Catholic Bishop defends traditional marriage amid scrutiny

Catholic Archbishop Timothy Dolan, who was appointed nearly three years ago as the head of the Catholic Archdiocese in New York City, has defended traditional marriage vehemently in the Empire State, often amid scrutiny from both the right and the left.  Some issues faced head-on by Dolan are in conformity with the doctrines and principles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  The Mormon Eagle's examination of them, as Dolan puts them forth in the Sunday 30 October 2011 issue of the Deseret News, follows.

Boldly Stated by the Catholics and the Mormons
Archbishop Dolan stated, "We are, as a people of faith, against any attempt by anyone anywhere to diminish the pure definition of marriage.  We're against adultery, we're against a frivolous divorce, we're against cohabitation before marriage" ("A Man of Faith: How the Battle Over Same-Sex Marriage is Defining "America's Pope'", Deseret News, Sunday 30 October 2011, A4).  Stated plainly and simply enough, but to make the point further, I quote from "The Family: A Proclamation to the World", given by the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.

We, the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, solemnly proclaim that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and that the family is central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children. . . . We declare that God’s commandment for His children to multiply and replenish the earth remains in force. We further declare that God has commanded that the sacred powers of procreation are to be employed only between man and woman, lawfully wedded as husband and wife. . . . we warn that the disintegration of the family will bring upon individuals, communities, and nations the calamities foretold by ancient and modern prophets. ("The Family: A Proclamation to the World, October 1995 Semiannual General Conference).

Not Anti-Gay, But Pro-Family
Both The Church of Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church has received flak for defending traditional marriage so strongly.  Many have stated, at least to the leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, that Mormons are anti-gay.  This, however, is untrue; the Mormons aren't anti-gay, but rather pro-family.  President Gordon B. Hinckley stated,  

People inquire about our position on those who consider themselves so-called gays and lesbians. My response is that we love them as sons and daughters of God. They may have certain inclinations which are powerful and which may be difficult to control. Most people have inclinations of one kind or another at various times. If they do not act upon these inclinations, then they can go forward as do all other members of the Church. If they violate the law of chastity and the moral standards of the Church, then they are subject to the discipline of the Church, just as others are (Ensign, Nov. 1998, p. 71).

He stated elsewhere, "We want to help these people, to strengthen them, to assist them with their problems and to help them with their difficulties. But we cannot stand idle if they indulge in immoral activity, if they try to uphold and defend and live in a so-called same-sex marriage situation. To permit such would be to make light of the very serious and sacred foundation of God-sanctioned marriage and its very purpose, the rearing of families" (Ibid., p. 71).

Bishop Dolan stated, "[Gays and lesbians] have our love, they have our acceptance, they deserve our dignity and respect, and so we can't allow this ever to be reduced to an anti-gay question" ("A Man of Faith: How the Battle Over Same-Sex Marriage is Defining "America's Pope'", Deseret News, Sunday 30 October 2011, A4).

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints stands with our friends of other faiths who support traditional, God-sanctioned marriage.  We will fight alongside you, ever willing to keep the commandments of God.  In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Religion in the Public Square

Independent Senator Joseph Lieberman spoke at Brigham Young University on Tuesday 25 October 2011 about the necessity of religion in the public square.  He also spoke of Governor Romney and Mormonism.  Senator Lieberman made telling remarks concerning those who try to alienate religious freedom from the public square.  Said he, "Anybody who tries to separate faith from America's public square is doing something unnatural and ultimately bad for our country" ("A test of fairness", Deseret News, Wednesday 26 October 2011, A6).

Indeed it is foolish for those who are non-believers to say religion should stay out of the public square.  Well did Elder Neal A. Maxwell, then of the Quorum of Seventy but later a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, prophesy of the rise of the irreligious sentiment when he said,

Your discipleship may see the time come when religious convictions are heavily discounted. . . . In its mildest form, irreligion will merely be condescending toward those who hold to traditional Judeo-Christian values.  In its more harsh forms, as is always the case with those whose dogmatism is blinding, the secular church will do what it can to reduce the influence of those who still worry over standards such as those in the Ten Commandments. . . . But there is occurring a discounting of religiously-based opinions.  There may even be a covert and subtle disqualification of some for certain offices in some situations. ("Meeting the Challenges of Today", 10 October 1978, p. 2).

Elder Dallin H. Oaks spoke of the need for religious freedom's defense as well as religion's place in the public square and political debate.  Said he,  

We are fortunate to have such a guarantee [of religious freedom] in the United States, but many nations do not.  The importance of that guarantee in the United States should make us ever diligent to defend it. . . . The extent and nature of religious devotion in this nation is changing.  The tide of public opinion in favor of religion is receding, and this probably portends public pressures for laws that will impinge on religious freedom. . . . Such forces — atheists and others — would intimidate persons with religious-based points of view from influencing or making the laws of their state or nation. . . . We should never be reticent to declare and act upon the sure foundations of our faith.  The call of conscience — whether religious or otherwise — requires no secular justification. ("Religious Freedom", speech given at BYU-Idaho, 13 October 2009).

I know that God has established the Constitution of the United States of America to protect the rights of all people.  In addition to the establishment of the Constitution, He also established The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints - and no other religion whatsoever.  The Church of Jesus Christ - and all Americans - have a mandate, as stated in the Constitution, to ensure all people receive God's gifts of "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness".  Religion must have a place in the public square - along with all other reasons why one maintains the political beliefs he does - in order for the United States to function correctly.  I know this is true.  I know what The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints teaches regarding the Constitution is true.  In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Dedication of Palestine for the Return of the Jews

Elder Orson Hyde of the Twelve Apostles

As today marks the 170th anniversary of the dedication of Palestine for the return of the Jews by Elder Orson Hyde of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, The Mormon Eagle feels to give a short history and commentary upon the subject.

Shortly after Elder Hyde's baptism into the Church of Jesus Christ, the Prophet Joseph Smith pronounced a blessing upon him, in which the Prophet prophesied, "In due time thou shalt go to Jerusalem, the land of thy fathers, and be a watchman unto the house of Israel; and by thy hands shall the Most High do a great work, which shall prepare the way and greatly facilitate the gathering together of that people" (History of the Church, 4:375).

At the April General Conference of 1840, the Prophet Joseph Smith called both Elder Orson Hyde and Elder John E. Page of the Twelve on a mission to Jerusalem to dedicate the land for the return of the Jews.  Elder Page refused to go, so Orson Hyde went alone, after preaching in the eastern United States (principally New York City).  Elder Hyde left for Europe on 13 February 1841.  He spent three and one-half months in the United Kingdom with the rest of the Twelve, then headed on to the European continent.  On 21 October 1841, Elder Hyde reached Jerusalem, the Holy City.  Three days later on 24 October, he dedicated the land for the return of the Jews.  What was his astonishment when he ascended the Mount of Olives, the place where the Son of God was wont to assemble with His ancient Apostles!  Elder Hyde later wrote of what he felt:  

Is that city which I now look down upon really Jerusalem, whose sins and iniquities swelled the Savior’s heart with grief, and drew so many tears from his pitying eye? Is that small enclosure in the valley of Kidron, where the boughs of those lonely olives are waving their green foliage so gracefully in the soft and gentle breeze, really the garden of Gethsemane, where powers infernal poured the flood of hell’s dark gloom around the princely head of the immortal Redeemer?" (A Sketch of the Travels and Ministry of Elder Orson Hyde, (Salt Lake City: Deseret News Office, 1869), p. 13).

While in the spiritually reflective mood, he wrote the prayer of dedication under the direction of the Spirit of the Lord, and then dedicated the land.  He prayed,

Now, O Lord! Thy servant has been obedient to the heavenly vision which Thou gavest him in his native land; and under the shadow of Thine outstretched arm, he has safely arrived in this place to dedicate and consecrate this land unto Thee, for the gathering together of Judah's scattered remnants, according to the predictions of the holy Prophets -- for the building up of Jerusalem again after it has been trodden down by the Gentiles so long, and for rearing a Temple in honor of Thy name. . . . Do Thou take from them their stony heart, and give them a heart of flesh; and may the Sun of Thy favor dispel the cold mists of darkness which have beclouded their atmosphere.  Incline them to gather in upon this land according to Thy word.  Let them come like clouds and like doves to their windows.  Let the large ships of the nations bring them from the distant isles; and let kings become their nursing fathers, and queens with motherly fondness wipe the tear of sorrow from their eye. . . . Do Thou now also be pleased to inspire the hearts of kings and the powers of the earth to look with a friendly eye towards this place, and with a desire to see Thy righteous purposes executed in relation thereto.  Let them know that it is Thy good pleasure to restore the kingdom unto Israel -- raise up Jerusalem as its capital, and constitute her people a distinct nation and government. . . . (History of the Church, 4:456–59).

This prophetic prayer was answered in 1948, when the State of Israel was founded as a homeland for all Jews by the victors of World War Two.  Truly as Elder Hyde prayed, "kings [became] their nursing father, and queens with motherly fondness [wiped] the tear of sorrow from [the Jews'] eye".

Thus was the Holy Land dedicated by a true Apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ, sent by Christ's True Church, even The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  Only this Church will be able to build up the Temple in Jerusalem.  Watch the President of the Church for the announcement, for only he is Authorized to do so by the Lord.  The Jewish religion will not build a Temple in their Holy City, but rather their Mormon brethren, who have the Authority so to do, and the only religion on Earth that has.  In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Mormonism and the Christ no. 4 - Abinadi's Teachings

 
In our no. 4 of this current topic, the Eagle uses the words of Abinadi to the wicked King Noah to further explain our belief in Christ.  We shall start from the beginning of the sermon and proceed through to the end.

In Mosiah 13, Abinadi begins teachings the wicked King and his wicked priests of the importance of the law of Moses, and what it typifies.  He reads to them the Ten Commandments out of the scriptures, and then goes on to say, "For behold, did not Moses prophesy unto them concerning the coming of the Messiah, and that God should redeem his people?  Yea, and even all the prophets who have prophesied ever since the world began—have they not spoken more or less concerning these things?" (Mosiah 13:33).  The fact that the Ten Commandments are here read by a Prophet of God, as well as the interpretation of the meaning of the Law of Moses, is clearly an indication that the believers in the Book of Mormon both believe the Bible and also believe in Christ, and thus are Christians.

Abinadi goes on to quote Isaiah 53, wherein the Prophet describes the true Manhood of the Savior and what He will do for His people.  Abinadi then continues to teach, 

I would that ye should understand that God himself shall come down among the children of men, and shall redeem his people.  And because he dwelleth in flesh he shall be called the Son of God, and having subjected the flesh to the will of the Father, being the Father and the Son—The Father, because he was conceived by the power of God; and the Son, because of the flesh; thus becoming the Father and Son—And they are one God, yea, the very Eternal Fatherof heaven and of earth (Mosiah 15:1-4).

The teachings of Abinadi concerning "God Himself" coming down among His people may seem contradictory when one remembers that Jesus is also called the Son of God.  How, then, is Jesus Christ both God Himself as well as the Son of God?  Can He actually be the Son of Himself?  Christ is called "God Himself" by Abinadi here because it was He, under the direction of His Father Elohim, who gave Moses the Law and who appeared unto His prophets.  He always acts under the direction of His Father.  Also, the use of the phrase "they are one God" means that God the Father and Jesus Christ are distinct Personages united in one purpose.

To further and finally prove my point, Abinadi, speaking of Christ, says, "He is the light and the life of the world; yea, a light that is endless, that can never be darkened; yea, and also a life which is endless, that there can be no more death. . . . redemption cometh through Christ the Lord, who is the very Eternal Father.  Amen" (Mosiah 16:9, 15). 

Thus we can plainly discern the Light by which the Mormons walk, which is Jesus Christ the Savior.  In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Mormonism and the Christ no. 3 - Elder Russell M. Nelson

Elder Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

In today's Deseret News, an article compares the venomous Reverend Robert Jeffress - who made remarks about Mormonism, saying it wasn't Christian and a member thereof is "not a Christian" - with the example of Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.  The article reads,  

Daniel Ruth, a columnist for the St. Petersburg Times, had a lot to say. . . . For Ruth, the Christianity of Mormonism was illustrated by a recent visit by Elder Nelson to his newspaper's editorial board.  "At 87, he was lean, fit, mentally sharp and about to embark on a multi-nation tour on behalf of the church. . . . There were no horns.  No signs of Beelzebub.  No harems.  This was just a thoughtful, spiritual man.'  Ruth said Elder Nelson 'readily acknowledged the church's image problems.  His solution?  Simply live a moral, decent life.  Be a responsible member of the community.  And by living a virtuous life, you set an example for others to recognize Mormonism is not a threat to anyone - except perhaps Starbucks."

Ruth does no consider himself a religious man, and is probably not even a member of The Church of Jesus Christ, but he asks,

What if I suddenly faced some personal crisis and I wanted to talk to someone for spiritual insight, guidance or consolation?  Whom would I be more comfortable with?  Would it be the bloviating little God-baiting parson in Dallas who is so quick to condemn, to judge, to exploit the worst ignorant fears in people?  Or would it be the octogenarian gentle man, who may hold dogmatic beliefs I don't subscribe to, but nevertheless yearns to simply lead a meaningful life?  I think . . . I would be on the next plane to Salt Lake City. ("Columnist contrasts Elder Nelson and Rev. Jeffress", Deseret News, Friday 14 October 2011, A3).

What a remarkable example is Elder Nelson!  I say this not to extoll him, because it is not he whom we should extoll, but rather Him who gave His life as the perfect example, even Jesus Christ the Son of God.  Elder Nelson is a true Apostle of the Lord, don't get me wrong.  However, as is demonstrated by the account of Elder Nelson's love for people, it is because of Elder Nelson's Mormonism - not in spite of it - that he is the way he is.  It is ultimately Jesus Christ who sets Elder Nelson's actions, because Elder Nelson tries to emulate Him whom he serves.  Well did the Savior say,  

Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.  Ye shall know them by their fruits.  Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?  Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.  A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.  Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.  Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them" (Matt. 7:15-20).

He also saith, "What manner of men ought ye to be?  Verily I say unto you, even as I am" (3 Nephi 27:27).  May we ever be like the Lord Jesus Christ in all our actions, so that the world may know that the Latter-day Saints follow Christ, and that Mormonism is true Christianity.  In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Mormonism and the Christ no. 2 - King Benjamin's Teachings

In view of the continuation of the national anti-Mormon tirade against The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, The Mormon Eagle has established the "Mormonism and the Christ" section, in hopes that the anti-Mormons will shut their mouths and hearken to the truth, as taught by the Mormons themselves, rather than by the false priests of a decadent and degenerate so-called "Christian" pastor.  We will examine Mormonism and the Christ by dissecting King Benjamin's sermon to the Nephite people.

We begin in the third chapter of Mosiah, wherein an angel of the Lord prophesies of the coming of Christ.  The angel saith, 

For behold, the time cometh, and is not far distant, that with power, the Lord Omnipotent who reigneth, who was, and is from all eternity to all eternity, shall come down from heaven among the children of men, and shall dwell in a tabernacle of clay, and shall go forth amongst men, working mighty miracles, such as healing the sick, raising the dead, causing the lame to walk, the blind to receive their sight, and the deaf to hear, and curing all manner of diseases.  And he shall cast out devils, or the evil spirits which dwell in the hearts of the children of men.  And lo, he shall suffer temptations, and pain of body, hunger, thirst, and fatigue, even more than man can suffer, except it be unto death; for behold, blood cometh from every pore, so great shall be his anguish for the wickedness and the abominations of his people.  And he shall be called Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Father of heaven and earth, the Creator of all things from the beginning; and his mother shall be called Mary (Mosiah 3:5-8).

This is plain enough for anyone - especially any anti-Mormon - to see Whom we believe in and declare as the Savior.  But, in case the foolish and unwise be stubborn, we shall continue in quoting King Benjamin's words.  He continues to teach that "salvation cometh to none such except it be through repentance and faith on the Lord Jesus Christ" (Mosiah 3:12).  The link will suffice in proving our point heretofore explained.  He also prophesied of these days.  He said, "The time shall come when the knowledge of a Savior shall spread throughout every nation, kindred, tongue, and people.  And behold, when that time cometh, none shall be found blameless before God, except it be little children, only through repentance and faith on the name of the Lord God Omnipotent" (verses 20-21).  In what way has the Lord ordained that the knowledge of God's Son be promulgated throughout the entire Earth?  Why, through the Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ.  As President Ezra Taft Benson taught, "the Book of Mormon is the greatest single tool which God has given us to convert the world" ("A New Witness for Christ", Ensign, November 1984, p. 6).

I know the Savior Jesus Christ is indeed my Redeemer.  The foregoing is sufficient to teach any man the right doctrine of The Church of Jesus Christ.  Mormonism is Christianity, and the only religion on Earth recognized by God as His True Church.  In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Mormonism and the Christ no. 1 - Declaration of Belief

To Pastor Robert Jeffress and the First Baptist Church Dallas, greeting:

As Pastor Robert Jeffress, a Baptist from Texas, recently called The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints a "cult" and that we are "not Christian", The Mormon Eagle must, by Divine mandate to preach the Gospel of Christ to all mankind, as well as to confound the wise and otherwise, publish the beliefs of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints concerning it's Namesake, the Son of God Christ Jesus.  The following is a refutation of such ignorant, foolish bigotry using both the Bible and the Book of Mormon, the which Holy Books The Church of Jesus Christ believes as scripture.

Jesus Christ's Own Sonship Declared by Himself
John 3:16 states, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his Only Begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life".  In companion with that, Christ also taught in the Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ , "And my Father sent me that I might be lifted up upon the cross; and after that I had been lifted up upon the cross, that I might draw all men unto me, that as I have been lifted up by men even so should men be lifted up by the Father, to stand before me, to be judged of their works, whether they be good or whether they be evil" (3 Nephi 27:14).  Is this not an evidence that Latter-day Saints believe in Christ Jesus as the Savior of the world?  Thus it is so.

Old Testament Saints and the Son of God

The forcefulness of the teachings of Christ is taught beautifully by Abraham and Isaac.  We read, "And it came to pass after these things, that God did tempt Abraham, and said unto him, Abraham: and he said, Behold, here I am.  And he said, Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of" (Genesis 22:1-2).  It must be understood through the light of revelation that all the Prophets (both before Christ and after Him) worshiped the Father in the name of His Son Jesus Christ.  Jacob, the brother of Nephi, explained the meaning of the passage heretofore quoted: "Behold, they [the Saints before Christ] believed in Christ and worshiped the Father in his name, and also we worship the Father in his name.  And for this intent we keep the law of Moses, it pointing our souls to him; and for this cause it is sanctified unto us for righteousness, even as it was accounted unto Abraham in the wilderness to be obedient unto the commands of God in offering up his son Isaac, which is a similitude of God and his Only Begotten Son" (Jacob 4:5).  Yet another evidence Mormons are Christian in word and in deed.

A Witness of Two Prophets

The Prophet Joseph Smith further taught, "The fundamental principles of our religion are the testimony of the Apostles and Prophets, concerning Jesus Christ, that He died, was buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended into heaven; and all other things which pertain to our religion are only appendages to it" (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 121).  Even the purpose of the Book of Mormon itself is made plain by Nephi.  Saith he, "And as I spake concerning the convincing of the Jews, that Jesus is the very Christ, it must needs be that the Gentiles be convinced also that Jesus is the Christ, the Eternal God; And that he manifesteth himself unto all those who believe in him, by the power of the Holy Ghost; yea, unto every nation, kindred, tongue, and people, working mighty miracles, signs, and wonders, among the children of men according to their faith" (2 Nephi 26:12-13).

The Mormon Eagle's Witness

The Mormon Eagle boldly yet humbly declares that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God.  As the ancient Saints worshiped His Father in His name, so do the Latter-day Saints worship Him in His Father's name.  Indeed must the fact that Jesus is the Christ be published to the world, the which duty the Eagle does unflinchingly.  Jesus Christ is the Savior of the author, as well as the Savior of all mankind, even of those who do not believe in Him, both living and dead.  I know He, Jesus Christ, is indeed the Son of God and my Savior and Redeemer.  I leave this witness in Christ's name.  May it be condemnatory to those who preach bigotry against the Kingdom of God, and a proclamation of approbation to those who do believe in the Son of God and in His Restored Church, even The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  In the name of Jesus Christ my Savior, amen.

The Most Correct of any Book on Earth

The Prophet Joseph Smith taught, "I told the brethren that the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book" (Book of Mormon, Introduction).  Herein we shall examine this claim, and deduce its veracity.

The Book of Mormon is the most correct book on Earth because it teaches the fulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  Every page in the Book of Mormon has at least one mention of the proper title of Deity in one form or another (God, Father, Lamb of God, Son of God, Holy One of Israel, etc.), with a total of 4,032 proper titles of Deity used throughout the book (not including the words "he", "his", "him", etc.  It only includes the proper titles, meaning those capitalized).  Moroni wrote of the purpose of the Book of Mormon.   He said it is "to the convincing of the Jew and Gentile that JESUS IS THE CHRIST, the Eternal God, manifesting himself unto all nations" (Book of Mormon, Title Page).

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve taught, "Indeed, in its role of restoring plain and precious biblical truths that had been lost, while adding scores of new truths about Jesus Christ and preparing the way for the complete restoration of his gospel and the triumphant day of his millennial return, the Book of Mormon may be considered the most remarkable and important religious text ever given to the world” (Christ and the New Covenant, p. 9–10).


The reasons why the Book of Mormon is the most correct of any book on earth is simply that it teaches a fulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  President Ezra Taft Benson said, "If we really do our homework and approach the Book of Mormon doctrinally, we can expose the errors and find the truths to combat many of the current false theories and philosophies of men" (“Jesus Christ—Gifts and Expectations,” Ensign, Dec. 1988, p. 4). 

Indeed, the Book of Mormon is the most correct of any book on the face of the Earth because the doctrines of Christ found within its pages anchor one to the Spirit of the Lord, and confirm correct teachings found within the Bible, while sifting out the false teachings of men, both in the world and within the Bible (which was translated by men, and not by a Prophet of God).

I know the Book of Mormon is the most correct of any book on earth because I have read it.  I have studied it, comparing it meticulously with the Bible, and have found the teachings of the Bible are corroborated by the Book of Mormon, and the doctrines taught in the Bible are agreed upon by the Book of Mormon.  To put it another way, if one has a plank of wood, and nails one end to the floor, the plank can still be turned about a full 360 degrees.  However, nail both ends of the plank to the floor, and it is immoveable; such is the case with the Bible and Book of Mormon - they anchor each other and the doctrine of Christ to the floor of revelation, never to be moved.  I know this is true, and all may know through study of the Book of Mormon, and a prayer to God to know of the veracity thereof.  In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

From Tabernacle to Temple: The Provo City Center Temple

At around 11am during the Saturday morning session of the 181st Semi-Annual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (1 October 2011), it was announced by President Thomas S. Monson that the fire-ravaged Provo Tabernacle will be rebuilt as a House of the Lord, the second Temple in Provo City.  Provo City, Utah, will then be only the second city in the world to have two LDS Temples.  The other is South Jordan, Utah.

The above photo can be seen at newsroom.lds.org, and is an official rendering of how the Temple will look.  According to an article on that website, "Historically, the tabernacle was used for church meetings and cultural events.  Since the 2010 fire, Church leaders have worked with architects, engineers and historical experts to determine the future of the building.  The project will include a complete restoration of the original exterior." 

Provo's Daily Herald quoted President Monson as saying, "After careful consideration, we have decided to rebuild it with full preservation to become the second temple of the Church in the city of Provo".

Update 18 January 2012

As of 18 January 2012, Brigham Young University's Office of Public Archeology will be unearthing the foundation of Provo's "Old Meetinghouse", which stood just north of the current Tabernacle on the same block, facing Center Street.  The Daily Herald of Provo wrote,

Old Tabernacle

The original meetinghouse was raised in 1867 and demolished in 1919.  For a time, it stood next to its replacement, a larger Provo Tabernacle, which is now a burned shell after a 300-watt lamp bulb ignited a blaze that gutted the building in December.  The first tabernacle was one of Provo's earliest structures, with three levels, a large belfry and brick walls on a foundation of stone, said Richard Talbot, director of the Office of Public Archaeology at Brigham Young University. ("Archaeology team to unearth old Provo Tabernacle", heraldextra.com. http://www.heraldextra.com/news/state-and-regional/utah/archaeology-team-to-unearth-old-provo-tabernacle/article_58a6c667-6743-56fc-a7f9-8fb3a9c1725b.html (accessed January 18, 2012)).

Update 17 February 2012
The Deseret News of Friday 17 February 2012 announced that the LDS Church is purchasing NuSkin's existing Parking Terrance (just west (behind) the Tabernacle), and NuSkin also announced they are building a larger Parking Terrace southwest of their Tower in lieu of the Church purchasing NuSkin's old Parking Terrace.  The LDS Church is also planning on purchasing an adjacent portion of 100 South, in between University Avenue and 100 West.

Update 13 March 2012
The Deseret News of Tuesday 13 March 2012 wrote, "Provo's planning commission will address plans to permanently close a portion of 100 South at University Avenue [and 100 West] to accommodate an LDS temple being built downtown."  The hearing will take place Wednesday.

Update 16 March 2012
The Provo Planning Commission has approved the go-ahead for the purchase of 100 South between University Avenue and 100 West, according to the Salt Lake Tribune of 14 March 2012 ("Provo panel endorses closing 100 South for Mormon Temple", Salt Lake Tribune).

Update 6 April 2012
In today's Deseret News, the groundbreaking plans for the Provo City Center Temple have been announced.  "The groundbreaking for the new Provo City Center Temple will be held on Saturday, May 12 at 9 a.m., with Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the church's Quorum of the Twelve Apostles presiding. Church spokesman Scott Trotter said tickets will be required to attend the groundbreaking ceremony, which will also be broadcast to LDS stake centers in and around Provo.

"Tickets will be available through local LDS ecclesiastical leaders within the new temple district" ("Provo City Center Temple groundbreaking plans announced", Deseret News, 5 April 2012).  The construction time, according to the Deseret News, should be roughly 2 1/2 years.

Update 12 May 2012
The groundbreaking ceremony was held Saturday at 9am.  Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles presided and offered the dedicatory prayer over the grounds.  More than 5,600 people attended on the grounds of the Tabernacle.  The groundbreaking was also broadcast to meetinghouses in both Provo and Springville.  The Provo Utah City Center Temple District will consist of 8 Stakes in Provo and 8 Stakes in Springville.  Among the many things said by Elder Holland during the ceremony, he remarked that groundbreakings in The Church of Jesus Christ are ordinances.  During the performance of the ordinance of groundbreaking and site dedication, the Spirit of the Lord was felt as Elder Holland, using his Apostolic Authority, dedicated the site, and also blessed the workers that they would be safe and protected, and that the Temple as it is constructed will be protected from both natural disasters and the hands of the wicked.
 
More details will be printed by The Mormon Eagle as they become available.

"I'm a Mormon" Campaign Spreads Through Cities - and into Our Lives

The "I'm a Mormon" media campaign by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is expanding into fourteen US cities.  According to Friday's Deseret News, the campaign will now open in the following cities:

Austin, TX
San Antonio, TX
Atlanta, GA
Phoenix, AZ
Omaha, NA
Lincoln, NE
Hastings, NE
Spokane, WA
Seattle, WA
Tacoma, WA
Denver, CO
Indianapolis, IN
Fort Wayne, IN
South Bend, IN
("'I'm a Mormon' ad campaign to expand", Deseret News, Friday 30 September 2011, A13)

A newsroom.lds.org article announced Monday 3 October 2011 that, "The campaign is also spreading internationally with ads in Brisbane, Australia."

This campaign is wonderful news, a sign that the Church is "rising up and . . . coming forth . . . out of the wilderness—clear as the moon, and fair as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners" (D&C 5:14).  The Latter-day Saints must not get ahead of themselves, however.  This publicity will bring hundreds of thousands of new converts into the only true and living Church, but will also bring many watchful eyes upon the individual Latter-day Saint.  Therefore, The Mormon Eagle admonishes all - but especially the Latter-day Saints - to follow the words of President Brigham Young.  Said he, "Every moment of my life must be holiness to the Lord, resulting from equity, justice, mercy and uprightness in all my actions, which is the only course by which I can preserve the Spirit of the Almighty to myself" (Deseret News, 2 April 1862, p. 313).  I know if we do as President Young counsels, the Lord will bless us with the greatest of all blessings both in this life, and in the life to come.  In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

LDS Church buys former Hotel Roberts property

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will purchase the old Hotel Roberts property just south of the Provo Tabernacle.  According to today's Deseret News, "With that sale nearly the entire block of 100 to 200 South and University Avenue to 100 West will be owned by the LDS Church.  Only the post office remains" ("Hotel Roberts property going to LDS Church", Deseret News, Wednesday 28 September 2011, A1). 

Hotel Roberts in the 1970s

The properties also on this block are Los 3 Amigos restaurant and the Provo Travelodge.

 

Above is a map of the locations.  Where the word "Provo" is located in 100 South.  The LDS Church will own most of the land stretching in between Center Street and 200 South, and University Avenue and 100 West.  As more news on this purchase materializes, The Mormon Eagle will release more on this issue.

From The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

From lds.org:

"The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles invite all members of the Church to participate in the 181st Semiannual General Conference on Saturday and Sunday, October 1 and 2, 2011.

"Messages will be given by the First Presidency, members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and other General Authorities and general officers of the Church.

"General sessions will be held on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., followed by the priesthood session at 6:00 p.m. mountain daylight time.  Two more general sessions will be held on Sunday at 9:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. mountain daylight time; the morning session includes the Mormon Tabernacle Choir’s broadcast of Music and the Spoken Word."

LDS Business College Turns 125

The LDS Business College is now 125 years old.  According to the Deseret News, it was "first known as Salt Lake Academy, the college was founded in 1886 under the direction of LDS Church President John Taylor."

Wall Mansion, the main building of campus

The Angel Moroni's Appearance to the Prophet Joseph Smith

The Angel Moroni appears to Joseph Smith

 Today is 21 September 2011 - another Anniversary of the appearing of the Angel Moroni to Joseph Smith the Prophet from 1823-27.  The events will be discussed herein.

As Joseph was retiring to bed for the night, he, as all good Christians are taught to do, prayed unto the Lord that evening.  He no doubt gave an account of his activities during the day to the Lord, but also expressed to the Lord a desire for forgiveness of sins, and a willingness that the Lord tell him of his standing before Him.  Joseph writes:

While I was thus in the act of calling upon God, I discovered a light appearing in my room, which continued to increase until the room was lighter than at noonday, when immediately a personage appeared at my bedside, standing in the air, for his feet did not touch the floor. . . . He called me by name, and said unto me that he was a messenger sent from the presence of God to me, and that his name was Moroni; that God had a work for me to do; and that my name should be had for good and evil among all nations, kindreds, and tongues, or that it should be both good and evil spoken of among all people.  He said there was a book deposited, written upon gold plates, giving an account of the former inhabitants of this continent, and the source from whence they sprang.  He also said that the fulness of the everlasting Gospel was contained in it, as delivered by the Savior to the ancient inhabitants. (JS-H 1:30,33-34)

This account brought forth from the ground is now known as the Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ.  The Book of Mormon is true, for the Holy Ghost has borne witness to me that it is so.  However, at this point I feel led to answer critics on the matter of the Angel Moroni appearing to Joseph Smith, using one simple objection I heard thousands of times during my mission to California: namely, the Bible is all we need, and therefore anyone claiming an angelic ministration is deceived by Satan.

Angels in Unenlightened Times
This claim, however, is silly and false, and I will show it through scripture.  Keep the following question in mind: If God is the same yesterday, today, and forever, why would He stop sending angels to give messages to His children?  The answer is He has not stopped sending Angels to speak to His servants, as evidenced by these references in Holy Writ:

1. An angel instructing Adam about the coming Redeemer and Atonement (Moses 5:6)
2. An angel of God coming to Hagar the Egyptian (Gen. 21:17)
3. Angels of God ascending and descending Jacob's Ladder (Gen. 28:12)
4. Angels ministering unto the Savior of the world (Matt. 4:11)
5. An Angel coming to Cornelius (Acts 10:30)
6. An Angel sent by Jesus Himself unto John to reveal the vision known as the Book of Revelation (Rev. 22:16)
7. An Angel protecting Nephi and rebuking Laman and Lemuel (1 Ne. 3:29)
8. An Angel proclaiming Jesus Christ to King Benjamin (Mosiah 3:2)
9. An Angel rebuking Alma the Younger and the sons of Mosiah (Mosiah 27:11)
10. An Angel instructing Alma the Younger to preach against the city Ammonihah (Alma 8:14-18)

Angels in Enlightened Times
Those are just ten examples proving that God speaks to His children, both in the Old and New World.  If then, why not now?  Why in this age of enlightenment, can we not be privileged to see and converse with Angels?  Who are we to say, "God, thou hast revealed Thyself through thine Angels, but no more; not in this day of enlightenment and technology!  Thou hast enlightened us enough, and for that we thank Thee, but send Thou unto us no more of Thine Angels, for we have had enough!"  I say that Angels still visit God's Authorized servants on this Earth, which Authorized servants, holding the Priesthood of God, are only found within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

"The Group" a Conduit for Apostasy

In The Daily Utah Chronicle, an article speaks of an organization, simply called The Group.  The article tells us that Andrew Johnson is the founder of The Group, and a Returned Missionary, he having served his mission in Indiana.  According to The Daily Utah Chronicle he "founded The Group in October 2010 as a safe place for secular humanists, agnostics and freethinkers in Utah County. . . . 'When I returned home, I felt like I was the only non-theist within Utah County as there were no gatherings of people like me'" ("The Group: Utah County's Covert Secular Community", The Daily Utah Chronicle, volume 121, number 16, September 2011, p. 7).

This is disconcerting because so many members of The Group are students at BYU, and so-called "active" members of the Church.  In view of this, The Mormon Eagle feels disposed to warn those who flock to this group and therefore run afoul of the teachings of the Prophets and Apostles.  No good will come of this.  I, Clark LeRay Herlin, warn all to give heed to the Living God and His servants, or suffer the consequences of apostasy.  If one leaves the LDS Church, the Gift of the Holy Ghost leaves also, as do the blessings only found in the House of the Lord.

Open Rebuke to The Group
To begin, Brother Andrew Johnson is on a slippery slope, and will sink himself (and those who ally themselves with The Group) to Hell if he does not desist.  I know this because when one gambles with Satan, one always looses.  To put it another way, I quote President John Taylor.  Said he:

When you hear a man talk against the authorities of this Church and kingdom, you may know he is sliding down hill.  He does not know what spirit influences him; he is ignorant that he is in the dark; and, unless he retraces his steps quickly, he will go overboard.  You may set that down as a fact all the time.  Why?  Because, if this is the Church and kingdom of God, and the President is the elect of God, and his council and the Twelve and others are the elect of God, and you seek to injure them, you run a great risk, and will be found fighting against God; for Jesus says, ‘He that receiveth you receiveth me, and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me; and he that rejecteth you rejecteth me, and he that rejecteth me rejecteth him that sent me.' (Journal of Discourses, 7:325)

There are two fallacies, as mentioned by an anonymous female BYU student who was quoted in The Daily Utah Chronicle.

Fallacy One: No "Pure Good or Pure Evil"

The student says, "There is so much going on in the world that you can't just call pure good and pure evil" ("The Group: Utah County's Covert Secular Community", The Daily Utah Chronicle, volume 121, number 16, September 2011, p. 10).  This is false, because there are absolutes in life.  One absolute is that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is the Source for all good.  Amaleki tells us "there is nothing which is good save it comes from the Lord: and that which is evil cometh from the devil" (Omni 1:25).  The prophet Nephi spake of the devil, saying thus, "And behold, others he flattereth away, and telleth them there is no hell; and he saith unto them: I am no devil, for there is none - and thus he whispereth in their ears, until he grasps them with his awful chains, from whence there is no deliverance" (2 Nephi 28:22).  The Lord Jesus Christ, speaking through Moroni, saith, "And whatsoever thing persuadeth men to do good is of me; for good cometh of none save it be of me.  I am the same that leadeth men to all good" (Ether 4:12).  Even the Scriptures themselves teach of an ultimate good.  Mormon saith, "The preaching of the word had a great tendency to lead the people to do that which was just - yea, it had a more powerful effect upon the minds of the people than the sword, or anything else" (Alma 31:5).  Thus we see there is a pure Source of good, but also a source of evil.

Fallacy Two: Fulfillment and Happiness Found Outside LDS Church

The aforementioned female BYU student says, "Simply because you no longer ascribe to the Mormon faith, or any other organized religion, you can still strive for . . . fulfillment and happiness" ("The Group: Utah County's Covert Secular Community", The Daily Utah Chronicle, volume 121, number 16, September 2011, p.10).  This is also false, in the eternal sense, because to be truly happy in the next life, one must live in a family unit with God the Father, and that can only happen within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  I will prove it through the words of God and His prophets. 

The Redeemer says, speaking of the Gift of the Holy Ghost, "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you" (John 14:26).  President Ezra Taft Benson taught in connection with this, "[Jesus] has power to comfort an anguished heart pierced by sorrow or sin.  He provides a special kind of peace that no human agency can provide" (Ensign, June 1990, p. 2).  Abinadi taught, "O how beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that is the founder of peace, yea, even the Lord, who has redeemed his people; yea, him who has granted salvation unto his people" (Mosiah 15:18).  The Lord saith, "And in nothing doth man offend God, or against none is his wrath kindled, save those who confess not his hand in all things, and obey not his commandments. . . . But learn that he who doeth the works of righteousness shall receive his reward, even peace in this world, and eternal life in the world to come" (D&C 59:21, 23).  Thus we see that peace and fulfillment can only be had within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

An Invitation From the Lord

The Lord wills that all His children live with Him again.  However, none can unless they are clean before Him.  The Son Ahmen saith, 

Will ye not now return unto me, and repent of your sins, and be converted, that I may heal you?  Yea, verily I say unto you, if ye will come unto me ye shall have eternal life.  Behold, mine arm of mercy is extended towards you, and whosoever will come, him will I receive; and blessed are those who come unto me.  Behold, I am Jesus Christ, the Son of God. . . . And as many as have received me, to them have I given to become the sons of God; and even so will I to as many as shall believe on my name, for behold, by me redemption cometh. (3 Nephi 9:13-15,17)

Also, He implores, "Come unto me and ye shall partake of the fruit of the tree of life; yea, ye shall eat and drink of the bread and the waters of life freely; yea, come unto me and bring forth works of righteousness, and ye shall not be hewn down and cast into the fire" (Alma 5:34-35).  As well, the Savior commands,  

Turn, all ye Gentiles, from your wicked ways; ad repent of your evil doings, of your lyings and deceivings, and of your whoredoms, and of your secret abominations, and your idolatries, and of your murders, and your priestcrafts, and your envyings, and your strifes, and from all your wickedness and abominations, and come unto me, and be baptized in my name, that ye may receive a remission of your sins, and be fille with the Holy Ghost, that ye may be cumbered with my people who are of the house of Israel. (3 Nephi 29:2)

I know what I have written are bold sayings, but they are true.  I know The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the only true and living Church on Earth, for the Lord God hath spoken it.  I know without doubt that Joseph Smith is a prophet of God, and that President Thomas S. Monson is the Lord's mouthpiece upon the earth today.  I know those who keep the commandment of God will have the peace of God and the fulfillment He promises, even eternal life.  Forsake all evil and cleave unto all Good, is my prayer.  In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Mormon Theology no. 46 - "One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism"

The prophet Nephi prophesied of our day, he having seen it in vision.  He prophesied, "And there shall also be many which shall say: Eat, drink, and be merry; nevertheless, fear God—he will justify in committing a little sin; yea, lie a little, take the advantage of one because of his words, dig a pit for thy neighbor; there is no harm in this; and do all these things, for tomorrow we die; and if it so be that we are guilty, God will beat us with a few stripes, and at last we shall be saved in the kingdom of God" (2 Nephi 28:8).  The Mormon Eagle will examine the correctness of Nephi's prophecy as seen today in the national press.

"After the Image of His Own God . . ."
In the Tuesday 13 September 2011 issue of USA Today, "religion statistics expert George Barna . . . laments, 'People say, 'I believe in God.  I believe the Bible is a good book.  And then I believe whatever I want.''"*

We read the words of Nadine Epstein, an editor and publisher.  Concerning the Jewish magazine Moment, she states, "The September edition of Moment asks, 'Can their be Judaism without God?'  And most say yes.  It's incredibly exciting.  We live in an era where you pick and choose the part of the religion that makes sense to you.  And you can connect through culture and history in a meaningful way without necessarily religiously practicing."*

Lastly, Rusty Steil of Denver, Colorado remarks, "I don't find much comfort in imagining there's an all-powerful God who would allow people starving and all the natural and man-made disasters."*

These opinions of Mr. Steil, Ms. Epstein, and observation by Mr. Barna, although sincere, are wrong, and will garner the hot displeasure of Jehovah.  Speaking of the inhabitants of Earth, He saith, "They seek not the Lord to establish his righteousness, but every man walketh in his own way, and after the image of his own god, whose image is in the likeness of the world, and whose substance is that of an idol, which waxeth old and shall perish in Babylon, even Babylon the great, which shall fall" (D&C 1:16).

"One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism"
We at The Mormon Eagle will address the above three quotations, expose the falsities of religious secularism, and throw open the door to let in some light.  We will address both concerns of George Barna and Nadine Epstein at once.  They both make remarks saying Americans think they can believe in God (or not believe in Him), do what they want, and all will turn out right in the end.  This is a fallacy of the most hellish hue.  Nephi warns, "And others will he [the devil] pacify, and lull them away into carnal security, that they will say: All is well in Zion; yea, Zion prospereth, all is well—and thus the devil cheateth their souls, and leadeth them away carefully down to hell" (2 Nephi 28:21).

There are certain facts, which cannot be wished away, when it comes to religious matters.  We will list those that counter the quotations found herein, which quotations were pulled from USA Today:

1.  God exists as a Personal Being, with a body of flesh and bone.  God loves all His children, no matter the race, political persuasion, sexual orientation, nationality, or creed (or lack thereof).  Heavenly Father loves His children, and wants them to choose for themselves how to act, whether those actions are to help an old lady across the street or to murder and kill one another.  He holds all accountable to Himself for their actions (or lack thereof), yet He will not intervene in the actions of His children, no matter how evil or good they may be.  He has said, "And we will prove them herewith, to see if they will do all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall command them; And they who keep their first estate shall be added upon" (Abraham 3:25-26).  He wants us to become Gods as He is a God.

2.  The Bible is true, not just a good book.  In it (as well as in the Book of Mormon) we find the Gospel of Jesus Christ, who is the Messiah the Jews have long since hoped for, even the Redeemer of the world.  In the Bible and Book of Mormon, we learn what we must do to gain salvation and exaltation with Christ and God.  The Bible and Book of Mormon are evidences that God has a concrete organization to His kingdom, and that one must join it (through ordinances) or one cannot be saved; that Kingdom is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

3.  The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is Christ's Church, restored as prophesied in Acts: "And he [God] shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you: Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began" (Acts 3:20-21).  To restore means to bring back something in its original state.  Why would Peter say the Church of Christ need be brought back unless the Lord took it away?  Indeed the Lord did take away His Church, but has restored it through His servant Joseph Smith the Prophet.

The above three verities the world must accept or they cannot be saved in the Celestial Kingdom of God; they must accept the above or they cannot be united as families for eternity.  This I know, through careful study and prayer, by the power of the Holy Ghost.  In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

*Quoted in "More Americans customize religion to fit their personal needs", USA Today, 2A

Mormon Tabernacle Choir 9/11 Tribute Digital Release

From the Deseret News, Tuesday 13 September 2011.  The article is written by Trent Toone:

"The Mormon Tabernacle Choir’s special Sunday telecast, “9/11: Rising Above,” narrated by veteran newsman Tom Brokaw, was significant for three reasons.

"The broadcast was a stirring salute to the American spirit on the 10th anniversary of the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001.

"The program aired on more than 900 radio, television and cable networks and Internet stations across the United States.

 

"Veteran newsman Tom Brokaw said he relished his opportunity to work with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. 

 

"The event also opened new doors of digital innovation for the choir to share its music with the world.
For the first time, the choir is releasing a digital-only album of the tribute’s music on iTunes and Deseretbook.com.

“'What usually happens on the Monday following a broadcast of this special nature, our phones and the phones at Bonneville (Communications) are flooded with people saying, ‘How can I get a copy (of the music)?'’” said Scott Barrick, the choir’s general manager.  'The stars aligned for us.  We were able to put this music out there digitally, a lot faster than a physical piece, and have it out there for people to enjoy the next day.  iTunes was a great idea.  It will be a really neat thing to see the response we get.'

"When word leaked to network affiliates in major markets that Brokaw had accepted an invitation to join the world-famous choir in a special 9/11 performance, Deseret Book, a division of Deseret Management Corp. that operates the choir’s record label, was informed.

"'Man, we are going to get phone calls like crazy about where you can get the music that’s in the program,' said Bob Ahlander, director of music and film for Deseret Book.  'We went to the choir and said we wanted to build an iTunes digital album that features music from the program.  They said go for it.'

"In a matter of weeks, the music was pulled together and art was created, Ahlander said.  Deseret Book approached iTunes, and their people loved the idea.

"'They were excited about it and jumped on board right away,' Ahlander said.

"Music from '9/11: Rising Above' will receive iTunes banner ad placement on both the Gospel/Christian and Classical home pages for the next two weeks.  The downloadable six-track album will cost $4.99 and includes popular songs such as “Shenandoah,” “Amazing Grace” and “God Bless America.” Brokaw’s narration is not included.

“'This is the first time we’ve created an album to be sold exclusively in the digital domain,' Ahlander said.

“'This project opened some doors we haven’t been able to get through before.'

"Choir president Mac Christensen said this performance will impact listeners for years to come.

“'We know that many people will be moved by the choir’s 9/11 tribute,' Christensen said.  'We know from experience that many people will want to hear the music over and over.  This digital-only album will enable our listeners to have this music so they can experience the feelings of the broadcast again.'

"The tribute performance Sunday was part of the choir’s weekly series, 'Music and the Spoken Word.'  It originated from Temple Square in Salt Lake City and featured the Orchestra at Temple Square.

"Veteran newsman Tom Brokaw said he relished his opportunity to work with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. 

 

"Barrick said it was fitting for the choir to have a special program Sunday because the choir performed a special concert on the evening of Sept. 11, 2001.

"'They had planned to do a mini concert for a group of financial executives who were in Salt Lake City,' Barrick said.  'As the events of the day unfolded . . . a request came from the First Presidency to change the program to an impromptu memorial concert.  That night the concert, broadcast over KSL Radio, became one of the first musical memorials for the victims of 9/11.'

“'So it’s appropriately fitting that the choir would do a commemoration concert on the anniversary because their music has been providing solace for memories associated with 9/11 from the very beginning.'

"Brokaw and his wife relished their chance to spend time with the choir, Barrick said.  During a taping session on Aug. 21, Barrick said Brokaw stood in front of the choir and related how he first heard the choir perform as a young man when his family passed through Salt Lake City on a trip.

“'It was his highlight of that trip, so he was very pleased to have this opportunity,' Barrick said.  'He talked about what an honor it was for him to be able to be with the choir.'

“'Shenandoah' is Brokaw’s all-time favorite song, Barrick said.

“'After we finished recording Mr. Brokaw’s narration, he and his wife went to the back of the hall with a host and sat there while the choir and orchestra played the full arrangement of ‘Shenandoah.’  He just sat there with tears in his eyes.  At the end of the playing, he just jumped to his feet and yelled, ‘Bravo,’ from the back of the Conference Center.  It was a treat to know it had reached him so meaningfully.'”

LDS Church History no. 5 - Loss of the 116 Manuscript Pages

The loss of the 116 manuscript pages of the Book of Lehi by Brother Martin Harris are a tragedy of untold heights and depths.  What the circumstances are surrounding these events are examined herein.

President Joseph Smith, Jun. states,

Some time after Mr.Harris had begun to write for me [in 1828], he began to importune me to give him liberty to carry the writings home and show them; and desired of me that I would inquire of the Lord. . . . The answer was that he must not.  However, he was not satisfied with this answer, and desired that I should inquire again.  I did so, and the answer was as before.  Still he could not be contented, but insisted that I should inquire once more.  After much solicitation I again inquired of the Lord, and premission was granted him to have the writings on certain conditions; which were, that he show them only to his brother, Preserved Harris, his own wife, his father and his mother, and a Mrs. Cobb, a sister to his wife. (HC 1:21)

Brother Harris bound himself by solemn covenant with President Smith that he would abide by the instructions set down by the Lord.  But alas, Brother Harris showed them to others, who then used cunning devices to get the papers away from him, and they are lost unto this day.   

At a breakfast prepared by Joseph Smith, Sen. and his wife Lucy Mack in New York, where Joseph Smith the Prophet had gone in search of Martin, Martin Harris came, hours late, and without the manuscript pages.  The account reads thus, from the pen of Lucy Mack Smith:

He [Brother Harris] took up his knife and fork as if he were going to use them, but immediately dropped them.  Hyrum, observing this, said "Martin, why do you not eat; are you sick"  Upon which Mr. Harris pressed his hands upon his temples, and cried out in a tone of deep anguish, "Oh, I have lost my soul!  I have lost my soul!"

“Joseph who had not expressed his fears till now, sprang from the table, exclaiming, "Martin, have you lost that manuscript?  Have you broken your oath, and brought down condemnation upon my head as well as your own?"

“Yes; it is gone," replied Martin, "and I know not where."

[Joseph cried,] “All is lost! all is lost!  What shall I do?  I have sinned—it is I who tempted the wrath of God.  I should have been satisfied with the first answer which I received from the Lord; for he told me that it was not safe to let the writing go out of my possession."  He wept and groaned, and walked the floor continually.

At length he told Martin to go back and search again.

“No; said Martin, "it is all in vain; for I have ripped open beds and pillows [looking for the manuscript]; and I know it is not there."

“Then must I", said Joseph, "return with such a tale as this?  I dare not do it.  And how shall I appear before the Lord?  Of what rebuke am I not worthy from the angel of the Most High?" . . .

The next morning, he set out for home.  We parted with heavy hearts, for it now appeared that all which we had so fondly anticipated, and which had been the source of so much secret gratification, had in a moment fled, and fled forever.

(History of Joseph Smith, p. 128–29)

Because of the loss of the 116 pages, President Smith was commanded by the Angel Moroni to give back the plates and the Urim and Thummim.  This he did, and after sincere repentance, the Angel returned them to him.  Joseph later remarked about receiving the Plates again, "The angel seemed pleased with me . . . and he told me that the Lord loved me, for my faithfulness and humility" (History of Joseph Smith, p. 135).  Later on, President Smith said, "I made this my rule: When the Lord commands, do it"  (History of the Church, 2:170).

We can learn a lot from Martin Harris and Joseph Smith.  We can learn that the Lord has strict commands, which must be obeyed without question; also that the Lord's wisdom and knowledge and foresight is better than man's.  Let the Latter-day Saints, therefore, always follow the Lord and His Prophet, which at this time is President Thomas S. Monson.  I know this as fact, for I have asked the Lord in prayer.  All who likewise ask Him in faith with receive a like answer.  In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Payson Utah Temple Groundbreaking Anncouned

From ldschurchnews.com:

"The Church announced Sept. 7 that the Payson Utah Temple groundbreaking will take place on Oct. 8, with Elder Dallin H. Oaks presiding at the 9 a.m. ceremony.

"The property for the temple is located at approximately 930 West and 1550 South on the southwest side of Payson, a mile from the 800 South I-15 interchange.  The new temple will help meet the needs of a growing Church membership in the area and will ease the heavy use of the Provo Utah Temple, which is one of the busiest in the Church.  The Payson temple will bring to 15 the number of operating and announced temples in Utah.

"The new temple will serve approximately 22 stakes from Spanish Fork to Nephi comprising approximately 78,000 Church members.  Temple-going members have been driving 14 miles to Provo or 66 miles Manti for temple services.

"President Thomas S. Monson announced on Jan. 25 that a new temple will be built in Payson, a once agrarian area located in southern Utah County."

LDS Church History no. 4 - The Seventies Hall

Seventies Hall in Nauvoo, Illinois

The Seventies occupy a special place in Church hierarchy, namely firstly and foremost as missionaries.  As such, it is the only Priesthood office to have it's own specific building in any city in any era of Church history.  For example, both the Quorum of the Twelve and the First Presidency have offices in the Church Office Building in Salt Lake City, but the Quorums of the Seventy are the only Quorums to have a building specifically for them.

This building - the Seventies Hall in Nauvoo, IL - was completed in July 1844, and was dedicated in December of that same year by President Brigham Young.  It is also interesting to note that it was in this building that the famous meeting on 8 August 1844 took place, where Sidney Rigdon, devoid of the Spirit of the Lord, claimed guardianship of the Church, but was rejected (see Stanley B. Kimball, "Heber C. Kimball and Family, the Nauvoo Years," BYU Studies, Vol. 15, Number 4, Summer 1975, p. 471).

The main floor was used as a lecture hall and Chapel for Church meetings, as it is still used today.  The pulpit is curved, you will notice, because in those days it was more common for speakers to speak off-the-cuff, whereas today one needs a place for notes; hence today's rectangular pulpits.

The upper floor housed a library and museum containing artifacts brought back by missionaries returning from their missions, but now houses a museum of artifacts found during archeological digs.

During the dedicatory prayer, President Brigham Young stated,

We ask thee, our Father, to accept the dedication of our hearts this morning, and may we feel the prelude of that power and authority with which thy servants shall be clothed, when they shall go forth and open the door of salvation to the nations and kingdoms of the earth; even thy servants, the Seventies, upon whom the burden of thy kingdom does rest, and to whom the keys of the same shall be committed from time to time. (Dean C. Jessee, “The John Taylor Nauvoo Journal: January 1845–September 1845” (1983), BYU Studies, Vol. 23, Summer 1983, 7-9). 

As I read this, I feel a twinge of guilt because I only listen to the Quorum of the Twelve or the First Presidency during General Conference, but I feel to repent of all my sins.  I will make it a habit to listen to all the Brethren, including and especially the Seventies, because they are they key to this work; it is they to whom the Twelve and First Presidency go to for ministerial help, and none else.  They, therefore, hold a special place within the Lord's Church and in His sight.

President Young also said, "Help us, O Lord to separate ourselves from all iniquity, that evil doers may
not exist in our midst, but may this people become a holy people, peculiar to thyself, to show forth thy praise in all the world" (Ibid.).  This is my prayer.  In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.