions have passed laws legalizing medical marijuana and prescribing authorized means of procurement. But this alone may not guarantee that one will be certified as "temple-worthy".

A casual web search did not reveal any official Church pronouncements about medical marijuana. However, The Seer Stone discussed the issue in December 2009. One commenter indicated that a published lesson plan from the Gospel Doctrine manual would tend to support the contention that medical marijuana would be no barrier to temple access, citing this passage: "Explain that in addition to these substances, we should not a) Use any substance that contains illegal drugs, b) Use any other habit-forming substances except under the care of a competent physician c) Misuse prescription and other drugs." But another commenter opined that "any substance that by its very structure has addictive properties - these would qualify as being against the Word of Wisdom - regardless of legal status", although this person also stated that "we need to replace fear based prohibition laws and the drug war with education and objective understanding of the correct uses and benefits and dangers associated with all of God's gifts".

A blogger on Times and Seasons also suggested that the use of medical marijuana might not be inconsistent with the letter or the spirit of the Word of Wisdom back in January 2004, so long as it is legal.

At this point, it would be useful to remind readers once again that I do NOT speak authoritatively for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; my opinions are basically my best interpretation of Church doctrine. But what concerns me is that a Church member might begin using medical marijuana in good faith that it is a therapeutic susbstance, then go into a temple worthiness interview and get blindsided by an "iron-rod" bishop and denied a temple recommend based upon an honest interpretational dispute. While most bishops are flexible, some are "iron-rodders"; perfection is not a prerequisite to be called as a bishop.

My advice to Latter-day Saints who are or want to become temple-worthy and who are considering the use of medical marijuana:

(1). Ensure it's legal and obtained only by an officially-certified provider. This means there must be a law at some level, either local, county, or state, permitting medical marijuana. It also must be obtained through a physician or any other provider officially certified by the jurisdiction.

(2). Seek personal inspiration or revelation from the Lord through the Holy Spirit. All LDS members have a right, and indeed are formally commissioned upon confirmation as members, to receive the Holy Ghost.

(3). Discuss it with the bishop or stake president in advance; they are the ones who determine temple worthiness and Church members have a right to know in advance whether any proposed course of action would impinge upon temple worthiness.

If a bishop or a stake president has no problem with it, then it's not a problem.

YouTube Mormon Messages: Elder M. Russell Ballard Discusses How You Will Be Freed Through The Atonement Of Jesus Christ

This latest Mormon Messages video posted on March 15th, 2011 contains excerpts from one of Elder M. Russell Ballard's Conference addresses on addiction. The full address, entitled "O That Cunning Plan of the Evil One", was delivered during the Sunday afternoon session of the October 2010 General Conference. Elder Ballard held up the example of a fly fisherman to illustrate how Satan uses attractive lures to deceive people into embracing unattractive habits which can lead to addiction:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ry8-YIwnEcU



But Elder Ballard concludes the message on an upbeat note -- that through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, addictions can be overcome.

The Prophet Joseph Smith recognized how Satan would use attractive lures in the present day over 170 years ago. While Section 89 of the Doctrine & Covenants is famous for the Word of Wisdom health code, verse 4 foreshadowed an additional problem (emphasis mine):

(4). Behold, verily, thus saith the Lord unto you: In consequence of evils and designs which do and will exist in the hearts of conspiring men in the last days, I have warned you, and forewarn you, by giving unto you this word of wisdom by revelation—

That is probably one of the better descriptions of the modern advertising industry. Note that Joseph Smith didn't characterize advertisers as evil, but merely as conspiring men who would seek to promote their products and services most successfully. Some of the designs are undoubtedly evil, but the average alcohol advertiser is not focused on the fact that many of those who got hooked on his lures can now be found on the street corners of our cities, holding up signs that read "Will Work For Food". But even though the advertisers are not in and of themselves evil, they often operate in the service of the Evil One and facilitate his designs. Unfortunately, this is a necessary byproduct of free speech and free enterprise.

But we are equally free to reject the lures of the advertisers -- but not through censorship. Rather, we use the power of will, the power of the purse, and the power of the Spirit.

Why LDS Church Leaders Imply That Cola Drinks Violate The Spirit Of The Word Of Wisdom: New Study Shows Cola Drinks Contribute To Hypokalaemia

Although the text of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' Word of Wisdom, as set forth in Section 89 of the Doctrine & Covenants, does not specifically include cola drinks, modern LDS prophets have implied that the consumption of cola drinks violates the Word of Wisdom in spirit, if not necessarily the letter of the law. Consequently, to truthfully answer "Yes" when the bishop asks you during a worthiness interview if you are obeying the Word of Wisdom, you must refrain not only from caffeinated hot beverages like coffee and tea, but should also from caffeinated soft drinks, because an occasional overzealous bishop may deny you a temple recommend simply for consuming cola drinks.

But as is pointed out HERE in statements by several Church authorities, the Word of Wisdom is not officially interpreted by the Church to formally proscribe cola drinks. Nonetheless, the late President Spencer W. Kimball had this to say on the subject:

Generally when we speak of the Word of Wisdom, we are talking about tea, coffee, tobacco, and liquor, and all of the fringe things even though they might be detrimental are not included in the technical interpretation of the Word of Wisdom. I never drink any of the cola drinks and my personal hope would be that no one would. However, they are not included in the Word of Wisdom in its technical application. I quote from a letter from the secretary to the First Presidency, "But the spirit of the Word of Wisdom would be violated by the drinking or eating of anything that contained a habit-forming drug." With reference to the cola drinks, the Church has never officially taken any attitude on this at but I personally do not put them in the class as with the tea and coffee because the Lord specifically mentioned them [the hot drinks]…. I might say also that strychnine and sleeping pills and opium and heroin are not mentioned in the Word of Wisdom and yet I would discourage them with all my power. (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, p.202)

And now, more scientific validation of the wisdom of the Prophet Joseph Smith and his legitimate successors emerges. On May 19th, 2009, the Telegraph has published a story about a study by researchers at the University of Ioannina in Greece which reveals that chronic consumption of large quantities of cola drinks can cause a condition called hypokalaemia, in which levels of potassium in the blood fall, in some patients. Symptoms can range from mild muscle weakness and constipation to paralysis. The symptoms were found in people who drank between two and 10 liters of cola drinks per day.

Writing in the International Journal of Clinical Practice, researchers from the University of Ioannina in Greece detail cases of the condition, including a pregnant women who was drinking between three and seven liters of the soft drink a day. "We are consuming more soft drinks than ever before and a number of health issues have already been identified including tooth problems, bone demineralisation and the development of metabolic syndrome and diabetes. Evidence is increasing to suggest that excessive cola consumption can also lead to hypokalaemia." said Dr Moses Elisaf, who led the review of research. The research team also suggests that both the sugar and caffeine in cola can help to trigger the condition. This implies that drinking diet cola may lessen the risk, although not eliminate it. The study does not address non-caffeinated soda, but the nature of effervescent soft drinks implies that at least some tooth problems, bone demineralisation, and diabetes can result. Here are the categories, in order of descending risk:

-- Caffeinated soda (cola drinks): Maximum risk
-- Caffeinated diet soda
-- Non-caffeinated soda
-- Non-caffeinated diet soda

Consequently, I suggest that if you must drink soda and want to be both Word of Wisdom-oriented and minimize your risk of hypokalaemia, then your best bet is to drink only non-caffeinated diet soda. Most of it tastes like medicine, but based upon personal experience, diet Seven-up is the most drinkable. The full report is accessible HERE, but requires payment to view; a free abstract is available HERE.

The condition is not irreversible. All patients made a full and speedy recovery after they stopped drinking cola and took supplements of potassium.

Now you understand why, although cola drinks are not officially banned by the LDS Church, the Church leadership has counseled members not to partake of them.

The LDS Word Of Wisdom Wasn't Just A Warning Against Harmful Substances, But Also Against Deceptive Advertising

Many of you are familiar with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints health code, known as the Word of Wisdom. It was revealed to the first president of the Church, Joseph Smith in 1833, and subsequently incorporated into the Doctrine and Covenants as Section 89.

But while the health aspects of the Word of Wisdom are well-known, what's less publicized is the fact that Joseph Smith actually warned us against the deceptive and persuasive advertising which would be used to make these substances attractive to people. Here's the applicable part of Section 89 below:

1 A Word Of Wisdom, for the benefit of the council of high priests, assembled in Kirtland, and the church, and also the saints in Zion—
2 To be sent greeting; not by commandment or constraint, but by revelation and the word of wisdom, showing forth the order and will of God in the temporal salvation of all saints in the last days—
3 Given for a principle with apromise, adapted to the capacity of the weak and the weakest of all saints, who are or can be called saints.
4 Behold, verily, thus saith the Lord unto you: In consequence of evils and designs which do and will exist in the hearts of conspiring men in the last days, I have warned you, and forewarn you, by giving unto you this word of wisdom by revelation—
5 That inasmuch as any man drinketh wine or strong drink among you, behold it is not good, neither meet in the sight of your Father, only in assembling yourselves together to offer up your sacraments before him.
6 And, behold, this should be wine, yea, pure wine of the grape of the vine, of your own make.
7 And, again, strong drinks are not for the belly, but for the washing of your bodies.
8 And again, tobacco is not for the body, neither for the belly, and is not good for man, but is an herb for bruises and all sick cattle, to be used with judgment and skill.
9 And again, hot drinks are not for the body or belly.
10 And again, verily I say unto you, all wholesome herbs God hath ordained for the constitution, nature, and use of man—
11 Every herb in the season thereof, and every fruit in the season thereof; all these to be used with prudence and thanksgiving.
12 Yea, flesh also of beasts and of the fowls of the air, I, the Lord, have ordained for the use of man with thanksgiving; nevertheless they are to be used sparingly;
13 And it is pleasing unto me that they should not be used, only in times of winter, or of cold, or famine.

First, let's look at verse 2. It states that the Word of Wisdom is sent by greeting rather than by commandment or restraint. What does that really mean? When Mormons sit for worthiness interviews from their priesthood chain of command, whether it be for a temple recommend, for mission service, or to accept a higher office within the Priesthood, they are asked if they observe the Word of Wisdom. If the answer is No, then the person will be denied the desired opportunity until he is in compliance. However, the individual will NOT be subject to formal Church discipline.

And therein lies the difference. If you break an actual commandment, such as adultery, you can be subject to Church discipline, which can result in probation, disfellowshipment, or excommunication. However, breaking the Word of Wisdom, since it's not a commandment, merely results in denial of a particular privilege, such as a temple recommend.

Now look at verse 4. This is where the warning against advertising is delivered. And it's definitely come to pass. Advertisers motivated by pure amoral profit show macho men and demure women consuming alcohol and tobacco in an effort to make these substances appear more desirable. Remember the "Marlboro Man"? A macho cowboy. What they didn't show were career smokers hospitalized with lung cancer or hacking their lungs out with COPD. They don't look very macho. Joseph Smith apparently foresaw this, and incorporated this into Section 89.

And finally, the health code itself. Remember, Joseph Smith received and delivered the revelation in 1833, and it is worded in context with the references of the time. As references changed and new substances were invented and marketed, various General Authorities issued subsequent supplemental guidance to keep the Word of Wisdom contemporary. Consequently, the harmful substances identified in Section 89 have been further defined as follows:

(1). Strong drink - any alcoholic beverage. This includes alcopops and 3.2 beer.

(2). Tobacco - any form of tobacco, smokable, chewable, or sniffable.

(3). Hot drinks - formally defined to mean coffee and tea. Decaffinated coffee and tea is O.K.

In addition, the General Authorities have since declared that the consumption of caffeinated soda and recreational drug usage also constitute violations of the Word of Wisdom. LightPlanet.com provides some more guidance. You can also read more authoritative Church guidance HERE.

The consumption of meat is authorized by the Word of Wisdom. However, Mormons are directed to use meat sparingly, since it requires that we take an animal's life. A diet rich in meat actually contributes towards obesity and other health problems. Those who really want to go the extra mile would consume meat only during times of cold weather or scarcity of grains and fruit. Don't forget, the Lord provided the ancient Israelites with BOTH manna AND quail. But Mormons aren't asked about meat consumption during a worthiness interview.

Compliance with the Word of Wisdom is required to be accepted for membership in the LDS Church in the first place, and to retain full membership privileges once in the system.