Category: Memes

  • Everlasting Law

    Everlasting Law

    Revelation given to President John Taylor September 27, 1886:1

    “My son John, you have asked me concerning the New and Everlasting Covenant how far it is binding upon my people.

    Thus saith the Lord: All commandments that I give must be obeyed by those calling themselves by my name unless they are revoked by me or by my authority, and how can I revoke an everlasting covenant, for I the Lord am everlasting and my everlasting covenants cannot be abrogated nor done away with, but they stand forever.

    Have I not given my word in great plainness on this subject? Yet have not great numbers of my people been negligent in the observance of my law and the keeping of my commandments, and yet have I borne with them these many years; and this because of their weakness—because of the perilous times, and furthermore, it is more pleasing to me that men should use their free agency in regard to these matters. Nevertheless, I the Lord do not change and my word and my covenants and my law do not, and as I have heretofore said by my servant Joseph: All those who would enter into my glory must and shall obey my law. And have I not commanded men that if they were Abraham’s seed and would enter into my glory, they must do the works of Abraham. I have not revoked this law, nor will I, for it is everlasting, and those who will enter into my glory must obey the conditions thereof; even so, Amen.”

     

    References

    References
    1  1886 Revelation, Wikipedia – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1886_Revelation
  • Not Going to Stop

    Not Going to Stop

    LDS Official Declaration 1, October 6 1890, Wilford Woodruff: LDS Official Declaration 1 – https://www.lds.org/scriptures/dc-testament/od/1?lang=eng

    To Whom It May Concern:

    Press dispatches having been sent for political purposes, from Salt Lake City, which have been widely published, to the effect that the Utah Commission, in their recent report to the Secretary of the Interior, allege that plural marriages are still being solemnized and that forty or more such marriages have been contracted in Utah since last June or during the past year, also that in public discourses the leaders of the Church have taught, encouraged and urged the continuance of the practice of polygamy—

    I, therefore, as President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, do hereby, in the most solemn manner, declare that these charges are false. We are not teaching polygamy or plural marriage, nor permitting any person to enter into its practice, and I deny that either forty or any other number of plural marriages have during that period been solemnized in our Temples or in any other place in the Territory.

    One case has been reported, in which the parties allege that the marriage was performed in the Endowment House, in Salt Lake City, in the Spring of 1889, but I have not been able to learn who performed the ceremony; whatever was done in this matter was without my knowledge. In consequence of this alleged occurrence the Endowment House was, by my instructions, taken down without delay.

    Inasmuch as laws have been enacted by Congress forbidding plural marriages, which laws have been pronounced constitutional by the court of last resort, I hereby declare my intention to submit to those laws, and to use my influence with the members of the Church over which I preside to have them do likewise.

    There is nothing in my teachings to the Church or in those of my associates, during the time specified, which can be reasonably construed to inculcate or encourage polygamy; and when any Elder of the Church has used language which appeared to convey any such teaching, he has been promptly reproved. And I now publicly declare that my advice to the Latter-day Saints is to refrain from contracting any marriage forbidden by the law of the land.

    Wilford Woodruff

    President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

     

    From the Diary of John Henry Smith, May 17 1888: 1

    “Bro. Woodruff spoke a few words again, among them he said [“]We won’t quit practising Plural Marriage until Christ shall come.” F. M. Lyman spoke very nicely. President Woodruff dismissed us by prayer.”

     

    From the Diary of Heber J. Grant, May 17 1888, quoting Wilford Woodruff at the Manti Temple dedication: 2

    “We are not going to stop the practice of plural marriage until the Coming of the Son of Man.”

     

    References

    References
    1 Diaries of John Henry Smith – http://signaturebookslibrary.org/john-henry-smith-3/
    2 LDS Church Authority and New Plural Marriages, 1890 – 1904, D. Michael Quinn – https://www.dialoguejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/sbi/issues/V18N01.pdf
  • Son of Man

    Son of Man

    Joseph Smith, History of the Church, Vol. 5, Pg. 336: 1

    “The Prophet On The Second Coming Of The Christ.

    The question has been asked, can a person not belonging to the Church bring a member before the high council for trial? I answer, No. If I had not actually got into this work and been called of God, I would back out. But I cannot back out: I have no doubt of the truth. Were I going to prophesy, I would say the end [of the world] would not come in 1844, 5, or 6, or in forty years. There are those of the rising generation who shall not taste death till Christ comes.

    I was once praying earnestly upon this subject, and a voice said unto me, “My son, if thou livest until thou art eighty-five years of age, thou shalt see the face of the Son of Man.” I was left to draw my own conclusions concerning this; and I took the liberty to conclude that if I did live to that time, He would make His appearance. But I do not say whether He will make his appearance or I shall go where He is. I prophesy in the name of the Lord God, and let it be written—the Son of Man will not come in the clouds of heaven till I am eighty-five years old. Then read the 14th chapter of Revelation, 6th and 7th verses—”And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, saying with a loud voice, Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment is come.” And Hosea, 6th chapter, After two days, etc.,—2,520 years; which brings it to 1890. The coming of the Son of Man never will be—never can be till the judgments spoken of for this hour are poured out: which judgments are commenced. Paul says, “Ye are the children of the light, and not of the darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief in the night.” It is not the design of the Almighty to come upon the earth and crush it and grind it to powder, but he will reveal it to His servants the prophets.”

     

    References

    References
    1 History of the Church, Vol. 5, Pg. 336 – https://byustudies.byu.edu/content/volume-5-chapter-17
  • Illusory Truth Effect

    Illusory Truth Effect

    Excerpt from Wikipedia, topic: Illusory Truth Effect: 1

    “The illusory truth effect (also known as the truth effect or the reiteration effect) is the tendency to believe information to be correct after repeated exposure. This phenomenon was first identified in a 1977 study at Villanova University and Temple University. When truth is assessed, people rely on whether the information is in line with their understanding or if it feels familiar. The first condition is logical as people compare new information with what they already know to be true. Repetition makes statements easier to process relative to new, unrepeated, statements, leading people believe that the repeated conclusion is more truthful.”

    Excerpt from an address by Boyd K. Packer, seminar for new mission presidents on June 25, 1982: 2

    “It is not unusual to have a missionary say, ‘How can I bear testimony until I get one? How can I testify that God lives, that Jesus is the Christ, and that the gospel is true? If I do not have such a testimony, would that not be dishonest?’ Oh, if I could teach you this one principle: a testimony is to be found in the bearing of it!”

    Excerpt from an April 2008 General Conference address by Dallin H. Oaks: 3

    “Another way to seek a testimony seems astonishing when compared with the methods of obtaining other knowledge. We gain or strengthen a testimony by bearing it. Someone even suggested that some testimonies are better gained on the feet bearing them than on the knees praying for them.”

    Excerpt from a October 2014 General Conference address by Neil L. Andersen: 4

    “A testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith can come differently to each of us. It may come as you kneel in prayer, asking God to confirm that he was a true prophet. It may come as you read the Prophet’s account of the First Vision. A testimony may distill upon your soul as you read the Book of Mormon again and again. It may come as you bear your own testimony of the Prophet or as you stand in the temple and realize that through Joseph Smith the holy sealing power was restored to the earth.22 With faith and real intent, your testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith will strengthen. The constant water balloon volleys from the sidelines may occasionally get you wet, but they need never, never extinguish your burning fire of faith.

    To the youth listening today or reading these words in the days ahead, I give a specific challenge: Gain a personal witness of the Prophet Joseph Smith. Let your voice help fulfill Moroni’s prophetic words to speak good of the Prophet. Here are two ideas: First, find scriptures in the Book of Mormon that you feel and know are absolutely true. Then share them with family and friends in family home evening, seminary, and your Young Men and Young Women classes, acknowledging that Joseph was an instrument in God’s hands. Next, read the testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith in the Pearl of Great Price or in this pamphlet, now in 158 languages. You can find it online at LDS.org or with the missionaries. This is Joseph’s own testimony of what actually occurred. Read it often. Consider recording the testimony of Joseph Smith in your own voice, listening to it regularly, and sharing it with friends. Listening to the Prophet’s testimony in your own voice will help bring the witness you seek.”

    See also:

    Illusory Truth Effect

    References

  • Natural Action

    Natural Action

    Excerpt from an address by Brigham Young, made in the Great Salt Lake City Bowery, July 8, 1860 (JoD v. 8, p. 115):1

    “While brother Joseph was referring to the providences of God, I was led to reflect that there is no act, no principle, no power belonging to the Deity that is not purely philosophical. The birth of the Savior was as natural as are the births of our children; it was the result of natural action. He partook of flesh and blood—was begotten of his Father, as we were of our fathers.”

     

    References

  • Consent of Joseph

    Consent of Joseph

    Excerpt from an address by Brigham Young, delivered in the Tabernacle, Great Salt Lake City, October 9, 1859 (JOD Vol. 7, Pg. 289): 1

    “Joseph Smith holds the keys of this last dispensation, and is now engaged behind the veil in the great work of the last days. I can tell our beloved brother Christians who have slain the Prophets and butchered and otherwise caused the death of thousands of Latter-day Saints, the priests who have thanked God in their prayers and thanksgiving from the pulpit that we have been plundered, driven, and slain, and the deacons under the pulpit, and their brethren and sisters in their closets, who have thanked God, thinking that the Latter-day Saints were wasted away, something that no doubt will mortify them—something that, to say the least, is a matter of deep regret to them—namely, that no man or woman in this dispensation will ever enter into the celestial kingdom of God without the consent of Joseph Smith. From the day that the Priesthood was taken from the earth to the winding-up scene of all things, every man and woman must have the certificate of Joseph Smith, junior, as a passport to their entrance into the mansion where God and Christ are—I with you and you with me. I cannot go there without his consent. He holds the keys of that kingdom for the last dispensation—the keys to rule in the spirit world; and he rules there triumphantly, for he gained full power and a glorious victory over the power of Satan while he was yet in the flesh, and was a martyr to his religion and to the name of Christ, which gives him a most perfect victory in the spirit world. He reigns there as supreme a being in his sphere, capacity, and calling, as God does in heaven. Many will exclaim—“Oh, that is very disagreeable! It is preposterous! We cannot bear the thought!” But it is true.”

     

    References

    References
    1 Journal of Discourses Vol. 7, Pg. 289 – http://contentdm.lib.byu.edu/cdm/ref/collection/JournalOfDiscourses3/id/9603
  • Leave Immediately

    Leave Immediately

    Excerpt from a September 23rd, 1965 address by BYU president Ernest Wilkinson, ‘Make Honor Your Standard’: 1

    “Nor do we do not intend to admit to our campus any homosexuals. If any of you have this tendency and have not completely abandoned it, may I suggest that you leave the university immediately after this assembly; … We do not want others on this campus to be contaminated by your presence.”

     

    References

    References
    1 ‘Make Honor Your Standard’, Ernest Wilkinson BYU (1965) – https://www.scribd.com/document/329384314/Make-Honor-Your-Standard-Ernest-Wilkinson-BYU-1965
  • One on One

    One on One

    Statement by Joelle Casteix, SNAP Western Regional Leader (SNAP’s efforts were featured in the Oscar-winning film “Spotlight”): 1

    “No other reputable institutional church, private or public school, sports group, youth serving organization, or community center allows one-on-one meetings between adults and children. Why? It’s an invitation for sexual abuse. Why is the LDS church endorsing this horrible practice?”

     

    References

  • Brandy Sling

    Brandy Sling

    From Wilford Woodruff’s journal entry, June 9 1897, Vol. 7, Pg. 305: 1

    “June 9th I was quite restless all night. Felt chilly. Took a little Brandy sling and a cup of coffee, and slept some before daylight and until 9 am”

     

    From Wilford Woodruff’s journal entry, April 1897, Vol. 7, Pg. 290:

    “Arrived at 11.10. I drank some Hot Lemonade with a little brandy in it. Went to bed and soon to sleep.”

    “April 10th Had some distress in my stomach. Did not sleep good. Drank a cup of coffee at 7.30 and Slept for 3 hours.”

    “April 11th I slept some 3 hours after midnight. Ate a few stewed oysters & drank a cup of coffee for breakfast.”

    “April 13th I slept from 4 pm yesterday till 6 am some 7 1/2 hours. Had a cup of coffee & some bread & milk.”

     

    Excerpt from an 1880 General Conference address by Wilford Woodruff: 2

    “Now I will say a few words more, and then I will close. I have often been asked the question, what condition should a man be in in order to receive a recommend to go through the Temple of the Lord? I will tell my feelings in regard to this matter, and if they are not correct, President Taylor and others of the Twelve can correct me. I believe it is too late in the day to send men to the Temple who make a daily use of whiskey, or other strong drinks, tobacco, &c, and there perform the ordinances for their dead; it is not acceptable in the sight of the Lord God of Israel. If we are going to be saved, let us build up the Kingdom of God, let us be reasonable and live according to what we preach; let us live our religion. I do not believe that a man is fit to go into the temples of the Lord to administer these ordinances for the living and the dead, who will make a practice of drinking strong drinks. What do you drink? Whiskey? No; you drink strychnine; you drink tobacco and a great deal of abysinthe, “blue ruin” and death; you drink anything under heaven but pure liquor. It can scarcely be said to exist in the land. The “stuff that is sold deprives you of your agency, and gives the devil power over you; it does so with anybody who makes a practice of using this liquor and other intoxicants. No one who uses them is fit to administer in the ordinances of the House of the Lord.
    My own faith is that no one is fit to administer the sacrament, baptize the children of men, or administer in the House of God, unless he in a measure keeps the Word of Wisdom. The Spirit of God will not dwell in unholy temples.”

     

    References

  • Simply Fiction

    Simply Fiction

    Excerpt from a 2000 BYU paper by Joseph Fielding McConkie (Professor of Ancient Scripture, BYU) and Craig J. Ostler (Assistant Professor of Church History and Doctrine, BYU) titled ‘The Process of Translating the Book of Mormon’: 1

    “Spanning a period of twenty years (1869-1888), some seventy recorded testimonies about the coming forth of the Book of Mormon claim David Whitmer as their source. Though there are a number of inconsistencies in these accounts, David Whitmer was repeatedly reported to have said that after the loss of the 116 pages, the Lord took both the plates and the Urim and Thummim from the Prophet, never to be returned. In their stead, David Whitmer maintained, the Prophet used an oval-shaped, chocolate-colored seer stone slightly larger than an egg. Thus, everything we have in the Book of Mormon, according to Mr. Whitmer, was translated by placing the chocolate-colored stone in a hat into which Joseph would bury his head so as to close out the light. While doing so he could see “an oblong piece of parchment, on which the hieroglyphics would appear,” and below the ancient writing, the translation would be given in English. Joseph would then read this to Oliver Cowdery, who in turn would write it. If he did so correctly, the characters and the interpretation would disappear and be replaced by other characters with their interpretation

    Such an explanation is, in our judgment, simply fiction created for the purpose of demeaning Joseph Smith and to undermine the validity of the revelations he received after translating the Book of Mormon.”

     

    Excerpt from Joseph the Seer, Ensign (October 2015): 2

    “The stone Joseph Smith used in the Book of Mormon translation effort was often referred to as a chocolate-colored stone with an oval shape. This stone passed from Joseph Smith to Oliver Cowdery and then to the Church through Brigham Young and others.”

     

    References

    References
    1 The Process of Translating the Book of Mormon, BYU (2000) – http://emp.byui.edu/satterfieldb/Rel121/Process%20of%20Translating%20the%20BofM.pdf
    2 Joseph the Seer, Ensign (October 2015) – https://www.lds.org/ensign/2015/10/joseph-the-seer?lang=eng
  • Transaction

    Transaction

    William McLellin, Letter to Joseph Smith III, July 1872, Community of Christ Archives: 1

    “Now Joseph I will relate to you some history, and refer you to your own dear Mother for the truth. You will probably remember that I visited your Mother and family in 1847, and held a lengthy conversation with her, retired in the Mansion House in Nauvoo. I did not ask her to tell, but I told her some stories I had heard. And she told me whether I was properly informed. Dr. F. G. Williams practiced with me in Clay Co. Mo. during the latter part of 1838. And he told me that at your birth your father committed an act with a Miss Hill [sic]—a hired girl. Emma saw him, and spoke to him. He desisted, but Mrs. Smith refused to be satisfied. He called in Dr. Williams, O. Cowdery, and S. Rigdon to reconcile Emma. But she told them just as the circumstances took place. He found he was caught. He confessed humbly, and begged forgiveness. Emma and all forgave him. She told me this story was true!! Again I told her I heard that one night she missed Joseph and Fanny Alger. She went to the barn and saw him and Fanny in the barn together alone. She looked through a crack and saw the transaction!!! She told me this story too was verily true.”

     

    Additional Study

    Fanny Alger (Wikipedia) – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fanny_Alger

    References

    References
    1 William E. McLellin in a July, 1872 letter to the Smith’s eldest son, Joseph III, Community of Christ Archives – http://josephsmithspolygamy.org/william-mclellin-letter-to-joseph-smith-iii-july-1872/
  • Alone

    Alone

    Excerpt from a 1981 booklet addressing ‘Homosexuality’, published as a guide to be used for local leaders when working with homosexual members: 1

    Pg. 4

    “Members with homosexual problems often feel trapped and alone and believe that change is impossible … Despair prompts feelings of hopelessness, and hopelessness, combined with the burden of unresolved sin and guilt, may lead an individual to contemplate or attempt suicide. Repentance and the Lord’s spirit can lift him from the thoughts of suicide to peace of mind.”

    Pg. 5

    “Ask him to read President Kimball’s book, The Miracle of Forgiveness. (Chapter 6 deals specifically with homosexuality, but the entire book should be read.)”

     

    Excerpt from the Miracle of Forgiveness by Spencer W. Kimball: 2

    David O. McKay has pleaded:
    … Your virtue is worth more than your life. Please, young folk, preserve your virtue even if you lose
    your lives. Do not tamper with sin … do not permit yourselves to be led into temptation. Conduct
    yourselves seemly and with due regard, particularly you young boys, to the sanctity of womanhood. Do
    not pollute it.

     

    References

    References
    1 Homosexuality, Second Edition (LDS Manual) – https://archive.org/details/Homosexuality1981
    2 The Miracle of Forgiveness – https://ia800308.us.archive.org/22/items/MiracleOfForgiveness/MoF.pdf
  • Learned Homosexuality

    Learned Homosexuality

    Excerpts from a 1981 LDS Booklet Addressing ‘Homosexuality’, published as a guide to be used for local leaders when working with homosexual members: 1

    Pg. 1

    Homosexuality is of grave concern to the Church because-
    1. It violates the Lord’s eternal plan for man’s progress by perverting the proper use of procreative powers and loving relationships.
    2. It deprives God’s children of the happiness and fulfillment possible only in family life.
    3. It debases and demeans those involved.
    4. It is as sinful as heterosexual adultery and fornication.
    5. It may involve violent or criminal behavior.

    Homosexuality is erotic physical contact or attractions between members of the same sex, including erotic same sex fantasy. It may include thoughts or emotional attractions without outward sexual behavior, or it may include complete emotional, sexual, and genital involvement with a member of the same sex. Homosexual activities may range from childhood experimentation to adult obsession. Some participants are unwilling victims of sexual assault or incest and bear emotional scars. Others who have willfully rejected the gospel and morality are trapped by habits of sexual indulgence. Sexual misbehavior, however, is almost always a symptom of serious social or emotional problems.

    A. The Position of the Church on Homosexuality
    The First Presidency has issued the following statement to priesthood leaders:
    As we have previously stated, homosexuality is a sin in the same degree as adultery and fornication. Powerful forces are seeking to establish this sinful practice as an accept- able way of life. Homosexuality in men and women runs counter to divine objectives and the intended destiny of mankind. The Lord has declared, “For behold, this is my work and my glory to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39). Some claim homosexuality is incurable, therefore they seek to be considered a legitimate minority group protected by law. We should not be deceived by these false rationalizations. We must never lose our perspective amidst the world’s clamor to justify and normalize immorality. According to the Lord’s revealed word, the only acceptable sexual relationship occurs within the family between a husband and a wife.

    B. The Causes of Homosexual Behavior
    Professionals do not agree on the causes of homosexual behavior. However, most professional research supports the view that homosexual behavior is learned, and is influenced by unhealthy emotional development in early childhood. This explanation is most consistent with what the Lord has revealed concerning the eternal nature of man as the offspring of divine parents.

    Pg. 2

    The Church’s unequivocal position is that any rationalization of homosexuality is wrong.

    Homosexual behavior is learned. Homosexual behavior is learned and can be overcome. To believe that immoral behavior is inborn or hereditary is to deny that men have agency to choose between sin and righteousness. The Lord has given man the freedom to make moral choices, and this agency is the cornerstone of his plan for exaltation. He has revealed that the ultimate goal for man is eternal life. It is inconceivable that as some involved in homosexual behavior claim he would permit some of his children to be born with desires and inclinations which would require behavior contrary to the eternal plan.

    A key factor in the development of both male and female homosexuality seems to be the lack of a warm, supportive, affectionate relationship between the individual and his father. Many times the father is either physically or emotionally uninvolved in his child’s life or is punishing and authoritarian.

    Early masturbation experiences introduce the individual to sexual thoughts which may become habit forming and reinforcing to homosexual interests.

    Members with homosexual problems often feel trapped and alone and believe that change is impossible … Despair prompts feelings of hopelessness, and hopelessness, combined with the burden of unresolved sin and guilt, may lead an individual to contemplate or attempt suicide. Repentance and the Lord’s spirit can lift him from the thoughts of suicide to peace of mind.

    Pg. 3

    Probably the most crucial single factor in the rehabilitation of a member with homosexual problems is his attitude. When he is willing to solve the problem in the Lord’s way, with a priesthood leader’s counsel and direction, he can change. A rebellious attitude is almost always a clear indication of the need to be sternly disciplined.

    Pg. 4

    It is essential that you offer a cordial handshake and be friendly and positive. Your acceptance of the person does not mean you agree with his incorrect behavior.

    Modern day prophets have clearly promised that homosexuality can be changed. You should convey this positive attitude because it encourages change.

    Discourage homosexual associations.
    Successful change requires that a person remove himself from temptation. Many times individuals in the process of overcoming homosexuality cling to past homosexual friends in a sympathetic effort to help them. The individuals will gain nothing and lose much by such continued association.

    Those who feel inadequate, have few
    if any friends, have dated little or not at all, and are generally lacking in social skills (communication, manners, etc.) will find it difficult to overcome homosexual behavior until their social skills and behaviors are developed more fully.

    Pg. 5

    The individual can more easily eliminate all overt homosexual behavior, friends, and places by replacing them with more appropriate friends and activities. Without violating the person’s confidence, you could assign a mature member of the ward or stake to tutor him in social skills improvement.

    Masturbation is a sin, but is not homosexuality when practiced alone. When individuals of the same sex masturbate each other, it is a homosexual act. Self-masturbation is almost universal among those who engage in homosexual behavior, and is a very difficult habit for most to overcome. The fantasies that attend this behavior are often the most powerful aspects of the act.

    Pg. 6

    It is particularly important that parents promote loving relationships in the home and help their children develop the internal strength necessary to guard against homosexual and other temptations. These qualities in the home will help reduce the chances that homosexual behavior will develop, as well as help prevent other social and emotional problems.

    Pg. 7

    Service in the Church is both a responsibility and a privilege. The member who has repented of homosexual problems can receive strength from seNing in ” safe ” callings . Assignments should never place him in a position of temptation. A man previously involved with young boys, or a woman with young girls, should not be used in youth programs.

    Pg. 8

    Bishops and stake presidents are expected to clearly inquire into sexual behavior when they are considering youth for missions.

    Interviews for attendance at Church schools may also include questions about homosexual behavior. Applicants are not to be approved if they are involved in these practices. All with homosexual problems, including those who apply to Church schools, should be dealt with as would those who have committed fornication or adultery.

    The bishop or branch president may need to make special confidential evaluations and inquiries of members who have been identified as homosexual contacts by other members or by priesthood referral. He should interview these individuals carefully, and if they are involved, invite them to confess and ofter them a program of repentance and change. Church judicial system procedures should be followed as t he situation warrants .

    Since homosexual behavior is possible only with others , the individual should disclose his sexual partners as an essential part of repentance. The purpose is to help save others. The leader to whom the names are disclosed should refer the names to the individuals’ priesthood leaders tor follow-up action. Priesthood leaders must be careful not to reveal their sources as they make contact with those whose names they are given.

    Pg. 9

    Many written testimonies have been gathered from individuals who have overcome homosexual problems and found peace and success in dating, marriage, and Church activity. In these testimonies, members speak without exception of their deep sense of having sinned. One individual said, “Finally I became aware very strongly (and I’m sure it was the Holy Ghost bearing witness to me) that what was being done in my life was abhorred in the sight of the Lord.”

     

    References

    References
    1 Homosexuality, Second Edition (LDS Manual) – https://archive.org/details/Homosexuality1981
  • Causes

    Causes

    Excerpt from a 2016 Face to Face with Jeffrey R. Holland: 1

    “We have written, we have publicized, we have talked, we have put articles in Church magazines, about attraction. We do not make a judgment about someone’s attraction. We don’t know why that attraction came that way. And the person doesn’t. The one struggling with it doesn’t. We don’t make any attempt to say why that happened or how it happened.”

     

    Excerpt from a 1981 Booklet Addressing ‘Homosexuality’, published as a guide to be used for local leaders when working with homosexual members: 2

    The Causes of Homosexual Behavior
    Professionals do not agree on the causes of homosexual behavior. How- ever, most professional research supports the view that homosexual behavior is learned, and is influenced by unhealthy emotional development in early childhood. This explanation is most consistent with what the Lord has revealed concerning the eternal nature of man as the offspring of divine parents.

    Although there are probably many factors affecting the development of homosexuality, the following elements appear quite consistently:

    1. Disturbed Family Background
    a) A key factor in the development of both male and female homosexuality seems to be the lack of a warm, supportive, affectionate relationship between the individual and his father. Many times the father is either physically or emotionally uninvolved in his child’s life or is punishing and authoritarian.
    b) The mother usually attempts to fill the physical and emotional void left by the father. Some mothers are overprotective and dominant.
    c) Because of inadequate parental examples in the home, the child does not learn proper masculine and feminine behavior.
    d) The relationship between mother and father is often strained, hostile, and competitive.

    2. Poor Relationship with Peers
    a) The individual sees himself as being different from peers; therefore, he tends to become isolated and lonely.
    b) His peers often see him as different, and they label and reject him.
    c) The individual often uses homosexual behavior as a way to gain acceptance. Because he needs warmth and love, he is attracted by the apparent acceptance of others who engage in homosexual activities. d) Because he is isolated from others, he does not develop fundamental social skills and attitudes.

    3. Unhealthy Sexual Attitudes
    a) The individual’s parents may view sexual expression as something which is improper or even “dirty.” They may pass this attitude on to their children.
    b) The mother may place too much importance on a strong emotional attachment between herself and her son as a result of her efforts to fill the emotional void left by the father.
    c) The mother may discourage her son’s interest in girls.
    d) The father’s passive or negative relationship with the mother can create a negative attitude in the child about the proper relationships between a husband and wife.
    e) Some young people may misinterpret Church emphasis on premarital chastity, completely avoiding heterosexual interests or relationships.

    4. Early homosexual experience
    a) Early homosexual experiences increase the possibility of future homosexual encounters.
    b) Early masturbation experiences introduce the individual to sexual thoughts which may become habit- forming and reinforcing to homosexual interests.
    c) The first homosexual experience often occurs in early childhood for males, and in late teens or in the twenties for females.
    d) The individual is usually introduced to homosexual behavior by someone his own age or a few years older, almost always by someone he knows.

     

    References

    References
    1 Face to Face for Young Single Adults with Elder Jeffrey R. Holland (2016) – https://www.lds.org/youth/activities/face-to-face-events/holland?lang=eng
    2 Homosexuality, Second Edition (LDS Manual – 1981) – https://archive.org/details/Homosexuality1981
  • Dangers

    Dangers

    Excerpt from an address by Apostle Boyd K. Packer, ‘All-Church Coordinating Council’, May 18, 1993: 1

    “The dangers I speak of come from the gay-lesbian movement, the feminist movement (both of which are relatively new), and the ever-present challenge from the so-called scholars or intellectuals. Our local leaders must deal with all three of them with ever-increasing frequency. In each case, the members who are hurting have the conviction that the Church somehow is doing something wrong 12 members or that the Church is not doing enough for them.

    To illustrate, I will quote briefly from letters on each of those subjects. They are chosen from among many letters which have arrived in the last few weeks. These have arrived in just the last few days.

    The Gay/Lesbian Challenge

    The first is from a young man, possibly a gay rights activist:
    “May 3rd marks my 18th year in the Church. As a gay Mormon, I have witnessed and experienced first-hand during those eighteen years what it’s like to be homosexual in a Church which is sometimes less than accepting of its gay members. My experiences have run the range from incredible, Spirit-filled and loving encounters with members, Bishops and Stake Presidents to a laughable run-in with a departing Mission President. May I share with you some of the more permanent and meaningful memories?”

    After a page or two of those, he said:
    “So in a spirit of friendship I offer that which I have to give–the life experience of a gay Mormon. At your convenience I would be happy to meet with you to discuss the issues facing gay Latter-day Saints and the Church. The purpose for meeting is not to debate, or to presumptively call you to repentance, or to be called to repentance myself for being gay. The point is to meet together and share what we have for the good of The Kingdom and the furthering of the Will of the Lord here on Earth.”

    The Feminist Movement

    The next quotation is from a woman who is hurting, and perhaps wonders if anyone but the feminists care about her problems:

    “I’m upset that I was always advised to go back and try harder only to get abused more.I need some comfort, I need solace, need hope, need to know Heavenly Father sees all I have endured. What hope do I have for a chance to live with Heavenly Father? If temple marriage is the key to the celestial [kingdom], where am I? Outside gnashing my teeth for eternity? Help me.”

    The Scholars

    The last is from a self-described intellectual:
    “My concern is that the Brethren are contending with the church’s own scholars…. In the Catholic Church, the great scholar’s efforts were used by the Church to refine and strengthen the doctrine (St. Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, for example). In our Church, the scholars are put down, even banished [and he names three of them, and they would be names all of whom you would know].

    Once again I extend an offer to you to be a peacemaker between the Brethren and the scholars, if you wish me to attempt it, since I know so many in both groups. More than that, I understand the mind-sets of both groups. These letters and hundreds more are from members who are hurting or leaders who are worried.”

     

    References

    References
    1 ‘All-Church Coordinating Council’, Boyd K. Packer (May 18, 1993) – http://emp.byui.edu/HUFFR/All%20Church%20Coordinating%20Council–Boyd%20K.%20Packer.htm
  • Not a Few Things

    Not a Few Things

    Excerpt from Studies of the Book of Mormon by B. H. Roberts, pg. 240: 1

    “Did Ethan Smith’s View of the Hebrews furnish structural material for Joseph Smith’s Book of Mormon? It has been pointed out in these pages that there are many things in the former book that might well have suggested many major things in the other. Not a few things merely, one or two, or half dozen, but many; and it is this fact of many things of similarity and the cumulative force of them that makes them so serious a menace to Joseph Smith’s story of the Book of Mormon’s origin.”

     

    From the Wikipedia article, ‘Studies of the Book of Mormon’: 2

    “Studies of the Book of Mormon is a collection of essays written at the beginning of the 20th century (though not published until 1985) by B. H. Roberts (1857–1933), a general authority of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), which examine the validity of the Book of Mormon as a translation of an ancient American source.

    In the early 1920s, Roberts was asked by the First Presidency of the LDS Church to develop an apologetic to explain difficulties in the Book of Mormon, such as the lack of Hebrew or Egyptian vestiges in the languages of the Native American peoples and such historical anachronisms in the Book of Mormon as mentions of horses, oxen, wheat, and steel swords in ancient America

    Roberts also compared the Book of Mormon with Ethan Smith’s View of the Hebrews (1823), published five years before the Book of Mormon. Smith, a Vermont clergyman, drew on, what were at the time, commonplace ideas about the relationship of the Hebrews and the American Indians. Not only did Smith’s work go through many early editions, but Oliver Cowdery, Joseph Smith’s scribe and one of the Three Witnesses to the golden plates, grew up in the Vermont town where Ethan Smith pastored the church and where Cowdery’s mother and half-sisters were members. According to religion writer Richard Ostling, “it is probably safe to assume that Joseph Smith was familiar” with Ethan Smith’s book.”

     

    Additional Study

    View of the Hebrews, Ethan Smith (1823) – https://archive.org/details/viewhebrewsexhi00smitgoog
    B. H. Roberts’s Studies of the Book of Mormon, Brigham D. Madsen (Dialogue) – https://www.dialoguejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/sbi/articles/Dialogue_V26N03_87.pdf

    References

    References
    1 Studies of the Book of Mormon, B. H. Roberts – https://www.amazon.com/Studies-Book-Mormon-B-Roberts/dp/1560850272
    2 Studies of the Book of Mormon, Wikipedia – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Studies_of_the_Book_of_Mormon
  • Prison

    Prison

    Excerpt from an address given by George Q. Cannon, November 1, 1891, reported by Author Winter. Published in the Deseret Weekly News, November 21, 1891: 1

    “I myself have testified before presidents of the United States before cabinet officers before judges of the Supreme Court before members of the United States Senate and House of Representatives and before committees of Congress, that I knew that doctrine was from God. I told them I felt that if I had not obeyed it I would have been damned because the Lord gave to me a direct command to obey that principle. He was kind enough to reveal this doctrine to me before I ever heard that brother Joseph had received a revelation of that kind he manifested to me that that principle would be revealed to this Church and be practiced by the Church. I have testified to this and have endeavored with my brethren who also have labored in this direction, to convince the nation that we were not overstepping the bounds of the constitution by believing and obeying a doctrine that had been revealed to us.

    Over a thousand have gone to prison to show our sincerity. A prominent official of this Territory said to a gentleman the other day: “They say to me that these people are not sincere.” “Why,” says he, “I know that they are sincere. I went myself to the penitentiary and I labored with all the power I had to convince Lorenzo Snow that he should express his willingness to obey the law; but notwithstanding all my persuasions, and notwithstanding he had a year and a half sentence upon him, I could not move him. I believe he would have gone out and been shot rather than to have said he would get out of prison on such terms. And here is Lorenzo snow going on the stand gland now before the Master in Chancery and testifying as he does; and I know that man is sincere in giving that testimony, for if he had said one-tenth to me what he said to the Master in Chancery, he could have been a free man.”

    We have done everything that we could to persuade the nation that they were doing us injustice in prosecuting us for this, and that the law was an unconstitutional one. Now some say, “Why, look at these Mormon people, how quickly they will do the thing that the President of the Church tells them to do;” and they bring that up as an argument against us, as though we would continue to defy the law until the President said, stop.

    The reason for this a very simple one. We have been acting in this in the fear of God. We believed that it was right to carry this principle out; and if we had been sentenced to be killed, I suppose some would have felt that it was right for us to submit to that rather than yield the principle. God gave the command and it required the command of God to cause us to change our attitude. President Woodruff holds the same authority that the man did through whom the revelation came to the Church. it required that same authority to say to us “it is enough. God has accepted your sacrifice. He has looked down upon you and seen what you have passed through, and how determined you have been to keep his commandments, and now he says it is enough.” It is the same authority that gave us the principle. it is not the word of man.”

     

    Additional Study

    Edmunds Tucker Act, Wikipedia – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edmunds–Tucker_Act
    Plural Marriage and Families in Early Utah, LDS.org – https://www.lds.org/topics/plural-marriage-and-families-in-early-utah?lang=eng

    References

    References
    1 Deseret Weekly News, November 21, 1891, pg. 3 – http://contentdm.lib.byu.edu/cdm/compoundobject/collection/desnews9/id/26309/rec/1
  • Burn the Letter

    Burn the Letter

    On August 18th, several weeks after his marriage to Sarah Ann Whitney, Joseph Smith wrote a letter to his new bride and her parents. At the time he was hiding from the law at a home on the outskirts of Nauvoo: 1

    “Dear, and Beloved, Brother

    and Sister, Whitney, and &c.–

    I take this oppertunity to communi[c]ate, some of my feelings, privetely at this time, which I want you three Eternaly to keep in your own bosams; for my feelings are so strong for you since what has pased lately between us, that the time of my abscence from you seems so long, and dreary, that it seems, as if I could not live long in this way: and if you three would come and see me in this my lonely retreat, it would afford me great relief, of mind, if those with whom I am alied, do love me, now is the time to afford me succour, in the days of exile, for you know I foretold you of these things. I am now at Carlos Graingers, Just back of Brother Hyrams farm, it is only one mile from town, the nights are very pleasant indeed, all three of you can come and See me in the fore part of the night, let Brother Whitney come a little a head, and nock at the south East corner of the house at the window; it is next to the cornfield, I have a room intirely by myself, the whole matter can be attended to with most perfect safty, I know it is the will of God that you should comfort me now in this time of afiliction, or not at [al]l[;] now is the time or never, but I hav[e] no kneed of saying any such thing, to you, for I know the goodness of your hearts, and that you will do the will of the Lord, when it is made known to you; the only thing to be careful of; is to find out when Emma [Smith] comes then you cannot be safe, but when she is not here, there is the most perfect safty: only be careful to escape observation, as much as possible, I know it is a heroick undertakeing; but so much the greater frendship, and the more Joy, when I see you I will tell you all my plans, I cannot write them on paper, burn this letter as soon as you read it; keep all locked up in your breasts, my life depends upon it. one thing I want to see you for it is to git the fulness of my blessings sealed upon our heads, &c. you will pardon me for my earnestness on this subject when you consider how lonesome I must be, your good feelings know how to make every allowance for me, I close my letter, I think Emma [Smith, his first wife] wont come tonight[,] if she dont dont fail to come to night. I subscribe myself your most obedient, and affectionate, companion, and friend.”

     

    Additional Study

    Episode 16: Sarah Ann Whitney, Year of Polygamy (podcast) – http://www.yearofpolygamy.com/year-of-polygamy/year-of-polygamy-sarah-ann-whitney-episode-16/

    References

    References
    1 Letter to the Whitneys, 18 August 1842, Joseph Smith Papers – http://www.josephsmithpapers.org/paper-summary/letter-to-the-whitneys-18-august-1842/1
  • Nothing

    Nothing

    Michael D. Coe (born 1929) is a U.S. archaeologist, anthropologist, epigrapher and author. Primarily known for his research in the field of pre-Columbian Mesoamerican studies (and in particular, for his work on the Maya civilization, where he is regarded as one of the foremost Mayanist scholars of the latter 20th century), Coe has also made extensive investigations across a variety of other archaeological sites in North and South America. He has also specialized in comparative studies of ancient tropical forest civilizations, such as those of Central America and Southeast Asia. He currently (as of 2005) holds the chair of Charles J. MacCurdy Professor of Anthropology, Emeritus, Yale University, and is Curator Emeritus of the Anthropology collection in the Peabody Museum of Natural History, where he had been Curator from 1968 to 1994. – Wikipedia 1

     

    Excerpt from a Dialog article by Michael Coe ‘Mormons and Archaeology: An Outside View’ (1973): 2

    “The bare facts of the matter are that nothing, absolutely nothing, has ever shown up in any New World excavation which would suggest to a dispassionate observer that the Book of Mormon, as claimed by Joseph Smith, is a historical document relating to the history of early migrants to our hemisphere.”

     

    In a PBS television documentary broadcast in 2007, Michael Coe reiterated his view when he said: 3

    “In the case of the Book of Mormon, you’ve got a much bigger problem. You really do. We have another part of the world where the archaeology is really very well-known now; we know a lot about people like the Maya and their predecessors. So to try to find unlikely evidence in an unlikely spot, you’ve got a problem. And of course none of the finds that biblical archaeologists are rightly proud about, no finds on that level have ever come up for Mormon archaeologists, which makes it a big problem.”

     

    Also in 2011 the Mormon Stories podcast interviewed Michael Coe reaffirming his earlier statements:268-270: Dr. Michael Coe – An Outsider’s View of Book of Mormon Archaeology – http://www.mormonstories.org/michael-coe-an-outsiders-view-of-book-of-mormon-archaeology/

     

    References

    References
    1 Michael D. Coe, Wikipedia – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_D._Coe
    2 Mormons and Archaeology: An Outside View, Dialogue 8 (Summer 1973) – http://www.mormonthink.com/backup/coe.pdf
    3 Transcript of the 2007 PBS interview with Michael Coe – http://www.pbs.org/mormons/interviews/coe.html
  • Unconditional Love

    Unconditional Love

    Excerpt from a 1993 Christmas Devotional address by Gordon B. Hinckley: 1

    “And so at this Christmas season we reach out to all in a spirit of love and reconciliation, even to those who speak evil against us. We sing beautiful carols that tell of the night of His birth, that silent and holy night. In moments of quiet, we reflect upon His matchless life and His unconditional love for each of us. As unworthy recipients of His mercy, we thank Him for His redeeming sacrifice.”

     

    Excerpt from a 2003 Ensign article by Apostle Russell M. Nelson: 2

    “While divine love can be called perfect, infinite, enduring, and universal, it cannot correctly be characterized as unconditional. The word does not appear in the scriptures. On the other hand, many verses affirm that the higher levels of love the Father and the Son feel for each of us—and certain divine blessings stemming from that love—are conditional.”

     

    References

    References
    1 December 11, 1993, Christmas Devotional – http://www.ldschurchnewsarchive.com/articles/23911/Devotional-focuses-on-the-Savior.html
    2 February 2003 Ensign, ‘Divine Love’ – https://www.lds.org/ensign/2003/02/divine-love?lang=eng
  • Participate

    Participate

    Excerpt from Handbook 1, Stake Presidents and Bishops, 6.10.1: 1

    “If a member of a bishopric, stake presidency, or high council or a clerk has a legal duty because of his occupation (such as a law enforcement officer) to report to government authorities facts that are likely to be disclosed in a disciplinary council, he should not participate.”

     

     

    References

  • Exempt

    Exempt

    Excerpt from the LDS 1940 General Handbook of Instruction: 1

    Who Should Pay Tithing
    All members of the Church who have any income or increase from property, or who receive wages, salaries or gifts, should pay one-tenth of their “increase” annually. (See Doc. and Cov. 119:4.) Children eight years of age or over who have been baptized are amenable to the law of tithing and should be encouraged to tithe their earnings. They should be given an opportunity to pay some tithing each year. no matter how small the amount.

    Persons Exempt From Payment of Tithing
    Aged persons without incomes; women who have no income separate from that of their husbands; children who have no individual source of revenue; and persons dependent entirely upon federal or other relief are exempt from the payment of tithes. Those receiving federal or other relief may be considered exempt because the relief rendered is supposedly only sufficient to sup-ply their absolute needs. All Latter-day Saints should be encouraged to cultivate the spirit and practice of tithe paying when conditions are such that they are able to earn.

     

    Excerpt from the LDS 1968 General Handbook of Instruction: 2

    Who Should Pay Tithing
    Church members should pay one-tenth of their interest (income) annually into the tithing funds of the Church.

    Those without income (including wives who have no separate income from their husbands) , and those entirely dependent on relief, are exempt from the payment of tithing.

    Missionaries on full-time missions are not required to pay tithing on money received from their families or others for their support. Additional personal income should be tithed.

     

    Excerpt from the LDS 2010 General Handbook of Instruction: 3

    Who Should Pay Tithing
    All members who have income should pay tithing, with the following exceptions:

    1. Members who are entirely dependent on Church Welfare assistance.
    2. Full-time missionaries. (However, missionaries should pay tithing on personal income beyond the amount they receive for their support.)

     

    References

  • Roughing It

    Roughing It

    Excerpts from Mark Twain’s 1872 ‘Roughing It’: 1

    “All men have heard of the Mormon Bible, but few except the “elect” have seen it, or, at least, taken the trouble to read it. I brought away a copy from Salt Lake. The book is a curiosity to me, it is such a pretentious affair, and yet so “slow,” so sleepy; such an insipid mess of inspiration. It is chloroform in print. If Joseph Smith composed this book, the act was a miracle—keeping awake while he did it was, at any rate. If he, according to tradition, merely translated it from certain ancient and mysteriously-engraved plates of copper, which he declares he found under a stone, in an out-of-the-way locality, the work of translating was equally a miracle, for the same reason.”

    “The book seems to be merely a prosy detail of imaginary history, with the Old Testament for a model; followed by a tedious plagiarism of the New Testament. The author labored to give his words and phrases the quaint, old-fashioned sound and structure of our King James’s translation of the Scriptures; and the result is a mongrel—half modern glibness, and half ancient simplicity and gravity. The latter is awkward and constrained; the former natural, but grotesque by the contrast. Whenever he found his speech growing too modern—which was about every sentence or two—he ladled in a few such Scriptural phrases as “exceeding sore,” “and it came to pass,” etc., and made things satisfactory again. “And it came to pass” was his pet. If he had left that out, his Bible would have been only a pamphlet.”

    “And when I am far on the road to conviction, and eight men, be they grammatical or otherwise, come forward and tell me that they have seen the plates too; and not only seen those plates but “hefted” them, I am convinced. I could not feel more satisfied and at rest if the entire Whitmer family had testified.”

     

    References

    References
    1 Mark Twain, ‘Roughing it’, 1872 – https://archive.org/details/roughingitbymark01twaiuoft
  • Disavows Scripture

    Disavows Scripture

    Excerpt from the LDS Gospel Topic Essay, ‘Race and the Priesthood’: 1

    “Today, the Church disavows the theories advanced in the past that black skin is a sign of divine disfavor or curse, or that it reflects unrighteous actions in a premortal life; that mixed-race marriages are a sin; or that blacks or people of any other race or ethnicity are inferior in any way to anyone else. Church leaders today unequivocally condemn all racism, past and present, in any form.”

     

    Racially charged passages in the Book of Mormon: 2

    23 And it came to pass that I beheld, after they had dwindled in unbelief they became a dark, and loathsome, and a filthy people, full of idleness and all manner of abominations. (1 Ne. 12:23)

    14 And it came to pass that I beheld many multitudes of the Gentiles upon the land of promise; and I beheld the wrath of God, that it was upon the seed of my brethren; and they were scattered before the Gentiles and were smitten. 15 And I beheld the Spirit of the Lord, that it was upon the Gentiles, and they did prosper and obtain the land for their inheritance; and I beheld that they were white, and exceedingly fair and beautiful, like unto my people before they were slain. (1 Ne. 13:14-15)

    21 And he had caused the cursing to come upon them, yea, even a sore cursing, because of their iniquity. For behold, they had hardened their hearts against him, that they had become like unto a flint; wherefore, as they were white, and exceedingly fair and delightsome, that they might not be enticing unto my people the Lord God did cause a skin of blackness to come upon them. 22 And thus saith the Lord God: I will cause that they shall be loathsome unto thy people, save they shall repent of their iniquities. 23 And cursed shall be the seed of him that mixeth with their seed; for they shall be cursed even with the same cursing. And the Lord spake it, and it was done. (2 Ne. 5:21-23)

    6 And then shall they rejoice; for they shall know that it is a blessing unto them from the hand of God; and their scales of darkness shall begin to fall from their eyes; and many generations shall not pass away among them, save they shall be a pure [white, 1830] and a delightsome people. 7 And it shall come to pass that the Jews which are scattered also shall begin to believe in Christ; and they shall begin to gather in upon the face of the land; and as many as shall believe in Christ shall also become a delightsome people. (2 Ne. 30:6-7) [Note: The Printer’s Manuscript, the 1830 first published edition, and the second 1837 edition have “white”; the 1840 third edition and the 1981 edition have “pure.”] 3

    5 Behold, the Lamanites your brethren, whom ye hate because of their filthiness and the cursing which hath come upon their skins, are more righteous than you; for they have not forgotten the commandment of the Lord, which was given unto our father—that they should have save it were one wife, and concubines they should have none, and there should not be whoredoms committed among them. 6 And now, this commandment they observe to keep; wherefore, because of this observance, in keeping this commandment, the Lord God will not destroy them, but will be merciful unto them; and one day they shall become a blessed people. 7 Behold, their husbands love their wives, and their wives love their husbands; and their husbands and their wives love their children; and their unbelief and their hatred towards you is because of the iniquity of their fathers; wherefore, how much better are you than they, in the sight of your great Creator? 8 O my brethren, I fear that unless ye shall repent of your sins that their skins will be whiter than yours, when ye shall be brought with them before the throne of God. 9 Wherefore, a commandment I give unto you, which is the word of God, that ye revile no more against them because of the darkness of their skins; neither shall ye revile against them because of their filthiness; but ye shall remember your own filthiness, and remember that their filthiness came because of their fathers. (Jacob 3:5-9)

    5 Now the heads of the Lamanites were shorn; and they were naked, save it were skin which was girded about their loins, and also their armor, which was girded about them, and their bows, and their arrows, and their stones, and their slings, and so forth. 6 And the skins of the Lamanites were dark, according to the mark which was set upon their fathers, which was a curse upon them because of their transgression and their rebellion against their brethren, who consisted of Nephi, Jacob, and Joseph, and Sam, who were just and holy men. 7 And their brethren sought to destroy them, therefore they were cursed; and the Lord God set a mark upon them, yea, upon Laman and Lemuel, and also the sons of Ishmael, and Ishmaelitish women. 8 And this was done that their seed might be distinguished from the seed of their brethren, that thereby the Lord God might preserve his people, that they might not mix and believe in incorrect traditions which would prove their destruction. 9 And it came to pass that whosoever did mingle his seed with that of the Lamanites did bring the same curse upon his seed. 10 Therefore, whosoever suffered himself to be led away by the Lamanites was called under that head, and there was a mark set upon him…. 14 Thus the word of God is fulfilled, for these are the words which he said to Nephi: Behold, the Lamanites have I cursed, and I will set a mark on them that they and their seed may be separated from thee and thy seed, from this time henceforth and forever, except they repent of their wickedness and turn to me that I may have mercy upon them. 15 And again: I will set a mark upon him that mingleth his seed with thy brethren, that they may be cursed also. 16 And again: I will set a mark upon him that fighteth against thee and thy seed. 17 And again, I say he that departeth from thee shall no more be called thy seed; and I will bless thee, and whomsoever shall be called thy seed, henceforth and forever; and these were the promises of the Lord unto Nephi and to his seed. (Alma 3:5-10, 14-17)

    14 And it came to pass that those Lamanites who had united with the Nephites were numbered among the Nephites; 15 And their curse was taken from them, and their skin became white like unto the Nephites; 16 And their young men and their daughters became exceedingly fair, and they were numbered among the Nephites, and were called Nephites. (3 Ne. 2:14-16)

    25 And it came to pass that Jesus blessed them as they did pray unto him; and his countenance did smile upon them, and the light of his countenance did shine upon them, and behold they were as white as the countenance and also the garments of Jesus; and behold the whiteness thereof did exceed all the whiteness, yea, even there could be nothing upon earth so white as the whiteness thereof. 26 And Jesus said unto them: Pray on; nevertheless they did not cease to pray. 27 And he turned from them again, and went a little way off and bowed himself to the earth; and he prayed again unto the Father, saying: 28 Father, I thank thee that thou hast purified those whom I have chosen, because of their faith, and I pray for them, and also for them who shall believe on their words, that they may be purified in me, through faith on their words, even as they are purified in me. 29 Father, I pray not for the world, but for those whom thou hast given me out of the world, because of their faith, that they may be purified in me, that I may be in them as thou, Father, art in me, that we may be one, that I may be glorified in them. 30 And when Jesus had spoken these words he came again unto his disciples; and behold they did pray steadfastly, without ceasing, unto him; and he did smile upon them again; and behold they were white, even as Jesus. (3 Ne. 19:25-30)

    And now, behold, it came to pass that the people of Nephi did wax strong, and did multiply exceedingly fast, and became an exceedingly fair and delightsome people. (4 Ne. 1:10)

    14 And behold, they shall go unto the unbelieving of the Jews; and for this intent shall they go—that they may be persuaded that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God; that the Father may bring about, through his most Beloved, his great and eternal purpose, in restoring the Jews, or all the house of Israel, to the land of their inheritance, which the Lord their God hath given them, unto the fulfilling of his covenant; 15 And also that the seed of this people may more fully believe his gospel, which shall go forth unto them from the Gentiles; for this people shall be scattered, and shall become a dark, a filthy, and a loathsome people, beyond the description of that which ever hath been amongst us, yea, even that which hath been among the Lamanites, and this because of their unbelief and idolatry. (Mormon 5:14-15)

    O then ye unbelieving, turn ye unto the Lord; cry mightily unto the Father in the name of Jesus, that perhaps ye may be found spotless, pure, fair, and white, having been cleansed by the blood of the Lamb, at that great and last day. (Mormon 9:6)

     

    References

    References
    1 LDS Gospel Topic Essay, ‘Race and the Priesthood’ – https://www.lds.org/topics/race-and-the-priesthood?lang=eng
    2 The Book of Mormon – https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm?lang=eng
    3 The Book of Mormon (1830) – http://www.josephsmithpapers.org/paper-summary/book-of-mormon-1830/1
  • Negroes Not Entitled

    Negroes Not Entitled

    Letter from the First Presidency to Dr. Lowry Nelson, July 17 1947: 1

    “Your position seems to lose sight of the revelations of the Lord touching the preexistence of our spirits , the rebellion in heaven, and the doctrines that our birth into this life and the advantages under which we my be born, have a relationship in the life heretofore.

    From the days of the Prophet Joseph even until now, it has been the doctrine of the Church, never questioned by any of the Church leaders, that the Negroes are not entitled to the full blessings of the Gospel.

    Furthermore, your ideas, as we understand them, appear to contemplate the intermarriage of the Negro and White races, a concept which has heretofore been most repugnant to most normal-minded people from the ancient patriarchs till now God’s rule for Israel, His Chosen People, has been endogenous. Modern Israel has been similarly directed.

    We are not unmindful of the fact that there is a growing tendency, particularly among some educators, as it manifests itself in this area, toward the breaking down of race barriers in the matter of intermarriage between whites and blacks, but it does not have the sanction of the Church and is contrary to Church doctrine.

    Faithfully yours,

    (signed)
    George Albert Smith
    J. Reuben Clark, Jr.
    David 0. McKay”

     

    References

  • Church Doctrine

    Church Doctrine

    Letter from the First Presidency to Dr. Lowry Nelson, July 17 1947: 1

    “Your position seems to lose sight of the revelations of the Lord touching the preexistence of our spirits , the rebellion in heaven, and the doctrines that our birth into this life and the advantages under which we my be born, have a relationship in the life heretofore.

    From the days of the Prophet Joseph even until now, it has been the doctrine of the Church, never questioned by any of the Church leaders, that the Negroes are not entitled to the full blessings of the Gospel.

    Furthermore, your ideas, as we understand them, appear to contemplate the intermarriage of the Negro and White races, a concept which has heretofore been most repugnant to most normal-minded people from the ancient patriarchs till now God’s rule for Israel, His Chosen People, has been endogenous. Modern Israel has been similarly directed.

    We are not unmindful of the fact that there is a growing tendency, particularly among some educators, as it manifests itself in this area, toward the breaking down of race barriers in the matter of intermarriage between whites and blacks, but it does not have the sanction of the Church and is contrary to Church doctrine.

    Faithfully yours,

    (signed)
    George Albert Smith
    J. Reuben Clark, Jr.
    David 0. McKay”

     

    References

  • Corrupt Doctrines

    Corrupt Doctrines

    Notice issued by Joseph and Hyrum Smith in the Times and Season paper, February 1, 1844 (at the time Joseph had more than 30 plural wives): 1

    “NOTICE
    As we have lately been credibly informed, that an Elder of the Church of Jesus Christ, of Latter-day Saints, by the name of Hiram Brown, has been preaching polygamy, and other false and corrupt doctrines, in the county of Lapeer, state of Michigan.

    This is to notify him and the Church in general, that he has been cut off from the church, for his iniquity: and he is further notified to appear at the Special Conference, on the 6th of April next, to make answer to these charges.

    JOSEPH SMITH
    HYRUM SMITH
    Presidents of said Church“

    …

    Footnote 24 – LDS Gospel Topic Essay, Plural Marriage in Kirtland and Nauvoo: 2

    “Careful estimates put the number [of Joseph’s wives] between 30 and 40. See Hales, Joseph Smith’s Polygamy, 2:272–73.”

     

    References

    References
    1 Times and Seasons, Thursday, February 1 1844 – http://contentdm.lib.byu.edu/cdm/ref/collection/NCMP1820-1846/id/8375
    2 LDS Gospel Topic Essay, Plural Marriage in Kirtland and Nauvoo – https://www.lds.org/topics/plural-marriage-in-kirtland-and-nauvoo?lang=eng
  • Mutual Masturbation

    Mutual Masturbation

    Excerpt from Spencer W. Kimball’s ‘The Miracle of Forgiveness’, Chp. 6:1

    “Youth come into contact early with masturbation. Many would-be authorities declare that it is natural and acceptable, and frequently young men I interview cite these advocates to justify their practice of it. To this we must respond that the world’s norms in many areas-drinking, smoking, and sex experience generally, to mention only a few-depart increasingly from God’s law. The Church has a different, higher norm.

    Thus prophets anciently and today condemn masturbation. It induces feelings of guilt and shame. It is detrimental to spirituality. It indicates slavery to the flesh, not that mastery of it and the growth toward godhood which is the object of our mortal life. Our modern prophet has indicated that no young man should be called on a mission who is not free from this practice.

    While we should not regard this weakness as the heinous sin which some other sexual practices are, it is of itself bad enough to require sincere repentance. What is more, it too often leads to grievous sin, even to that sin against nature, homosexuality. For, done in private, it evolves often into mutual masturbation–
    practiced with another person of the same sex and thence into total homosexuality. “

     

    References

    References
    1  ‘The Miracle of Forgiveness’, Spencer W. Kimball (1969) – https://archive.org/stream/MiracleOfForgiveness/MoF_djvu.txt
  • Joseph’s Bar

    Joseph’s Bar

    From the Nauvoo City Council Minute Book, 12 Dec. 1843, signed by Joseph Smith Jr. [mayor]: 1

    “An Ordinance for the health and convenience of travellers and other purposes.
    Section 1 Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Nauvoo, that the Mayor of the City be and is hereby authorized to sell, or give Spirits, of any quantity he in his wisdom shall judge to be for the health, comfort or convenience of such travellers or other persons as shall visit his House from time to time
    Passed December 12. 1843
    Joseph Smith Mayor”

     

    References

    References
    1 Nauvoo City Council, Ordinance, 12 Dec. 1843; Nauvoo City Council Minute Book, 12 Dec. 1843, 194; signed by JS and Willard Richards – http://www.josephsmithpapers.org/paper-summary/ordinance-12-december-1843-c/1#source-note
  • Journal of Discourses

    Journal of Discourses

    Excerpt from the Journal of Discourses, Topic on LDS.org: 1

    “The Journal of Discourses is not an official publication of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is a compilation of sermons and other materials from the early years of the Church, which were transcribed and then published. It included some doctrinal instruction but also practical teaching, some of which is speculative in nature and some of which is only of historical interest.”

     

    Brigham Young Jr., ‘Journal of Discourses’ Vol. 11: 2

    “Each successive year the power of God is manifestly increasing upon his people, and more especially upon His ministers in the Holy Priesthood, whose duty it is to build up and instruct the Church in His most holy will. The “Journal of Discourses” is a vehicle of doctrine, counsel, and instruction to all people, but especially to the Saints. It follows, then, that each successive volume is more and more valuable as the Church increases in numbers and importance in the earth, and its doctrines become more abundantly developed and are brought into practical exercise by His peculiar people. Every step of its advancement is fraught with the greatest possible importance to the human family. No Saint can afford to do without these precious precepts until they are able to exemplify them in their daily lives and conversation.”

     

     

    References

    References
    1 Journal of Discourses, topic – https://www.lds.org/topics/journal-of-discourses?lang=eng
    2 Journal of Discourses, Vol. 11, p. iii (1867) – http://jod.mrm.org/11
  • Cain

    Cain

    Excerpt from the ‘Miracle of Forgiveness’, Spencer W. Kimball: 1

    “On the sad character Cain, an interesting story comes to us from Lycurgus A. Wilson’s book on the life of David W. Patten. From the book I quote an extract from a letter by Abraham O. Smoot giving his recollection of David Patten’s account of meeting “a very remarkable person who had represented himself as being Cain.

    ‘As I was riding along the road on my mule I suddenly noticed a very strange personage walking beside me… His head was about even with my shoulders as I sat in my saddle. He wore no clothing, but was covered with hair. His skin was very dark. I asked him where he dwelt and he replied that he had no home, that he was a wanderer in the earth and traveled to and fro. He said he was a very miserable creature, that he had earnestly sought death during his sojourn upon the earth, but that he could not die, and his mission was to destroy the souls of men. About the time he expressed himself thus, I rebuked him in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by virtue of the holy priesthood, and commanded him to go hence, and he immediately departed out of my sight…”

     

    References

    References
    1 ‘The Miracle of Forgiveness’, Spencer W. Kimball – https://archive.org/stream/MiracleOfForgiveness/MoF_djvu.txt
  • Unclean

    Unclean

    Excerpt from the ‘The Apostolic Diaries of Rudger Clawson’, referencing an address by Apostle John W. Taylor: 1

    “6:30 p.m. General priesthood meeting, Pres. Kelly presiding. Apostle Jno. W. Taylor was the speaker. Topics treated. Said that those who have sexual intercourse with their wives or touch any dead body are unclean until evening, and, therefore, during that day should not enter the temple or officiate in the ordinances of the gospel. Advised the brethren not to eat pork or use it in their families. Dwelt upon the power and authority of the holy priesthood. Testified that he had seen the face of the Savior in vision by night. “

     

    References

    References
    1 A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic Diaries of Rudger Clawson, p514 – https://archive.org/details/AMinistryOfMeetingsRudgerClawson
  • Tainted

    Tainted

    Excerpt from the ‘The Apostolic Diaries of Rudger Clawson’, January 2, 1902: 1

    “Apostle Clawson desired an expression of the brethren in regard to a case that had come to his attention. A young man — a member of the church — had sought the hand of one of the daughters of Zion in marriage. She desired to be sealed in the temple. It was ascertained, however, that his mother was tainted with negro blood — she being one-fourth negro — while his father was the son of a prominent family in Israel. Would that be a bar to his entrance to the house of the Lord? It was decided that he could not have the blessings of the house of God.“

     

    References

    References
    1 A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic Diaries of Rudger Clawson, p375 – https://archive.org/details/AMinistryOfMeetingsRudgerClawson