Gramps,

I understand that the Lord told Enoch He could look at all His creations and not find any so wicked.  Are we sent here because we weren’t as righteous as those sent to other planets?

Shasta

Answer

Shasta,

Many members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints ponder the reasons for our existence on Earth, especially in contrast to other worlds. A common question arises: Were we sent to this Earth because we weren’t as righteous as people on other planets?

According to Moses 7:36, this Earth is described as the most wicked of all worlds:

Wherefore, I can stretch forth mine hands and hold all the creations which I have made; and mine eye can pierce them also, and among all the workmanship of mine hands there has not been so great wickedness as among thy brethren.

This stark declaration emphasizes the unique challenges faced by humanity and the profound need for the Savior’s atonement in this world. The notion that Earth is the “most wicked” does not imply that those who inhabit it are less righteous than beings on other planets. Instead, it highlights the potential for great growth amidst significant trials and tribulations.

Despite the wickedness, it is crucial to recognize that some of the most righteous spirits inhabit this Earth. As stated in 2 Nephi 2:11, “For it must needs be, that there is an opposition in all things.” This principle suggests that righteousness exists alongside wickedness, indicating a balance. The Savior Himself chose to come to this Earth, emphasizing that it is a place where wickedness and righteousness coexist and significant spiritual growth can occur. Many members of the Church believe that among the spirits sent to Earth are individuals who possess remarkable faith and virtue, capable of influencing the world for good.

The doctrine of agency plays a crucial role in understanding our existence. Abraham 3:24-28 teaches that all spirits have agency to follow God’s plan. This agency is foundational to our mortal experience, allowing us to make choices that lead to growth and learning. The ability to choose between good and evil is essential to our development and our journey back to Heavenly Father. Each person’s journey is unique, shaped by the decisions they make and the paths they choose. The concept of agency also means that our righteousness is not predetermined by our origins; rather, it is cultivated through our choices and actions in this life.

The atonement of Jesus Christ is a central tenet of Latter-day Saint belief, applicable universally across all worlds. Doctrine and Covenants 76:24 states, “These are they who are redeemed of the Lord; yea, these are they who shall come forth in the resurrection of the just.” The atonement provides a path for redemption, allowing all souls, regardless of their past, the opportunity to return to God’s presence. This principle underscores the belief that everyone is given the chance to repent and grow, regardless of the wickedness that exists on Earth. The Savior’s role is central to all of God’s creations, reinforcing the idea that the potential for righteousness is always present, even in the most challenging circumstances.

Life on Earth is viewed as a testing ground for spirits, as summarized in Alma 42:4: “This life is the time for men to prepare to meet God.” The challenges and trials we face are integral to our spiritual progression. They provide us with opportunities to learn, repent, and grow, further solidifying our commitment to God’s plan. The experiences we undergo are designed to refine us, helping us to develop faith and character. The idea that we are here to learn and grow is a comforting thought, suggesting that our time on Earth serves a greater purpose in our eternal progression.

The teachings of prophets and the scriptures affirm that the plan of salvation encompasses all of God’s children. In Moses 1:35, the Lord indicates that the knowledge of His creations is limited to what is necessary for our salvation. This revelation implies that our experiences on Earth are divinely orchestrated and that the struggles we face have a significant purpose. Modern prophets, like Joseph Smith and current leaders of The Church, emphasize the importance of agency, growth, and the potential for redemption. Their teachings remind us that the journey we are on is part of a grander design, meant to lead us back to our Heavenly Father.

The belief that we were sent to Earth due to a lack of righteousness compared to beings on other planets is not supported by Church doctrine. Instead, we learn that this Earth, while the most wicked, is also home to some of the most righteous souls. Our existence here is a testament to our agency, the need for the atonement of Christ, and the purpose of mortal life as a testing ground. As we navigate our earthly journey, we can find hope in the teachings of the Gospel, knowing that our experiences contribute to our eternal progression.

Other related articles:

Were we born on this earth as punishment for bad deeds in the pre-mortal spirit world?

Why did the Savior live in mortality on this particular world?

If we were born on the most wicked of all worlds, are those on other worlds more righteous than we are?

What happens to the spirits of the planets that are destroyed?

Gramps

Hey Gramps team! I love your work. You’re the best.

I’m considering dabbling into investing. And I’m tempted to find a marijuana company to focus on. I think it’s only a matter of time before recreational marijuana will be tolerated in the nation and earn a spot in the stock exchange as federal laws loosen. It *could*be lucrative.  I’ve heard of other members investing in alcohol as well. What do you think about this? Would I be going against church doctrine?

Christopher

Answer

Hello Christopher,

Thank you for your question.

Without fail, throughout our lives, we will repeatedly be presented with scenarios of, “Should I do X or should I do Y?” While it might be nice to always have a black and white, clearly defined answer to every possible question, that is simply not the design or pattern by which our Father in Heaven intends for us to grow.

For behold, it is not meet that I should command in all things; for he that is compelled in all things, the same is a slothful and not a wise servant; wherefore he receiveth no reward.  D&C 58:26

Rather he provides us with righteous principles so that we may judge for ourselves where the correct path lies .

I have always enjoyed the following experience of Joseph Smith as found in Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith :

John Taylor, the third President of the Church, reported: “Some years ago, in Nauvoo, a gentleman in my hearing, a member of the Legislature, asked Joseph Smith how it was that he was enabled to govern so many people, and to preserve such perfect order; remarking at the same time that it was impossible for them to do it anywhere else. Mr. Smith remarked that it was very easy to do that. ‘How?’ responded the gentleman; ‘to us it is very difficult.’ Mr. Smith replied, ‘I teach them correct principles, and they govern themselves.’”

As members of the Church, we are given correct principles to live by. With these correct principles we should be able to decide for ourselves, with confirmation from the Holy Ghost, which path we should follow. Rather than simply give you a direct answer to your question, perhaps it is better to offer up a series of questions by which you can come to your own conclusion. For the moment, feel free to substitute any commodity or service you wish into your specific question, “Should I invest in ______________?”

Should I invest in pickles?
Should I invest in playground equipment?
Should I invest in pornography – since it is both legal and lucrative?
If I lived in a country where it was legal, would I invest in a butterfly farm, oil pipeline or perhaps organized voluntary prostitution?

Some of the questions that you may consider asking yourself, given that as members of Church we have been given the chance to learn correct principles:

1. Is what I hope to invest in going to draw me closer or further from the Lord?
2. Is what I hope to invest in bringing me peace or confusion/doubt/hesitation?
3. Do I feel like I’m being lead to this choice by the Spirit or tempted instead?
4. Does my choice in investment align with the 13th Article of Faith where it states:

If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things.

5. Would I feel uneasy trying to explain my choice in investment before the Lord?
6. Would I feel worthy to sign my own temple recommend?
7. Would I be proud to share my investment portfolio with my spouse/family/children/Bishop?
etc.

As you go through the questions above, I promise you that you will know which path to take, even if it is not the answer you may have been looking for.  While there may be many things that are: legal, lucrative and done by others (even members of the Church), those are not the litmus test the Lord uses.

I leave with you one final thought found in the Book of Mormon. It comes from Mormon 3:20, where it states:

20 And these things doth the Spirit manifest unto me; therefore I write unto you all. And for this cause I write unto you, that ye may know that ye must all stand before the judgment-seat of Christ, yea, every soul who belongs to the whole human family of Adam; and ye must stand to be judged of your works, whether they be good or evil;

Good luck Christopher is figuring out for yourself what path you should take.

Gramps

Gramps,

When I was 16 years old I broke the law of chastity, and so I am no longer a virgin, I went through the whole repentance process and it has been a long time since I made that mistake. However, it is a really awful mistake and I often feel as though I am unworthy of marriage. I am a faithful member of the church, and I love the gospel so so much! But, I am terrified that a guy will want to marry me, until I tell him I’m not a virgin, and then he will know I am impure and change his mind

Juliet

Answer

Juliet,

Breaking the Law of Chastity is a serious issue and shouldn’t be taken lightly.  While we need to be careful not to minimize the severity of breaking the Law of Chastity, it is also important to realize that the natural man is imperfect.  Satan is cunning and powerful and wants to prevent us from returning to live with Heavenly Father.  He works against us, tempting us to dress immodestly and encouraging us to think immoral or improper thoughts.  These thoughts also break the Law of Chastity, as the prophet Alma teaches us in Alma 12:14:

For our words will condemn us, yea, all our works will condemn us; we shall not be found spotless; and our thoughts will also condemn us; and in this awful state we shall not dare to look up to our God; and we would fain be glad if we could command the rocks and the mountains to fall upon us to hide us from his presence.

The good news is that Heavenly Father knows this.  He sent his only Begotten Son to give up his life so that we may live with him again.  He wants us to repent, and repentance washes us clean.  In Ezekiel 18:21-22 we learn:

But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die.

 

All his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him: in his righteousness that he hath done he shall live.

We also can read in Enos 1:5-6;

And there came a voice unto me, saying: Enos, thy sins are forgiven thee, and thou shalt be blessed.

And I, Enos, knew that God could not lie; wherefore, my guilt was swept away.

So you see, Juliet, we are all imperfect.  It’s part of why we have taken on this mortal body and passed through the veil.  We don’t just learn and grow through our victories, but our mistakes as well.  Judging from your question, it sounds like you have learned from your sin and grown through the atoning power of Christ.  He has forgiven you and your transgressions shall not be mentioned.  Hopefully, you have grown closer to Heavenly Father since then and have learned to love yourself and serve Him.  You see clearly now why Heavenly Father wants you to follow His commandments.  He loves you and wants only the best for you.

I’m confident you will find a husband who loves you for the woman of Christ you have become.  I’m also confident that due to the nature of the natural man, that husband will have sin and repentance in his past as well.  I’m sure you will love him as he loves you, and you both will grow through Christ and the power of atonement will strengthen your bond with each other, and Christ.

Be happy, the best parts of your life are yet to come, starting with being sealed for time and eternity to the man you love in the Temple.  Oh, to be young again.

Gramps

Gramps,

I am only fourteen. Can I be excommunicated? I’m concerned. Thanks Gramps!

Robert

Answer

Hello Robert,

Thank you for asking your question. Let me start by saying that you are not alone in your concern. This is a subject that I am happy to address not only for your personal benefit but for the benefit of countless others as well. I hope that I can share some thoughts to help put your mind at ease and clarify some points regarding: your age, excommunication, and church discipline in general.

As we know the age of accountability, as far as sin is concerned, is eight years old (D&C 68:27). Once we reach this age, we become responsible for our actions before our Father in Heaven, both the good and the bad. As a youth, you are still learning a lot about the world and will inevitably make mistakes. Making mistakes is normal and to be expected, this is part of the process of learning for both the young and the old. Our entire lives are going to be filled with mistakes since none of us are perfect. While mistakes are expected, being held accountable for our mistakes should also be expected.

In some cases our mistakes are very small and may go unnoticed by the world. In stark contrast, we may make mistakes that not only affect us, but can affect others for the rest of their lives. Rest assured that the Savior is here to help us correct our mistakes through the steps of repentance. Some of the mistakes we make are able to be resolved simply between us personally and the Lord. Other mistakes, more serious ones, may require the help of our Bishop or Branch President through some one-on-one time. And lastly, for sins that are considered the most serious, we have been afforded a even more serious path to repentance via formal Church discipline. Church discipline is more involved than only meeting with our Bishop.

As found on mormonnewsroom.org – Church Discipline may result in:
1. No Action
2. Formal Probation
3. Disfellowshipment
or lastly
4. Excommunication

Let me make a comparison with driving a car that I hope will help you understand the varying degrees of Church discipline. By driving a car I am responsible for my actions while I drive that car. If I break the law, I receive discipline that matches the severity of the law I have broken. For example, from least to most severe:
1. Broken tail light —-> simply a warning
2. Driving through a red light —–> ticket
3. Speed racing —–> driver’s license suspended & ticket
4. Drunk driving ——> ticket, jail time and loss of your driver’s license

Drunk driving is a serious crime, one that can affect not only you, but also the lives of others. Because of the danger presented, it may be better to take away that person’s ability to legally drive, in essence taking away their “membership” to drive. Excommunication is a form of repentance reserved for the most serious sins only. The vast majority of the time that we make mistakes/sin in our life, a simple “warning” from the Holy Ghost is enough to make us change. In other cases an actual “ticket” may be needed to get our attention. A few times in life, if ever, we may need to have our driving/church privileges temporarily taken away through Disfellowshipment and only in the rarest of cases are members actually excommunicated.

Excommunication is essentially the loss of your church driver’s license/membership. Too often when we make normal life mistakes, especially while in our youth, our minds tend to unnecessarily jump to the far extreme measures of “Oh my gosh, I’m going to get excommunicated”. Regardless of the severity of our mistakes, all mistakes should be corrected. Part of that correction is our willingness to accept the counsel and guidance given to us by our priesthood leaders during the repentance process.

So, with that said, let me address your main concern: I’m 14, can I be excommunicated? There are two answers here. Is it probable OR is it possible? It is possible that a 14 year old can be excommunicated, but highly improbable as this is reserved for only the rarest and most serious instances. Here are a couple of examples that “may/could” lead to excommunication: incest, predatory tendencies and murder. While none of these are “probable”, they are “possible”. In an effort to not only correct and help the transgressor, but to also protect other innocent people, excommunication of a minor is possible, though rarely called for. Excommunication may feel like the “end” or “worst” thing possible, but I promise you it is not. Even those who lose their membership are given the opportunity to gain it back again. Remember Isaiah 1:18

“Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.”

Robert, the best advice I can give you is to speak with not only your Bishop but also your parents. Both your Bishop and Parents have made mistakes in their lives, again none of us is perfect. Share your concerns with them and allow them to help you during this time of concern in your life. I would like you to remember that Our Father in Heaven loves you and our Brother Jesus Christ loves and wants nothing but the best for you. Repentance is a gift given to us to help us become better, please use this gift. I leave you with the words of Amulek found in Alma 34:33

“And now, as I said unto you before, as ye have had so many witnesses, therefore, I beseech of you that ye do not procrastinate the day of your repentance…”.

Please go visit with your Bishop Robert as soon as possible. I promise you will feel much better about life, feel the Savior’s love and begin to feel the weight of your mistake begin to lift from you.

Thank you for your question.
Warm Regards,

Gramps

Gramps,

Can a teenager lose their limited use temple recommend for wearing the smallest gauges there are?

Julie

Answer

Julie,

A Bishop is the only person who is authorized to judge and issue limited use recommends for youth. As such only the Bishop for the youth in question can make the call on that.

Now if I were to speculate about a hypothetical youth and his/her hypothetical Bishop, then I could see the Bishop taking gauged ears as a symptom. As such I could see that Bishop wanting to figure out what exactly it was a symptom of, because that could be much more serious.

In the For Strength of Youth pamphlet under dress and appearance we read:

Do not disfigure yourself with tattoos or body piercings. Young women, if you desire to have your ears pierced, wear only one pair of earrings.

Since the main purpose of ear gauging usually is to go bigger, I could easily see a hypothetical Bishop determining that having them is a violation of the Church standards as outlined in For Strength of Youth. The whole point of them is beyond a simple pair of earrings, and more towards disfiguring.

In the end though, the impact on holding a recommend is between the youth and the Bishop, and they should talk about it together.

Gramps

Gramps,

If my parents are sealed to each other and they keep their covenants they made in the temple and remain faithful throughout their lives, can us, as children, still inherit one of the 3 kingdoms of the Celestial kingdom? Even if we break away from the church and don’t keep the covenants? (doesn’t mean I will, just curious) Thanks heaps!

Garrett

Answer

Dear Garrett,

I would encourage you to read Elder David Bednar’s article in the March 2014 Ensign entitled “Faithful Parents and Wayward Children: Sustaining Hope While Overcoming Misunderstanding“. In that article, Elder Bednar writes:

[F]aithful parents can invite the power of heaven to influence their children. Nevertheless, those children remain agents unto themselves, and the choice to repent or not ultimately is theirs.

The fact that a child’s parents have made, and are keeping, temple covenants, does not excuse the child from the need for repentance and an individual acceptance of the Atonement of Christ. Indeed, a child’s conscious decision to sin now and rely on their parents’ temple covenants later, will probably make the repentance process even more painful and difficult.

Gramps

Gramps,

I just want to know your side about members who are selling products against the WOW like tobacco, alcohol, etc. Are they entitled to have a temple recommend?  How about a farmer planting tobacco as means of income? Any enlightenment is greatly appreciated.

dreb

Answer

Dreb,

The decision as to whether a person is worthy to hold a temple recommend is between that member, their local priesthood authority and the Lord. Anyone else who thinks they can judge the worthiness of another needs to look to the beam in their own eye and not the mote in another (Luke 6:42)

Now let’s take some hypothetical examples. Let’s say we have those who are doing their best to make ends meet. They have a job as a clerk, or a cashier or a waitress, and as part of their job they have to sell to the customers products that will break the Word of Wisdom. While it is true we do get to choose what job we will take, for many that can be a choice between a job we don’t like, and an even worse or no job at all. For those in this situation it seems clear to me that denying them a temple recommend based solely on their job is not the response of a follower of Christ but more an action of a modern day Pharisee.

The next hypothetical situation is the business owner. He makes the call on what to sell (or plant in the case of the farmer). The sad reality in these cases is that the products that violate the Word of Wisdom seem to be very profitable. The owner/farmer often has a very tough choice. He can carry a product he doesn’t like but represents a better chance of turning a profit, or do something else that carries a greater risk and likelihood of failure and going under.

Some may choose not to sell such things. Others may sell them for awhile and then choose to stop. Still others may choose to carry them always. If we don’t agree with those choices, we have the choice to spend our money elsewhere. That is a judgment we can and should make, but we don’t have any authority to go beyond that.

When we are in a place that doesn’t require us to make such choices, it is easy for us to declare what we would  never do. But to judge and ‘throw stones’ at those who have to, and who make different choices than we think we would, only reveals our own sins and shortcomings.

Gramps

Gramps,

Some time ago,  I heard a talk on BYU-TV by an apostle about bankruptcy. He talked about that and temple recommends. I don’t recall who it was, I have searched on the LDS.org site for talks but not there. Does this ring any bells or do you know what the status is on having taken out bankruptcy and getting a temple recommend? I talked to the Bishop and he asked me to find that but I can’t seem to. Is there something?   I know that if you hold a high position as a Institute leader or such that you cannot have that calling if bankruptcy has been taken out. It was out of a failed business, basically no choice. Any thoughts?

D. Wesley

Answer

D. Wesley,

Bankruptcy is a hard decision fraught with feelings of failure. Since your bankruptcy came about because of a failed business, you took on a risk that simply didn’t work out for you, the business, and your family.

Temple recommend interview questions mention nothing about your financial standing except with two questions:
1) Are you current with any court ordered support? (Such as child support or alimony, etc.)
2) Are you honest in your dealings with your fellow man?

If you can answer those questions truthfully in the affirmative, you should be granted a temple recommend.

If you took out these loans and credit lines with various vendors with the intention of not paying them, that is a dishonest intention. If you can look yourself in the mirror, and say with absolute certainty that you would have paid, if you could have, then you are a person of integrity that follows through with his word.

As far as other callings of authority or position, I couldn’t tell you. It seems to feel like the same answer to anyone who has ever been through a divorce. There is an impression that once one has divorced, even if they are remarried, that they can no longer serve as a Bishop, Stake President, Mission President, etc. I don’t have the specific answers to this, only of those examples of these great individuals who have served, seemed to have happy first marriages, and have a reasonable amount of personal accomplishment in their profession.

I don’t see how declaring a bankruptcy impacts your worthiness or consideration to serve in any of these capacities… unless you filed your bankruptcy under fraudulent pretenses or just to ‘take advantage of the law’ so you wouldn’t have to pay your creditors? It is true that there are some positions where you may be in a stewardship over finances, such as a Bishop… but let your priesthood leaders figure it out if and when they decide to consider you for such a calling.

My thoughts are that you should learn from your mistakes in your business, be proud that you took a risk, and let it go.

Gramps

Dear Gramps,

We have heard it taught for years now throughout the Church that chastity (or virtue) cannot be taken away but only given away by someone’s free will. Yet Moroni 9:9 has a statement about the wicked Nephites, which seems to contradict this.  Quoting in part: “and after depriving them of that which was most dear and precious above all things, which is chastity and virtue”.  So we were hoping you could clarify the subject for us. Is it given away? Or can it be taken against one’s will?

Robert

Answer

Robert,

The answer to your question Robert, is that it can be both — given and taken; however, in order to answer your question appropriately let’s first begin with our nature. As sons and daughters of God, to further our progression, those who kept their first estate will inherit a physical body. Our physical body is the temple of our spirits. Our physical body and our spirit determine our dual nature — to be carnally minded is death, while being spiritually minded is life eternal.

In the Book of Mormon we read, Moroni 9:9 that the daughters of the Lamanites were deprived of their chastity and virtue. In relation to our dual nature, these Lamanite daughters were deprived of their chastity and virtue — “physically.” That which they were supposed to be able to give freely was taken, not received.

In light of this, I believe the words of Moroni are correct; physically, a woman, may either give or be deprived of that which is most dear and precious to the Lord, “chastity and virtue”; however, in contrast, spiritually a woman could never be deprived of her virtue — she remains innocent and pure before the Lord.

“Victims of abuse should be assured that they are not to blame for the harmful behavior of others. They do not need to feel guilt. If they have been a victim of rape or other sexual abuse, whether they have been abused by an acquaintance, a stranger, or even a family member, victims of sexual abuse are not guilty of sexual sin.”

When the Lord commanded us, and we have covenanted to obey, to keep the Law of Chastity women who have been victims of rape have not broken this law; spiritually, they have lost no virtue and are still pure before the Lord. We are further informed:

“The scriptures tell us that virtue is to be cherished, that a virtuous woman is loved of the Lord. And as far back as the Mosaic Law the scriptures discuss the idea that when a woman is the unwilling victim of rape, she is innocent of crime; she is innocent of sin.

“Yes, the unfortunate and innocent victim is innocent before the Lord. We recognize that such an individual feels guilt, feels she has lost that which she cannot regain. But we hope within that person’s mind will reside the complete assurance that the Lord is just, that she is still a child of God, and that God loves her. We also hope that family and friends would have only an increase of love for her.”

When an individual willingly gives of themselves to another, before marriage, they are “giving” their virtue to their partner, physically and spiritually, and sin before the Lord. Their virtue, or chastity, is removed from them until they repent.

Gramps

Gramps,

In preparation for my upcoming baptism, my Elders reviewed the baptismal questions with me. When we got to question 4 (about prison, abortion, and homosexuality) they expressed that I could answer the question to them but if the question was yes I would have to meet with additional people who would determine whether or not I could be baptized. At the time I laughed because I hadn’t done any of those things. Then I remembered as a child that I had been abused by members of my gender. Do I need to disclose this during my baptismal interview and will it disqualify me from baptism?

Alex

Answer

Alex,

The baptismal questions are about you, about your status before God and about your actions. Not about what was done unto you by others.

I think at the time of the interview you understood this and answered truthfully, and it is only after further thought you began to doubt. So let me set your mind at ease if I can.

Had you answered yes the missionary would have stopped and set up another appointment with someone with more experience handling such delicate and sensitive issues. In that interview, the new leader would have asked you to clarify what happened. Once you told him that it was from abuse that you suffered as a child he would have told you that while it was tragic and wrong for you to be abused it does not affect your ability or worthiness to be baptized.

So move forward knowing that you are doing the right thing.

Gramps

Gramps,

My brother had some unresolved sins before he went on his mission and as a result ended up getting sent home when he confessed to his mission president during his first transfer. While he was home he met with the bishop and the stake president on a regular basis.  About eight months later they cleared him to go back on his mission but he decided not to go. It’s now been 18 months since he came home, and during that time he started dating a non-member girl. Now they are talking about getting married later this year. My brother says that she will get baptized and they will eventually get sealed in the temple, but I doubt that will ever occur because she and her family are very Catholic. My fear is that they will lure my brother into complete inactivity in the Church. My parents have taken a very passive role because they say that if they push he’ll just push away harder. What is the best advice to give my brother?

Ryan

Answer

Ryan,

My advice to you is to wait for your brother to ask for advice.

He’s more than likely very aware of what challenges he’s taking on. For instance, even though he has been cleared to return to the mission field, perhaps he felt it best to let that part of his life be what it is and move on. He’s not the first, nor will he be the last to experience such challenges in this way.

The same can be said for his marriage situation. In the end there are no specific standards that say one “must” marry a member of the Church. It is recommended of course, but there are countless examples of part-member families becoming whole and sealed units according to God’s will.

What I’m getting at is this; your brother is walking the path of life he has chosen. No, it isn’t the ‘by the book’ process that is available to us, but then Ryan, that’s how life works. We have our agency to choose the path we wish to take. What we cannot choose is the end of that path, or the consequences of that choice.

As it is now, I can see why there is concern for your brother, but take heart and know that God is mindful of him, just as much as all the rest of his children. Yes there is a risk of your brother leaving the church. That has happened plenty of times as well. However those are the possibilities that he faces due to the choices he has made.

Stand as an example

At this point, your best move is to stand as an example of your testimony. Live what you believe and know to be true. Avoid arrogance and hypocricy, remain humble and submissive to the mind and will of God as you continue to pray for guidance.

The Lord will not mislead you, nor jeapordize your family in any way. As you live in faith, you might just be the example your brother’s fiancee needs to see in order to successfully join the Church.

Whatever happens will happen, Ryan, and you have no need to feel accountable in any way. Be there for your brother no matter what. You’ll see the promises of God fulfilled in front of your eyes as you do.

Gramps

Gramps,

My son has SSA (Same Sex Attraction).  He does not act upon it. He wants to go on a mission. He has worked on worthiness and feels ready to go. We were told that he couldn’t go because he had SSA. In the Church Handbook of Instructions, it says that individuals with SSA who are not living the gay lifestyle and are worthy can serve in the church. In applying for his mission we have been told that he can’t go because of his SSA. He had some sins to take care of but his home ward and stake leaders told him he could go when worthy. His Young Adult Stake President says he can’t go on a regular mission with SSA. Can you tell me the Church’s policy on this? This seems very wrong to me. Thank you.

Anonymous

Answer

Dear Anonymous,

In recent years, conversations about inclusivity and acceptance have gained prominence across various communities. Within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, these discussions extend to the topic of missionary service for individuals experiencing same-sex attraction.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints encourages all worthy young men and women to serve missions, regardless of their sexual orientation. The Church’s teachings emphasize that missionary service is a vital opportunity for spiritual growth and service to others. The eligibility criteria for serving a mission focuses primarily on an individual’s worthiness rather than their sexual orientation. This inclusive approach is grounded in the belief that all individuals are invited to share the gospel and serve their fellow beings.

The Church’s emphasis on worthiness manifests in the understanding that all candidates must undergo interviews with local leaders, who assess their readiness to serve based on their adherence to Church standards. This process is designed to be compassionate and supportive, allowing individuals to express their feelings and concerns while receiving guidance on their journey toward missionary service.

The Church provides various resources to support individuals grappling with same-sex attraction. Programs like “Understanding Sexual Identity” aim to help individuals navigate their feelings while remaining faithful to the gospel. These resources are intended to foster understanding, compassion, and a sense of belonging within the Church community.

Each person’s journey is unique, and leaders are encouraged to consider the personal circumstances of each individual. This approach reinforces the Church’s belief in the importance of compassion and understanding. The Church recognizes that individuals may face challenges as they navigate their feelings and faith, and it seeks to provide guidance that reflects its core values.

Recent developments have shown a growing affirmation of inclusivity within the Church. Leaders have publicly stated that individuals with same-sex attraction can serve missions as long as they maintain the Church’s standards of conduct. This acknowledgment underscores the Church’s desire to balance its doctrinal teachings with the reality of contemporary societal discussions.

As members and leaders continue to engage in these important conversations, it is essential to remember the core message of the gospel: love and service to one another. The invitation to serve is extended to all, and the Church strives to create an environment where individuals can pursue their spiritual journeys while remaining true to their faith.

Gramps