Hi, I'm Tom

I am a father, a brother, a son, an attorney, a sports fan, a St. Louisan, and I'm a Mormon.

About Me

I grew up and went to Catholic grade school and high school. In college I was active in the Newman Association, but something was missing. As I went to law school in the evenings the feeling that something was missing became more pronounced. I met my wife Alison in law school and began going to Church with her. The more I attended Church, the more whole I felt. I eventually joined the Church and have been happy ever since.

Having grown up in St. Louis, I am a life-long Cardinals fan and baseball fan. I also subscribe to the long-time St. Louis tradition of asking people what high school they went to.

Why I am a Mormon

I am a Mormon for many reasons, but the most important one is the way members are encouraged (and do) live the Gospel. Since joining the Church in 2004, I have been continually impressed by members service to one another as well as others who are not of our faith. Living the principles that Jesus Christ taught helps me come closer to him and my Heavenly Father.

Personal Stories

What are you doing to help strengthen your family and make it successful?

Our family has Family Home Evening every Monday night. During the evening we have a special dinner, then a spiritual lesson, sing songs, play games, organize our family calendar for the week, and have a special dessert. Having this dedicated family time gives us the opportunity to know what is happening in each others lives and to slow down and talk. The family time also allows us to relate spirtual concepts to practical situations that happen in our lives. We notice an increased measure of the Spirit in our home as we have Family Home Evening.

How I live my faith

I live my faith by trying to serve others. I do my best to engage in some spiritual activity every day by reading my scriptures, writing in my journal, saying personal and family prayers and spending time with my family. In addition, I try to have my faith influence my actions both personally and professionally.

In my professional life, I am an attorney. I do my best to let the principles of honesty, integrity, and concern for others influence how I practice law. This allows me to enjoy what I do and keep in mind the eternal principles that are most important.

Can husband and wife be together forever? Do you believe that families will live together in heaven?

Tom answered...

Yes, a husband and wife can be together forever. When I was investigating the Church, this was one of the principles that I liked the most. I believe that my wife and I have been sealed together for time and all eternity through the authority of the Priesthood. This is the same Priesthood that has existed throughout time. I further believe that by being married in the Temple that our children are sealed to us as well.
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Mark answered...

This is more than just instinct. We are indeed eternal beings whose origin is before the creation of the earth. And one of the things we come to earth to do is to find a companion, not only for this mortal existence, but for eternity as well. God has provided the place, the Temple of the Lord, and the authority, the power to seal things on earth and in heaven. So that eternal relationships can be established here and enjoyed after this life is done. Do I believe it? I feel certain that these principles are true. The Holy Ghost confirms that to my spirit.

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

John answered...

This is one of the hardest subjects because in today's world the only accepted dialog is love or hate. We firmly decree that homosexual behavior is sinful. This does not speak to the individual, who they are or the feelings they have. Each of us face feelings and desires, some of which are contrary to the will of the Lord. This is one of them.

Our Heavenly Father does not judge us on these feelings, but how we act on them. If feelings are converted to behavior, then sin has been committed.

We believe that marriage is a sacred institution, one that God has intended to be shared between man and woman. We do not believe it is for us to redefine it, and as such would not support a change that would legitimize behavior believed to be sinful.

We love all of God's children. I have several friends who identify themselves as homosexuals. I consider them friends even though my beliefs hurt and frustrate them. I try to help them understand that I can love them and care about them while maintaining these beliefs. Likewise, I would always defend them against discrimination and bullying.