"It's You I Like"

Pleasant Grove Manila Stake Newsletter

Every Needful Thing

Pleasant Grove Manila Stake Volume 2, Issue 12

Each year we gather as families and read the familiar story of Mary and Joseph making their way to Bethlehem to participate in the Roman census that had been ordered for that year. Luke provides a very brief description of what must have been a very arduous trek. He quickly co- vers that trip of some 90 miles simply stating: “And Jo- seph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethle- hem (because he was of the house and lineage of David) to be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.” (Luke 2:4-5). Certainly, this cannot truly capture what must have been a difficult and worrisome undertak- ing.

A biblical archaeologist from the University of South Florida has remarked: “Matthew and Luke are so laconic about the event because they assume the reader would know what it was like. Today, we have no idea how diffi- cult it was.” He goes on to state: “It was a fairly grueling trip. In antiquity, the most we find people traveling is 20 miles a day. And this trip was very much uphill and down- hill. It was not simple.”

Although I’m one of those who has “no idea how difficult it was”, my heart goes out to this couple, not only to Mary who was nine months pregnant but also to Joseph who had the responsibility for her and for the precious cargo she carried.

Can we truly imagine what the pressures were on Joseph as he must have been concerned about the possibility of the birth occurring in the middle of the Judean desert? The trails they traveled were unpaved and often steep and he no doubt shuttered as each bump brought extreme dis- comfort to Mary.

Not only did Joseph have to be conscious of the physical conditions surrounding them, there were commonly ban- dits to be found along major trade routes and Mary and Joseph were probably forced to join a caravan of some kind for group support and protection.

And, once the trek was completed, Joseph had to desper- ately search for somewhere to house Mary and, ultimately, the Savior of the world. It is estimated that 10,000 others from the House of David had gathered in Bethlehem for the census which would help explain the absence of

This is not an official publication of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is a prepared- ness news and information site prepared for friends and neighbors of the Pleasant Grove Manila Stake by Chuck and Earlene McDonald, Preparedness Specialists. Feedback may be directed to them at chuckmcdonaldo6@gmail.com or earlene.mcdonald@zeroz.biz

available housing.

There is little doubt that we can learn from the stresses that must have been on Joseph at this time. Spiritually, we can draw the conclusion that Joseph possessed complete faith in the Lord and obedience to the promptings he re- ceived which allowed his journey to be successfully com- pleted. Temporally, we can learn that the his trip was not easy and probably was not meant to be. But it was memo- rable.

So it is with our trek in this mortal existence. The roads we travel may be steep and uneven. We may have to pro- ceed in the face of rain and sleet and will definitely encoun- ter the temptations of Satan and be distracted by the craft- iness of men who will attempt to steal away our resolve to reach our destination. But we must remember that we were never promised a smooth road—only the encourage- ment to follow the strait and narrow way.

We can also learn that we are on this trek together. We need to establish spiritual and temporal “caravans” in our neighborhoods, wards and stake. We must provide sup- port and protection for one another in our mortal travel. Hopefully, as we read the Christmas story this year, we will consider the nobleness of Joseph—how he must have prepared for his journey temporally and spiritually—how he faced the myriad of challenges placed before him—how he succeeded.

So can we all. May this Christmas season and the coming year be one in which we strive to prepare for the rest of our journey here in mortality. By doing so, we will receive necessary blessings in our endeavors. Remember: the meaning of the name Joseph is “God will increase”.

This would be our prayer for all of us this joyous season and the year beyond—that God will increase. Merry Christmas!

“What kind of a person would the Father select as the husband of Mary and the guardian and earthly model for Jesus? ... we must conclude that our Heavenly Father made careful selection in his choice of Joseph.” (Robert J. Matthews, Ensign, December 1974)

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The happy years of my childhood came during the great Depression. For me, it was a time of learning and sharing. I was even encouraged to accompany Grant, my brother, on his daily rounds after school while he sold cottage cheese from door to door to supplement the family in- come. You see, Dad was having a rough time of it. Our new store, which had been doing well right up to 1929, was closed now, and Dad found it difficult to keep a job as store after store, and factories, too, closed their doors. At home, it was a bit hard to tell it was Christmas. For the first time in our lives no brightly lighted Christ- mas tree stood in the corner be- tween the piano and the colon- nades. Our family had talked it over and decided we could dispense with a tree this year. The tiny gifts I had made for Mom and Dad in school, wrapped in white tissue paper, rest- ed uncomfortably on the sewing machine, alongside the small pack- ages my brothers had managed to acquire with carefully hoarded pen- nies. After a supper of hot soup and crusty bread, we lingered at the table awhile, then washed up the supper dishes. And then we sat. What do you do on Christmas Eve when there are no presents to be wrapped, no pies to be made, no tree in the front room? We played a game. And then we sat some more. Finally Dad could stand it no longer. Jumping to his feet, he almost

“Who among us has not felt concern over the commercialization and even greed of the Christmas season? Who hasn’t felt overwhelmed by the packed calendars, the stress of finding gifts, the pressure of planning meals and events? .... See the purity of the story of the Savior’s birth and feel sincere gratitude for His life, teachings, and saving sacrifice for us” ( President Uchtdorf, “Seeing Christmas through New Eyes,” 2010 First Presidency Christmas Devotional, Dec. 5, 2010).

We Didn’t Have a Tree, Until....

(Excerpted from a Mormon Journal article by Janet W. Sorensen, December 1974)

shouted, “I’ve got 50 cents in my pocket. Let’s go see if we can get a tree!” Fifty cents! And no payday in sight. What love and devotion must have determined that sudden deci- sion! Yet, at the very moment, before we could say anything, the doorbell rang. My brother and I ran to the door, and to our surprise no one was there. We looked around in disappointment, and then we saw it—a glorious tree! We looked in every direction but could find no one to claim the tree. It had to be ours! I can still feel the thrill, the excite- ment. I can still see the tears on my dad’s cheeks as he helped us deco- rate it. We hadn’t told anyone that we didn’t have a tree, and we had been very careful not to invite friends to our home for them to discover it. Later the bishop of our ward disclaimed any knowledge of it; the Relief Society thought it was a wonderful gesture but refused any credit for it; the neighbors were no more friendly than usual—so, we never knew where the tree came from. But the road seemed brighter for us as a family because some good soul had brought us a Christ- mas tree—and love—on our darkest Christmas Eve.

Live Providently During the Holidays

All of us want to bring joy into the lives of our children and our spouses at Christ- mas time. It is natural that we want to show our love for them. However, Church leaders have counseled us to be modest in our expenditures and to disci- pline ourselves in our spending to avoid debt. Here are some tips given in the Church News last Christmas time.

Create a budget: Sit down with your spouse or family and realistically plan how much money you can spend during the holiday season. .

Talk with your family: Let them know what to expect before the holidays, and ask them to contribute to the planning. If you will not be giving as many presents to family members as last year, talk to them about this and discuss what you can do to show love and appreciation to each other in creative ways.

Plan ahead: The best financial practice when making a large purchase is to begin saving months in advance. Start plan- ning for next year this Christmas.

Invest in the future: Often Christmas presents are focused on the newest gadgets and toys. That isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but Christmas could be a good time to invest in opportunities that will have more meaning. Consider gifts that contribute to education, family history, or food storage as well as opportunities to give service and spend time as a fami- ly.

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Christmas is indeed a happy time tor all of us. The bright lights, the squeal of surprise and de- light at a new shiny gift, the glittering majesty of a brightly decorated tree are all part of this spe- cial season.

Unfortunately, each season also brings re- ports of occurrences that each of us should be aware of and should protect against. While try- ing not to detract from the true Spirit of Christ- mas, we feel it appropriate to remind readers of some of the dangers that may accompany this wonderful celebration. Here are some of the more prevalent.

1. FALLS: Emergency room visits are made by

an estimated 6000 people each year due to falling off a ladder or roof putting up decora- tions or from attempting to put the star on the top of the tree while balancing on an un- certain surface.

2. TREE FIRES: Close to 250 home fires with

resultant death and property damage occur on average each year. This is most common when natural trees are brought into the home.

3. TINSEL AND SMALL DECORATIONS: Small

hands can quickly reach and choke on small ornaments, tinsel, and other decoration items. Even small pieces from nativity scenes can become dangerous hazards. 4. MISTLETOE AND HOLLY: Poinsettias are

often thought to be the most poisonous holi- day plant but they actually are not toxic to people. Mistletoe, on the other hand, while romantic, is indeed poisonous. Eating ber- ries and leaves can result in gastrointestinal problems and some varieties actually con- tain toxins that result in blurred vision, changes in blood pressure and even death. Doctors advise that holly is also very dan- gerous and can be lethal to a child who con- sumes even 20 berries of this plant.

5. CANDLES: In Grandpa’s day, lighted can-

dles were commonly placed on the tree

THOUGHTS TO PONDER THIS CHRISTMAS

I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year. ~Ebenezer Scrooge, Christmas Carol

Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen. ~Author unknown, attributed to a 7-year-old named Bobby

Oh, for the good old days when people would stop Christmas shopping when they ran out of money. ~Author Unknown

LET’S KEEP CHRISTMAS JOYOUS BY KEEPING IT SAFE

since electrical illumination was not usually available. Today, candles are still in use al- though generally limited to glass containers. They can sometimes be placed too close to combustible season decorations. In addi- tion, there is a possibility that certain can- dles, especially scented ones, can put out chemicals, including cancer-causing ben- zene. 6. CHRISTMAS LIGHTS WITH LEAD: With all the publicity surrounding lead in paint, you wouldn’t think there was any danger here. However, researchers have found that four out of five holiday lights tested contained lead at levels that would prohibit sales in Europe. Manufacturers state the use of lead is necessary to stabilize cord casings and make lights heat resistant. Because there is a good chance your holiday lights may con- tain lead, it is recommended you wear gloves and then wash your hands after handling them.

Hope this doesn’t bring more stress into your life as you prepare for this holy season. But we want you around in 2016. Thanks for reading.

(Write-up based on information found in The Dangers of Christmas Decorations, Merco- la.com)

Remember, Oh Remember

Stake Guidance for 2016:

• Hold/obtain current Temple recommend—as soon as possible

• Develop/implement plan to reduce/eliminate family consumer debt by end of 2016

• Prepare Bug-Out Bag by January 1, 2016

• Obtain at least a 12-week supply of food for your family by April 1, 2016

• Have at least 6-month supply of survival food storage by August 1, 2016

Visiting Teaching: Understanding the Power of MInistering

By the Relief Society General Presidency

Our Heavenly Father needs us to follow a higher path and demonstrate our discipleship by sincerely caring for His children.

During Christ’s mortal life, He ministered to others. As we desire to be His disciples, we must look to Him as our example. He taught, “The works which ye have seen me do that shall ye also do” (3 Nephi 27:21). The New Testament is filled with examples of Christ’s ministering. He revealed to the woman of Samaria that He was the Messiah. He healed Peter’s mother-in-law. He restored the daughter of Jairus to her parents and Lazarus to his grieving sisters. Even as He suffered on the cross, the Savior “expressed concern for His mother, who by then was likely a widow in need of watchcare.”¹ On the cross, He asked John to watch over His mother.

Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president, said: “Through Relief Society [and visiting teaching] we practice being disciples of Christ. We learn what He would have us learn, we do what He would have us do, and we become what He would have us become.”²

Understanding the Power of Ministering

Ministering and providing relief to others have always been the heart of Relief Society. “Throughout the years, Relief Society sisters and leaders have learned one step at a time and have improved in their ability to watch over others,” said Sister Beck. “There have been times when sisters have focused more on completing visits, teaching lessons, and leaving notices when they have stopped by their sisters’ homes. These practices have helped sisters learn patterns of watchcare. Just as people in the time of Moses concentrated on keeping long lists of rules, the sisters of Relief Society have at times imposed many written and unwritten rules upon themselves in their desire to understand how to strengthen one another.

“With so much need for relief and rescue in the lives of sisters and their families today, our Heavenly Father needs us to follow a higher path and demonstrate our discipleship by sincerely caring for His children. With this important purpose in mind, leaders are now taught to ask for reports about the spiritual and temporal well-being of sisters and their families and about service rendered. Now visiting teachers have the responsibility to ‘sincerely come to know and love each sister, help her strengthen her faith, and give service.’”³

Our Relief Society history, Daughters in My Kingdom, andHandbook 2: Administering the Church teach us how we can follow a higher path and demonstrate our discipleship:

• • 
  Pray daily for those you visit teach and their families.
• • 
  Seek inspiration to know the needs of your sisters.
• • 
  Visit your sisters regularly to comfort and strengthen them.
• • 
  Contact your sisters frequently through visits, phone calls, letters, e-mail, text messages, and simple acts of kindness.
• • 
  Greet your sisters at church.
• • 
  Help your sisters when they have an illness or other urgent need.
• • 
  Teach your sisters the gospel from the scriptures and the Visiting Teaching Message.
• • 
  Inspire your sisters by setting a good example.
• • 
  Report your sisters’ spiritual and temporal well-being to a Relief Society leader.⁴

Focusing on Ministering

We are the Lord’s hands. He is dependent upon each of us. The more we see our visiting teaching assignment as one of the most important responsibilities we have, the more we will minister to those we visit.

1. 1. 
   We will provide experiences that invite the Spirit and help our sisters increase in faith and personal righteousness.
2. 2. 
   We will care deeply about those we visit and help them strengthen their homes and families.
3. 3. 
   We will take action when our sisters are in need.

Following is the example of Maria and Gretchen—visiting teachers who understand the power of ministering. Here we can see that now visiting teachers have the opportunity to visit separately or together. They can count their “caring” whether or not they visit together and give the message. They can take appropriate action without being asked. They can actively seek, receive, and act on personal revelation to know how to respond to the spiritual and temporal needs of each sister they visit.

Rachel was expecting her first baby and had to remain in bed for most of her pregnancy. Her visiting teachers prayed for inspiration to know the best ways to help her. Maria, who lived nearby, was able to help at Rachel’s home on most days before work. One day she cleaned part of the bathroom; the next day she cleaned the rest of it. Another day she vacuumed the living room, and the next day she made lunch for Rachel. And so her ongoing ministering continued as she did laundry, dusting, or whatever Rachel needed.

Gretchen phoned Rachel often to brighten her day. Sometimes they talked and laughed. Other times Gretchen and Maria visited with Rachel at her bedside and shared their testimonies, scripture reading, or the Visiting Teaching Message. And after Rachel’s baby was born, they continued to help her.

Throughout this time, Maria and Gretchen also worked with the Relief Society presidency to coordinate other care Rachel and her family needed. The Relief Society presidency counseled with the bishop and the ward council so home teachers and others could provide additional assistance.

Ministering became sweeter as these sisters developed love for one another and as they shared spiritual experiences. As visiting teachers we can follow these same patterns and principles of ministering and receive the same blessings.

Ministering as Christ Did

“As committed disciples of the Savior, we are improving in our ability to do the things He would do if He were here,” said Sister Beck. “We know that to Him it is our caring that counts, and so we are trying to concentrate on caring about our sisters rather than completing lists of things to do. True ministry is measured more by the depth of our charity than by the perfection of our statistics.”⁵

As visiting teachers we will know we are successful in our ministry when our sisters can say: “My visiting teachers help me grow spiritually. I know my visiting teachers care deeply about me and my family, and if I have problems, I know they will help me.” By following a higher path as visiting teachers, we are participating in the Lord’s miraculous work and accomplishing the purposes of Relief Society to increase faith and personal righteousness, strengthen families and homes, and help those in need.

Relief Society Christmas Dinner

Khorasan Mills Price List

Emergency Preparedness- Medication

There are several important factors to consider.

#1 YOUR OWN PERSONAL DAILY NEEDS
If the doctor has prescribed medication that you are to take. You need to have extra available to take if there was a catastrophe and you were not able to acquire your needed medication.

INCONVENIENCE DOES NOT EQUAL AN EMERGENCY 

We should never feel it is inconvenient to go to the doctor to get a prescription. It is not recommended to self medicate with stuff you have on hand. We are talking preparedness as in there is no help coming or available. Maybe you have a heart condition, high blood pressure, asthma or an allergy, if not counter acted could threaten your life. You need to be prepared with what you need. Build an extra supply for emergencies. My friend was caught in a hurricane and could not get to a pharmacy (it wasn't open anyway due to storm) He was in need of a critical heart medication. Do not find yourself in a similar situation.

#2 WHEN HELP IS NOT ON THE WAY AND WE ARE IN CRISIS
Before taking or administering any medications, remember they are prescribed with certain factors related to the individual: age, health and weight. Also any other medications person is taking that might interact. If you save left over unused medications for preparedness make sure they are in the original bottle with all of the important information on it. * Store medications in a safe place. Someplace where they are not accessible to grandkids, children or guests.

#3 EXPIRATION DATES 
The book the Survival Medicine Handbook by Joseph Alton, M.D. and Amy Alton, A.R.N.P. covers so many important things. I recommend this book. It is a guide for when medical help is not on the way. The topic of expiration dates is covered in this book. It refers to studies that have been done. The studies have been done by; the Food and Drug Administration for the United States Department of Defense; Researchers at the University of California San Francisco School of Pharmacy; US military commissioned a study. The results from these studies can be found:
Wall Street Journal 3/29/00
Archives of Internal Medicine OCT 2010
The Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Vol. 95, No. 7, July 2006
http://ofcaems.org/ds-Stability_Profiles.pdf

I advise reading all it has to say. But I do want you to have a summery if it will help inspire you in ways to prepare. Some of the main findings about expiration dates were that pills or capsules last the longest. Liquids tend to lose potency very soon. Especially if stored properly in cool, dark & dry conditions & in nonclear containers pills and capsules are still good 2 – 10 yrs. past date of expiration. Using high-tech methods to measure the amounts 12 of 14 of the active ingredients persisted in concentrations that were 90% or greater of the amount indicated on the label.

“Planning ahead, we must consider all alternatives in the effort to stay healthy in hard times. Don’t ignore any option that can help you achieve that goal, even expired medication. …..” Quote from the book. There are other options along with the pharmaceuticals. Herbs and Essential oils are very helpful and effective with no side effects. Get educated to protect you and your family

Be aware and Prepare - Stocking Stuffer Ideas

It is getting close to Christmas.

Thinking of Preparedness I was thinking wool socks and a flashlight would be good stocking stuffers.

Usually there  are small LED (bright) flashlights available in a pack at Costco. Everyone needs a flashlight within reach of their bed for any nighttime emergency.

For winter wool socks would be good to put with the pair of shoes you keep by your bed. remember broken glass is dangerous and you won't be able to walk to get your shoes. That's why you keep them just under the edge of your bed),  You can  put a flashlight in one shoe and a pair of socks in the other.

Sherrie Atkinson
Manila 10th Ward Preparation
Cell 702-325-4444
veryhappy4u@gmail.com

Family Communication Plan

Preparedness on a Budget

72 Hour Kit Checklist

Is It Still Wonderful to You? by Elder Gerald Causse

The Relief Society lesson was taken from the April 2015 Ensign which reminds us that to marvel at the wonders of the gospel is a sign of faith. It is to recognize the hand of the Lord in our lives and everything around us. Here are the questions we discussed in class:

What wonders are before your eyes you are not seeing?

When was the last time you gained guidance in your life by discovering or rediscovering a gospel principle?

When was the last time you whole heartily scarified something good for something better?

When was the last time you felt the Holy Ghost?

You can access Elder Causse talk at www.lds.org/general-conference/2015/04/is-it-still-wonderful-to-you?lang=eng

Family Discovery Day

Stake Humanitarian Day

The Girl in a Whirl

The Girl in a Whirl by Vickie Gunther

Look at me, look at me, look at me now!
You could do what I do if you only knew how.
I study the scriptures one hour each day;
I bake, I upholster, I scrub, and I pray.
I always keep all the commandments completely;
I speak to my little ones gently and sweetly.
I help in their classrooms! I sew all they wear!
I drive them to practice! I cut all their hair!
I memorize names of the General Authorities;
I focus on things to be done by priorities.
I play the piano! I bless with my talents!
My toilets all sparkle! My checkbooks all balance!
Each week every child gets a one-on-one date;
I attend all my meetings (on time! Never late!)
I’m taking a class on the teachings of Paul,
But that is not all! Oh, no. That is not all.
I track my bad habits ’til each is abolished;
Our t-shirts are ironed! My toenails are polished!
Our family home evenings are always delightful;
The lessons I give are both fun and insightful.
I do genealogy faithfully, too. It’s easy to do all the things that I do!
I rise each day early, refreshed and awake;
I know all the names of each youth in my stake!
I read to my children! I help all my neighbors!
I bless the community, too, with my labors.
I exercise and I cook menus gourmet;
My visiting teaching is done the first day!
(I also go do it for someone who missed hers.
It’s the least I can do for my cherished ward sisters.)
I chart resolutions and check off each goal;
I seek each “lost lamb” on my Primary roll.
I can home-grown produce each summer and fall.
But that is not all! Oh, no. That is not all.
I write in my journal! I sing in the choir!
Each day, I write “thank you’s” to those I admire.
My sons were all Eagles when they were fourteen!
My kids get straight A’s! And their bedrooms are clean!
I have a home business to help make some money;
I always look beautifully groomed for my honey.
I go to the temple at least once a week;
I change the car’s tires! I fix the sink’s leak!
I grind my own wheat and I bake all our bread;
I have all our meals planned out six months ahead.
I make sure I rotate our two-years’ supply;
My shopping for Christmas is done by July!
These things are not hard; It’s good if you do them;
You can if you try! Just set goals and pursue them!
It’s easy to do all the things that I do!
If you plan and work smart, you can do them all, too!
It’s easy!” she said ?and then she dropped dead.

Family Search Resource

A Mother"s Pledge

A vision for my children by Tamara Stark

August Relief Society Night

SUPER SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 19TH

Super Saturday Is Coming!

Mark your calendars for Saturday, Sept 19th from 10 am  to 4 pm. 

Be sure to sign up at the table outside the Relief Society room where classes and crafts are displayed. It is going to be a fun day and a great way to get a jump on Christmas gifts!

COOKING CLASSES
2 to 4 pm   Sopes Mexican Cooking Demo by Pamela Tomco. Hands on cooking class making a thick tortilla out of masa and then served with meat, beans and salsa.

Bread Making by Ellen Godfrey and Jean Draney. The secrets from the pros--the shortcut and the traditional versions of making bread.

CRAFT CLASSES
Burlap Bunting by Jessica Hayward. Customize your own bunting flag for the season you want to celebrate (fee of $8)

Chat Books by Tiarra Schow Taught from 1:30 to 4 pm use your Instagram photos to create a personalized photo book. Great for gifts. (fee of $6, bring debit/credit card to pay online)

Burlap Wreath by Alexa Pack. Taught from 11 to 12 pm this wreath will be the first thing that welcomes your guest to your home. Bring your own monograph, ribbon, or flowers to customize this project (fee of $18)

Nativity Blocks by Celeste Wright. Help your children understand the meaning of Christmas with this nativity set designed with little hands in mind (fee of $12)

Calligraphy Class by Christine Z . Taught from 10 to 11 am. Come learn the lost art of calligraphy with practice sheets and instruction (fee $5 for single tip of $10 for dual tip)

Wooden Shim Sign by Jessica Hayward. Customize this wooden sign for the holiday or event of your choice (fee of $7)


                   

THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS OFFICE OF THE FIRST PRESIDENCY 47 EAST SOUTH TEMPLE STREET, SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH 84150-1200

June 29, 2015

TO: General Authorities; General Auxiliary Presidencies; and the following leaders in the United States and Canada: Area Seventies; Temple, Stake Mission and District Presidencies; Bishops and Branch Presidents

Dear Brethren and Sisters:

Enclosed is a statement by the Council of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve in response to the recent Supreme Court decision legalizing same-sex marriage in the United States. The statement also pertains to the situation in Canada. Local leaders are asked to meet with all adults, young men, and young women on either July 5 or July 12 in a setting other than sacrament meeting and read to them the entire statement.

Also included is background material which may be helpful in answering questions that arise.

Stake presidents are asked to see that bishops receive copies of this letter and the enclosures.

Sincerely yours,

Thomas S. Monson

Henry B. Eyring

Dieter F. Uchtdorf

RESPONSE TO THE SUPREME COURT DECISION LEGALIZING SAME‐SEX MARRIAGE IN THE UNITED STATES

June 29, 2015  

Because of the recent decision of the United States Supreme Court and similar legal proceedings and legislative actions in a number of countries that have given civil recognition to same‐sex marriage relationships, the Council of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter‐day Saints restates and reaffirms the doctrinal foundation of Church teachings on morality, marriage, and the family. As we do, we encourage all to consider these teachings in the context of the Plan of Salvation and our Heavenly Father’s purposes in creating the earth and providing for our mortal birth and experience here as His children.

Marriage between a man and a woman was instituted by God and is central to His plan for His children and for the well‐being of society. “God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth” (Genesis 1:27‐28). “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh” (Genesis 2:24). Strong families, guided by a loving mother and father, serve as the fundamental institution for nurturing children, instilling faith, and transmitting to future generations the moral strengths and values that are important to civilization and vital to eternal salvation.

A family built on marriage of a man and a woman is the best setting for God’s plan of happiness to thrive. That is why communities and nations generally have encouraged and protected marriage between a man and a woman, and the family that results from their union, as privileged institutions. Sexual relations outside of such a marriage are contrary to the laws of God pertaining to morality.

Changes in the civil law do not, indeed cannot, change the moral law that God has established. God expects us to uphold and keep His commandments regardless of divergent opinions or trends in society. His law of chastity is clear: sexual relations are proper only between a man and a woman who are legally and lawfully wedded as husband and wife. We invite all to review and understand the doctrine contained in “The Family: A Proclamation to the World.”

Consistent with our fundamental beliefs, Church officers will not employ their ecclesiastical authority to perform marriages between two people of the same sex, and the Church does not permit its meetinghouses or other properties to be used for ceremonies, receptions, or other activities associated with same‐sex marriages. Nevertheless, all visitors are welcome to our chapels and premises so long as they respect our standards of conduct while there.

The gospel of Jesus Christ teaches us to love and treat all people with kindness and civility—even when we disagree. We affirm that those who avail themselves of laws or court rulings authorizing same‐sex marriage should not be treated disrespectfully. Indeed, the Church has advocated for rights of same‐sex couples in matters of hospitalization and medical care, fair housing and employment, and probate, so long as these do not infringe on the integrity of the traditional family or the constitutional rights of churches.

The Church insists on its leaders’ and members’ right to express and advocate religious convictions on marriage, family, and morality free from retaliation or retribution. The Church is also entitled to maintain its standards of moral conduct and good standing for members.

As members of the Church, we are responsible to teach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to illuminate the great blessings that flow from heeding God’s commandments as well as the inevitable consequences of ignoring them. We invite all to pray that people everywhere will have their hearts softened to the truths God established in the beginning, and that wisdom will be granted to those who are called upon to decide issues critical to society’s future.

THE COUNCIL OF

THE FIRST PRESIDENCY AND

QUORUM OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES

OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER‐DAY SAINTS

Background Material for Bishops and Branch Presidents On the U.S. Supreme Court Decision on Same‐sex Marriage

The Church has provided a statement dated June 29, 2015, prepared by the Council of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles regarding the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision legalizing same‐sex marriage in the United States. The response reaffirms the divinely‐revealed reasons and proper doctrinal context for the Church’s unequivocal position regarding matters of morality, chastity, marriage, and the family. As the response notes, the Church’s teachings on these subjects are grounded in the scriptural declarations of God’s eternal plan for the salvation and exaltation of His children and are framed in “The Family: A Proclamation to the World.” While the statement stands on its own, below is additional information that may be helpful to you in responding to questions that may arise.

For much of human history, civil laws have generally been compatible with God’s laws. Unfortunately, there have been notable exceptions to that pattern. For example, it is legal in the United States to perform an abortion on an unborn fetus. However, this practice is not morally acceptable before God. (See Handbook 1, 17.3). The consumption of alcohol, while contrary to God’s law, is legal in most nations of the world, but the physical and social toll for doing so is a painful matter of record. So, too, with issues of unchaste sexual behavior, whether it be heterosexual or homosexual in its orientation. As the First Presidency has previously said and as this current response affirms, “Changes in the civil law do not, indeed cannot, change the moral law that God has established. God expects us to uphold and keep His commandments regardless of divergent opinions or trends in society” (First Presidency letter on “Same‐ Sex Marriage,” January 9, 2014).

What is the Church’s Policy on Homosexual Relations?

“Homosexual behavior violates the commandments of God, is contrary to the purposes of human sexuality, and deprives people of the blessings that can be found in family life and in the saving ordinances of the gospel. Those who persist in such behavior or who influence others to do so are subject to Church discipline. Homosexual behavior can be forgiven through sincere repentance. “If members engage in homosexual behavior, Church leaders should help them have a clear understanding of faith in Jesus Christ, the process of repentance, and the purpose of life on earth.

“While opposing homosexual behavior, the Church reaches out with understanding and respect to individuals who are attracted to those of the same gender. “If members feel same‐gender attraction but do not engage in any homosexual behavior, leaders should support and encourage them in their resolve to live the law of chastity and to control unrighteous thoughts. These members may receive Church callings. If they are worthy and qualified in every other way, they may also hold temple recommends and receive temple ordinances” (Handbook 2, 21.4.6).

Does the authorization of same‐sex marriage affect my right to religious freedom?

Our individual right to religious freedom is protected by the First Amendment to the United States’ Constitution and by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. As we exercise that right, we must also exercise tolerance and respect toward others’ rights but do so without condoning behavior that goes contrary to the laws of God. “While we strive for the virtue of tolerance, other commendable qualities need not be lost. Tolerance does not require the surrender of noble purpose or of individual identity. The Lord gave instruction to leaders of His restored Church to establish and maintain institutional integrity—‘that the Church may stand independent’ (D&C 78:14)” (Elder Russell M. Nelson, “Teach Us Tolerance and Love,” April 1994 general conference). How do I respond respectfully to those who consider the Church’s position on this matter unchristian? Our objection to same‐sex marriage is not based on animosity toward anyone, but on our understanding of God’s purposes for His children. For us, the issues are not simply “tolerance” and “equality.” The issues are the nature of marriage and the consequences of redefining a divinely established institution. In addition, redefining marriage in the law can have profound consequences for society, particularly for children. Mothers and fathers matter, and they are not interchangeable. “On the subject of public discourse, we should all follow the gospel teachings to love our neighbor and avoid contention. Followers of Christ should be examples of civility. We should . . . be good listeners and show concern for the sincere belief [of others.] Though we may disagree, we should not be disagreeable. We should be wise in explaining our position and, in doing so, ask that others not be offended by our sincere religious beliefs and the free exercise of our religion” (Elder Dallin H. Oaks, “Loving Others and Living with Differences,” October 2014 general conference).

What if I have reservations of my own regarding the Church’s position on this subject?

“Members who . . . have doctrinal questions should make a diligent effort, including earnest prayer and scripture study, to find solutions and answers themselves. Church members are encouraged to seek guidance from the Holy Ghost to help them in their personal lives and in family and Church responsibilities.

“If members still need help, they should counsel first with their bishop. If necessary, he may refer them to the stake president. “. . . Stake presidents who need clarification about doctrinal or other Church matters may write in behalf of their members to the First Presidency” (Handbook 2, 21.1.24).