Thoughtful answers from Gramps

Thoughtful answers for everyday questions, curiosities, and challenges.

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Can those with tattoos do temple ordinances?

Can those with tattoos do temple ordinances?

Question   Gramps, I have many good friends who have tattoos and they are non-members, but I know that some of them would like to join the church, they are really great people and I have always had that concern because once I heard a member of the church who had...

Did Nephi live to see Jesus?

Did Nephi live to see Jesus?

Question   Gramps, Did Nephi live to meet Jesus?Jerry    Answer   Dear Jerry, I can see where your confusion comes from. The name of Nephi is the Book of Mormon version of John Smith. It seems like you can't read many pages without seeing it pop up. One...

What if I forget that I’m fasting and eat something?

What if I forget that I’m fasting and eat something?

Question   Gramps, If I've opened a fast, what are the consequences if I forget that I'm fasting and then eat something? Chris   Answer   Hi Chris, Let's take a moment and consider the purposes of fasting. First, we are showing devotion to our Father in...

Why can we not kneel to pray in the temple?

Why can we not kneel to pray in the temple?

Question   Gramps, Why can we not kneel to pray in the temple? Patty   Answer   Dear Patty, You can kneel in the temple, but it should be done at an altar designed for this purpose. They generally have a short padded "stoop" for you to rest your knees...

Will not paying tithing bar us from obtaining exaltation?

Will not paying tithing bar us from obtaining exaltation?

Question   Gramps,  I have been a member for years, in that time I haven't gone a month without hearing a talk on tithing. The scripture from Malachi is always used. I've read all of he questions and answers on the site in regarding tithing. I get the impression...

How do I balance my marriage and church callings?

How do I balance my marriage and church callings?

Question   HI Gramps. I have a calling in my ward as assistant scout master and it requires a lot of time and dedication.  My wife however gets mad or upset if I have a meeting to go to and she wants time to spend with me.  I want to accomplish the...

What is meant by secret combinations?

What is meant by secret combinations?

Question   Gramps. What is meant by secret combinations? Marlene   Answer   Marlene, Secret combinations, as described in the Book of Mormon, refer to groups or individuals who engage in clandestine activities to achieve personal gain or exert power...

Where is the line drawn before marriage?

Where is the line drawn before marriage?

Question   Gramps, You might be getting ready for a response about the birds and the bees, but that is not what I am asking about today. That, to me, is a very clear line. But, my question is about other aspects of marriage that might be off limits to those who...

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This website is not owned by or affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (sometimes called the Mormon or LDS Church). The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent the position of the Church. The views expressed by individual users are the responsibility of those users and do not necessarily represent the position of the Church. For the official Church websites, please visit churchofjesuschrist.org or comeuntochrist.org.

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