Hi, I'm Rick

I'm a Mormon.

About Me

I recently obtained a master's degree in political science and am currently working in the market research industry. I love to travel, run, cycle, and spend time with my family.
I plan to help start a nonprofit organization centered around helping immigrants to the United States in the near future.
I love food and love to cook. I'm a big fan of all sorts of ethnic cuisine and enjoy trying new foods and cooking techniques. I try to use organic or at least healthy foods in my cooking.

Why I am a Mormon

Being a Mormon makes me happy. I really believe that I am following God's plan for me to be happy, and I know that this plan isn't unique to me. I know that people can find real joy in living Christ's gospel.
My family is the most special thing in the world to me. I've always had an innate love for them, and I don't think that strong attachment is particular to me. I think that most people want their loving relationships to endure forever, and being a Mormon has helped me know how God can help us have our families forever.
There is a profound peace in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I am very aware that it is impossible for people to live perfectly. The scriptures, including the Book of Mormon, have enabled me to come to know Christ and the power that can give us peace despite any situation we have put ourselves in.

Personal Stories

Why do Mormons go on missions?

Mormons go on missions to help others come to Christ. This is the sole purpose of these often difficult journeys. I served a mission to Ireland, and my motivation was to help others find the joy in the gospel that I had found.

How I live my faith

I have participated in a variety of ways - from teaching Sunday School, to leading a group of peers, to planning activities for people to socialize at. No matter what I've done, I've always enjoyed helping others as they help me.

Does The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints endorse political parties?

Rick answered...

No way, no how. The Church has ALWAYS encouraged individuals to deliberatively decide which political platform best represents their values and to vote for them.
I find great comfort in the fact that I'm a member of church that tolerates political diversity. As members, we may have political disagreements, but the Gospel is one point of common ground that we can find sanctuary in together.
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Dario answered...

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has no political affiliation, and remains neutral on political activity. As declared by the Church, its purpose is to invite others to come unto Christ, not to elect politicians, and this applies to all the nations were the Church is established. In the same way, the Church does not endorse nor promote political parties, and its members are not directed to vote for specific candidates. Elected officials who are also members of the Church, does not represent the Church's position.

However, the Church does encourages us, members of the Church, to play a responsible role as citizens of the nations, to be informed, and to exercise our right to vote. Also, we are expected to respect others who think different and to participate in dialogue and exchange of ideas to reach consensus.

In the Church, we learn since we are young to be responsible and to seek to serve our communities and families. The Church's programs aims to strength our capacity and willingness to serve others. In this same context, we support leaders and programs which purposes are to make a better world. I personally support leaders who inspire those principles, and pray that whoever is elected would make wise decisions for the welfare of our nations and those of others. To obey, honor, and sustain the law of our country is an important responsibility of every member of our church.

What is the difference between attending church and the temple?

Kimberly. answered...

We go to church weekly to worship and take the sacrament, which is like communion. Everyone, no matter their faith, is welcome to come to church services and learn more about the Gospel.

The temple is a special place where members make further promises to Heavenly Father that they will keep his commandments. It is also where we are married, or sealed together, and where we can be baptized and sealed for our family members who have died before having those opportunities in life.

To go to the temple you need a card called a temple reccomend from your church leaders that confirms that you are currently doing your best to follow Christ and His Gospel as a member of the Church.