Hi, I'm Kathryn

I'm a happily married mother of one, and I love this gospel

About Me

I'm a mother of one with a beautiful son, and married to my wonderful husband. I'm a 'stay at home mum' and enjoy the challenge of raising my son. I have a few piano students who I teach from my home once a week.
I enjoy the simple things in life, and spending time with family and friends is one of life's simple pleasures! As well as walking and playing out doors as a family.

Why I am a Mormon

Being a member of this church continually makes me a better person. It helps me WANT to become better and then helps me to BE better.

How I live my faith

I try to live each day remembering that I am example to others, and make sure that I reflect my standards at all times, not just when it's convenient. With a husband who is a leader in the church I try to support him in those things he needs to do although it may require him being out at meetings regularly. I live my faith by teaching my son about the gospel and striving to be an example to him.

What are Mormon women like? Do Mormons believe in equality of men and women?

Kathryn answered...

Latter-day saint women are among some of the most faithful, capable and strong women in the world. It's true that women in our church are encouraged to, where possible, remain in the home as full-time mothers and home makers. I think what is most commonly misunderstood is WHY this is so. Some people may think it's because our church believes that women are 'beneath' men or some how less important, when nothing could be farther from the truth.

Women in the church are greatly respected and appreciated, they are encouraged to be at home because there is no one better than a mother to be at home and raise their children. Latter-day saints believe that in the home, women are equal partners with their husbands. It is that simple. What is important to remember is that 'equal' does not mean 'the same.' We simply believe that men and women have different, but equally important roles. A father's role is to protect his family, and provide their physical needs. A mothers role is to help her children grow by nurturing them, and trying hard to make the home a place of refuge for her family. The work of raising a family should be done in unity with both parents being involved with the rearing of their children.

Within the church, women are respected and valued. Their council and advice is sought and valued by their male leaders. They are a large part of the service given with-in the church. They are encouraged to be seen by those around them and to make a difference where they can.
Kathy answered...

In 1776 the Declaration of Independence declared all men to be equal. However in 1830 when the Book of Mormon was published and the church established women and people of color still had no legal rights. The Book of Mormon declared 'Behold, the Lord esteemeth all flesh in one... (1 Ne 17:35) and '..black and white, bond and free, male and female; and he remembereth the heathen; and all are alike unto God, both Jew and Gentile' (2 Nephi 26:33). Joseph taught and lived this. He authorized the Church's women's organization The 'Relief Society'.

When the church moved outside the U.S. borders, they created the State of Deseret with their own constitution which gave ALL adults the right to vote. The State of Deseret was later divided into US states. When the Woman's right to vote began in 1913, women had the right to vote in 4 states: Wyoming, Idaho, Colorado and Utah.- all part of the original State of Deseret with their large Mormon populations. The Relief Society actively supported the Sufferage movement.

The church has always encouraged women to develop their skills and education. The Relief Society sent and paid the schooling for one of the first women at Medical School. Nothing has changed. Motherhood is emphasized because it can be a woman's greatest role - for children are our future. It can also be a woman's greatest joy. Jobs, looks, accomplishments etc will fade or be forgotten, but a loving close family won't, And thanks to grandchildren it will continue to expand.

Who was Joseph Smith?

Mike answered...

Over my lifetime, I have heard countless theories concerning Joseph Smith - his intellect, his integrity, his sanity, everything about him. Some of the stories about him being a prophet sounded convincing... but then, some of the stories of him as a criminal sounded convincing, too. Then I read about Joseph Smith's visitation by the angel Moroni. Moroni told him that his name would be "had for good and evil among all nations, kindreds, and tongues, or that it should be both good and evil spoken among all people." Well, that was certainly a true prophecy. So, it seemed, whether Joseph Smith was a prophet or not, tons of accusations and slander would be said against him anyway! That realization made me understand that only God could confirm whether or not Joseph was truly called of him. I got a strong confirmation of that truth. When others tell me that they "know the truth about the Joseph Smith," I always question their sources - it's usually a book or magazine article, possibly even by an esteemed, intellectual person. But I cannot and will not question my source of the real answer.