Hi, I'm Meredith

I grew up in the great Northwest. I'm a stay at home Mom. I'm a Mormon.

About Me

I am a stay at home Mom to a busy 1 year old. I graduated with a degree in American Studies and I still love learning about history, art, and politics. As a family we like to go on walks, play tennis, go camping, play card and board games, and eat! When I get a spare minute I like to take pictures, blog, and do crafts.

Why I am a Mormon

I believe that Jesus Christ is our Savior and Redeemer. I believe that we have a loving Father in Heaven who cares for each of us. I've experienced trials and hard times in my life but it is through the Atonement of Jesus Christ that I find constant strength and hope. Through prayer, scripture study, and promptings of the Spirit, I have come to know the truthfulness of this gospel. The Holy Ghost is one of the greatest gifts I have ever received. It guides me daily as I raise my son and make important decisions for my family. I'm a Mormon because it makes me HAPPY and it gives my life direction!

How I live my faith

Our faith is the foundation of our family. We attend Church on Sundays to partake of the Sacrament and to learn more about the scriptures and gospel principles. Once a month I teach a class to the women in our Ward on teachings from our current Prophet and Apostles. We spend Monday nights together as a family to increase our faith and just have fun together. I have lots of great friends at Church that I get together with them often.

What is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' attitude regarding homosexuality and same sex marriage?

Aman answered...

While I do not condone it, I will never look down on anyone for living a homosexual lifestyle. One of the greatest things God has given us is the right to choose, and I work hard not to judge anyone for the choices they make. I believe the church feels the same way. While not condemning those people who live said lifestyle, according to ancient and modern prophets, God has never condoned such a way of life. Therefore, the church continues to preach relationships and marriage between man and a woman, and families consisting of such an organization.
Mary answered...

I have many homosexual friends, and I have best friends who are gay rights activists. They know my stand on same-sex marriage, and I know theirs, but guess what? We are still friends. I hope you and I can be friends too, as I try to explain a portion of what I feel about the issue of same-sex marriage.

According to principles that I believe were established by God to protect both men and women and provide for their temporal and eternal welfare, only marriage between a man and woman is allowed. This marriage must entail complete fidelity from both parties. Just as post-marital sexual desires and impulses should be controlled, pre-marital ones are equally tameable.

The LDS Church penalizes no one based on their sexual orientation. What someone feels is not equal to what they do. Once someone acts on same-sex attraction, they are committing sin. Merely being attracted is not a sin. It is not easy or simple or enjoyable to suppress one's physical appetites. Frankly, I'm not even sure of all the reasons it is commanded that we do so (though I know of the basic reasons). What I do know (and believe me when I say I do know this) is that God has ordained marriage between man and woman. He always has reasons, and we usually don't understand them for quite some time. But I know with all my heart that it is for the good of all people, regardless of sexual orientation, that marriage only be permited between a man and a woman.

Are all Mormons required to serve a mission?

Austin. answered...

No. Every worthy young man is expected to serve a mission, though there is no punishment for not doing so. Also, not every young man is physically or mentally capable, so there are circumstances where a young man may be excused from service. Young women may also serve missions, but are not expected to do so.

Serving a mission means a full-time commitment, leaving family and friends to preach the gospel in a place assigned by the Church.

I served my mission in Los Angeles, California.