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Featured Author
Maurine Proctor
MEET AUTHOR Maurine Proctor
Maurine Jensen Proctor is the co-founder and editor-in-chief of Meridian Magazine. With her husband, Scot, she has written several photographic books including Witness of the Light, a Photographic Journey in the Footsteps of the American Prophet, Joseph Smith; Source of the Light, A Witness and Testimony of Jesus Christ, the Savior and Redeemer of All; Light from the Dust, A Photographic Exploration into the Ancient World of the Book of Mormon; The Gathering, Mormon Pioneers on the Trail to Zion. Maurine and Scot have edited The Revised and Enhanced History of Joseph Smith by His Mother, and The Autobiography of Parley P. Pratt, Revised and Enhanced Edition. She has written several other books, films and television series including Families are Forever that played on the VISN network. She wrote the Spoken Word for the Mormon Tabernacle Choir for 15 years and the You and Your World weekly radio broadcast that was heard on 350 radio stations across the U.S. She has taught Institute of Religion classes for several years and taken people on tours to sacred sites all over the world. Maurine is the mother of 11 children and the grandmother of 17.
Author's Published Articles
George Washington at the New Monument of the Americas Park
A people who have forgotten the importance of our foundation…
Three Memorable Teachings from President M. Russell Ballard
When Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve, M.…
Where will “Monument of the Americas”, the New Sculpture Park Be?
Year after year, Meridian has chosen a special project for…
Meridian Readers will Fund the Title of Liberty
In a world where people are tearing down statues, won’t…
Why the Lord Asks Something Beautiful and Difficult
It’s easy to think that the reason we don’t live…
How Can There be No Division Among You?
My friend Richard Eyre asked me to do something remarkable…
No More Strangers: Angels Came from This Side of the Veil
I did not anticipate that I would take our shiny,…
Three Remarkable Memories of Sister Patricia T. Holland
At the funeral of Sister Patricia T. Holland on Friday,…
The Thought Police and How They Change Us
We’ve arrived at that strange day when the speech we’ve…
When Jefferson and Adams Died on the Same Fourth of July
We’ll wave our flags, line up for parades, and slap…
Why We Must Rally ‘Round the Right Flag
We have celebrated with the colorful flags of Pride for…
What if the Trials of Your Life were Your Mercies in Disguise?
Like so many who are caught in the various physical…
Angel Studios presents new feature film: “His Only Son”
The millions who have loved The Chosen, may be pleased…
A God Who is Touched by Our Infirmities
The Lord’s touch is individual, meant for us personally. One…
The Savior’s Touch as a Symbol of the Atonement
Of the many symbols of the atonement, perhaps none is…
Born When the Light Begins to Return; A Birthday Letter to Joseph Smith
Nothing was particularly auspicious about the birth of Joseph Smith,…
Mike Lee: Five Issues that Undercut America’s Well-Being and Why We Must Fix Them
We asked Senator Lee what were the five issues that…
Jenny Oaks Baker’s Ah-Ha Moment
Well-known as a gifted violinist, Jenny Oaks Baker has had…
Four Bad Ideas that Make Latter-day Saint Dating Stressful
Young Latter-day Saint single adults live in a culture where…
A Hallelujah from the Heart: A Thirteen-Year Old’s Song of Gratitude
Josh Sales of Christian Covers collaborated with our 13-year-old grandson,…
Sergeant Hugh Nibley’s Surprising Memories of D-Day
Sergeant Hugh Nibley may be the only soldier at the…
The Hidden Atonement in a Familiar Story
We have heard the story of the Good Samaritan so…
Why “Here Am I” is a Powerful Sentence
Are God's tender mercies just for "once in awhile" or…
An Almost Tragic Love Story from Church History
In Lucy Mack Smith’s biography of her son Joseph Smith,…
Meridian’s 15 Most-Read Articles in 2021
Meridian readers have selected a lively, even provocative set of…
A Supreme Day for Pro-Lifers in America
On Wednesday morning the Supreme Court heard arguments in Dobbs…
Why Joseph Smith Ran for President
Why would Joseph Smith run for the United States presidency…
Why are There So Many Missionaries from Zimbabwe?
Young men and women from Zimbabwe are stepping up to…
Concerns about Marriage or Children? The Sure Place We Forget to Turn
We draw heavily on the traditions of our fathers. We…
General Conference: A God of High Expectations and Great Love
“Unprecedented times call for unprecedented measures.” If there were a…
Latter-day Saints Remember 9/11: The Day that Shattered Our Innocence
It was a day that shattered this generation’s innocence. The…
Your Health? You Need to Learn What We Did
We didn’t want to give the founder of Cardio Miracle…
Elder Holland Warns BYU of a House Divided against Itself
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland told the faculty and administration at…
To Those Who Think it is a “Relief” to Leave the Church
I stumbled upon your Facebook post explaining why you and…
When the American Elite Visited Joseph Smith in Nauvoo
In May of 1844, just 45 days before Joseph Smith…
A Stunning Pushback Against Critical Race Theory in Schools
A new Southlake, Texas school board member, Hannah Smith, tells…
Fed Budget Proposal Changes “Mother” to “Birthing People”
Will it become offensive to say the word “mother” because…
The Ways General Conference will be Different This October
It is with some nostalgia that I learned that the…
Beating Up Israel as It Fights for its Life
It’s ironic that the Hamas of Gaza initiated violence that…
General Conference: The Worldwide Gospel Rolls Forward Despite a Pandemic Year
Highlights of the conference included the Sunday morning session featuring…
Why You Cannot Miss Elder and Sister Holland’s RootsTech Reminiscences
To add some inner light to what for many is…
What a Hostage Negotiator Can Teach Us about Difficult Conversations
Imagine a relationship you are in is stuck. It may…
Crucial Conversations across Political Divides
Despite where family or friends fall on political issues, we…
When Sojourner Truth Thanked Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln’s White House was busy with citizens seeking favors…
Five Secrets the Book of Mormon Reveals about the Rise and Fall of Nations
Here are five principles we cannot ignore if we are…
The Church Leaders Condemnation of Violence and What Joseph Learned in the Missouri Persecutions
No matter where we fall on the political spectrum, most…
Michael McLean: How Forgotten Carols Anchored Him during a Crisis of Faith
You’d never guess that Michael McLean, beloved storyteller and song…
The Oft-Forgotten Legacy of the Pilgrims
Who knew that celebrating pilgrims would become political? Yet, even…
Ask Jenny Oaks Baker What Happens to Family Performing Groups: They Grow Up
While most families would send off their missionary with a…
When You Wonder if God is in the Details of Your Life
Whenever I wonder if God is in the details of…
Why Joseph Smith’s Visit with Martin Van Buren was the Most Important Trip of His Life
We have heard the famous story of Joseph Smith’s visit…
What I Learned about how to “Hear Him” from my Cycling Accident
When the Lord says to “lift up your head and…
Rod Smith Dies: Meridian Writer and Champion of the Constitution
When Rod Smith died this week, we lost not only…
Sen. Lee Sponsored a Resolution against Mob Violence that the Senate Turned Down
He told the Senate, “The resolution is not controversial. Even…
In Joint Op-Ed, President Nelson and NAACP Leaders Look to Solutions for Racism
Leaders say that solutions to racism will come "as we…
The Riots and the Danger of False Narratives
The Book of Mormon, written specifically for our times, is…
Why April 19th is a Sacred Day
Prayer and God’s support have been crucial since the beginning…
The Significant and Ancient History of the Hosanna Shout
During Sunday morning’s General Conference, the entire, worldwide membership of…
Preparing for Conference: What We Learn from Joseph about How to Receive Light
Since we yearn to be closer to God and receive…
Who We Are will be Revealed in the Coronavirus Crisis
We’ve all been submerged in a new reality, one we…
Why “Heart of Africa” will Grab Your Heart
With the new film, Heart of Africa, just released in…
Elder and Sister Stevenson: How to Unleash the Power of the Family as a Defense and Refuge
We have a sense that in a time of growing…
The Woman Whose Story is Told in “The Blind Side” Wows the Crowd at RootsTech
Leigh Anne Tuohy is as feisty, as determined, and as…
Your Personal Invitation to a Meridian Wellness Class (Limited Space Available)
Did you know that 70% of people in America want…
Clayton Christensen in His Own Words: Decisions for Which I’ve Been Grateful
What impresses me about Clayton Christensen is his unabashed loyalty…
How to Live Well and Healthy? Meridian Creates New Website
Launching today, you are invited to visit our new website…
Why “I’m Just Trying to Make You a Better Person” Never Works
Isn’t it tempting to give some of those closest to…
The Book of Mormon has Plenty to Say about Bad Political Leaders
Yes, the Book of Mormon describes to us the prosperity…
Breaking Out of the Language Prison in How We Read the Scriptures
“The tragedy of biblical translation...has been that expressions meant to…
Long-time Meridian Writer, Darla Isackson Dies of Cancer
Our dear Darla's great hope was that she would have…
A Discouraged Man’s Profound Answer to Prayer
Sometimes life is just too much. It isn’t just that…
Four Bad Ideas that Make Dating Stressful as a Latter-day Saint
One of the biggest surprises to me, working with both…
Come to the 2019 FairMormon Conference Aug. 7-9.
One of the highlights of late summer for Scot and…
T.C. Christensen’s New Film on “The Best Church History Story You’ve Never Heard of”
Filmmaker T.C. Christensen’s new movie The Fighting Preacher will open…
Washington and the Miracles of America’s Founding
George Washington faced a grim moment January 1, 1777. All…
Why You Should See “The Other Side of Heaven 2—Fire of Faith” Right Now!
I would recommend seeing writer and director Mitch Davis’ heartfelt…
A Big Win for Religious Liberty and Why It Matters
In a 7-2 decision, the Supreme Court ruled yesterday that…
Religious Freedom: A Right Given from Above that Must be Protected from Below
Protecting religious freedom has been a mounting concern among the…
To My Daughter Who Just Gave Birth: Why You’ll Have to be A Brave Mama
I tried to tell you what it would be to…
“I Am Proud to be a Gay Son of God”: BYU Valedictorian’s Speech Gets National Attention
Matt Easton, speaking before 1,135 graduates at the convocation of…
Six Unforgettable Stories from General Conference
The 189th General Conference was another rich in doctrine and…
What I Want my Daughters to Understand about Eve
I want you to know a secret about Eve, our…
Reflections on the Death of President Russell M. Nelson’s Daughter
How do prophets continue to function in the wake of…
What Elder and Sister Renlund Felt Prompted to Tell the YSA’s in Worldwide Broadcast
"We felt prompted to discuss a topic that has been…
Introducing Meridian’s New “Come, Follow Me” Lesson Helps
The Lord is saying to each of us, “I trust…
Why I Can’t Manage to Disbelieve Joseph Smith
Sometimes people say “All right, name your single best evidence…
As I See It: Good News from #Light the World; More on our Three in the Fiery Furnace
Meridian's new Editor's Blog
What We Sometimes Miss in the Story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego
Another name of the Old Testament is the Old Covenant,…
As I See It: How the #LighttheWorld Giving Machines Lit our Grandchildren
At Christmas time, I get really tired of the stuff…
The Screaming Lack of Civility in our Nation
We have unfortunately developed a climate in this nation where…
California’s Worst Fire: “It’s Easier to Count the Number of Homes in our Ward that Weren’t Burned”
When Gretchen Harrison, whose husband is the bishop of the…
Tender Mercy: The Story of a Very Personal Rescue
With this article we are beginning a series on Meridian…
An Intimate Glimpse into How a Prophet Prays
In some ways, prayer is a most natural thing, the…
A Revelation that Changed the History of the Church
Some moments in the history of the restored Church are…
Official Church Statement on Synagogue Shootings; Jewish Doctors Treat Wounded Shooter
In a world of horrible hate and grievous violence, people…
Why a Two-Hour Block is ‘More” than Three
People speculated about why such a move might be made.…
Putting Yourself in a Place to Receive Revelation
I value revelation in my life as an incomparable treasure.…
A Secret for My Daughter about to Marry
It is just hours now before you kneel across the…
Why Joseph Smith’s Visit with Martin Van Buren was the Most Important Trip of His Life
We have heard the famous story of Joseph Smith’s visit…
Going to the Darkest Places on Earth to Rescue Children
“Human trafficking is the fastest-growing criminal enterprise in the United…
You Should Know the Answer to these 35 Questions about Religious Freedom
The need for knowledge of religious rights is important today…
New York Times Executive Editor: “We Don’t Get Religion”
Dean Baquet, an executive editor of The New York Times…
In the Marrow of our Bones: The Latter-day Saint Experience of Religion as Identity
In a world where the arguments for the legal protection…
Possible First Mormon Head of State in History
Yeah Samake's first run for President of Mali in 2012,…
Lesson 23: “The Lord Be Between Thee and Me For Ever”
The events portrayed in these chapters of 1 Samuel stand…
Hallelujah!: Celebrating 40 Years Since the Priesthood Revelation
If you had already been born and were a member…
Preaching the Gospel in Africa Before the Priesthood Revelation
Without priesthood power and direction, without the authorization of the…
A Yearning Goodbye to the Boy Scouts
In what may have been an inevitable, but poignant parting,…
Lesson 15: “Look to God and Live”
As the Children of Israel trudged across the Sinai desert,…
When You Don’t Feel Needed in the Church
Not feeling needed is a pang that can work upon…
TV Host Apologizes for anti-Christian Slur
Joy Behar, co-host of ABC’s “The View” placed a private…
Blogger Gathers 25 Million Followers Telling the Stories of Ordinary People
When Brandon Stanton created the Humans of New York blog,…
Pres. and Sister Oaks: The Power of Family Stories
President Dallin H. Oaks and Sister Kristen M. Oaks spoke…
RootsTech—What’s Ahead for Family History?
Anyone who has ever been to the four-day RootsTech family…
What God Created on the Seventh Day
That we have been asked in Priesthood and Relief Society…
Four Fallacies that can Distance Us from God
Do some of us carry the burden of worshipping a…
President Monson’s Biographer Shares Why “He’s Not Like the Rest of Us”
With the passing of President Thomas S. Monson, we talked…
For Days When You Just Can’t Do It Anymore
Welcome to mortality! This is a place designed to demonstrate…
The Man Who Invented Christmas
I have been anticipating The Man Who Invented Christmas to…
“Not Welcome Here”: Alexandria’s Christ Church Bans George Washington; Oxford University Fair Bans Christianity
Two events in the last weeks seem oddly and unfortunately…
From a Southern Methodist to the General Young Women’s Presidency: Neill Marriott Recounts her Story in New Book
When Sister Neill F. Marriott , second counselor in the…
New Docu-drama on Joseph Smith may now Reach Millions on PBS Stations
As Latter-day Saints we are captivated by the influence of…
LDS Church Announces Big Changes for Melchizedek Priesthood and Relief Society Meetings
A big change is coming to the third hour of…
A Discouraged Man’s Profound Answer to Prayer
When Dan knelt to pray that morning, he didn’t know…
Incorrect Praise May Actually Hurt Your Child
Nobody wants to deliberately hurt their children. No, in fact,…
The Forgotten Practice that Increases Personal Revelation
Life presents one moment after another to us, and knowing…
Love, Kennedy: Why the Film Had to Be Made
Some stories have to be told and T.C. Christensen’s new…
Increase Your Spiritual Power by Overcoming This One Thing
Imagine the Adversary sitting around in a war room sharing…
Lesson 15: “Seek Ye Earnestly the Best Gifts”
Gifts of the Spirit are among the signs that "follow…
How Could We Forget this Righteous Vanguard of Women?
From the earliest days, women have been critically important to…
“He is Not Here” but is He in our Homes at Easter?
We display nativity scenes to celebrate his birth. Why not…
At the Pulpit: 185 Years of Discourses by Latter-day Saint Women—Why This Book Matters
Women's speeches from our LDS past are sometimes hard to…
Lesson 11: “The Field is White Already to Harvest”
Because the worth of a soul is great in the…
Is Social Media Bringing You Down?
Social media has utterly changed our world, and like splitting…
Lesson 7: “The First Principles and Ordinances of the Gospel”
The first principles and ordinances of the gospel describe the…
Goal for the New Year: Stop being Mean to Yourself
I have a portrait on the wall in my home…
A Gift for Christmas Mourning
I hung the Christmas stockings this year with poignancy. As…
Why We Continue to Love “The Forgotten Carols”
This year marks the 25th anniversary of “The Forgotten Carols”,…
God’s Trophies: Wally Goddard’s New Children’s Book
Long-time readers of Meridian know that Wally Goddard is a…
Lesson 44: “I Speak unto You as if Ye Were Present,” Mormon 7-9
The scenes of horror and violence, culminating in the sickening…
The Candidate, the Courts, and the Book of Mormon
Among many other things, the Book of Mormon gives us…
The Book of Mormon has Plenty to Say about Bad Political Leaders
It might be jarring to think that a prophet who…
Lesson 36: “On the Morrow Come I into the World” 3 Nephi 1-7
Samuel had prophesied that in five years time there would…
Lesson 35: “Repent and Return unto the Lord,” Helaman 13-16
President H. B. Lee taught, "Sometimes we get the notion…
Why I Can’t Manage to Disbelieve
Sometimes people say “All right, name your single best evidence…
Church Spokesman: When People Don’t Agree with You in the Public Arena
Ally Isom, has a job she describes as sometimes “risky…
Elder Holland: The Battle Between Good and Evil is Intensifying
"The great conflict between good and evil, right and wrong,…
The Christian Gentleman who Maligned the Missionaries
St. Wilfrid’s Church in Ribchester, England is a stately stone…
Gordon B. Hinckley’s Day of Decision
15 Wadham Road in Preston, England does not appear to…
Lesson 28: “The Word is in Christ unto Salvation,” Alma 32-35
The story of the Zoramites who cast the poor out…
The Real Reason the Pioneers Came West
From the earliest times of the Restoration, new converts left…
Sherlock Holmes and the Latter-day Saints
Arthur Conan Doyle was a struggling, 26-year-old physician in Portsmouth,…
The Famous Writer Mormons Love Who Didn’t Love Us
There is one poet Latter-day Saints love and quote more…
Washington and the Miracles of America’s Founding
America is a covenant nation, and its founding reflects those…
Lesson 25: “They Taught with Power and Authority of God”
The response of the natural man is to destroy an…
When It Seemed Impossible to Follow the Prophet—But They Did
In July 1838, while the Latter-day Saints were living in…
Lesson 24, “Give Us Strength According to our Faith in Christ,” Alma 13-16
We do not enter this world as blank books upon…
God is in the Details: A Surprising Story
"I had a day of errands planned, and was going…
Lesson 22: “Have Ye Received His Image in Your Countenances?” Alma 5-7
Growth starts at the core of our being; it is…
Lesson 21 – “Alma …Did Judge Righteous Judgments”
The change in how the Nephites reckoned time from being…
Five False Assumptions that Hurt Your Spirituality
You can passionately and powerfully believe something that is completely…
Lesson 20: “My Soul is Pained No More”
"The Book of Mormon not only explains the atonement and…
The Hidden Meaning in a Scripture I Thought I Knew
You think you understand a scripture, and then in an…
Lesson 19: None Could Deliver Them but the Lord
Bondage is not always marked by the clanging of literal…
The Unsung Daughters of Helaman
Diminishing women and their possibilities has been one of Satan's…
Forgotten Women’s Voices: The First Fifty Years of Relief Society
Healing blessings given by women, the exercise of spiritual gifts,…
Mormon Tabernacle Choir President Excited over “Singing with Angels”
Hollywood films may have big, multimillion dollar budgets, but “Singing…
Face 2 Face with Elder Jeffrey R. Holland
Young Single Adults worldwide joined online to ask their most…
What is the Most Loving Image of the Atonement?
Who doesn’t want beauty for ashes or to have their…
What Nephi Teaches us about Overcoming Despair
What you may not know: Nephi gives us a profound…
Book of Mormon Extras: Lesson 6 – Why is there a Warning on the Promised Land?
Lehi exults that he has obtained “a land of promise,…
Book of Mormon Extras: Lesson 5 – The Journey with a Thousand Faces
It is clear that their forefather’s wilderness journey from Jerusalem…
How the Provo City Center Temple Teaches us to Trust the Lord
On December 17, 2010, when the Provo Tabernacle burned to…
Book of Mormon Extras Lesson 2 – What was the Real Problem with Laman and Lemuel?
The heat had borne down on Nephi and Laman and…
Book of Mormon Extras Lesson 1 – The Prophet Who Has Seen Our Day
It is a sobering thing to receive a book of…
Lesson 4: “…Carried Away in the Spirit”
One of the most important things the Lord desires to…
Three Reasons Latter-day Saints Love the New Star Wars
Why do Mormons love "Star Wars"? Maybe because it rings…
In the Heart of the Sea: A Whale of a Tale
Many may not know that Moby Dick, the epic adventure…
Stuck in an Elevator on Christmas Eve: Q&A with Filmmaker Mitch Davis
Filmmaker MItch Davis takes us behind the scenes for his…
Joseph Smith’s Last Journals Record a Tumultuous Time
The Joseph Smith Papers, Journals, Volume 3 records the prophet's…
The LDS Church’s #ASaviorisBorn Christmas Campaign: You Can Be a Part!
A bold and beautiful announcement will be running in ads…
BYUtv Premieres Docudrama Joan of Arc: A Story of Spiritual Power and Angelic Visitations
BYUtv has created a stunning docudrama about a stunning life…
How Former LDS Presidential Candidate Yeah Samake Just Missed the Mali Terror Attacks
Yeah Samake may never know entirely what would have happened…
What It’s Like to be Terrorized
Terror victimizes everyone, with icy hands that reach far beyond…
Lesson 45: “He That Overcometh Shall Inherit All Things”
We learn from Doctrine & Covenants 7 about John's unusual…
World Congress of Families: No Time for Depression after Gay Marriage Ruling
In a panel discussion at the World Congress of Families,…
The World’s Largest Gathering of Pro-Family Advocates Comes to Salt Lake City
The woman in the elevator by me at the World…
4 Things to Understand about Choosing an Apostle
We saw three empty seats among the Quorum of the…
Lesson 39: Ephesians – “For the Perfecting of the Saints”
"It is in the order of heavenly things," the Prophet…
Why Do Some Latter-day Saints Flock to False Prophets of Doom?
Latter-day Saints should be the most enlightened, steady, certain people…
Lesson 36: “Beloved of God, Called to Be Saints”
Many weeks could be taken in class studying the Epistle…
To Our Daughter about to Marry: 7 Ways to Happiness
In a few days you will be married and I…
Church Goes Forward with Scouting–“At This Time”
Though the Church is going forward with scouting, coming rain…
Lesson 33: “Ye Are the Temple of God”
In this lesson, comprising the first six chapters of Corinthians,…
The Buzz around “Once I Was a Beehive”
I am an enthusiastic supporter of independent LDS film ventures,…
Little Offenses: Are They Worth It?
Small tiffs and little offenses are part of life. We…
Freedom to Worship vs. Freedom of Religion in U.S. Naturalization Test
A trend has been growing to refer to our first…
The Dirty Dozen: Supreme Court Marriage Decision Launches 12 Religious Freedom Grenades
Gene Schaerr: "The opinion launched at least 12 religious freedom…
Would you “Unfriend” Christianity? The Supreme Court Just Did
Two myths circulate about the Supreme Court’s ruling on same-sex…
Justice Roberts: “Just Who Do We Think We Are?”
The Supreme Court has foisted same-sex marriage upon us and…
Elder L. Tom Perry Lauded as “Exemplary” at Funeral
Elder L. Tom Perry was remembered Friday, June 5, 2015…
Lesson 21: “What is the Sign of Thy Coming?”
Jerusalem learns that if a covenant people turn from God…
Diversity: the New Weapon against Christian Belief
Diversity is a generous idea whose meaning has become distorted.…
How is President Monson’s Health?
People have been wondering about President Monson's health since he…
Utahns Won’t Give up on Marriage, Celebrate in State Capitol Rally
By day the Supreme Court heard oral arguments about whether…
Lesson 16: “I Was Blind, Now I See”
John the Beloved's testimony is full of long and detailed…
Laura Bush: Behind the Scenes with her Family at the White House
Laura Bush told a capacity crowd in a hall much…
What if Nehor and Korihor had a Blog?
What if Nehor and Korihor had had blogs, created podcasts,…
Rare News Conference: Why Church Leaders are Alarmed about Diminishing Religious Freedom
Can millions of people with diverse backgrounds and different views…
The Coming Train Wreck Smashing Religious Freedom— is Already Here
Legal scholars have already agreed that if same-sex marriage became…
Why We Suddenly Have So Many LDS Missionaries from Zimbabwe
Why are there suddenly so many more missionaries from Zimbabwe?…
Meridian Cares Update: Liberian Latter-day Saints on Ebola’s Frontline
Latter-day Saints fighting Ebola in Liberia are making progress by…
Eyewitness Report: Meridian On the Ground in Israel
The edginess is palpable here in Israel just now. We…
MERIDIAN CARES ALERT: A Letter from Liberia on Latter-days Saints and Ebola
The Ebola virus is spreading in West Africa in one…
“What David Archuleta said at Face-to-Face Event”
The Church has found an innovative new way to reach…
Church Disciplinary Councils and the Court of Public Opinion
The media narrative is that Kate Kelly and John Dehlin…
Why Dads Aren’t Dispensable: Four Unique Things They Provide
It is central to our gospel understanding that both mother…
Stumbling upon a Treasure in Jerusalem
A recent find from the Temple Mount in Jerusalem has…
Lesson 15 “Look to God and Live”
As the Children of Israel trudged across the Sinai desert,…
Airtime or Error Time? The New York Times and the Ordination of Women
To those pressing for female ordination: Does the prophet speak…
Gene Schaerr: Why Courage is Required to Fight for Traditional Marriage
Do big law firms find it just too toxic to…
Tyler Andersen: The Spirit Said “No” to the Olympics
He was ready for the Olympics until the Spirit directed…
Analysis of the Church’s Instruction to Leaders on Same-Sex Marriage
This a directive that we will consult often in the…
Sign the Petition to Stand for Traditional Marriage
If you believe that marriage between a man and a…
Same-sex Marriage Imposed on Utah
In an arrogant move, one district judge trampled the constitution…
My Disaster the Day before Thanksgiving
A moment of humiliation witnessed by thousands cause me to…
Science and Religion: Can This Marriage Be Saved?
Mormonism plays a special role in reconciling the quarrel between…
You are Not a Member in Good Standing if…
A response to the article entitled "Are You a Liberal…
Why They Malign Orson Scott Card
'Ender's Game,' the long-anticipated film based on the popular sci-fi…
Ann Romney has written Much More than a Cookbook
Ann Romney says food is irrelevant. What really matters is…
An Open Letter to Kate Kelly and Those Pressing for Ordination
Here's what troubles me about your choice.
LDS Church Publishes Earliest Joseph Smith Documents
Of any religious founder, no ones origins, letters, journals, notes…
Yeah Samake: How One Home Teacher Boosted a Presidential Candidate
The election is less than three weeks away--and a Mormon…
Supreme Court Marriage Decisions Extremely Troubling
A week and a half after the U.S. Supreme Court's…
13 Year Old Speaks Up for Need for Mom and Dad at Marriage Celebration
Speaking up for marriage can be dangerous--even if you are…
Celebrate Marriage at Big Event When Supreme Court Rules
If you live in Utah, you are invited to a…
Yeah Samake: Born for Such a Time as This
Yeah Samake is not only on track to be elected…
Thousands Followed Mitchell’s Journey on Facebook
Ten year-old Mitchell Jones, who died Saturday morning, was a…
Yeah Samake: Running for President in Mali’s Darkest Hour
A Latter-day Saint running for president of Mali finds himself…
An Intimate Glimpse of How a Prophet Prays
Oliver Cowdery gives us a little-known account of what happened…
Lesson 7, “The First Principles and Ordinances of the Gospel”
Even the best among us with our imperfections and shortcomings…
Lucy Mack and Joseph Smith: Like Mother, Like Son
It is a rare, almost unheard of thing, for the…
Sen. Mike Lee: The Fiscal Cliff and the Fiscal Avalanche
Why was Sen. Mike Lee one of only 8 senators…
Meridian’s 10 Most Intriguing Stories of 2012
This year we learned that Mormons are cool, that voters…
The Court and the Culture War-Meridian Interviewed Robert Bork
Robert Bork, one of the Constitution's and the culture war's…
New Christmas Musical Promises to become a Tradition
Cactus Jack wrote "A Time of Forgiving" to show that…
First Freedom: The Fight for Religious Liberty
The hard-won fight for religious liberty in America is portrayed…
New LDS Website Urges Compassion to Those with Same-Sex Attraction
A new website by the LDS Church gives a clear…
How has the “I’m a Mormon” Campaign Worked?
The "I'm a Mormon" campaign has been a refreshing, new…
Drawing Heaven into Your Marriage
Marriage is a journey. On that journey, we share everything…
Can One Mormon Stand Up against the Overthrow of His Government?
Last March, only days from the election in Mali and…
Obama’s Conscious War on Religious Freedom
If a religious organization can be mandated to act in…
The Mormon Tabernacle Choir’s Big Surprise
Touted for days as a surprise, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir…
Senator Orrin Hatch: Why This Election Matters So Much
Senator Orrin Hatch talked with Meridian about the importance of…
Astonishing: Church Lowers the Age Requirement for Missionaries
Not since the statement about the rebuilding of the Nauvoo…
David McCullough: Misconceptions about The Constitution should make Us Cry
We are raising a generation of young Americans who have…
Mitt Romney Pledges to Restore the Promise of America
In a patriotic and heartfelt night, Mitt Romney accepted the…
Ann Romney: Mitt’s Secret Weapon Sparkles at Convention
With poise and warmth, Ann Romney demonstrated at the Republican…
NBC’s Special on Mormons: Hits and Misses
Rock Center with Brian Williams became the first network television…
When the Reporters Went to Church with Mitt
What the religious Romney is really like at church intrigues…
A Church that Takes Its History Seriously
"If you had wanted to perpetuate a fraud upon the…
Clayton Christensen: How Will You Measure Your Life?
Celebrated author, Harvard Business School professor and Latter-day Saint, Clayton…
Defending Religious Freedom from Overreaching Officials
Make no mistake about it. Those who would like to…
Religious Freedom Goes to the Movies
Religious persecution is not normally a movie topic, but in…
Specific Threats to Religious Freedom
The threats to religious freedom are unprecedented. Things we never…
Rising Threats to American Religious Freedom
Elder L. Whitney Clayton met last week with other national…
The Best-Kept Secret in the Church
It is open-ended, demands initiative, and you may not have…
Does Mitt Romney Have a Religion Problem? New Study Says No
A new study by the Brookings Institute flies in the…
Eminent Historian Writes Joseph Smith Biography An Interview with Richard Bushman
Here is a candid interview with Richard Bushman, emeritus professor…
Lesson 20, “My Soul is Pained No More,” Mosiah 25-28, Alma 36
When you have taught all your child is willing to…
Drawing Heaven into Your Marriage – Powerful Principles with Eternal Results, by H. Wallace Goddard
Marriage is a journey. On that journey, we share everything…
Lesson 19, “None Could Deliver Them but the Lord,” Mosiah 18-24
In these chapters of Mosiah we can recognize ourselves in…
Stephenie Meyer’s Vampire Series Makes Readers’ Blood Rush
What's a Mormon mother doing writing vampire stories? Come and…
Lesson 18 – “God Himself…Shall Redeem His People,”Mosiah 12-17
If ever there were a profile in courage, it is…
Chris Stewart’s The Great and Terrible Epic of the Last Days
When a new book comes out in the six-volume Great…
How Americans View Mormonism Seven Steps to Improve our Image by Gary C. Lawrence Part 2 – The Solutions
Gary Lawrence says, " If we are too timid to…
Kurt Bestor’s Prayer of the Children
In an interview with Meridian's editor, Kurt shared the man…
Kenneth Cope’s Musical Testimony of Joseph Smith
The man behind such seminal LDS albums as Greater than…
You’re Invited: A Family Night for Africa’s Children
Students at Lone Peak High School felt it wasn't fair…
Press, Public Laud New Kansas City Temple
When a Joseph Smith languished in Liberty Jail, while the…
Lesson #17, “A Seer… Becometh a Great Benefit to His Fellow Beings” Mosiah 7-11
The movement patterns of the Nephites from the Land of…
Mormons: “Most Generous, Most Pro-Social Members of Society”
With the world suddenly interested in all things Mormon, what…
Lesson 16 – “Ye Shall Be Called the Children of Christ” (Mosiah 4-6)
How do we become a son or daughter of Jesus…
In the Public Eye: How to Handle the Mormon Moment
Like it or not, the Church is in the public…
Lesson 15 “Eternally Indebted to Your Heavenly Father,” Mosiah 1-3
In this modern era when we are so carefully taught…
Lesson 11- “Press Forward with a Steadfastness in Christ” 2 Nephi 31-33
In these chapters, which comprise Nephi's farewell, we sense his…
Finding Help for your Defiant Teen
West Ridge Academy has been helping troubled teens for 45…
Latter-day Saints Reflect on Pews’ Mormon Poll
What do Latter-day Saints make of this first ever national…
Lesson 4: “The Things Which I Saw While I Was Carried Away in the Spirit”
One of the most important things the Lord desires to…
Lesson 3: “The Vision of the Tree of Life”
Even as Joseph of Egypt, his forebear, Lehi was a…
Lesson 2: “All Things According to His Will”
In 600 B.C., Jerusalem was flourishing, her bazaars laden with…
The Unspoken Problem of Laman and Lemuel
That Laman and Lemuel had the worst attitudes of anyone…
Yet Another Latter-day Saint Runs for President
Another Latter-day Saint is running for the president of a…
Grammy Nominee Jenny Oaks Baker: Reflections on Her Faith
The gifted violinist tells how she has learned to trust…
The Christmas Kindness Blanket
Meridian's Christmas classic story comes with an invitation. Submit one…
Do Not Take Counsel from your Fears
Why would our living anxiously grieve the Lord and why…
New Testament: Lesson 45 “He That Overcometh Shall Inherit All Things”
We study Revelation 1-3, 12.
Lesson 39″For the Perfecting of the Saints” Ephesians
Make no mistake about the Apostle Paul's understanding of the…
Stephen D. Ricks on the Sacred Embrace in Egyptian Religion and Art
In ancient Egypt, a sacred embrace was the preparation for…
LDS Group Creates Mormon Defense League
Group steps up to become the defenders of Mormonism and…
The Mormon Church and the Media’s
Michael Otterson, head of Public Affairs for the Church, has…
Lesson 21″What is the Sign of Thy Coming?”
The glittering, golden Jerusalem that Christ and his disciples knew…
BYU Students Mentored for Washington DC Jobs
How did you get in the door and become successful?…
President Uchtdorf in Washington: Ground Leadership in Righteousness
President Ucthdorf told 850 Latter-day Saints and Washington DC leaders…
The LDS Church’s Desire for Transparency-Another Joseph Smith Volume Published
"Making Joseph Smith's papers available to the public demonstrates both…
Lesson 9″Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God”(Matthew 6-7)
One phrase is repeated so often in Matthew chapter 6,…
New Testament Lesson 5″Born Again”John 3-4
It is a compelling scene full of meaningful detail when…
Where Are the Gospel Doctrine Lessons?
With the New Testament course of study upon us in…
The Folly of Looking Around to See Who You Are
Our children are tested every day for their courage to…
It Wasn’t Because Laman and Lemuel Had a Bad Attitude
Once when I was teaching an institute class on the…
Satan’s Secret Strategy and How We Fall for It
Satan always uses the same tricks. He is a mastermind…
Lesson 3″Unto You is Born a Savior”Luke 2, Matthew 2
A baby cried in the stillness of a spring night…
Lesson 2″My Soul Doth Magnify the Lord”Luke 1, Matthew 1
We have four such Gospels in our canonical New Testament…
The Worlds of Joseph Smith An International Academic Conference at the Library of Congress
The Worlds of Joseph Smith An International Academic Conference at the Library of Congress
That the Library of Congress would sponsor an unprecedented conference…
Poignant Cornerstone Ceremony
As President Hinckley stood outside the Sacramento Temple at the…
Narnia Magic: Meridian Interviews Douglas Gresham, C.S. Lewis’s Stepson
Devotees of the Narnia stories-and we are a loyal bunch-wonder…
You Can Stop Outdoor Advertisers from Accepting Offensive Ads
Two national billboard companies that have started to accept ads…
Coming up Empty and Casting Your Net on the Other Side
Coming up empty after giving great effort and passionate engagement…
President Packer’s Talk and Stoning the Prophets
It has ever been that people hate what prophets say.…
BYU Law Society Awards Sen. Lieberman Religious Freedom Award
Sen. Lieberman pledges to stand by Latter-day Saints and affirms,…
Bruce Buzbee: Making Family History Fun and Easy
If ever family history used to be tedious, those days…
U.S. Pew Study: Mormons Top in Knowledge of Bible, Christianity
Mormons scored the highest of all religious groups in their…
Yearning for Something We Just Can’t Find
It is a secret we keep from each other beneath…
ABC News: Getting Porn Out of Hotels
A new law in Winona County, Minnesota says county workers…
The Contrary Internet Buzz about Glenn Beck
Everybody's got an opinion about Glenn Beck--some about his LDS…
If You Had Been Asked to Do Some Great Thing
Admit it. When you run into some characters in scripture,…
Lesson 23″The Lord Be Between Thee and Me For Ever”1 Samuel 18-20; 23-24
The events portrayed in these chapters of 1 Samuel stand…
“Ye Shall Know that It is by Me That Ye are Led”
Our little notions of self-sufficiency and control are blasted in…
Orson Scott Card on the Dismantling of America
"America has been a remarkably good and strong culture," Orson…
Media Watch: Glenn Beck the Topic of The Washington Post’s On Faith Blog
Fox News commentator Glenn Beck elicits strong reactions from people,…
Behind the Scenes of the LDS Miracle Story Featured on Today Show
Six weeks ago Bronson Staker was pronounced dead when his…
Best New Books on the Old Testament
For those who don't love studying the Old Testament, this…
The New York Times called It’s a Wonderful Life Terrifying, Asphyxiating
With a sneer at small-town America and Judeo-Christian values, a…
Scott Eggers: “The Lord is the Best Graphic Designer”
A noted graphic designer tells how he works by the…
Retailers and Christmas: The Naughty and Nice List
The American Family Association annually creates their "naughty and nice"…
LDS Faith and Politics: Their Intersection in the Public Square
A Harvard law professor told BYU students they have to…
To Russia with Love: How the Soviet Union was Opened to the Gospel
The Soviet Union was opened to the gospel in a…
How to Build a Business that Warren Buffet Would Buy
In a time when we are drowning in the news…
President Henry B. Eyring Teaches Leadership Principles to BYU Management Society
"I have searched for years for an answer to the…
Elder Neil L. Andersen Humbled, Overwhelmed by New Calling as Apostle
New apostle has this solace amidst his feelings of inadequacy:…
How Americans View Mormonism Seven Steps to Improve our Image by Gary C. Lawrence Part 2 – The Solutions
Gary Lawrence says, " If we are too timid to…
How Americans View Mormonism Seven Steps to Improve our Image by Gary C. Lawrence
Why don't people understand us? "What is our image as…
One Million to Visit Draper Temple Open House
A temple open house gives the public-and the press-a rare…
ABC Features Draper Temple On Nightline
In conjunction with the Draper Temple Open House, the Church…
Top Ten Church-Related Stories of the Year
Every year Meridian picks our top ten Church stories of…
Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin: A Daughter Remembers
Madeline Wirthlin Stover reminisces about her father and gives us…
Beloved Apostle, Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin Dies
The oldest living apostle of The Church of Jesus Christ…
Chris Stewart’s The Great and Terrible Epic of the Last Days
When a new book comes out in the six-volume Great…
The Presidential Candidates and Family Values – Where Do They Stand?
Six weeks ago we published a scorecard on the candidates'…
Elder Bruce D. Porter Responds in Religious Journal: Is Mormonism Christian?
How do we answer the misconception that Mormons aren't Christian?…
Stephenie Meyer’s Vampire Series Makes Readers’ Blood Rush
What's a Mormon mother doing writing vampire stories? Come and…
He Inviteth All to Come New Film on Extending the Priesthood to Worthy Men of Every Race
With today's cover, we are starting a new feature on…
Cyber-Terror Attack on Meridian Magazine
As we navigate the internet, we live with the stark…
David Archuleta Makes his Mark on American Idol
In a high energy, glitzy finale to the 7th season…
Returning to Narnia – Prince Caspian Hits the Theaters
For those who can't go to Narnia often enough, the…
Two Latter-day Saints Shine on “American Idol”
Six months ago nobody had heard of David Archuleta or…
An LDS Washington DC Insider Says America is in Danger
Steve Studdert, who has been a White House advisor to…
New Religious Survey Reveals Youth Swelling Ranks of Unaffiliated
"If you want to understand America, you have to understand…
Religious Bias and Mitt Romney
Super Tuesday is behind us and watching Mitt Romney's inability…
President Thomas S. Monson – The Pure Love of Christ
Whether reaching out to a tender heart in a bed…
Beloved Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley Passes Away
Our beloved President Gordon B. Hinckley, who led The Church…
Drawing Heaven into Your Marriage – Powerful Principles with Eternal Results, by H. Wallace Goddard
Marriage is a journey. On that journey, we share everything…
Romney Wins Value Voter Straw Poll
All nine Republican candidates for president tried to convince values…
The Real God’s Army at Work
Missionaries in Washington D.C. have become known and trusted thanks…
Announcing Meridian Japanese
We started Meridian with a vision, that this magazine could…
Helen Whitney: Missing the Mark
The PBS documentary on The Mormons may have perpetuated prejudices…
J ane Clayson Johnson: I Am a Mother
her - become a mother. She describes why it mattered…
Mitt Romney Makes It Official
Yesterday, Mitt Romney returned to his roots in Michigan, where…
Romney Raises $6.5 Million for Early Momentum
Mitt Romney gathered nearly 400 of his supporters into the…
Keith Halls takes on Fashion Industry With Beautifully Modest Clothing
At Meridian, we believe in standing for something and we…
Meridian Picks Top Ten LDS Stories of 2006
If you want to be genuinely cheered at year's end,…
Why a Mormon Can Be President
The media can't stop talking about Mitt Romney's religion. Will…
A Continent Of Orphans — The Stay Alive Program, Latter-day Saints and the AIDS Crisis
They used to call Africa the Dark Continent, so named…
Finding the Door to Personal Revelation
So often we are troubled and hurried, wearied and overworked.…
New Pioneers: Ahmad S. Corbitt – Lighting the Fire Within
Ahmad S Corbitt represents the new pioneers of the Church,…
Meet The Cruise Lady: Meridian’s New Travel Partner
Meridian is announcing a new travel partnership with an old…
Eminent Historian Writes Joseph Smith Biography An Interview with Richard Bushman
Here is a candid interview with Richard Bushman, emeritus professor…
The Twelve Dogs of Christmas Written and Directed by Kieth Merrill
A film reviewer says, "The end was met with spontaneous…
Meridian Announces the Family Leader Network Family Leader Network
Please join us to stand up and be counted in…
Katrinahousing.org Three LDS Programmers Team Up to Help
We have thousands of Katrina's homeless. We have thousands of…
Working in a Katrina Shelter-a Personal View from an LDS Mom
Nothing could have prepared Denise Allbee for the sights and…
One Korean Saint: An Interview with Elder Won Yong Ko
Newspaper reporters regularly come to our meetings even though our…
Kim Clark Dean of Harvard Business School to be New BYU-Idaho President
President Hinckley announced yesterday that Kim Clark, Dean of the…
16 Minutes of Glorious Light
A Photographic Essay of the San Antonio Temple A photographer…
Deep in the Heart of Texas Youth Jubilee Celebrates San Antonio Temple Dedication
They do everything big in Texas-even Church events. When President…
The Natural Family: A Manifesto Finally, an Agenda for Us
"The only real perils our future faces are the forces…
Meridian Picks Top Ten LDS Stories of the Year
It's that irresistible time of year again when no self-respecting…
Vote Your Values www.anxiouslyengaged.org
The election in the United States is only a few…
Republican National Committee Reaches Out to Latter-day Saints
The Republican National Committee is looking for a few good…
Dear Associate, Brother in Christ Elder David B. Haight Remembered at Services
David B. Haight, 97, the oldest man to serve in…
First Presidency Issues Statement on Marriage Amendment
"The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints favors a…
Saints and Soldiers Sweeps Film Festivals
So what if you had been a German missionary and…
More on What the Press Won?t Say Meridian Talks with the Los Angeles Times
When it comes to how candidly the press is covering…
What the Press Won?t Say
Last week two long-anticipated studies were released on the sexual…
Runaway Judges and the Massachusetts Marriage Crisis
The last time things were at such a fever pitch…
Full Circle The Story of a Very Personal Rescue
God sometimes answers your pleas for help in invisible ways,…
Joseph W.B. Johnson — Ghana’s Face of Light
Without priesthood power and direction, without the authorization of the…
Safe Journey: Ghana — Brightly Beams Our Father’s Mercy
Elder Glenn Pace told the African Saints that in the…
Safe Journey: The Long Wait for the Temple
Early in the morning of February 16, 1998, President Gordon…
Launching a Defend Marriage Campaign
In all of recorded history, every society has been based…
The Court and the Culture War: Meridian Interviews Robert Bork
Robert Bork, a pivotal player in the culture war, says…
Time for You to Defend Marriage (Before It’s Too Late)
You are invited to a World Congress of Families regional…
Michael Young: Keeping Watch on International Religious Freedom
The Dean of the George Washington Law School never looked…
Defending the Defense of Marriage Act : Law Called Vulnerable at Senate Hearing
If ever there was a snapshot of the arguments that…
The Media on Mike Leavitt?s Nomination to Head EPA
On August 11, President Bush nominated Utah's affable LDS governor…
Samoa Temple Destroyed by Fire: Eyewitness Accounts and Photos
Not since an arson set fire to the Nauvoo Temple…
More Than a Thread Unraveled: The Overturning of the Texas Sodomy Law
Last week's 6-3 Supreme Court decision overturning Texas' sodomy law…
Video Review:? A More Perfect Union
The self-conceit and disdain of the media elite toward our…
Hallelujah! The 25th Anniversary of the Revelation on Priesthood
If you had already been born and were a member…
A Passion for Kirtland, Part 1: God is in the Details
As reporters for Meridian, we are often on the frontlines…
Mormon Historic Sites Foundation Finding the Funds to Preserve the Past
Historic sites tend to be developed, torn down, trampled and…
Elaine Cannon-A Tribute
Elaine Cannon, former general Young Women's President of the Church…
Latter-day Saint Glenn Beck Rallies America on 115 Stations
At Meridian we were surprised to learn that a syndicated…
Staff Sergeant James W. Cawley: Remembering Our Fallen Marine
Staff Sergeant James W. Cawley's body came home Sunday night…
LDS POW Ronald Young, Jr. Finding Comfort When “Our Worst Fears Are Realized”
A recently donated red, white and blue wreath sits on…
Meridian Celebrates the Paintings of Brian Kershisnik
A renown artist and member of the church Brian Kershisnik.…
Rising Star Anne Hathaway in The Other Side of Heaven
Meridian goes behind the scenes with Anne Hathaway, star of…
Michael McLean: He Gives Me What I Need
Meridian talks up close and personal with Michael McLean, famed…
‘September Mourn’ Accounts of the Latter-day Saints on the Day of Infamy
Four Latter-day Saints died and one is still missing following…
Michael Young: Keeping Watch on International Religious Freedom
The Dean of the George Washington Law School never looked…
Kenneth Cope’s Musical Testimony of Joseph Smith
The man behind such seminal LDS albums as Greater than…
Kurt Bestor’s Prayer of the Children
In an interview with Meridian's editor, Kurt shared the man…
Answered Prayers: Ron Packard’s 18 Years in Congress
Ron Packard's years in Congress have been under girded with…
Madison Avenue Wants Your Children
Advertising to the younger generation is big business.
Mali Mormon-Modibo Diarra
The first native Mormon in Mali received an unforgettable lesson…
The Supreme Court and the Future of the Boy Scouts
In a highly charged debate, the Supreme Court is hearing…
The Bold New Conference Center
Even with word spreading quickly across the country, those interested…
Secret Police and Gospel Study
Growing up in Communist-held Czechoslovakia, Olga Kovarova knew religion was…
