Hi, I'm Mirjam

German, Mormon.

About Me

I grew up as a Mormon in Eastern Germany. We were living behind the Wall but we worshiped together, improved our lives and prayed for miracles.

Why I am a Mormon

The miracles I have seen growing up helped me to build a strong testimony. My dad is a very intelligent individual. I always trusted his judgment. My parents struggled with work all their life because of their faith. T the communists didn't want any Christians work in their daycare or teach Physics. They made their religion their priority and live the gospel of Jesus Christ. Growing up with those circumstances made me a strong believer early on. I asked questions and participated in all church activities and service projects.

Personal Stories

What has helped develop greater harmony in your home?

We talk a lot about the gospel, especially to our kids. We honestly tell them about the gospel and what Jesus is like and how we try to be like him. We can achieve it, but only by learning more about him. We have to pray and read scriptures. We attend church and discuss life.

Please explain the part prayer plays in your life?

People always ask me if I talk with my family in Germany on the phone a lot. The answer is: "I do." When I call I can always anticipate a certain background noise. When my little brother answers the TV is on. When my dad answers sometimes Country music is on. On Sundays I can a Tabernacle CD playing. Sometimes in the summer I hear: "I can't come to the phone right now we're grilling Bratswursts outside." Late fall and Christmas it's always Christmas music. Yesterday it was the fanfare trumpet from the WM soccer match. Every time I call and hear those familiar sounds the same familiar feelings well up: homesickness and the reassurance that everything normal and fine.

I have the same feelings about prayer. I know that when I pray it will be quiet and and I will feel the familiar feelings. I can hear my grandparents' response to my complaints: "Just breathe." or pioneers saying: "Faith in every footstep" or the Holy Ghost reminding me that faith proceeds miracles. I know that the reason for knowing what I will hear and feel like is because I have done it enough times. I have called my parents so many times that nothing will surprise me. Prayer is good and reassuring. It strengthens me and uplifts me. It gives me hope and courage and the feeling that I am not alone.

My Father in Heaven is far away. My parents in Germany are far away sometimes it feels as far away as heaven but I know how to return I know the way back. In the mean time I have to hold to my faith until it's my turn to go home. But in the mean time I will work hard to make all of my parents proud.

How I live my faith

I love people watching during church meetings. I can see people tired or excited, happy, overwhelmed but I am always impressed that they choose to get up in the morning to attend church. And not only sit and listen but fully participate. I lead the church choir and do music time in the toddler class. I love to discuss church doctrine with my husband and philosophy about the meaning of life and how we can improve. We read the scriptures together and pray as a family. I want nothing more than my children to grow up in a strong and loving family. The gospel helps me so much to keep focused.

Why don’t Mormons have paid clergy?

Mirjam answered...

My dad has been the bishop a few times over the span of his life. It was always on top of his job but it made him a better person in his work life. Everyone grows in their church callings. I was not sure if I would be a good teacher. I would have never thought to be an actual teacher but having the opportunity to teach in the church made me realize that I like it. I can improve and learn from my fellow church friends. I love to contribute. I love that everyone is involved and the sole goal is to improve ourselves.
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Stephen answered...

Jesus didn't get paid to serve, why should we?

Are there restrictions based on race or color concerning who can join The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and have the priesthood?

Jeff answered...

Of course not! It really doesn't matter where you are from or what color your skin is. The only things that matter are the content of your character. If you are worth to be baptized and live the gospel according to it's principles, then you are worthy to be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Official Declaration 2, found in the Doctrine and Covenants, states "Every faithful, worthy man in the Church may receive the holy priesthood, with power to exercise its divine authority, and enjoy with his loved ones every blessing that flows therefrom, including the blessings of the temple. Accordingly, all worthy male members of the Church may be ordained to the priesthood without regard for race or color.” As long as you are worthy, you can be any nationality.