Hi, I'm Sarah

I'm from Utah. Wife and mother of 3. Registered Nurse. I'm a Mormon.

About Me

I was born and raised in Utah. I am a runner. I love music. I enjoy a clean house and eating ridiculously large amounts of vegetables. I am the oldest of 7 girls. My reasons for living are my 3 beautiful children. I am a Registered Nurse working in critical care. I have been married to the man of my dreams for 7 years. I have been a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints my whole life.

Why I am a Mormon

At a young age, I knew that I had a Father in Heaven that loved me. I knew that the Savior, under the direction of the Father, created the Heavens and the Earth, and all the creatures in it. We were created by them, and I knew they loved me. I grew up learning the principles of the gospel. But it came down to this; I read the Book of Mormon at the age of 12 and asked God whether or not it was true. I received a powerful witness from the Holy Spirit saying that it was. I knew that my Father had answered my prayer. Many times since then, I have had similar experiences as I have put various gospel principles to the test. As I obey the council and commandments contained in the Bible and the Book of Mormon, my mind is enlightened and I find JOY even in the most trying and tragic circumstances. My desire is for everyone I know and loved to find for themselves the truthfulness of this gospel.

How I live my faith

It is very important for me as a mother to teach my children the gospel. In order to do that, I have to make sure I study the scriptures daily myself so that knowledge is on the forefront of my mind. I do my best to teach them to pray at least before meals and as a whole family before bedtime. We have a family night once a week where we perform service or have a gospel-related lesson. I also attend church with my family every Sunday where we partake of the sacrament and renew the covenants we made at baptism. We also have classes where we can learn about gospel essentials. I have a calling as an activity day leader for 9 year old girls, and we have an activity twice a month. My husband and I go to the temple as often as we can to perform ordinances for the dead.

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.
Jenny answered...

My father is gay and I have many friends who are gay. Though we have some differing opinions and beliefs, we have a great relationship - each respecting the other's right to choose their own way. Its no secret that the Church does not support gay marriage. We believe that God's plan for the family is, always has been and always will be a man and a woman and their children. However, the perception that the church is anti-gay is inaccurate. We support the rights of all men and woman to exercise their free agency and be entitled to the same legal rights as anyone, as long as they don't erode the principles on which our country was founded - freedom of religion. The scriptures affirm that homosexual behaviors are a sin, but I believe Christ understands the extreme difficulty that a gay person would experience refusing to act upon their same-sex attraction. I also believe that through Him, all things are possible and that no person is unworthy or undeserving of His love and the benefits of His atonement.

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?

Mark answered...

There is no discrimination or exclusions of race. The Lord says in the bible, "...man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the Heart." 1Sam 16:7. The Lord does not care what race or color you are. All he cares about is you. He loves you.