Hi, I'm Jody

I'm a Mormon. I grew up in Arizona. We have raised our children here. Now we are have grandchildren and lots of new beginnings.

About Me

I am a mother of 4 grown children. We are grandparents now and have watched with great satisfaction as each of them have married and started their own families. We raised them around grandparents and cousins close by.
I have enjoyed teaching piano for 25 years. I have loved getting to know my students and their parents.
I love music, the arts, and crafting - especially sewing. I also love fresh air, cool country, and sunshine.

Why I am a Mormon

I have always been a member. My parents and Grandparents were all members. Before them, my ancestors were pioneers that sacrificed and worked to help build the kingdom here. Their stories of faith, told and written, speak to my heart. I love their examples.
I also love this church. Families are important, however, our wards become our strength as we serve each other as neighbors and friends. Sundays are my favorite day of the week, because I worship with my church family.
I believe that I was sent to this earth, for a wise and glorious purpose, to gain earthly experience so I can return to live with Heavenly Father again. I knew Him in the preexistence, and was aware of the trials and triumphs I would encounter here. The triumphs are glorious and our trials are custom made to refine us to be the best we can be. I know that by faith, I can hang on tight to the knowledge of His love for me. He knows me and loves me better than I know myself.
The scriptures speak to my heart, also. I know the Bible and the Book of Mormon are a testament of the reality of Jesus Christ. We can know our Savior and Heavenly Father through the scriptures. Each page has messages for us, whether we live in Bible times or today. Heavenly Father's plan is perfect. He sent His Son to earth to die for us, and then live again, just like we can live with Him again, if we are worthy. I am a Mormon because I know these things to be true. My faith is my greatest possession.

Personal Stories

What blessings have come through your faith in Jesus Christ?

Losing a brother affected many. There were 4 missionaries together that day, and 3 of their lives were taken in a tragic car accident. There were many in the area who had visited with them politely and some not so politely. People's guards were up. However, when the accident happened, enough had seen or talked with them, they felt they knew them. Amazingly, their hearts were softened and more people chose to listen. We learned that before the accident, it was a tougher mission than it was after. I feel blessed that people were impressed to listen.
I know that because of my faith in Jesus Christ, I have been given a chance to exercise forgiveness. I also know that if I walk uprightly, I will see and be with them again.

How I live my faith

Every morning we read the scriptures (when the children were at home, and now my husband and I). Prayers are also given out loud at meals and family prayer. Prayers come frequently to my heart as I go about my day.
Currently I serve in the nursery with my husband. We organize play and learning time for several children from ages 18 months to 3 years every Sunday. We love each one. They are just learning about Jesus and Heavenly Father and there is a lot of love and laughter in nursery.
I also currently am the choir accompanist. I have played piano for years and I enjoy it a lot. My husband is the choir director, which makes it fun.
I also serve on a committee that provides humanitarian, homemaking, education, etc for the women in our ward. Those meetings are held once a month in the evening.
I am also a visiting teacher (since age 18). We are given a partner and a few women to connect with each month, to offer help, love, service or happiness as they may need.
I try to reach out to those in my neighborhood. By being accessible to them, I can count on their friendship back.

What do Mormons believe happens to us after we die? What do Mormons believe about life after death?

Jody answered...

When I was 20 years old, I lost a brother while he was serving a mission. The experience was unexpected and hard. However, because of my growing faith, I knew I would see him again. Because of this experience, my faith and knowledge of our Heavenly Father's plan of salvation became clearer and clearer. I knew that even though I couldn't see the completed "distant scene", I could still walk a step at a time toward His light. If I did that, I would be led to His and my brother's presence again.

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

Keri answered...

Mormon women are like any other good woman who is trying her best to raise a family in love and trying to leave the world a little better for future generations.

Mormons do believe in equality of men and women. We believe husband and wives are to work side by side, not one dominating over another. But equality does not mean being exactly the same. We believe that God gave men and women distinct and different roles/assignments to fulfill. Men are primarily responsible for the physical welfare of their families while women are to nurture and care for their families. Although the roles are different each one is important and critical.