1. 'Mormon' is a nickname for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints. Members are often referred to as 'Mormons,' 'Latter day Saints,' or 'LDS.' The term 'Saint' means 'member.'
2. The Church was restored in 1830 in upstate New York with Joseph Smith as its first prophet and president. Today it is headquartered in Salt Lake City, with [President Thomas S. Monson] as the present prophet.
3. There are now over 13 million members in 176 countries and territories. About 6 million of these are in the United States, making us the fourth largest Christian denomination in America. As one of the fastest growing Christian faiths in the world, we complete a new chapel every working day. Members pay a tithe, which is 10 percent of their income, making this and other programs possible.
4. Local congregations are led by volunteer, unpaid members. Both men and women serve in assigned leadership positions.
5. Mormons are well represented in politics and government. . . . Members also serve in high and trusted positions throughout the world in business, medicine, law, education, media, sports, and entertainment.
(M. Russell Ballard, "Faith, Family, Facts, and Fruits," Ensign, Nov. 2007, 25 26)
Thursday, July 10, 2008
July Message
I finally had a chance to sit down and read the First Presidency Message. (Full Article)
WOW! I was amazed at how close to home it hit. Again, how grateful I am to be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. What a wonderful thing modern revelation is. Our prophets and apostles are so in tune with the workings of the world, they truly offer inspired guidance in our day. They are a lighthouse in the storm, because of their worthiness to receive direct revelation from our Heavenly Father and elder brother Jesus Christ.
Here are a couple of excerpts that really stood out for me.
"Whatever our challenges in life may be, our burdens may become light if we not only believe in Christ but also in His ability and His power to cleanse and console our lives. Our lives are healed as we accept His peace...
Another source of strength was a letter written by the Apostle Paul while he was in prison, addressed to Timothy, his most trusted assistant and friend. He wrote:
“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
“Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord” (2 Timothy 1:7–8).
These words from one of the ancient Apostles of our Savior rang with great importance for me in postwar times, even as they do today. Yet how many of us permit our fears to take control of our lives in this time of international tension, economic and political uncertainties, and personal challenges?"
Hello $4 gas! Times are tough! I find myself in almost a panic attack when I think about our economy, my income, and job stability. It seems as prices for gas and food continue to rise, but my salary stays the same, things get tighter. How does one make ends meet, when it was hard before all the economic problems? It is probably one of the worst feelings in the world, when you look into your bank account and then calculate all the upcoming bills, only to realize you don't have enough to cover them.
I guess this is where that scripture comes in. These are not feelings from our Heavenly Father. These are feelings from Satan himself. Satan wants us to become discouraged, and possibly do something that would temporally and spiritually damage ourselves and/or our families. But Paul testifies that God gives us the spirit of power, love and a sound mind. President Uchtdorf also tells us that believing in Christ is not enough! We must also believe in His ability and His power to cleanse and console our lives. This will require us to tune out the noise of the world, and focus on the gospel and trust in the Lord and His capabilities (which are endless and incomprehensible).
Which brings me to my next excerpt.
"There may be times when we feel overwhelmed, hurt, or on the edge of discouragement as we are trying so hard to be perfect members of the Church. Be assured, there is balm in Gilead. Let us listen to the prophets of our day as they help us to focus on the things that are central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children. The Lord knows us, He loves us, He wants us to succeed, and He encourages us by saying: “And see that all … things are done in wisdom and order; for it is not requisite that [men or women] should run faster than [they have] strength. … [But] it is expedient that [they] should be diligent” (Mosiah 4:27).
Are we diligent in living the commandments of God, without running beyond our strength? Or are we just leisurely strolling along? Are we using our time, talents, and means wisely? Are we focused on the things which matter most? Are we following the inspired counsel of the prophets?"
President Uchtdorf then explains how vital it is for us to strengthen our families. He states that Family Home Evening is a great way to do this, and that it should not be overlooked. After reading the excerpt above, my mouth seemed to drop open and I said to myself "He is talking to me!" Unfortunately I am guilty of leisurely strolling along in life, especially right now. It seems that when life gets tough and wears me out to the point I need a break, I tend to mentally and spiritually go on a temporary vacation. As most of us know, its harder to go back to work after you have taken a long vacation. That is where I am right now in my life, trying to get back to work (spiritually speaking). But how do we endure to the end, without exerting all of our strength? One answer to this problem I believe, President Uchtdorf answered. He said "In His kindness, He has given us prophets to teach us His eternal truths and guide us in living His gospel." This answer strengthens my testimony in prophets, and makes me want to study their words harder.
I have always looked up to and respected President Thomas S. Monson. But after President Gordon B. Hinckley died, I have felt a void there.
Last week was Fast & Testimony meeting in our church, and a member of the Bishopric, who was conducting, said something that I found sort of odd. He said that after President Monson was called as the new prophet, he knelt down and prayed for a confirmation if that was true. I was surprised. Somewhere over the course of my life, I guess I have decided to just go along with things. I just assumed that President Monson was called of God, to be the prophet of His church. It didn't even occur to me that I should be praying for confirmation.
You see, this is when I started to realize that I am "leisurely strolling along" in life. It is time for a drastic change, and that was my main reason for starting this blog. I feel it has forced me to start thinking more on a spiritual note, and become more diligent in living the commandments of God. Did it happen overnight? Ha, I wish! No, it has been a struggle the last few days, but I have seen a change within myself. I guess that is the first step.
WOW! I was amazed at how close to home it hit. Again, how grateful I am to be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. What a wonderful thing modern revelation is. Our prophets and apostles are so in tune with the workings of the world, they truly offer inspired guidance in our day. They are a lighthouse in the storm, because of their worthiness to receive direct revelation from our Heavenly Father and elder brother Jesus Christ.
Here are a couple of excerpts that really stood out for me.
"Whatever our challenges in life may be, our burdens may become light if we not only believe in Christ but also in His ability and His power to cleanse and console our lives. Our lives are healed as we accept His peace...
Another source of strength was a letter written by the Apostle Paul while he was in prison, addressed to Timothy, his most trusted assistant and friend. He wrote:
“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
“Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord” (2 Timothy 1:7–8).
These words from one of the ancient Apostles of our Savior rang with great importance for me in postwar times, even as they do today. Yet how many of us permit our fears to take control of our lives in this time of international tension, economic and political uncertainties, and personal challenges?"
Hello $4 gas! Times are tough! I find myself in almost a panic attack when I think about our economy, my income, and job stability. It seems as prices for gas and food continue to rise, but my salary stays the same, things get tighter. How does one make ends meet, when it was hard before all the economic problems? It is probably one of the worst feelings in the world, when you look into your bank account and then calculate all the upcoming bills, only to realize you don't have enough to cover them.
I guess this is where that scripture comes in. These are not feelings from our Heavenly Father. These are feelings from Satan himself. Satan wants us to become discouraged, and possibly do something that would temporally and spiritually damage ourselves and/or our families. But Paul testifies that God gives us the spirit of power, love and a sound mind. President Uchtdorf also tells us that believing in Christ is not enough! We must also believe in His ability and His power to cleanse and console our lives. This will require us to tune out the noise of the world, and focus on the gospel and trust in the Lord and His capabilities (which are endless and incomprehensible).
Which brings me to my next excerpt.
"There may be times when we feel overwhelmed, hurt, or on the edge of discouragement as we are trying so hard to be perfect members of the Church. Be assured, there is balm in Gilead. Let us listen to the prophets of our day as they help us to focus on the things that are central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children. The Lord knows us, He loves us, He wants us to succeed, and He encourages us by saying: “And see that all … things are done in wisdom and order; for it is not requisite that [men or women] should run faster than [they have] strength. … [But] it is expedient that [they] should be diligent” (Mosiah 4:27).
Are we diligent in living the commandments of God, without running beyond our strength? Or are we just leisurely strolling along? Are we using our time, talents, and means wisely? Are we focused on the things which matter most? Are we following the inspired counsel of the prophets?"
President Uchtdorf then explains how vital it is for us to strengthen our families. He states that Family Home Evening is a great way to do this, and that it should not be overlooked. After reading the excerpt above, my mouth seemed to drop open and I said to myself "He is talking to me!" Unfortunately I am guilty of leisurely strolling along in life, especially right now. It seems that when life gets tough and wears me out to the point I need a break, I tend to mentally and spiritually go on a temporary vacation. As most of us know, its harder to go back to work after you have taken a long vacation. That is where I am right now in my life, trying to get back to work (spiritually speaking). But how do we endure to the end, without exerting all of our strength? One answer to this problem I believe, President Uchtdorf answered. He said "In His kindness, He has given us prophets to teach us His eternal truths and guide us in living His gospel." This answer strengthens my testimony in prophets, and makes me want to study their words harder.
I have always looked up to and respected President Thomas S. Monson. But after President Gordon B. Hinckley died, I have felt a void there.
Last week was Fast & Testimony meeting in our church, and a member of the Bishopric, who was conducting, said something that I found sort of odd. He said that after President Monson was called as the new prophet, he knelt down and prayed for a confirmation if that was true. I was surprised. Somewhere over the course of my life, I guess I have decided to just go along with things. I just assumed that President Monson was called of God, to be the prophet of His church. It didn't even occur to me that I should be praying for confirmation.
You see, this is when I started to realize that I am "leisurely strolling along" in life. It is time for a drastic change, and that was my main reason for starting this blog. I feel it has forced me to start thinking more on a spiritual note, and become more diligent in living the commandments of God. Did it happen overnight? Ha, I wish! No, it has been a struggle the last few days, but I have seen a change within myself. I guess that is the first step.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Burned in the Fire
Matthew 13:40 -
"As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world."
Revelations 18:8 -
"Therefore shall her plagues come in one day, death, and mourning, and famine; and she shall be utterly burned with fire: for strong is the Lord God who judgeth her. "
With all the wildfires happening in California this year and previous years, my mind often reflects back to these scriptures about the last days. I believe there are around 1,000 wildfires burning in all areas of California? That is pretty signficant. A few people have mentioned to me that they find it ironic that these fires have started (some by lightning) not long after California Supreme Court overthrew the ban on gay marriages. Yeah, I know...it seems a bit far fetched, but is it?
I found an interesting article online at the LA TIMES website. (Full Story)
"While 63% of adults nationally believe that their holy books are the word of God, just 53% of Californians think so.
Similarly, 56% of Americans say religion is "very important," while the figure in California is 48%.
Californians also are more likely to believe that scriptures were written by man rather than God. And they pray less than those elsewhere -- 33% attend religious services at least once a week, compared to 39% for the nation."
I was a little shocked after reading through the entire article and seeing the comparisons. I believe that California is a sign for the rest of us to be prepared. Are you ready for the Second Coming? Are you prepared enough if a wildfire started in your neighborhood (surrounding area)?
It's time folks. We have been warned!
"As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world."
Revelations 18:8 -
"Therefore shall her plagues come in one day, death, and mourning, and famine; and she shall be utterly burned with fire: for strong is the Lord God who judgeth her. "
With all the wildfires happening in California this year and previous years, my mind often reflects back to these scriptures about the last days. I believe there are around 1,000 wildfires burning in all areas of California? That is pretty signficant. A few people have mentioned to me that they find it ironic that these fires have started (some by lightning) not long after California Supreme Court overthrew the ban on gay marriages. Yeah, I know...it seems a bit far fetched, but is it?
I found an interesting article online at the LA TIMES website. (Full Story)
"While 63% of adults nationally believe that their holy books are the word of God, just 53% of Californians think so.
Similarly, 56% of Americans say religion is "very important," while the figure in California is 48%.
Californians also are more likely to believe that scriptures were written by man rather than God. And they pray less than those elsewhere -- 33% attend religious services at least once a week, compared to 39% for the nation."
I was a little shocked after reading through the entire article and seeing the comparisons. I believe that California is a sign for the rest of us to be prepared. Are you ready for the Second Coming? Are you prepared enough if a wildfire started in your neighborhood (surrounding area)?
It's time folks. We have been warned!
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Regret?
I am so grateful to belong to a church that receives direct revelation from Jesus Christ, through His modern day prophets. My faith in this principle is only strengthened more after reading/watching the news and seeing where our society is headed. Just today I was reading an article on CNN.com about the Vatican regretting their decision to allow female bishops.
"The Vatican said Tuesday it regrets the decision by the Church of England's governing body to allow the ordination of women as bishops.
The move by the Anglican Church's General Synod "is a rift to the apostolic tradition" of ordaining only men as bishops, the Vatican said in a statement, and is another obstacle to reconciliation between Anglicans and Roman Catholics..." Full Story
I can not recall a time that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints issued a statement regretting a decision they have made. That is because the head of our Church is Jesus Christ himself and as a perfect, all-knowing Being, He does not make mistakes. Every thing is done for a reason, and we must have faith in those things. This has strengthened my testimony of modern-day revelation.
What a wonderful thing the Plan of Salvation is. To know what our Heavenly Father has designed for us, and what is expected of us. The Priesthood is His power and authority on the earth. What a blessing it is for us to know we are all children of our Heavnly Father. Women have a vital role in the Plan of Salvation to be earthly mother's to His spirit children. I love my wife and mother of our children, she is a very strong and supportive person. She amazes me in all that she does, and I know she is truly blessed by our Heavenly Father.
"The Vatican said Tuesday it regrets the decision by the Church of England's governing body to allow the ordination of women as bishops.
The move by the Anglican Church's General Synod "is a rift to the apostolic tradition" of ordaining only men as bishops, the Vatican said in a statement, and is another obstacle to reconciliation between Anglicans and Roman Catholics..." Full Story
I can not recall a time that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints issued a statement regretting a decision they have made. That is because the head of our Church is Jesus Christ himself and as a perfect, all-knowing Being, He does not make mistakes. Every thing is done for a reason, and we must have faith in those things. This has strengthened my testimony of modern-day revelation.
What a wonderful thing the Plan of Salvation is. To know what our Heavenly Father has designed for us, and what is expected of us. The Priesthood is His power and authority on the earth. What a blessing it is for us to know we are all children of our Heavnly Father. Women have a vital role in the Plan of Salvation to be earthly mother's to His spirit children. I love my wife and mother of our children, she is a very strong and supportive person. She amazes me in all that she does, and I know she is truly blessed by our Heavenly Father.
Share Personal Experiences to Explain Faith
The July edition of the Ensign, a monthly magazine distributed to English-speaking Church members, features an address given by Elder M. Russell Ballard, a member of the Church’s Quorum of Twelve Apostles. Elder Ballard encourages Church members to participate in the growing online discussion about the Church:
"There are conversations going on about the Church constantly. Those conversations will continue whether or not we choose to participate in them. But we cannot stand on the sidelines while others, including our critics, attempt to define what the Church teaches. While some conversations have audiences in the thousands or even millions, most are much, much smaller. But all conversations have an impact on those who participate in them. Perceptions of the Church are established one conversation at a time."
A set of guidelines and helps have been developed by the Public Affairs Department for Church members who wish to use the Internet to explain their religion to those of other faiths.
In the document, Latter-day Saints are encouraged to “share personal perspectives” to “explain the Church and what it’s like to be a member.”
In the document, Latter-day Saints are encouraged to “share personal perspectives” to “explain the Church and what it’s like to be a member.”
Source: LDS Newsroom, click HERE for the article
Guidelines for LDS Members Sharing the Gospel
When discussing the Church on the Internet, it's helpful to keep the following in mind:
• You’re speaking as an individual member of the Church, sharing personal perspectives. Don’t leave an impression that you are speaking officially for the Church. It’s your own experiences that will be insightful and interesting.
• Remember that “a soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger” (Proverbs 15:1). It almost never helps to argue or contend with others regarding your beliefs or to become defensive or belligerent. Just share your stories in a kind and gentle way, remembering that not everyone will agree with what you say—and that’s okay. Remember to respect others and their opinions.
• Be friendly and polite, even if you comment anonymously. Act like you would if you were talking to your next door neighbor. How you comment may be just as important as what you say.
• What helps the most are thoughtful and measured voices that explain the Church and what it’s like to be a member.
• Be relevant. Discuss the gospel where it’s the topic of conversation. Be cautious about trying to force a conversation about gospel topics.
• Everything you say or write could be on the Internet forever. Remember you’re always on the record.
Ways you might participate:
• Create your own blog, or comment on other blogs that are of interest to you.
• Share your perspective in the “comments” section of online news stories about the Church.
• Create videos that illustrate aspects of your membership in the Church and post them on video sharing sites like YouTube.
• Share material from Church Web sites by email and on the Internet.
How to use Newsroom.lds.org:
Newsroom.lds.org is the Church's official Website for the news media, opinion leaders and the public, including bloggers and others using new media. The Newsroom Website is a great resource to find content that you can reuse in your own blog, video, social networking page, etc.
Available content includes:
• Links to news stories about the Church
• News released by the Church
• Commentary on issues impacting the Church
• Public issues statements
• Background material
• Statistics
• Video
• Audio
• Photos
Source: LDS Newsroom click HERE for article
• You’re speaking as an individual member of the Church, sharing personal perspectives. Don’t leave an impression that you are speaking officially for the Church. It’s your own experiences that will be insightful and interesting.
• Remember that “a soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger” (Proverbs 15:1). It almost never helps to argue or contend with others regarding your beliefs or to become defensive or belligerent. Just share your stories in a kind and gentle way, remembering that not everyone will agree with what you say—and that’s okay. Remember to respect others and their opinions.
• Be friendly and polite, even if you comment anonymously. Act like you would if you were talking to your next door neighbor. How you comment may be just as important as what you say.
• What helps the most are thoughtful and measured voices that explain the Church and what it’s like to be a member.
• Be relevant. Discuss the gospel where it’s the topic of conversation. Be cautious about trying to force a conversation about gospel topics.
• Everything you say or write could be on the Internet forever. Remember you’re always on the record.
Ways you might participate:
• Create your own blog, or comment on other blogs that are of interest to you.
• Share your perspective in the “comments” section of online news stories about the Church.
• Create videos that illustrate aspects of your membership in the Church and post them on video sharing sites like YouTube.
• Share material from Church Web sites by email and on the Internet.
How to use Newsroom.lds.org:
Newsroom.lds.org is the Church's official Website for the news media, opinion leaders and the public, including bloggers and others using new media. The Newsroom Website is a great resource to find content that you can reuse in your own blog, video, social networking page, etc.
Available content includes:
• Links to news stories about the Church
• News released by the Church
• Commentary on issues impacting the Church
• Public issues statements
• Background material
• Statistics
• Video
• Audio
• Photos
Source: LDS Newsroom click HERE for article
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