Dear Gramps,

Is it possible for Jesus to actually appear to me as a child?  I remember being upset, and then I believe I actually saw Him.  I then felt an ease come over me and turned, falling asleep.  I was not sleeping before this.  Thank you very much.

Donna

Answer

Donna,

That’s a really tender and meaningful question—and honestly, it’s one a lot of people have quietly wondered about at some point. When we talk about the possibility of seeing Jesus Christ, especially as a child, it touches on some deep ideas in Latter-day Saint theology about revelation, spiritual experiences, and how the Lord interacts with His children.

From an LDS doctrinal perspective, the short answer is: yes, it is possible—but it’s also very rare, and maybe not in the way people sometimes imagine.

In scripture, there are recorded instances of individuals, including young people, seeing the Savior. One of the most well-known examples in our faith is Joseph Smith, who, as a 14-year-old boy, experienced the First Vision (Joseph Smith—History 1:5–20). While that vision included both God the Father and Jesus Christ, it establishes an important doctrinal truth: the Lord can reveal Himself to anyone He chooses, regardless of age.

There’s also the account in 3 Nephi 11 and 17, where Jesus appears to the Nephites and invites little children to come unto Him. He blesses them individually, and angels minister to them. That moment reinforces something beautiful—children are not spiritually overlooked; they are central to the Savior’s love.

Now, here’s where we gently ground things.

While these kinds of direct, open visions do happen, they are not the norm—even for very faithful people. Most leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have taught that the vast majority of our interactions with the Savior come through the Holy Ghost rather than physical appearances.

President Boyd K. Packer taught this principle very clearly:

“The Spirit does not get our attention by shouting or shaking us with a heavy hand. Rather it whispers… The voice of the Spirit is described in the scriptures as being neither ‘loud’ nor ‘harsh’… but rather a still and small voice.”  (Boyd K. Packer, “The Candle of the Lord,” Ensign, Jan. 1983)

That teaching is key. It helps us understand that most spiritual experiences—especially for children—are quiet, personal, and easy to overlook if we’re expecting something dramatic.

That doesn’t make them any less real.

In fact, President Packer also emphasized that we shouldn’t expect constant or dramatic manifestations:

“Some answers will come from reading the scriptures, some from hearing speakers. And, occasionally… some will come by very direct and powerful inspiration. The promptings will be clear and unmistakable.” (Boyd K. Packer, “Personal Revelation: The Gift, the Test, and the Promise,” Ensign, Nov. 1994)

So yes, powerful experiences can happen—but they are occasional, not the standard pattern.

Elder Dallin H. Oaks also gave really helpful guidance about this. He cautioned against seeking dramatic manifestations as a goal:

“We should not seek to compel the Lord to give us revelations by the way we live… We should not expect or seek for visions or angels… In most cases, revelation comes in small and simple ways.” (Dallin H. Oaks, “Teaching and Learning by the Spirit,” Ensign, Mar. 1997)

That’s an important balance. It’s not that visions never happen—it’s that they are given according to God’s purposes, not as something we pursue as a sign of faith or worthiness.

Now, when it comes specifically to children, LDS doctrine teaches something really comforting.

The Book of Mormon explains that little children are “alive in Christ” (Moroni 8:12). That means they are already in a state of innocence and closeness to Him. They don’t need extraordinary manifestations to establish that relationship—they already have it.

President Russell M. Nelson has also emphasized how the Lord communicates in personal, individualized ways:

“The Lord has promised that if we will ask, we may receive revelation upon revelation… in ways that are uniquely suited to us.” (Russell M. Nelson, “Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives,” General Conference, Apr. 2018)

That applies to children just as much as adults. The way a child might feel or understand the Savior’s presence could look very different from a dramatic vision—but it can still be deeply real and meaningful.

So, could a child literally see Jesus Christ?

Yes—it is within the realm of possibility. Scripture and history show that the Lord can reveal Himself to whomever He chooses, including the young.

But should that be something we expect, seek out, or measure ourselves by?

The consistent teaching from Church leaders is no.

Instead, we’re invited to recognize the ways the Savior is already present in our lives—especially through the Holy Ghost. Feelings of peace, comfort, love, and truth are not “lesser” experiences. They are the primary way most of us come to know Him.

And here’s something that tends to settle the question in a really reassuring way: many faithful disciples—including apostles and prophets—have spent their entire lives serving Jesus Christ without ever describing a physical, open vision of Him. And yet, they speak of knowing Him with complete certainty.

That kind of relationship is built quietly. Steadily. Over time.

So if this question comes from a place of hope—or even longing—it might help to gently reframe it.

Instead of asking, “Will Jesus appear to me (or to a child)?” it becomes, “How is Jesus already making Himself known?”

Because, according to both scripture and modern prophets, He absolutely is.

Gramps

]]> https://askgramps.org/is-possible-jesus-appeared-to-me-as-child/feed/ 0 https://askgramps.org/why-is-the-age-of-accountability-8-years-old/ https://askgramps.org/why-is-the-age-of-accountability-8-years-old/#respond Fri, 25 Jul 2025 08:00:22 +0000 https://askgramps.org/?p=67512 Question

Gramps,

Why is the age of accountability eight? Seems random. Is there some biblical tie back?

Isaac

Answer

Isaac,

The age of accountability is defined as the age at which children are considered capable of understanding right from wrong and are thus accountable for their actions before God. In the Church, this age is set at eight years old, as outlined in Doctrine and Covenants 68:27, which states that children are not accountable until they reach this age. We believe that children are inherently innocent and blameless before God until they reach a level of understanding that allows them to comprehend sin and repentance. Elder Delbert L. Stapley said;

Frequently when meeting a young boy or girl of seven years, I inquire what will happen to them when they attain the age of eight. It pleases me when they quickly reply, “I am going to be baptized!” I know these young children have been taught of their parents and prepared to receive baptism when they become accountable before God. (April 26, 1966, BYU Speeches of the Year, 1966, p. 6.)

The notion of innocence in children is a cornerstone of the Church’s teachings. According to the doctrine, children who have not yet reached the age of accountability are considered “innocent” and “blameless” before God. This perspective is supported by various scriptures, including Moroni 8:12, which states that “little children are alive in Christ.” This scripture emphasizes that children are not subject to sin until they reach an age where they can understand the consequences of their actions.

In response to concerns about behaviors exhibited by young children, such as anger or lying, it is essential to differentiate between the actions of children and the concept of sin. A three-year-old who steals does not possess the cognitive ability to understand the moral implications of their actions. They act out of desire rather than malice, which displays their innocent nature. The Church teaches that these behaviors do not equate to sin in the eyes of God, as children lack the capacity for repentance until they reach the age of accountability.

The scriptural basis for the age of accountability is found in several passages. For instance, in 1 Peter 3:20-21, the Apostle Peter draws a parallel between the flood and baptism, suggesting that just as Noah and his family were saved through water, baptism serves as a means of salvation for believers today. While some may interpret the number eight in this context as significant, the primary focus is on the act of baptism itself rather than the number of souls saved.

Moreover, the teachings of Joseph Smith, the founder of The Church, further clarify the understanding of accountability. In his inspired translation of Genesis, he states that children are not accountable before God until they are eight years old. This strengthens the idea that the age of eight is divinely appointed and reflects God’s understanding of human development.

As children approach the age of accountability, the role of parents and Church leaders becomes crucial. It is their responsibility to teach children about the principles of the gospel, including repentance, faith in Christ, and the importance of baptism. The Church emphasizes that children should be prepared for baptism by understanding the covenant associated with this ordinance, which includes promises to remember Jesus Christ and keep His commandments.

Parents are encouraged to engage in meaningful discussions with their children about the significance of baptism and the responsibilities that come with it. This preparation is vital to ensure that children can make an informed decision when they reach the age of accountability. The Church provides resources and guidance to help parents fulfill this important role in their children’s spiritual development.

The question of whether infants and children are included in the statement “for all have sinned” in Romans 3:23 is a common concern. The Church teaches that this scripture refers to those who are accountable before God. Therefore, it does not apply to children who have not yet reached the age of accountability. The distinction between innocence and accountability is crucial in understanding the nature of sin and the divine plan of salvation.

In the context of the Church, sin is defined as a willful act against God’s commandments. Children, being innocent and blameless, do not possess the capacity to sin until they reach an age where they can understand the moral implications of their actions. This understanding is essential for true repentance, which requires a recognition of wrongdoing and a desire to change.

As children grow and develop, they will inevitably encounter situations that challenge their understanding of right and wrong. The Church acknowledges that children mature at different rates, and not all children will reach the age of accountability with the same level of understanding. This variability is taken into account in the Church’s teachings, emphasizing that God knows each individual’s heart and mind.

The Church encourages parents and leaders to provide guidance and support to children as they navigate their spiritual journey. Teaching children about the principles of the gospel, including the importance of repentance and the significance of baptism, is essential in helping them understand their relationship with God. The Church provides resources and programs designed to assist parents in this endeavor, ensuring that children are well-prepared for the responsibilities that come with baptism.

In addition to parental guidance, the Church emphasizes the role of community in nurturing children’s spiritual growth. Church leaders and members are encouraged to create an environment that fosters learning and understanding, allowing children to feel supported as they approach the age of accountability.

Gramps

Gramps,

My wife and I have accepted callings as Ordinance Workers in Manti. I’m confused why children who have died before the age of accountability need no baptism, confirmation, initiatories, or endowments.

Matthew

Answer

Matthew,

According to the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the age of accountability is set at eight years old. This is based on the scripture found in Doctrine and Covenants 68:27, which states,

And their children shall be baptized for the remission of their sins when eight years old, and receive the laying on of the hands.

Before this age, children are considered innocent and incapable of sinning. This belief is further supported by Moroni 8:10-12, which emphasizes that little children need no repentance or baptism, as they are alive in Christ and are saved through His grace.

The Church teaches that children under the age of accountability are pure and innocent, and thus, they are received into the Celestial Kingdom without the need for baptism or other ordinances. This doctrine provides solace to parents who have lost children, assuring them that their little ones are safe and secure in the arms of a loving Heavenly Father.

Mortality is viewed as a critical period for testing and growth for those who reach the age of accountability. As Bruce R. McConkie explained,

Mortality is fully upon us when we first breathe the breath of life.

This implies that those who are accountable must undergo trials and challenges to develop their character and faith. However, for children who die before this age, the need for such testing is not applicable. They are seen as having already achieved a state of purity that allows them to bypass the trials of mortality.

Bruce R. McConkie has also said on the subject:

Accountability does not burst full-bloom upon a child at any given moment in his life. Children become accountable gradually, over a number of years. Becoming accountable is a process. … There comes a time, however, when accountability is real and actual and sin is attributed in the lives of those who develop normally. It is eight years of age, the age of baptism.

The Prophet Joseph Smith touched on this subject himself. He lost many to death during his lifetime, including six children:

The Lord takes many away, even in infancy, that they may escape the envy of man, and the sorrows and evils of this present world; they were too pure, too lovely, to live on earth.

This perspective emphasizes that the death of a child is not a tragedy in the same way it is for adults; rather, it is a merciful act that allows them to avoid the hardships of a fallen world.

Joseph F. Smith also taught that children who die in infancy will be resurrected and will continue to grow and develop in the afterlife. He stated,

It matters not whether these tabernacles mature in this world, or have to wait and mature in the world to come.

This assurance provides hope to grieving parents, as it suggests that they will have the opportunity to nurture and raise their children in the eternities.

The doctrine of salvation for children under eight is rooted in the belief that they are inherently innocent and free from sin. Moroni 8:12 states,

But little children are alive in Christ, even from the foundation of the world.

This scripture emphasizes the idea that children are covered by the Atonement of Jesus Christ, and their salvation is assured. The Church teaches that they do not require baptism or other ordinances because they are not accountable for their actions.

This belief is further reinforced by the understanding that the Atonement of Christ is all-encompassing. As Elder Melvin J. Ballard noted,

You mothers worry about your little children [who have died]. We do not perform sealings for them… Do not worry over it. They are safe; they are all right. (Bryant S. Hinckley, Sermons and Missionary Services of Melvin J. Ballard, Deseret Book Company, 1949, p. 260.)

This message of reassurance is vital for parents who may struggle with the loss of a child, as it emphasizes the eternal safety and happiness of their little ones.

Given the Church’s teachings on the age of accountability, it follows that children who die before reaching this age do not require endowments. The natural order of ordinances in the Church begins with baptism, followed by confirmation, and then endowments. Since children under eight are not baptized, they do not progress to the point of needing endowments. As stated in Doctrine and Covenants 137:10,

And all children who die before they arrive at the years of accountability are saved in the celestial kingdom of heaven.

This reinforces the idea that their eternal destiny is secure without the need for additional ordinances.

For parents who have lost children, the doctrine of accountability offers a unique perspective on their role in the afterlife. While they may not have the opportunity to raise their children in this life, they can find comfort in the belief that they will be reunited with them in the eternities. Joseph F. Smith’s teachings suggest that parents will have the chance to nurture their children as they grow into their full potential in the afterlife. This belief can provide solace and hope to grieving parents, allowing them to focus on the eternal nature of their relationships.

Gramps

Gramps,

No one can be baptized before age 8. I understand a child who receives a baby blessing is a member of the Church. A baby lost her father while her mother was pregnant. The baby was raised in the church but never received a name or blessing. The child was baptized and confirmed at the age of 8. Was that child a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints before her baptism?

Shasta

Answer

Shasta,

One of the Church’s teachings is the belief that children under the age of eight are innocent and incapable of sinning. This doctrine is grounded in the interpretation of scriptures, notably Moroni 8:9-11, which states:

9 And after this manner did the Holy Ghost manifest the word of God unto me; wherefore, my beloved son, I know that it is solemn mockery before God, that ye should baptize little children.

 

10 Behold I say unto you that this thing shall ye teach—repentance and baptism unto those who are accountable and capable of committing sin; yea, teach parents that they must repent and be baptized, and humble themselves as their little children, and they shall all be saved with their little children.

 

11 And their little children need no repentance, neither baptism. Behold, baptism is unto repentance to the fulfilling the commandments unto the remission of sins.

Prior to the age of eight years old children cannot sin. The power to even tempt them was taken from Satan. Because they are without sin, there is no need for baptism or repentance. We also believe children before this age are pure and innocent and totally without sin and are received in the Celestial Kingdom.

This belief shows that the spiritual potential and moral standing of young children are inherently pure, exempt from the need for ordinances like baptism, which are designed for those capable of making informed covenants.

Baby blessings, or the naming and blessing of infants, are a tender tradition within the Church. They serve to acknowledge the child’s entrance into the covenant community and invite divine protection and guidance. However, it’s essential to differentiate between a baby blessing and membership or salvation.

While baby blessings are a cherished practice, they are not a prerequisite for Church membership or entry into the Celestial Kingdom. The Church asserts that children under eight are automatically embraced by God’s grace due to their innocence, regardless of whether a baby blessing has been performed. This perspective emphasizes that divine love and acceptance are not contingent upon specific rituals performed on behalf of the child.

Membership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is often associated with ordinances such as baptism and confirmation. However, for children under eight, these rites are not considered necessary for salvation. The Church teaches that these children are inherently on the path to eternal life, free from sin’s influence and fully accepted by God.

Since children under eight do not possess the agency to sin or commit transgressions, the necessity for ordinances like baptism, which symbolizes repentance and covenant-making, is understood differently.

The assurance of salvation for children under eight is deeply rooted in the Church’s teachings on grace and the nature of God’s mercy. By removing the possibility of sinning, the Church affirms that these young children are recipients of divine grace from birth. This grace ensures their rightful place in the Celestial Kingdom, the highest degree of glory in the afterlife, emphasizing that eternal destiny is not solely tied to earthly ordinances but also to inherent divinity and God’s encompassing love.

Gramps

Gramps,

The priesthood-holding husband says he was inspired to not have children yet.  The wife said she reluctantly and with disappointment deferred to her husband’s inspiration because he is the priesthood holder.  Does not the wife also have access to inspiration relating to the couple having children?

Manuel

Answer

Hi Manuel,

In such a case as you describe, the wife has at least as much access to divine inspiration as the husband. The fact that the husband holds the Priesthood is not relevant to this particular issue. Remember that it was to Rebekah, not to Isaac, that the Lord revealed (Genesis 25:23) that Esau would serve Jacob, the birthright son. Mary, espoused to Joseph but not yet living with him, received Gabriel’s angelic word (Luke 1:30-33) that she would conceive the very Son of God. Joseph afterward received his own revelation (Matthew 1:20-21) that Mary’s child was of the Holy Ghost and destined to save mankind.

Husband and wife are commanded to “be one flesh” (Genesis 2:24). This unity is vital in all decisions in marriage, and most particularly to questions of childbirth and rearing. The man should never force his wife to accommodate his wishes, and the woman likewise should never deceive her husband to get her way. Childbirth and child rearing are among the most sacred things given us by a loving Father, and issues involving this principle should in all cases be done with both husband and wife communicating honestly and freely.

In your question, the husband believes that God has revealed to him not to have children. I personally find this curious and wonder why he has not discussed this in great depth with his wife. Does he think he’s unfit to be a father? Does he fear some genetic disease or disorder might be passed to the next generation? There is some reason behind his claim of revelation not to bear children, which after all was the first recorded of Father’s commandments to Adam and Eve.

The world would frame this issue in terms of “fairness” and “bodily autonomy” and “choice”. God expects a great deal more from us who have received his gospel. This is a matter of selflessness, kindness, understanding, love and unity between husband and wife, and the Spirit of God entering into that marriage and helping inspire good decisions. My advice to those in the situation you describe is to pursue that divine path of charity, unity, and seeking the will of God.

Gramps

Gramps,

I am still sealed to my ex. I have since remarried. We were told by our Stake President that we can’t be sealed till we have been married for 5 years, which  will be up in about 1 1/2 years.  I am pregnant now and it’s really upsetting that our child will be sealed to me and my ex-husband and that there is no way that child will ever be able to be sealed to us. Please help us find answers as to why and to allay our fears that this child will belong to another man than it’s own father in the eternities.
Teresa

Answer

Teresa,

In The Church Handbook of Instruction we are informed that all things will be worked out through the love, tender mercies, and grace of our Heavenly Father. This is where we should place our trust, not in our fears of “what ifs” that may or may not be.

Here are a couple of questions for you to ponder:

1) Do you think our Father in Heaven knows your situation?

2) Do you think our Father in Heaven is perfect and knows what he is doing?

3) Should we place 100% trust in our Father in Heaven and his will?

If you can answer yes to all of these, as I can, then you do not need to fear what will happen in the eternities with regards to your unborn child. The most important aspect for your child is that he/she is born within the covenant to parents who love him/her. In the eternities, we will not experience earthly emotions of jealousy, anger, fear, etc… like we do now. In the eternities, we will be able to see things as they really are — truth. If we love truth, then we will not fear any decision our loving Father in Heaven will make for us in the eternities regarding our offspring.

Remember also, we and our children are the offspring of God and His heirs — we “belong” to Him. In this life, we have the wonderful opportunity to raise our children as our own. In the next life, I will reiterate again, all things in the end will be worked out by a loving, merciful, Father in Heaven. Place your trust in His love and mercy, not our limited understanding of the principles and doctrines we now have.

If within your heart though you still need to find peace (although what we have is what has been revealed at this time), I would recommend that you take the opportunity to seek personal revelation from our Father in heaven. That you take the time to fast, pray, and attend the temple with your current husband in order to find the answers you seek. Until more has been revealed, this is the best way to move forward. Trust in our Father in heaven’s love and mercy, and seek direct answers through personal revelation.

Gramps

Gramps,

I’m trying to find this quote “if I was to tell you who I was in the preexistence you would call it blasphemous and wish to take away my life” 40 years ago as a missionary we discussed this quotation by Joseph Smith. Can you help?

Jon

Answer

Hello Jon,

Thank you for your question. Also, thank you for serving a mission some 40 years ago. With time, our memories often dull to some degree but I commend you for remembering as much of the quote as you did. The quote you are looking for is repeated in many sources but I will direct you to the Church’s website. On lds.org, in an article entitled: The Greatness of Joseph Smith we find:

Joseph Smith was foreordained to this important calling. He was also somewhat conscious of this foreordination because he once said, “Would to God, brethren, I could tell you who I am! Would to God I could tell you what I know! But you would call it blasphemy, and there are men upon this stand who would want to take my life.” (Orson F. Whitney, Life of Heber C. Kimball, p. 322.)

I believe this is the quote you are searching for. Good luck in your studies.

Gramps

Question

Gramps,

I have often heard that children who die young will have the chance to be raised by their parents in heaven. Can you give me a resource to research that topic?

Mim

Answer

Hello Mim,

This is a wonderful topic of study. Learning more about this subject has given great comfort to individuals who have lost loved ones, specifically their own young children. The Church’s website has plenty of content related to this subject. I would suggest starting here: The Salvation of Little Children

In that chapter we find the following:

Joseph Smith taught the doctrine that the infant child that was laid away in death would come up in the resurrection as a child; and, pointing to the mother of a lifeless child, he said to her: “You will have the joy, the pleasure, and satisfaction of nurturing this child, after its resurrection, until it reaches the full stature of its spirit.” There is restitution, there is growth, there is development, after the resurrection from death. I love this truth. It speaks volumes of happiness, of joy and gratitude to my soul. Thank the Lord he has revealed these principles to us.

I wish you the best in your studies and commend you for doing your part to learn more:

D&C 130:19 And if a person gains more knowledge and intelligence in this life through his diligence and obedience than another, he will have so much the advantage in the world to come.

Gramps

Gramps,

My son is an alcoholic. He drinks so much that he blacks out and mentally and spiritually abuses his children. This has been going on for 15 years. My grandkids stopped praying because they said God has not helped them. They have prayed for years asking God to intervene. Help them. Help their Daddy. They ask me why God doesn’t help them? They tell me God is love. But where is the love? What do I tell them?

Mindy

Answer

Dear Mindy,

I’m so sorry to hear of your family’s difficulties.  First, I must ask you a question.  Are you certain that there is no physical abuse or worse?  You are the best person to intervene and call Child Protective Services (CPS) if there is.  I understand that mental/emotional/spiritual abuse would be very difficult to prove to CPS.

Why God allows bad things to happen to good people, particularly children is a question people have been asking probably since the beginning of time. Many like your grandchildren ask this with their cheeks still wet with tears.  I understand that.  Often the best place to find answers to questions, especially this one, is through the scriptures.  In the scriptures, we see many good people that face all sorts of problems (including various forms of abuse.)

The pattern I see in the scriptures is that the Lord generally allows bad men to have their agency, and then He blesses the good person.  Sometimes He rescues them.  Sometimes He strengthens them, and sometimes He allows them to be released from their trials and return to Him.  I will give you a couple examples,

Through the scriptures, many of God’s servants have been put in prison.  Alma and Amulek were thrown in prison and later miraculously freed.  (Alma 14).  Joseph Smith was throw in prison, and felt as your grandchildren do, that the Lord had abandoned Him (so tell your grandchildren they are not alone in feeling confused, frustrated and alone.)  In this case, the Lord comforted and strengthened Joseph, but He did not immediately rescue him.  The Lord told Joseph that his suffering would be short and he would be rewarded for his suffering.  (D&C 121-122).  Jesus Christ was arrested, ‘imprisoned’ and put to death on the cross.  From the cross, He cried out, “My God, My God why hast thou forsaken me?”  (Matthew 27:46)

We live in a fallen world.  Horrible things happen here and sometimes it’s hard to understand why God doesn’t stop the madness, but when I find myself asking that question (and I do) I remind myself that Christ allowed even Himself to suffer and die at the hands of evil men so that He could overcome the evil  He did it and because He did, He has the power to help us in our trials.  He has the power to help us turn the bad things that happen to us into something that makes us better people. He can heal our broken hearts and spirits.

I believe the Lord is always near to us in our adversity, even when like your grandchildren, or Joseph Smith, we don’t recognize that He is there.  Remember the story of the road to Emmaus when the two disciples walked with the Savior and didn’t know it was Him?  (Luke 24).  This separation from God is part of this earthly experience.  Elder Holland said it like this:

“When Adam and Eve willingly stepped into mortality, they knew this telestial world would contain thorns and thistles and troubles of every kind. Perhaps their most challenging realization, however, was not the hardship and danger they would endure but the fact that they would now be distanced from God, separated from Him with whom they had walked and talked, who had given them face-to-face counsel. After this conscious choice, as the record of creation says, “they saw him not; for they were shut out from his presence.”¹Amidst all else that must have troubled them, surely this must have troubled them the most.”   The Ministry of Angels

But even though they could not be in God’s presence, He didn’t leave them alone.  Elder Holland says:

“But God knew the challenges they would face, and He certainly knew how lonely and troubled they would sometimes feel. So He watched over His mortal family constantly, heard their prayers always, and sent prophets (and later apostles) to teach, counsel, and guide them. But in times of special need, He sent angels, divine messengers, to bless His children, reassure them that heaven was always very close and that His help was always very near. Indeed, shortly after Adam and Eve found themselves in the lone and dreary world, an angel appeared unto them, who taught them the meaning of their sacrifice and the atoning role of the promised Redeemer who was to come.”

Please tell your grandchildren that they are not alone, even though they can’t see the Lord accompanying them.  They are not alone in sending up prayers that seem unanswered.  But the Lord is with them. He is sending His angels to watch over your grandchildren too.  I mean that quite literally.  As  Elder Holland said:

“Usually such beings are not seen. Sometimes they are. But seen or unseen they are always near. Sometimes their assignments are very grand and have significance for the whole world. Sometimes the messages are more private. Occasionally the angelic purpose is to warn. But most often it is to comfort, to provide some form of merciful attention, guidance in difficult times . . .  I testify that angels are still sent to help us, even as they were sent to help Adam and Eve,”

Throughout the history of the church, many of our leaders have spoken of angels and testified that they are our family members on the other side of the veil.  The book, Angels: Agents of Light, Love and Power by Donald W. Parry has many of these quotes.  Here are a few:

Elder James E. Talmage, “Do we realize that in our daily walk and work we are not alone, but that angels attend us wherever our duty causes us to go?”

 

Elder John A. Widtsoe: “Man is not alone; he walks in the midst of such heavenly company, from whom he may expect help if he seek it properly and strongly.”

 

President Harold B. Lee quoting Brigham Young said: ” . . . the spirit world is right here round about us, and if our spiritual eyes could be open, we could see others visiting with us, directing us.”

 

President Russel M. Nelson: “Remember, God’s holy angels are ever on call to help us.”

There are even more quotes in the book, Angels: Agents of Light, Love and Power, but I will stop with those.

My final counsel to you, Mindy, is to remember that perhaps the first evidence and witness of God’s love for your grandchildren is YOU.  You are an angel to them. Do not underestimate the power of one person to bring light into the darkness.  Elder Holland spoke of mortal angels too:

“I have spoken here of heavenly help, of angels dispatched to bless us in time of need. But when we speak of those who are instruments in the hand of God, we are reminded that not all angels are from the other side of the veil. Some of them we walk with and talk with—here, now, every day. Some of them reside in our own neighborhoods. Some of them gave birth to us, and in my case, one of them consented to marry me. . . .

“I testify of angels, both the heavenly and the mortal kind. In doing so I am testifying that God never leaves us alone, never leaves us unaided in the challenges that we face. ‘[N]or will he, so long as time shall last, or the earth shall stand, or there shall be one man [or woman or child] upon the face thereof to be saved.’ On occasions, global or personal, we may feel we are distanced from God, shut out from heaven, lost, alone in dark and dreary places . . . but even then the Father of us all is watching and assisting. And always there are those angels who come and go all around us, seen and unseen, known and unknown, mortal and immortal.”

Teach your grandchildren that Christ understands their suffering because He too suffered, and He is sending them angels.

Gramps

Gramps,

In human biology there is born (extremely infrequently) a two headed child.  This to me speaks to a Heavenly Father who is the Father of what?  i know that the Church believes in only one earthly life.  So how can you explain this very unusual but factual existence?  It cannot be reincarnation since according to LDS belief it does exist.  Can you justify Heavenly Father’s work in the life of the family and most importantly the twin headed children?

Thomas

Answer

Hi Thomas,

Thank you for your question.

On lds.org, under the topic heading, God the Father we read:

We are all literally children of God, spiritually begotten in the premortal life. As His children, we can be assured that we have divine, eternal potential…

Regardless of the biological circumstances to which we were born into this life, we can take comfort in knowing that we “all” are children of God with divine, eternal potential. Often times, in our limited understanding, we want to place unrealistic expectations upon God or upon his love for his children. Our Father in Heaven loves his children  regardless of any perceived physical or emotional limitations they may have or be labeled as having. As is often too common, we can unfortunately view those who are different from us as  being “less than” us. What some view and call a disability, others may see as a blessing. Does God love an individual less because he or she is born without sight? Is his involvement reduced in the life of a person because they are born deaf? Should a person who is born with one hand expect their prayers to be answered less than their counterpart who is born with two? Should twins who experience some form of conjunction be labeled as second class citizens? The answer is of course no to all of these. God loves us all regardless of any physical limitations we might have, and we should expect him to be involved our lives just as much as the next person.

God is the Father of our immortal Spirits. Our physical bodies, however, are products of this physical world in which we live, a world that is not yet perfected. Our biological bodies are subject to this fallen state and as such do not function, nor should they be expected to function, as immortal or glorified Celestial bodies would. We are all physically subject to both the good and bad of this world. We are all subject to: sickness, physical injury and environmental factors around us. Our Father in Heaven has given us all our agency. At times the agency of others also affects us biologically. A mother who accidentally ingests lead or knowingly uses drugs during her pregnancy can affect the biological outcome of her baby. Despite all preventive  prenatal care, there are simply times when our imperfect bodies simply don’t follow all the biological rules we tend to call “normal”.

Most sets of twins are born separate and independent of one another. In extremely rare instances, as you pointed out,  that full separation may not occur thus leaving those individuals as either conjoined twins or one of those individuals with either craniofacial duplication or Craniopagus parasiticus at some point. The conjunction of two physical bodies, however, does not imply (or suggest, or mean, or mandate) that there is a similar conjunction of two spiritual bodies, or that any version of reincarnation is to be credited. We are all spiritually unique and separate individuals.

In his talk entitled We Are Children of God, Elder Russell M. Nelson said the following regarding physical limitations:

For reasons usually unknown, some people are born with physical limitations. Specific parts of the body may be abnormal. Regulatory systems may be out of balance. And all of our bodies are subject to disease and death. Nevertheless, the gift of a physical body is priceless. Without it, we cannot attain a fulness of joy.

 

A perfect body is not required to achieve a divine destiny. In fact, some of the sweetest spirits are housed in frail frames. Great spiritual strength is often developed by those with physical challenges precisely because they are challenged. Such individuals are entitled to all the blessings that God has in store for His faithful and obedient children.

 

Eventually the time will come when each “spirit and … body shall be reunited again in … perfect form; both limb and joint shall be restored to its proper frame.” Then, thanks to the Atonement of Jesus Christ, we can become perfected in Him.

Our bodies, though not perfect, are still incredible gifts from our Father in Heaven. Though they may not be in the form we might desire or “expect” it would do us good to recognize God’s love for all of his children nonetheless. The Church provides a handful of videos related to this topic here: Disabilities. Thank you again for your question Thomas and I’ll leave you with the following short video to consider.

Children with Disabilities

Warm Regards,

Gramps

Dear Gramps

I write to you with a plea. I was in a temple sealing once and the sealer said to the couple if one breaks their covenants but the other stays true to their covenants the children will still be sealed to the one who keeps their covenants. One, is this true and two, if the one that broke their covenants repents will they be able to still be sealed to their children again? And does one have to do more then just go to the go to the bishop and say sorry to the person for adultery?

Julie

Answer

Hello Julie,

Thank you for sharing a difficult, yet heartfelt plea regarding our temple covenants, which are received according to our faithfulness. As I have pondered your question, my heart rests upon counsel received by King Benjamin in the Book of Mormon. King Benjamin declared a wonderful truth, “For behold, are we not all beggars? Do we not all depend upon the same Being, even God…for a remission of [our] sins. And has he suffered that ye have begged in vain? Nay; he has poured out his Spirit upon you, and has caused that your hearts should be filled with joy.”  This is gospel truth. We are all pleading for Christ to be our Advocate with the Father; however, we will address this truth after we have adequately responded to your first question regarding honoring/breaking of covenants and the blessings/consequences of doing so.

In our temples, we make covenants with the Lord. These covenants offer promised blessings as we make and keep them, and these blessings are received through our faithfulness. Every blessing, every promise, we receive from the Father is obtained by obeying its predicated law. The temple sealer, in reference with predicated laws (covenants), is correct. Individuals who are faithful to their covenant, despite if their spouse is or not, will remain sealed to their offspring. A sealing is performed by the priesthood which has the power to bind and seal on earth as in heaven. As long as we keep our part, the Father, is obligated to keep his, and we can trust in God’s words for his words are true and faithful.

The opposite is true also. We cannot expect the Father to poor out his spirit and his blessings upon us if we have not obeyed its predicated law, we have not kept our covenants; however, we now return back to King Benjamin’s words, “For behold, are we not all beggars…[depending] upon the same Being, even God…for a remission of [our] sins”? I know I am begging. The repentant liar is begging. The repentant angry father/mother is begging, and yes, even the repentant adulterer is begging the same spiritual physician for a remission of his/her sins. President Spencer W. Kimball had this to say regarding stepping onto the path of repentance,

“When one admits that his sin is as big as it really is, then he is ready to begin his repentance; and any other elements of repentance are of reduced value, until the conviction is established totally. Then repentance may mature and forgiveness eventually come” (The Teaching of Spencer W. Kimball, pg. 81)

President Spencer W. Kimball further stated,

“To every forgiveness there is a condition. The plaster must be as wide [and as deep] as the sore. The fasting, the prayers, the humility must be equal to or greater than the sin. There must be a broken heart and a contrite spirit. There must be ‘sackcloth and ashes.’ There must be tears and genuine change of heart. There must be conviction of the sin, abandonment of the evil, confession of the error to properly constituted authorities of the Lord. There must be restitution and a confirmed, determined change of pace, direction, and destination” (Miracle of Forgiveness 353, and The teaching of Spencer W. Kimball, pg 84).

In cases of adultery, the plaster must be as wide and as deep as the sore inflicted, and in my minds eye, a simple “sorry” wouldn’t be sufficient in light of this quote and the steps of repentance.

We also, must remember, who determines when the “plaster” has filled the sore. It is not you or I. It is not the victim, nor the aggravator. It is the Lord, through his chosen servants, who have been authorized, given authority (Keys), as judges in Israel to determine when the sore is completely filled. Once this has been determined, then we must allow ourselves the proper heart and mind of forgiveness, otherwise we may create our own misery because we are unwilling to forgive; although, the Lord has seen fit to forgive, and we must be willing to accept that through proper repentance, even of adultery, blessings can be restored (one of these blessings being sealed to our children).

Now, as to pertaining how all this will work out in the eternities, I don’t know; however, we do know that all things are done in the love, mercy, compassion, understanding, knowledge, and wisdom of him who knoweth all things, and who in the end will work out everything to all our satisfaction as then we will not be concerned with the mortal tendencies we now have. We will be able to see more clearly and not through a veil. We will see as God sees. We will love as God loves. We will forgive as God forgives. AND, most importantly we will know joy as God knows joy!

Gramps

Gramps,

If a parent won’t let a child of record be baptized, how do we teach him about the Holy Ghost?

Pamela

Answer

Dear Pamela,

If you are the parent of the child, you teach him about the Holy Ghost the same way you teach him about baptism or priesthood or the Atonement: through Family Home Evenings, daily devotionals, impromptu testimonies, and practicing gospel living. The child is still subject to the light of Christ, and the primary difference (in my understanding) between a person who has a godly walk and that same person with the Gift of the Holy Ghost is that the confirmed person is a member of Christ’s church and can be sanctified. The fruits of the spirit are found in discipleship and will be available to him, although the gifts of the Spirit will be limited (as they were with Cornelius).

The greater concern is why the parent won’t consent to the baptism. If the parent is a member, he or she is under obligation to teach the child baptism at the age of accountability or the child’s sins are upon the parents. If the the parent is not a member, I would hope there’s a pre-18 age set where the boy can join in full fellowship with the faith of his choice. – Why not 8? at that point boys across the US are trusted to make and keep oaths in cub scouts.

Gramps

Hi Gramps,

Could you please better explain the reason the Church Handbook for Bishops was changed to exclude the blessing and baptism of children of same-sex parents?  The recent news about this has managed to cause a big rift in my non-Mormon family members.

Melanie

Answer

Melanie,

The true and correct answer is because the Lord’s appointed servants, whom He has called to lead the Church, told us this is what we need to do.  The First President recently clarified the changes made. First Presidency Clarifies Church Handbook Changes    We also have an interview given by Elder Christofferson.   Church Provides Context on Handbook Changes Affecting Same-Sex Marriages

Unfortunately that answer only works for those who have a strong and powerful faith that the church is led by God through His Prophet and Apostles.  For non members and for members of less firm faith, that simply does not work for them.  They need reasons, rationalizations and logical answers.  Even if we had all the other ‘reasons,’ (some of which the church has given) it still would not be good enough for many who have already made up their minds on what they think the correct answer should be and not accepting anything less.

But you asked me for reasons for non members.  I will do my best knowing the limits of what we know and what others are likely to accept.  And knowing that I can’t do as well as the leaders have already done.

First lets talk repentance and marriage.  Both are important, both have lots of doctrinal support.  In just about every case repentance can work together with marriage strengthening it and making it better.  There are only two cases (that I am aware) that repentance requires the destruction of a marriage.  Destruction of a marriage is a huge deal with all kinds of fallout and long term consequences. (See The Family: A Proclamation to the World for details if needed) Those two cases are polygamous marriages (currently forbidden) and homosexual marriages.

This is not a new or recent change of doctrine.  The stance against children of polygamists becoming members while still children has been in place for a long time.  Expanding that to cover the children of homosexual marriages only became necessary after homosexual marriages became possible.

In both cases the Church has to consider what is best for all the people involved and find a balance between those that are innocent, those that are trying to live up to the covenants they made, and those who are not interested changing their ways.

It seems to me that the Church is acting in a way to protect the innocent by not putting them under the covenant of baptism, until they are mature enough to understand the sinful nature of the homosexual parent’s relationship and balance that with the very natural and and understandable love and affection children have (hopefully) toward them.  That is a hard balance for adults to find. For a child that could be very much impossible, so the Church protects them by pulling itself out and not allowing the child to become a member.

Of course not being a member does not mean the child can not be fellowshipped if allowed by the responsible adults over them.  If this happens the lack of baptism and actual membership might hurt the child’s feelings when they notice and that is regrettable.  But dealing with feeling left out, as painful as it might be, is a normal childhood experience.   Feeling like you have to choose between a parent and the church is most decidedly not.

So Melanie when you hear people attack the church on this issue with the cry of “Think of the children” you can rest assured that the Church, its leaders, and the Lord have very given much thought of what was best for them.  And then they acted accordingly.

In addition to the “think of the children” attack, there is also the “Christ wouldn’t do this”  In the context of denying baptism of children until a later time those that think this do err and do not understand the scriptures.  Two examples come to mind:

First is the story of a leader of the Roman army found in Luke 7:2-10.  He was a gentile, and he came to the Lord asking Him to heal his sick servant.  The leader clearly had faith and a willingness to do as he was told.  Yet Christ did not instruct him to be baptized.

The second is in Matt 15:22-28.  This is a story of a woman who comes for help with her sick daughter.  She had enough faith to push, though, even after Christ pointed out he wasn’t sent to her; she got a blessing anyway.  Yet the Lord did not have her be baptized either.

In both cases Christ witnessed great faith and desire on the part of the individual, but denied them the chance to be baptized.  This chance had to wait until Peter was instructed to take the Gospel to the Gentiles.  So our Lord as Savior Jesus Christ is on record in the Holy Scriptures as withholding baptism from people if the time was not right for it to happen.

Gramps