by Charlotte Wilson | Jan 20, 2014 | About Mormons, Do Mormons Celebrate Holidays?, Jesus Christ
It’s January, and the internet is swimming in articles and blog posts about resolutions, goals, and change. These resolutions are often pretty standard: get in shape, save money, find a new job, try something new. Those goals aren’t bad, and if you’re committed to them, can actually be really good for you, but they aren’t the only ones you should consider as you dive into the new year. When you sit down to make goals for the new year, think about what you want to be and not just about what you want to do. Here are some ideas for resolutions you can make that will bring you closer to the Savior.
1. Seek out someone in need
Seeking out those in need can mean assisting the homeless, or stopping for that friend who needs someone to talk to. Resolve to be more aware of those around you and more attuned to the ways you can serve. Throughout Christ’s ministry, He was constantly aware of those who needed help, and He always served where He was needed. This year, let’s make a goal of being where we need to be and acting on those generous thoughts that cross our minds. Let’s serve in that wonderful way that the Savior did.
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by Charlotte Wilson | Dec 3, 2013 | About Mormons
At the beginning of November 2013, raging Typhoon Haiyan devastated the Philippine islands. By the end of the month, the death toll rose above 5,500, with the numbers continuing to rise. The Philippines hasn’t ever seen destruction like this. Many people around the world may see the storm footage and say to themselves, “Gee, that’s too bad. I wish we could do something.” Miles Bell, however, owner of Dave’s Auto Center in Layton and Centerville, Utah, decided to do something more.[1]
Opening Up Shop
Bell is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (a faith often inadvertently referred to as the Mormon Church) and served his full-time mission in the Philippines. Thanks to social media, Bell is able to stay in touch with many of the people he served in that country. So when Typhoon Haiyan ravaged the islands, Bell was devastated.
Instead of wishing he could do something to help, Bell took action. He decided to open up his auto shop on a day when they were usually closed. All labor proceeds that day were donated to relief efforts in the Philippines. Customers came in for repairs both big and small and were asked to donate at least $50, regardless of the repair. During the fundraiser, customers were also allowed to bring in their own parts or to purchase the needed parts wholesale. (more…)
by Charlotte Wilson | Sep 12, 2013 | About Mormons
Even just 50 years ago, pornography was something you had to actively search for. Today, salacious and inappropriate images and content will find you. Contrary to what the world may say, pornography is addictive and destructive. Not only does pornography destroy the users spirit, but in so many cases it destroys family relationships as well. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (often inadvertently referred to as the Mormon church) has taken a decided stand against pornography and has gone so far as to create a website dedicated to both the prevention of and the recovery from pornography.[1]
Prevention and Recovery
While certainly The Church of Jesus Christ believes that prevention is the best way to deal with pornography and its addictive properties, the church is also very aware that many of its members do indeed struggle with pornography. This new website, titled “Overcoming Pornography through the Atonement of Jesus Christ” (found at overcomingpornography.org), has resources to help with both prevention and recovery. (more…)
by Charlotte Wilson | Aug 1, 2013 | About Mormons
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (often inadvertently referred to as the Mormon church) has a history that spans the entire world. The Church of Jesus Christ was restored in America by Joseph Smith in 1830. After the restoration, The Church of Jesus Christ sent missionaries all over the world. One of the first places Mormon missionaries travelled was to the British Isles. The United Kingdom is coming up on the 175th anniversary of Mormonism’s presence, and the Saints in the country are planning a grand celebration. [1]
Pageants Are a Big Part of Mormon Culture
In the United States, Mormons produce pageants all throughout the summer months commemorating scriptural accounts and church history events. Several pageants are produced in Utah, with several others taking place in Palmyra, New York; Nauvoo, Illinois; and Mesa, Arizona. In America, pageants are a big part of Mormon culture.
The Chorley Pageant
The Saints in the United Kingdom thought that producing their own pageant would be a fitting way to commemorate the 175 years of the presence of the gospel of Jesus Christ in the British Isles. The focus of the UK pageant will be the church’s history in their own country. This presentation will include telling the stories of the first Mormon missionaries to proselytize in England, who arrived in 1837. The storytelling will take place through both acting and musical performances. The event will also hold pre-show activities for everyone, like period dancing with costumes and games. (more…)
by Charlotte Wilson | Aug 1, 2013 | About Mormons
Chances are you’ve seen missionaries for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (a faith often inadvertently referred to as the Mormon church) canvassing streets proselytizing. They’re most often men in their early 20s wearing dark suits, ties, and name tags. Sometimes they’re young women dressed in conservative skirts and dresses. Recently The Church of Jesus Christ updated the dress code for their missionaries, making them not only more current with the professional trends but also more relatable and approachable. [1]
Sister Missionary Dress Code
A few years before this newest addendum, the dress standards for sister missionaries were updated to include knee-length skirts, trendy blazers, and brighter colors. This move made sister missionaries able to wear trendy clothing that was still appropriate for their callings as missionaries. They can wear cardigans, belts, and dresses, as well as clothing with bright and vibrant patterns. Wearing makeup is permissible as long as it looks natural and conservative. The Church of Jesus Christ encourages sister missionaries to wear clothing that fits well and looks professional. The Mormon sister missionaries used to look a little frumpy, but since the update to the dress code, now look more professional and put together. (more…)
