AllAboutMormons.com: The Truth about Mormons2024-03-19T06:00:05Zurn:uuid:19111311-8157-4618-9154-861131011113Answer: Hello all. I am invited to Sunday church by relative. Just looking for some advice on...urn:uuid:13052120-2113-2221-d30a-aeaceaeaedee2021-05-30T13:22:21-06:00<b>Question by Tod:</b> Hello all. I am invited to Sunday church by relative. Just looking for some advice on being a good guest. Thanks.<br><br><b>Answer by El Santo Gringo: </b>Hi Tod. Wonderful that you're planning to attend one of our church meetings! I hope you have a great experience. The people there will understand that you're visiting, so they'll know you don't know all the little details of our customs. I wouldn't stress about it too much! Here are a few things that come to mind that might be a bit different in our church. <br> <br>1. The audience doesn't usually say anything during the sermon (for example, no one says "hallelujah" while others are speaking). At the end of each sermon, people typically do say "amen." <br> <br>2. We don't typically clap during our religious services, even after musical performances. <br> <br>3. Clothing isn't that big a deal, but we typically try to wear more formal clothes at church ("Sunday best") as a way of showing respect. But many folks don't have formal clothing, so I wouldn't worry too much about that. <br> <br>I'm sure your relative would also be very happy to chat with you more about what to expect! I hope you enjoy your visit. I'm very grateful to be a member of this church, and I'm always happy to hear when others are interested in learning more. Take care.El Santo GringoAnswer: How is marriage eternal when Christ said marriage would cease after death? "For in...urn:uuid:17042620-2117-2726-d4aa-aedaeeeeceae2021-04-04T17:27:26-06:00<b>Question by Nathan:</b> How is marriage eternal when Christ said marriage would cease after death? "For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven." (Matthew 22:30)<br><br><b>Answer by El Santo Gringo: </b>Much thanks for the question, Nathan. <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/ensign/1986/02/i-have-a-question/how-do-we-explain-jesus-teachings-in-matthew-22-29-30?lang=eng" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow ugc">Here's an excellent response that should help.</a>El Santo GringoAnswer: Hi, my boyfriend and I got into a pretty heated discussion about baptism. He was...urn:uuid:12034620-2112-3846-d18a-edeeffefcefe2021-03-18T12:38:46-06:00<b>Question by Ann:</b> Hi, my boyfriend and I got into a pretty heated discussion about baptism. He was raised LDS and follows some of their beliefs, but is no longer active. I on the other hand, was raised Christian. It seems like our most heated topics are about after life. He says he's content with us now, and sees marrying me, but in the afterlife he wants us together. I get that, but why do I need to be baptized to a certain religion, when I believe in God, Christ, the Holy Ghost, and doing my best that I can do. <br> <br>This isn't the first time we've had such a heated discussion with religion. I really don't want to lose him because we are so much a like, he understand me, pushes me to be better, makes me laugh. We promised we wouldn't let religion break us apart but it just may.<br><br><b>Answer by John: </b>Dear Ann: Your question speaks to your great care for your boyfriend and your deep commitment to faith and truth. I applaud you for both! These deep and meaningful questions of religion can be difficult conflicts to address. Talk together about which items are worth addressing and which are better to let go (for now or forever).<br><br>Each of you wants to be understood. Take turns genuinely trying to understand each other. Do this without trying to refute the other's position. Ask yourselves what you can learn from the other, and start by bonding over the values that you share rather than arguing over different interpretations or applications of them. You do not need to ignore important areas that you disagree. It can be detrimental to do so. However, setting up this foundation of understanding and common ground will change that process for the better.<br><br>From the word of God contained in His scriptures, we learn that "God is not the author of confusion" (1 Corinthians 14:33) and also that He is "no respecter of persons" (Acts 10:34). He does not leave things up to chance, and He wants the path to be clear, even if it is not always easy. The question of which Church we join is an important one, because it relates to how much we seek and treasure God's truth. Almost all churches have good people with sincere faith and varying degrees of truth. We should never disparage them or think that we are superior to any of God's children. That said, we are to seek truth and to care enough to reject untruth. We are taught that baptism is important (John 3:5) and that baptism and other saving ordinances should be performed by one with authority to do so (Hebrews 5:4). When performed according to the manner God has prescribed, it is not merely symbolic, but has the concrete effect of a fresh start free from our past sins. It is a commitment on our part to embark in a lifelong quest to follow and represent Jesus Christ. If none of the particulars mattered, Jesus could have been baptized by anyone. Instead, He walked a considerable distance to go to John the Baptist, who held the priesthood authority to perform baptism. John the Baptist said that he only had the authority to perform baptism by water, but not baptism by fire, which is the baptism "of the Spirit" referred to in John 3:5, also called the "Gift of the Holy Ghost."<br><br>I invite you to speak with missionaries from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. May God bless you in your quest to find and follow truths in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son who freely gave His perfect life to offer us redemption.<br><br>:),<br>JohnJohnAnswer: I would not call my Baptism "recent" for it was a very long time ago as is most...urn:uuid:17023720-2117-5037-28fe-baeaceafecea2021-02-28T17:50:37-07:00<b>Question by Leland D Sigley:</b> I would not call my Baptism "recent" for it was a very long time ago as is most everything else In my life. My grandmother was my religious teacher. This was not uncommon in those days as meeting houses were few. I find my age embarrassing. So, I will just make a list of common things I was responsible for after school as a child on the days that my grandmother taught me: <br> <br>Draw up water from the well in the back yard to use in the morning, pour the water into the water tank on the side of the cook stove, bank the fire in the potbelly stove so it would last the night, and trim the wicks on the lamps. <br> <br>After dinner, grandmother would have me do a lesson in the Juvenile Instructor serries of books from which she had learned the religion. We had only these books, a Bible, and a very old Book of Mormon. I found the Book of Mormon in a steamer trunk of hers a few years ago and decided to return to church to see what the prophet may have updated. The first thing I found out was that they had added verses to the Book of Mormon and some books were longer or shorter than the ones in the newer Book of Mormon. Of course there have been many updates from the prophets. I recently bought a copy of the Book of Commandments on ebay and I would like to know how it compares with today's D&C. Are the revelation numbers the same in both books? I remember my Grandmother telling me that the Book of Commandments was incomplete because a mob destroyed the printing press before the printing was done<br><br><b>Answer by El Santo Gringo: </b>Hi Leland. So interesting to hear about your history! The Juvenile Instructor! That's really something. It's been a while since the church has used that magazine. :) <br> <br>There have been a few minor edits to the Book of Mormon over the years, mostly to correct spelling errors and add small clarification based on the original manuscripts. One such revision was made in 1981, so that might be the source of the changes between the version you have and our more modern version. <br> <br>Changes to the Book of Commandments (now Doctrine and Covenants) have been more substantial, as you mentioned. You can find electronic copies of all these books online, if you're interested: https://www.churchofJesusChrist.org/study/scriptures?lang=eng <br> <br>I'm not sure if you're currently attending church, but if not I want you to know that you're certainly welcome. During the pandemic, many congregations broadcast their meetings online. I suggest you <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.allaboutmormons.com/outbound/locate-chapel.php" target="_blank" rel="noopener">contact your local bishop</a> to find out if there's anything like that in your area. <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.allaboutmormons.com/outbound/request-missionary-visit.php" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The missionaries in your area</a> would also be very happy to help you, I'm certain. <br> <br>Thanks again for your very interesting message! I suggest you hold on to the old magazines and books you've got. Amazing pieces of history. Take care.El Santo GringoAnswer: Hi, my boyfriend and I got into a pretty heated discussion about baptism. He was...urn:uuid:04024720-2104-5547-22fe-baedababeeca2021-02-22T04:55:47-07:00<b>Question by Ann:</b> Hi, my boyfriend and I got into a pretty heated discussion about baptism. He was raised LDS and follows some of their beliefs, but is no longer active. I on the other hand, was raised Christian. It seems like our most heated topics are about after life. He says he's content with us now, and sees marrying me, but in the afterlife he wants us together. I get that, but why do I need to be baptized to a certain religion, when I believe in God, Christ, the Holy Ghost, and doing my best that I can do. <br> <br>This isn't the first time we've had such a heated discussion with religion. I really don't want to lose him because we are so much a like, he understand me, pushes me to be better, makes me laugh. We promised we wouldn't let religion break us apart but it just may.<br><br><b>Answer by Lds (my Initials): </b>You don't have to be baptized a Mormon to go to heaven. Mormon belief in marriage is somewhat complicated. In a standard marriage, Mormon included, the marriage ends at death. However, Mormons believe in something called a "sealing" in which the marriage time is extended to eternity. This sealing involves a ceremony in the temple after marriage. Temple worship requires a "temple recommend" which is available to members of the church.<br><br>Most likely, your boyfriend thinks so highly of you that he doesn't ever want his marriage to you to end at death. That is a big compliment! Talk it over with him in terms he can understand. If you both intend to remain in your present religion, you and he will need to understand each other's religion. This is probably a good time to start.Lds (my Initials)Answer: I am dating a mormon and I'm not one. Him and I have become so close. Even talked...urn:uuid:14024820-2114-3848-a13f-ebcddecaaeee2021-02-13T14:38:48-07:00<b>Question by Anonymous 318:</b> I am dating a mormon and I'm not one. Him and I have become so close. Even talked about moving out relationship forward. My parents don't approve of him or like the fact of us being together. I should also say I had a daughter at a young age. What is something I can do to help them get a long better? Is there a way to make it work? <br><br><b>Answer by Sherri Wandell: </b>It is wonderful that you two are getting along so well! Often times, parents or relatives have a hard time accepting someone that their loved one is seeing/dating. Perhaps, with time, as they get to know him better, they will see his good qualities as you do? Are there informal family get togethers that you could attend together? This will give them time to get to know him with no pressure attached. Good luck!Sherri WandellComment: Hello Lee, I am also named Lee, Well sort of, really named Leland. But, I often go...urn:uuid:02010220-2102-0302-14ae-eeaaaedeeefe2021-01-14T02:17:04-07:00<b>Comment by Leland Dennis Sigley:</b> Hello Lee, <br> <br>I am also named Lee, Well sort of, really named Leland. But, I often go by Lee. <br> <br>My middle and last name make up the "D" and "S" of the last two of my initials, L. D. S. I was named after Joseph Leland Haywood, an early member of the Church who played a major roll in establishing the state of Utah. He seems to be mostly forgotten now. <br> <br>Family tradition has it that the Book of Mormon that I studied from as a child was given to Mr. Haywood at his Baptism and later passed down to my family. <br> <br>Okay, enough boring family history! But, that is not why I am writing this. I wanted to point out that Many people have pointed out to me that in order for the priesthood to be restored by Heavenly Father, the Church would have to be much older than it is because they would have to be ordained by the apostles who were long gone by the 1830's. To me this is a perfect example of a faith brought through history (Joseph Smith's testimony of his conversion) and faith, (the people who conferred the priesthood upon him. These were the same people who conferred it on the first apostles. One cannot be converted through history alone but through spiritual action as well. It is why we are asked to pray about the truth of the Book of Mormon. The book is the physical evidence and the prayer will lead to the spiritual knowledge. <br> <br>L. D. S.Leland Dennis SigleyComment: I love testimony Sunday! I have often wished that I had a testimony that would...urn:uuid:04010220-2104-3002-e12a-eedaaefeedaa2021-01-12T04:23:04-07:00<b>Comment by Leland D. Sigley (l. D. S.):</b> I love testimony Sunday! I have often wished that I had a testimony that would Inspire someone. But, I don't! So, I keep my mouth shut and enjoy what others have to say. The only thing that bothers me a bit is that most people start their testimony with "I know that the church is true." If I were to say to someone "I know that if I walk off the edge of this cliff, I will fall, " they would wonder why I was saying such an obvious truth. We all know that the church is true so, tell me how Heavenly Father has helped with your faith or other parts of your life.Leland D. Sigley (l. D. S.)Answer: How can we know when the prophet speaks of religious matters if he is giving his...urn:uuid:13065720-2013-5457-d28e-bdfdacaeeede2020-06-28T13:54:57-06:00<b>Question by Leland Dennis Sigley (lds):</b> How can we know when the prophet speaks of religious matters if he is giving his opinion or speaking based on a revelation from Heavenly Father?<br><br><b>Answer by John: </b>Dear Leland: This is an excellent question! Here are a few general guidelines:<br><br><ol><br><li>Is the communication coming through an official channel (e.g., general conference)?</li><br>You should focus primarily on official communication, such as general conference talks, official statements (things like the family proclamation, the living Christ, etc), and the scriptures.<br><br><li>Does the prophet state that this is "In the name of the Lord", that it is the prophet's personal opinion, etc.?</li><br>Alma, for example in Alma 40:20 (see 19-21 for additional context), makes clear distinction between things that are his opinion and things that are firm doctrine.<br><br><li>Have we appealed to the Spirit to help us to discern these things?</li><br>John 16:33 teaches, "when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth."<br><br><li>Are we trying to reframe something as opinion because we do not want the obligation to agree with or follow the council?</li><br>This is a great mistake that is sometimes made that we were warned against in Helaman 12:26-27. We must remember that when the Lord's servants speak for Him, "whether by [His] own voice or by the voice of [His] servants, it is the same" (D&C 1:38). As Jacob advised: "Seek not to counsel the Lord, but to take counsel from his hand" (Jacob 4:10).<br><br><li>Prophets are human. They are entirely capable of making mistakes and being wrong. They also have personal opinions and develop ideas over time, like all humans. They are unique in that they have access to special revelation and have been charged with a spiritual stewardship over large groups (even the entire world).</li><br><br><li>The Lord will not allow His appointed servants to lead the Church astray (by accident or intentionally). </li><br>"The Lord will never permit me or any other man who stands as President of this Church to lead you astray. It is not in the programme. It is not in the mind of God. If I were to attempt that, the Lord would remove me out of my place, and so He will any other man who attempts to lead the children of men astray from the oracles of God and from their duty." (D&C - Official Declaration 1).<br></ol><br>For further reading, I suggest using the topical guide in the scriptures on the subject of prophets. You can also review <a rel="nofollow" href="https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/ldsnewsroom/eng/commentary/approaching-mormon-doctrine" rel="nofollow ugc">this</a> newsroom article "With divine inspiration, the First Presidency (the prophet and his two counselors) and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (the second-highest governing body of the Church) counsel together to establish doctrine that is consistently proclaimed in official Church publications. This doctrine resides in the four “standard works” of scripture (the Holy Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants and the Pearl of Great Price), official declarations and proclamations, and the Articles of Faith. Isolated statements are often taken out of context, leaving their original meaning distorted."<br><br>Keep searching and following truth. God bless you!<br><br>- JohnJohnAnswer: I know this probably sounds like a joke, something offensive or just plain peculiar,...urn:uuid:15053420-2015-3934-d17a-ceedeeeaadac2020-05-17T15:39:34-06:00<b>Question by Shaun:</b> I know this probably sounds like a joke, something offensive or just plain peculiar, but to me it is genuinely only the latter, plus I have been trying to find some way to ask a question, since that is the only way another Mormon will speak to me, particularly online. <br> <br>Every time I think the words, think about saying the words, say the words or hear the words, "Jesus Christ", I feel shame and anxiety because I get a feeling of these words being used as swear words, or, as expletives to express frustration or anger, over little things, big things or against me for something someone thinks I did or a personal attack. How can I overcome this? <br> <br>Please don't share my email with missionaries. If they wanted or needed to talk to me in the past 15 years they would have. I am happy to just keep waiting until they come to me and show that they care. Last time they came to my door, my wife turned them away, regretfully to me, but I guess it just wasn't time. <br> <br>Praise be to all missionaries out in the field at this time. I wish them good health and may the spirit be with them.<br><br><b>Answer by Anonymous: </b>Just don't swear and ignore those who do. If they don't stop when around you then they don't respect you. Avoid any voluntary time spent with those who don't respect you.AnonymousAnswer: Why are some sins more focused on by people, when they are less talked about in holy books?urn:uuid:18045920-2018-5859-d19a-eeacfdeeaeae2020-04-19T18:58:59-06:00<b>Question by Sky:</b> Why are some sins more focused on by people, when they are less talked about in holy books?<br><br><b>Answer by El Santo Gringo: </b>Hi Anonymous. I don't know why some people focus more on one sin than on others. In the end, any sin ("big" or "small") separates us from God. We are all in equal need of Christ's atonement.El Santo GringoAnswer: I have tattoos, and have a full length beard, and have dreadlocks, I have been...urn:uuid:18042220-2018-2722-d19a-eceaaeaddaae2020-04-19T18:27:22-06:00<b>Question by Sean:</b> I have tattoos, and have a full length beard, and have dreadlocks, I have been reading the Book of Mormon and want to join the Church will I be allowed to? My family for 4, wife, two boys and myself want to join the Church.<br><br><b>Answer by El Santo Gringo: </b><div style="float:right;width:33%;border:1px solid; padding:5px 5px 5px 5px; margin:5px 5px 5px 5px;"><center><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=skPS0yWsFxA" target="_blank">Video: Al Fox, the tattooed Mormon.</a></center></div>Hi Sean. Thanks for your question, and I hope you're staying safe amid the COVID-19 pandemic. I'm happy to hear that you and your family are interested in joining the church. I've been a member all my life, and it's brought me a lot of peace. May you find the same joy in this religion one day! <br> <br>While it's true that the Church generally discourages it's members from getting tattoos, it wouldn't ever prevent anyone from joining. Many converts (and even life-long members) have tattoos in fact. The most famous is Al Fox, the so-called "Tattooed Mormon," who is a popular motivational/inspirational speaker in the church. <br> <br>I can't think why the beard or dreadlocks would prevent you from joining the church either. <br> <br>I suggest that you <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.allaboutmormons.com/outbound/chat-with-missionary.php" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">chat with the missionaries</a> online. There are over 60,000 missionaries who teach interested people more about Jesus Christ and the Church. Most people who are interested in our faith learn about our basic beliefs from these missionaries. <br> <br>El Santo GringoAnswer: I know this probably sounds like a joke, something offensive or just plain peculiar,...urn:uuid:18043420-2018-5234-d5af-aecaeebadabe2020-04-05T18:52:34-06:00<b>Question by Shaun:</b> I know this probably sounds like a joke, something offensive or just plain peculiar, but to me it is genuinely only the latter, plus I have been trying to find some way to ask a question, since that is the only way another Mormon will speak to me, particularly online. <br> <br>Every time I think the words, think about saying the words, say the words or hear the words, "Jesus Christ", I feel shame and anxiety because I get a feeling of these words being used as swear words, or, as expletives to express frustration or anger, over little things, big things or against me for something someone thinks I did or a personal attack. How can I overcome this? <br> <br>Please don't share my email with missionaries. If they wanted or needed to talk to me in the past 15 years they would have. I am happy to just keep waiting until they come to me and show that they care. Last time they came to my door, my wife turned them away, regretfully to me, but I guess it just wasn't time. <br> <br>Praise be to all missionaries out in the field at this time. I wish them good health and may the spirit be with them.<br><br><b>Answer by C.piatti: </b>It is really shameful. And sometimes even members of the church slip on their tongues and utter the word. But because we know it's not right we regret and feeling bad about it. Repentance is a gift.C.piattiAnswer: Do latter day saints officially not. Believe. That Jesus Christ is God manifest in...urn:uuid:17040220-2017-2702-d5aa-eaceaeeaeacb2020-04-05T17:27:02-06:00<b>Question by John J Conroy:</b> Do latter day saints officially not. Believe. That Jesus Christ is God manifest in the flesh.? I john 4:1-4. Do latter day saints really teach that Jesus Christ is a God instead of being fully God? Do latter day saints really reject that Jesus Christ has two natures as one person.? ( meaning Jesus Christ us Fully God in divinity and nature and Jesus Christ is man. ) Do latter day saints reject that the. God- man is Jesus Christ? Meaning God became a man on earth which was Jesus Christ. Who is fully God and man?<br><br><b>Answer by El Santo Gringo: </b><div style="width: 260px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img src="https://www.allaboutmormons.com/IMG/FreeMormonImages/christus-jesus-christ-mormon.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="200" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The North Visitors’ Center on Temple Square has an 11-foot replica of Thorvaldsen’s Christus on display.</p></div>Hi John. Thanks for your question. There's a certain amount of semantics involved in this question. We have to be careful, because we might end up using the same words to mean different things. Here are my answers to your questions based on what I understand of them: <br> <br>1) We believe Jesus Christ is God the Son. We believe He is fully God. We believe He came to earth as a mortal man (in the flesh), as described in the New Testament. He was fully man during that time as well. <br> <br>2) We believe that God the Father, God the Son, and the Holy Ghost together make up the Godhead (similar, but not identical to, the concept of Trinity in most other churches). The Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one in purpose. They have the same, unified will. <br> <br>3) We reject some of the teachings described the Nicene Creed (as well as other creeds) that are not Biblical. But we accept the teachings of those Creeds that are Biblical. <br> <br>I hope this answer helps. Take care.El Santo GringoAnswer: I know this probably sounds like a joke, something offensive or just plain peculiar,...urn:uuid:16044120-2016-5941-d5aa-efaadaeaceaa2020-04-05T16:59:41-06:00<b>Question by Shaun:</b> I know this probably sounds like a joke, something offensive or just plain peculiar, but to me it is genuinely only the latter, plus I have been trying to find some way to ask a question, since that is the only way another Mormon will speak to me, particularly online. <br> <br>Every time I think the words, think about saying the words, say the words or hear the words, "Jesus Christ", I feel shame and anxiety because I get a feeling of these words being used as swear words, or, as expletives to express frustration or anger, over little things, big things or against me for something someone thinks I did or a personal attack. How can I overcome this? <br> <br>Please don't share my email with missionaries. If they wanted or needed to talk to me in the past 15 years they would have. I am happy to just keep waiting until they come to me and show that they care. Last time they came to my door, my wife turned them away, regretfully to me, but I guess it just wasn't time. <br> <br>Praise be to all missionaries out in the field at this time. I wish them good health and may the spirit be with them.<br><br><b>Answer by El Santo Gringo: </b><div style="float:right;width:33%;border:1px solid; padding:5px 5px 5px 5px; margin:5px 5px 5px 5px;"><center><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qKY2CvBwcS0" target="_blank">Video: We believe that disciples of Jesus should follow His example and be baptized by someone with authority from God.</a></center></div>Hi Shaun. Some people do use Jesus Christ's name as a swear word. This is one of the ways people take His name in vain. Even though using Christ's name inappropriately in this way is common, you are right in thinking that it is shameful. We should treat Christ's name with respect. <br> <br>But using Christ's name appropriately--to discuss his teachings, for example, or to worship Him--is a wonderful thing. An important part of the baptismal covenant all members of the church make is to "take Christ's name upon them." <br> <br>I hope this answer helps. I of course won't share your information with the missionaries, per your request. But they are unlikely to randomly show up without knowing the details of your situation. If you'd like to speak with them (and I encourage you to!), you can request a visit online: https://www.allaboutmormons.com/outbound/request-missionary-visit.php <br> <br>Take care and stay safe!El Santo GringoAnswer: I have been inactive for about 5 years, my wife and I went inactive and everything...urn:uuid:04033820-2004-4138-d16a-ebeecabecfe92020-03-16T04:41:38-06:00<b>Question by Gavin:</b> I have been inactive for about 5 years, my wife and I went inactive and everything has been great for a long time. We are now thinking about having kids and my wife decided she wants to raise them in the church; thusly re-activating ourselves Is necessary. I'm honestly scared to go back to church because I don't want to feel like a disappointment to anyone for having left. I also don't know what I should expect trying to go back. Having not followed the rules for so long I'm scared of the consequences should I go back. <br> <br>I also kind of want to talk to the missionaries to figure All that out, but having served a mission a long time ago I know that I should know all the answers and I don't want to waste their time or bother them, especially since Im not even sure I want to go back, what is your honest opinion on that? Thanks for taking your time for me!<br><br><b>Answer by Anonymous: </b>Gavin: <br> <br>Your wife decision to let your children raise In the church is one of the great decision she ever made. Why?, because if your children get used to have the gospel in their lives at the early age, obviously they will not go astray. My only advice to you is to pray harder to our loving Father in Heaven to all the feeling of doubts in going back to his true church. You know to yourself the greatest blessing if you continue to follow thy commandments especially if you bring your family back to his presence. The present situation of the world nowadays awake us to work in his vineyard with all our strength, with all our heart, with all our mind and with all our might. If you choose to go back to his presence, he will guide you and your family to attain each and everyone's goal which is to have Eternal life and to live in his bosom in the very near future. I don't know you personally even the hardships you experience in this life but I'm telling you, if you choose to go back, you will never be wrong.AnonymousAnswer: Hello <3 My name is Andrea I live with very strict parents, and they hate the...urn:uuid:12035820-2012-2558-d15a-aedaefdaadda2020-03-15T12:25:58-06:00<b>Question by Andrea:</b> Hello <3 <br> <br>My name is Andrea <br> <br>I live with very strict parents, and they hate the mormon church. I do not. I believe it is the one true church and I would love to be baptised in the church. I'm really scared on how to tell them that im joining the church because My step Mom is a mormon who left the church, my dad left the church because he hates it. They have told me awful things about the church I dont want to believe. Like for exp: Women who arent married go to hell, and That when I go to the temple, ill have to sell my soul to Satan, and Ill be possesed by a demon as soon as I enter! Please I beg your help!!<br><br><b>Answer by John: </b>Dear Andrea,<br><br>This is a major challenge! I pray for you as you seek to move forward in this difficult situation. As I prayed for inspiration, I felt one overwhelming impression: the Book of Mormon will be your source of answers. It will be the Savior's tool to bring you peace, direction, healing, and strength. Jesus Christ will be your best friend, if you seek Him. The Book of Mormon is a sanctuary of love, peace, and clarity for me, and I know it can be the same for you. It has this power because, like the Bible, it's goal is to testify of truth about Jesus Christ, and it was Jesus Christ who arranged for it to be available in our day.<br><br>The very first words of this book testify that we can have joy in hardship: "I, Nephi... Having seen many afflictions over the course of my days, nevertheless, having been highly favored of the Lord in all my days." (<a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/bofm/1-ne/1.1?lang=eng#p1#1" rel="nofollow ugc">1 Nephi 1:1</a>). Family relationships are very important. They can be our greatest source of joy. Because they matter so much, they can also be our greatest source of heartbreak. I hope that things with your parents will improve. You can only control your actions and attitudes, not theirs. They have misinformed you about the Church, and probably were misinformed by another. Being unmarried does not mean a women will go to hell. No one sells their soul to Satan or is possessed when entering the temple.<br><br>I recommend that you 1) try to study the Book of Mormon at least 15 minutes each day and follow the teachings (you can access it from the Gospel Library <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/pages/mobileapps/gospellibrary?lang=eng" rel="nofollow ugc">app</a> or online), 2) use <a rel="nofollow" href="http://comeuntochrist.org" rel="nofollow ugc">comeuntochrist.org</a> and the Church Pamphlets app--<a rel="nofollow" href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.lds.churchpamphlets" rel="nofollow ugc">Android</a> and <a rel="nofollow" href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/church-pamphlets/id912950833" rel="nofollow ugc">Apple</a>--to learn true principles of the church, and 3) find more on the Church's website, <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.churchofjesuschrist.org" rel="nofollow ugc">churchofjesuschrist.org</a>.<br><br>Jesus said, "In this world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world" (<a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/john/16.33?lang=eng#p33#33" rel="nofollow ugc">John 16:33</a>). Seek His peace, and you will find it! God bless you as you welcome additional truth and light into your life, Andrea!JohnAnswer: I have been inactive for about 5 years, my wife and I went inactive and everything...urn:uuid:12032920-2012-2129-d8ad-efebdeacfede2020-03-08T12:21:29-06:00<b>Question by Gavin:</b> I have been inactive for about 5 years, my wife and I went inactive and everything has been great for a long time. We are now thinking about having kids and my wife decided she wants to raise them in the church; thusly re-activating ourselves Is necessary. I'm honestly scared to go back to church because I don't want to feel like a disappointment to anyone for having left. I also don't know what I should expect trying to go back. Having not followed the rules for so long I'm scared of the consequences should I go back. <br> <br>I also kind of want to talk to the missionaries to figure All that out, but having served a mission a long time ago I know that I should know all the answers and I don't want to waste their time or bother them, especially since Im not even sure I want to go back, what is your honest opinion on that? Thanks for taking your time for me!<br><br><b>Answer by John: </b>Gavin: It is absolutely wonderful that you are considering returning. As a parent, I can tell you that it will be the best thing that you can do to raise them in a loving Gospel-centered home. Helping you would be a wonderful use of the missionaries' time. They would not be bothered, but rather thrilled! You can be honest with them that you are not sure where you stand yet. You do not need to be embarrassed that you may have forgotten a few principles or scriptures. I found some meaningful words from Elder Holland as I searched for what could apply to you: <br> <br>"Forgive and do that which is sometimes harder than to forgive: forget. And when it comes to mind again, forget it again... God doesn't care nearly as much about where you have been as He does about where you are and, with His help, where you are willing to go." ("The Best is Yet to Be", Ensign Jan. 2010) <br> <br>I recommend you contact your bishop. Tell him that you feel a pull to the Gospel and to more deeply follow the Savior, but your feelings are complex and a little murky still. Share openly your concerns. It is natural and understandable to feel trepidation. Of course, all Church members have not become perfect since you left, any more than you or I have. However, your faith will be stronger than the few missteps that may happen, and you will be amazed at the love that you will be met with at your return! You can do this. You will be relieved and rejuvenated as you make these wonderful changes. God bless you, friend!JohnAnswer: I have been inactive for about 5 years, my wife and I went inactive and everything...urn:uuid:22034920-2022-0549-a7ae-ecedaebcdeee2020-03-07T22:05:49-07:00<b>Question by Gavin:</b> I have been inactive for about 5 years, my wife and I went inactive and everything has been great for a long time. We are now thinking about having kids and my wife decided she wants to raise them in the church; thusly re-activating ourselves Is necessary. I'm honestly scared to go back to church because I don't want to feel like a disappointment to anyone for having left. I also don't know what I should expect trying to go back. Having not followed the rules for so long I'm scared of the consequences should I go back. <br> <br>I also kind of want to talk to the missionaries to figure All that out, but having served a mission a long time ago I know that I should know all the answers and I don't want to waste their time or bother them, especially since Im not even sure I want to go back, what is your honest opinion on that? Thanks for taking your time for me!<br><br><b>Answer by Stephanie: </b>Church members will be waiting for you with open arms and a call to come home. You might be surprised that those you encounter will be happy to see you, and will smile as they welcome you back to the church. No one will be thinking of the past. All that matters now is that you come home, the past is the past, use it, learn from it, and be ready to forgive those who don't understand it. <br> <br>I left the church and came back, I felt inadequate and guilty, but I soon realized that I was the only one viewing myself that way. Everyone else was simply happy to have me in the gospel and in the temple. Good luck brother, and welcome home.StephanieAnswer: I have been inactive for about 5 years, my wife and I went inactive and everything...urn:uuid:22032820-2022-3828-ed4a-affaebadaeea2020-03-04T22:38:28-07:00<b>Question by Gavin:</b> I have been inactive for about 5 years, my wife and I went inactive and everything has been great for a long time. We are now thinking about having kids and my wife decided she wants to raise them in the church; thusly re-activating ourselves Is necessary. I'm honestly scared to go back to church because I don't want to feel like a disappointment to anyone for having left. I also don't know what I should expect trying to go back. Having not followed the rules for so long I'm scared of the consequences should I go back. <br> <br>I also kind of want to talk to the missionaries to figure All that out, but having served a mission a long time ago I know that I should know all the answers and I don't want to waste their time or bother them, especially since Im not even sure I want to go back, what is your honest opinion on that? Thanks for taking your time for me!<br><br><b>Answer by Anonymous: </b>Dear Gavin, <br> <br>First off, I'm glad you want to raise your children in the church. I can definitely see why you would be scared to rejoin. It is tricky to see friends and family after you've been gone for a while. However, I do believe that when you rejoin, people will just be glad to see you again, and will want to celebrate you coming back! Remember the story of the prodigal son? Just like the son coming home to his father, you will be welcomed back immensely. If there is anybody who might resent you like the older brother, then that is not your fault. I hope this will help you, and know that I will be praying for your family.AnonymousAnswer: Hello <3 My name is Andrea I live with very strict parents, and they hate the...urn:uuid:13031220-2013-5912-1aea-eadeeeeacdae2020-03-01T13:59:12-07:00<b>Question by Andrea:</b> Hello <3 <br> <br>My name is Andrea <br> <br>I live with very strict parents, and they hate the mormon church. I do not. I believe it is the one true church and I would love to be baptised in the church. I'm really scared on how to tell them that im joining the church because My step Mom is a mormon who left the church, my dad left the church because he hates it. They have told me awful things about the church I dont want to believe. Like for exp: Women who arent married go to hell, and That when I go to the temple, ill have to sell my soul to Satan, and Ill be possesed by a demon as soon as I enter! Please I beg your help!!<br><br><b>Answer by Richard Marble: </b>I think the best advice that I could personally give would be to rely on your faith in Christ and the Spirit. Our Heavenly Father loves all of us, and His spirit will help us in our times of need if we have the faith to act and recieve His inspiration. It's a very brave and courageous thing you're seeking to do, my prayers are with you.Richard MarbleAnswer: Maybe a silly queston. How do you adress an apostle when speaking to one. I doubt you...urn:uuid:10023920-2010-2639-24fe-baefedaeefed2020-02-24T10:26:39-07:00<b>Question by Ian:</b> Maybe a silly queston. How do you adress an apostle when speaking to one. I doubt you would call him by his first name, being a man of importance. So what is he called. Catholics call their officials excellence. Protestants use tha atual title like deacon, or minister. What do mormons use?<br><br><b>Answer by Grandpa Chet: </b>Don't know if there's an official practice about this - I suspect this is one of those "tradition things" that are often mistaken for Gospel. I've used "President" for anyone in a presidency, "Elder" for other men, and "Sister" for other woman.Grandpa ChetComment: Christmas is not about gifts and buying its About: Jesus who gave his life for us...urn:uuid:07013920-2007-2939-20ac-aabfadbabeae2020-01-20T07:27:49-07:00<b>Comment by Linda Smith:</b> Christmas is not about gifts and buying its About: <br> <br>Jesus who gave his life for us that we may have eternal peace in heaven with Jesus Christ our Lord. <br> <br>We all live in our earthly bodies but our soul lives with in - The earthly body pass's away not our soul, <br> <br>Instead of take take take we give back to himLinda SmithArticle: They Gave Up Their Christmas (A Mormon Video)urn:uuid:14120120-1914-5601-ed25-decebeaffafa2019-12-25T14:50:45-07:00<b>Article by El Santo Gringo:</b> The beautiful story of a group of Hispanic Mormons who gave their greatest gift to Christ on Christmas, the gift of themselves. <br> <br><div style="float:right;width:33%;border:1px solid; padding:5px 5px 5px 5px; margin:5px 5px 5px 5px;"><center><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qzjvE0ehnEI" target="_blank">Video: They Gave Up Their Christmas</a></center></div>El Santo GringoArticle: The Reason Behind Christmas: A Church Videourn:uuid:08124020-1908-1440-ed25-dececcadceda2019-12-25T08:28:59-07:00<b>Article by El Santo Gringo:</b> The Church has produced another fun Christmas video this year. According to the church's official channel on YouTube, the video tells the story of "a Christmas angel, a grumpy old man, and an unusual Christmas pageant." The story "remind us all that amid the shopping and commercialism, there is a way to keep Christ in Christmas; by giving the gifts He wants us to give." Hope you enjoy it!<div style="float:right;width:33%;border:1px solid; padding:5px 5px 5px 5px; margin:5px 5px 5px 5px;"><center><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Urw4JUrul1Y" target="_blank">Video: The Reason Behind Christmas</a></center></div> <br> <br>For those who are interested, there's also a "behind the scenes" video: <div style="float:right;width:33%;border:1px solid; padding:5px 5px 5px 5px; margin:5px 5px 5px 5px;"><center><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G0WIJTNPx88" target="_blank">Video: Behind the Scenes of the New Mormon Message - The Reason Behind Christmas</a></center></div>El Santo GringoArticle: The Coat: A Story of Christmas Charity (A Mormon Video)urn:uuid:08124820-1908-0548-e24d-ecabeafabefa2019-12-24T07:59:54-07:00<b>Article by El Santo Gringo:</b> A beautiful story about the spirit of giving that accompanies the Christmas season. Christ taught that when we care for others, we honor Him. <br> <br><div style="float:right;width:33%;border:1px solid; padding:5px 5px 5px 5px; margin:5px 5px 5px 5px;"><center><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cp3IH8ZNviQ" target="_blank">Video: The Coat: A Story of Christmas Charity</a></center></div>El Santo GringoArticle: The Old Shoemaker (Mormon Video)urn:uuid:18120620-1918-1606-23de-cbefd16edeae2019-12-23T18:26:37-07:00<b>Article by El Santo Gringo:</b> <div style="float:right;width:33%;border:1px solid; padding:5px 5px 5px 5px; margin:5px 5px 5px 5px;"><center><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pifDZ1hu6gY" target="_blank">Video: The Old Shoemaker</a></center></div>This video retells a classic story by Leo Tolstoy. A humble old shoemaker named Martin discovers that by helping those around him, he is really serving the Savior. Martin realizes that he has seen the Savior in the faces of the people he helped, and that by serving them, he has served Jesus Christ. <br> <br>This Christmas, look for ways you can show love to the Savior, Jesus Christ, by serving those in need.El Santo GringoArticle: Wise Men Still Seek Him: Modern-Day Story of The Wise Men (Mormon Video)urn:uuid:18122620-1918-1426-22de-cbe9ceeeeded2019-12-22T18:03:13-07:00<b>Article by El Santo Gringo:</b> <div style="float:right;width:33%;border:1px solid; padding:5px 5px 5px 5px; margin:5px 5px 5px 5px;"><center><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9OcQXpZwRKY" target="_blank">Video: Wise Men Still Seek Him: Modern-Day Story of The Wise Men</a></center></div>This is my favorite Christmas video. It tells the story of three modern-day wise men who show us that the greatest gift we can give Jesus Christ is the will of our hearts. <br> <br>"And when we find him, will we be prepared as were the wise men of old to provide gifts from our many treasures?" - President Thomas S. Monson <br> <br>"...They presented gold, frankincense and myrrh. These are not the gifts Jesus asks of us. From the treasure of our hearts Jesus asks that we give of ourselves." - President Thomas S. MonsonEl Santo GringoArticle: Kids & Christmas: Learning The Meaning of Christmas Though The Eyes of Children...urn:uuid:18124020-1918-1240-a21d-ecbe87dcaeae2019-12-21T18:02:52-07:00<b>Article by El Santo Gringo:</b> <div style="float:right;width:33%;border:1px solid; padding:5px 5px 5px 5px; margin:5px 5px 5px 5px;"><center><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RM8XoT7qnxY" target="_blank">Video: Kids & Christmas: Learning The Meaning of Christmas Though The Eyes of Children</a></center></div>Christmas is a time when we can all learn from a child's gratitude and love for Jesus Christ. This fun video helps us see the meaning and the story of Christmas through the eyes of children.El Santo GringoArticle: Getting Into The Christmas Spirit: The True Meaning of Christmas (A Mormon Video)urn:uuid:18123820-1918-1038-f20d-ecbefa8eecae2019-12-20T18:23:38-07:00<b>Article by El Santo Gringo:</b> <div style="float:right;width:33%;border:1px solid; padding:5px 5px 5px 5px; margin:5px 5px 5px 5px;"><center><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXXwtFWpAI8" target="_blank">Video: Getting Into The Christmas Spirit: The True Meaning of Christmas</a></center></div>In this touching video, a young girl quietly teaches her worried family about the true meaning of Christmas. Don't fall into the trap of Christmas-time business this year! Take some time out to contemplate the real "reason for the season." <br> <br>I love the quote at the end of the video: "To catch the real meaning of the spirit of Christmas, we need only drop the last syllable, and it becomes the Spirit of Christ."El Santo Gringo