Focus, friends. And facts.
Baptism is required to enter the Celestial Kingdom. And obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel. We haven't perfected obedience yet, so that's where we need to be focused. Joseph Smith once said that it would be a long time after we leave this life before we are perfected.
As for the need for more, I once heard Mark E. Petersen explain this beautifully in the adult session of Stake Conference. His explanation covered a plethora of 'issues' that we needlessly burden our minds with here in this life. He drew boxes representing the kingdoms on a chalkboard. The Telestial Kingdom took near half the board. The Terrestial Kingdom, about the size of large box of breakfast cereal. The Celestial Kingdom he rendered about the size of a matchbox. He divided that little box further into 3 unequal parts, the top being very small. He explained that it was there and only there that our sex would matter as this small portion would attain exaltation and have eternal increase. There Eternal Marriage was required. But there would be many others in the Celestial Kingdom. He also pointed out that we believe in eternal progression. And thus we see that we will probably not be sitting around watching reruns of Leave it to Beaver in the hereafter. And we need not worry about anything more than our journey here and our pursuit to be more holy with each passing day, more faithful and assured of the Plan of Happiness which our LOVING Father has set forth for us. The Atonement of the Savior, Jesus Christ is infinite. Yesterday, today and forever. I believe with ALL my heart that His mercy and love will be far greater than we imagine and that He will be reaching out to me - to pull me up into the Celestial Kingdom so long as I am reaching out to Him. Let us all press forward in faith! ❤❤
BobWJanuary 30, 2017
I read an article not too long ago from a non-member author that opined the church should do away with Section 132 because of the plural message issue. We know that won't happen. From the very first verse, it seems pretty clear that plural marriage seems to fit into the eternal plan somehow. A long time ago I looked at plural marriage from a doctrinal & logical point of view and came up with what I believe is a very viable reason for its existence. To get there we first need to acknowledge two facts accepted as doctrine. First, exaltation is reserved only for a man & a women sealed in the temple. Second, God will not force a man/woman to heaven. Next, I believe it is reasonable to accept the assumption that in the past, today and in the future, there was, are & will always be more celestial worthy females than males. Every time I read another article about this subject, the conclusion is the same, there are more available women in the church then men. I read an article just the other day that described the very same problem with Orthodox Jews; more available women than men. So how do you solve this disparity in numbers; i.e. more women then men? Since it appears there will never be a one for one parity, there is really only one way to solve the numbers problem - Plural Marriage. God is not going to force a one for one parity. So the only way to solve the numbers problem is plural marriage.
SDJanuary 23, 2017
A quote from my mother...."If you see Bob (my dad) walking around heaven with a bent halo....you will know he tried to take another wife."
AJJanuary 21, 2017
. "The only men who become Gods, even the Sons of God, are those who enter into polygamy," (Journal of Discourses, vol. 11, p. 269)
Ellen RJanuary 21, 2017
Some of the commenters here have serious need to repent. Sister Pearson is a member of the Church who has faced trials in her life that would have flattened most people.
To label her daughter an apostate is unconsciencable. Without Sister Pearson's speaking up loudly and publicly, church leaders might still be recommending to homosexual young men that they marry and that would change them.
In case anyone is unfamiliar with the ridiculous beliefs about the role and place of women that were being taught as church doctrine when Sister Pearson was a student at BYU, perhaps they should seek out some of those talks. Thank Heaven that she researched the actual history of the early Relief Society practices and wrote about them. The young women of my generation will be forever grateful to her for teaching us the truth and putting in the garbage heap the traditions of the fathers that had been carried forward into church culture from the Great Apostasy.
Karen CJanuary 20, 2017
I differ from most of the commenters in that I agree with many of the points Sister Pearson has made. I have watched the worry about eternal polygamy negatively affect marriages and families here and now. I have heard my bishop's wife warn the sisters in our ward not to marry her husband if she dies first. She will not be okay with it.
And as for the author of this piece's assertion that mathmaticly polygamy cannot exist for everyone in the next life, I have to agree. With the higher birth rate for boys over girls and the higher death rate for male children, the only belief that can make sense is that women will be required to have more than one husband in the next life so that all the excess men will have a chance to be part of a celestial marriage. So men, get ready to be one of several in your wife's heart.
Gary DennisJanuary 18, 2017
One of the fundamental principles of Mormonism is to seek truth - no matter where it may be found. Our very limited perspective of marriage and family in the spirit world is expanded by a Swedish theologian and revelator 1688-1772, by the name of Emanuel Swedenborg who spent about 25 years entering the spirit world at will and conversing with angels and spiritual beings - allowing him to gain knowledge to impart to all mankind. He was first to declare of three degrees in Heaven-some claim him as forerunner to Joseph Smith - he studied his teachings.. Swedenborg produced many writings/ books - go to - Swedenborg.com. One book entitled "Love in Marriage" - free e-book or purchase on Amazon provides broader perspective and understanding of love in marriage - polygamy - divorce - families and children in spirit world - much more.
HughJanuary 18, 2017
The author, Carol Lynn Pearson, obviously had some very difficult time, and certainly impacted her daughter, too. I think that has impacted both of them in the way they look at eternal marriage. I have no absolute understanding of how this will work out for us; I'll leave that to our Heavenly Father to explain when the time comes. In the mean time, I'm DEFINITELY staying in the Church and doing what I can to become better and better.
Annette JantonJanuary 18, 2017
This is really a simple 'fix'. Heavenly Father is in charge. We don't need to know those things. If we have faith in our Heavenly Father's love and His plan, we just need to remember...it is His job to sort it all out.
KevinJanuary 18, 2017
I think we all need to remember that Heavenly Father is perfect and so is the plan of salvation. He lives in perfect happiness and glory and never makes any mistakes. Our limited mortal understanding of eternal life should help us to focus on our lives here and becoming closer to Christ rather then wasting energy on things we don't know. If you trust God with all your heart, live that way. Soon enough we will understand all when we pass on. Enjoy life in the moment
Allan SouthJanuary 18, 2017
Important and insightful article. Thanks.
Not that this gives any look into polygamy in the eternities, but, interestingly, in my conversations about polygamy, I always include the insight recorded in Jacob 2 in The Book of Mormon wherein the Lord voices that it is his will that a man have only one wife --- unless he commands his people to raise up seed unto him. Though only a very small minority of the church practiced polygamy, when I was a missionary in the mid-1960s about 70% of them were of polygamist descent. Of course, things broaden in subsequent generations, but, to me, that is a vivid display of raising "seed unto...[him]."
Bob WellsJanuary 18, 2017
As the child of a polygamous father (my father was sealed to a second wife after the death of my birth mother) I have thought much about sealing of marriages and sealing of parents to children. I have no problem with having two mothers, one my birth mother, the other the mother who raised me. Both are good women who loved the Lord and their husband. I've joked about the question of whether it would be better for my father to die first and have some time to be reunited with his first wife before the second wife shows up, or for the second wife to arrive before her husband so that the two women could be reconciled first. Frankly, because of the goodness of all three, I don't think it will matter. I think a secondary issue is the question of children being sealed to their parents. What will that ordinance do for us in the eternal realms, when we are possibly having our own "eternal increase" and when we will be co-equal with our parents and far more able to choose our associations? I suspect that the issue will be less about being sealed in families as we see them today, and more about being sealed to everyone else (in the Celestial Kingdom? or even beyond that?) with a special partnership between husbands and wives. Since I can't comprehend eternity or celestial glory, I just take one step at a time, trying to be the best I know how, acknowledging weaknesses and trying to get better. I consider that to be the process of faith. I think that is what I should do whether I understand eternal family relationships or not.
Glen DanielsenJanuary 18, 2017
I am looking forward to being able to subscribe and also be a contributor to Meridian. Things like this helpful book review are reasons. I love Meridian and the Proctors!
Sad to me though, that this book review is needed. It is clear to me that Carol Lynn Pearson has changed, and her acidic writings and interviews sadly show it. She also has an apostate daughter, Emily. To me, it is such a painful 'loss,' because I have her early books, and they are stunningly beautiful. In the mid 1970's she also wrote the marvelous musical play My Turn on Earth, which sings in my heart to this day. I choose to remember and think about her from those great earlier things. And I want to remember that she could still come back around. I pray for that.
vickieJanuary 18, 2017
I didn't read the entire thing....but I realized awhile bk that children being sealed to parents of a family who may have a deceased spouse and now a new spouse and all of that...will be ironed out when the time comes. also those children are adults who have families of their own and so on and so on and so on....so we were adult spirits coming into an infant body and some have grown to maturity on earth..and some not....and in all this...we are all brothers and sisters with eternal parents...
Lisa KyserJanuary 17, 2017
This is an interesting article from Meridian Magazine, and though I agree with Sue as the first to comment. Itt does bring out some real things to talk about. I have to admit, I am one of these women. I do wonder how I will be happy watching men be even more happy when they have more wives.' 'Would I want my husband to be that happy?' Its a funny question.
I agree, its probably not worth worrying about considering all we have to worry about on this earth now. But in some article I read years ago, it said that when the resurrection comes, that in honestly many more women then men will make it to the Celestial Kingdom. " I can believe that whole heartily." So, do those good women not deserve a good man? "Could you share your husband, to bring about the family that God needs to bring Spirit children forth?" Interesting thought. What do you think?
Maurine Jensen ProctorJanuary 17, 2017
Please take a moment to look at the article you commented on. Meridian did not endorse the book, but criticized it.
Gary K. ColemanJanuary 17, 2017
A review of Pearson's book by Allen Wyatt is available from The Interpreter Foundation. He points out a lot of false information in the book.
sueJanuary 17, 2017
I do not agree with Carol Lynn's points at all. Knowing that she had a very difficult marriage, and that she has become critical of the church on her blog, I would not bother to read her books. One of my dear, 96 year old friends, is her cousin. Their mother's siblings married two different men. My friend does not agree with Carol Lynn, has her books, and only reads them as she is part of her family.
Her points definitely reflect her feminist views and her personal problems with church doctrine. I care about Carol Lynn, but disagree with her personal views.
sherilslJanuary 17, 2017
I've never understood the worry about polygamy. I am sealed to my ex and he is to his new wife. Big deal. It bothers my not a bit. I may not be able to live with him here, hence the divorce but that doesn't mean I won't love him there. And If its so horrific I know my Father in Heaven loves me and wants to me to be happy. So I'll let Him sort it out and I'll just practice improving myself here.
GaryJanuary 17, 2017
The author makes a mistake that most of us make from time to time. She tries to explain the inexplainable based upon what we know and can see from a fallen world perspective. The Lord tells us that His ways and thoughts are far above ours. Why not wait and make judgements after we are shown the truth about everything rather than trying to probe into doctrines and concepts that we know little about? If we truly believe God is a god of fairness and perfect love, we can assume we will be convinced of the correctness of whatever He does or doesn't do. We waste our time and energy worrying about things we cannot find answers to in this life.
SunflowJanuary 17, 2017
All interesting comments. Elder Ballard's recent comment, at the November 2016 general conference, that the Restoration is a process not an event, is worth considering as we discuss this fraught theological and doctrinal issue.
BmrJanuary 17, 2017
Remember, we are talking about a future time that we cannot comprehend, after a future resurrection that we cannot comprehend, on a sea of glass that we cannot comprehend, in a state of existence that we cannot comprehend; not like mortality, which mortality we can barely comprehend. Nothing about any of this is but pure speculation and guessing.
If you need "comfort" for things of the future that are beyond your comprehension you will receive made up ideas on what someone else thinks is comforting for now, about a future they themselves have no comprehension of.
If you need comfort, seek the Comforter! These ideas are based on pure speculation and will only act as a numbing agent to your worries. When you feel worried about marriage after the resurrection you might call on the ideas set forth in a book like this, and say "oh I am comforted because these ideas are logical and I understand them, so I'm okay for now because someone explained it to me". But its not real comfort. The Comforter brings peace that is passed understanding, just as marriage and not only marriage, but life itself is beyond our understanding in and after the resurrection.
Nadine AndertonJanuary 17, 2017
"The only men who become Gods, even the Sons of God, are those who enter into polygamy," (Journal of Discourses, vol. 11, p. 269). I question this - my understanding has always been that celestial marriage is required, but not polygamous marriage! Otherwise, I'm sure many celestial marriages turn out to be unhappy ones during our lifetimes, and general authorities have given the understanding that no one will be forced into an eternal celestial marriage and things will be worked out in the hereafter. I'm sure these other concerns will be, also. I loved all the Carol Lynn Pearson poetry I read (all before the mid 1980s) but be careful about accepting her doctrinal analysis - she is not a prophetess!
MaryannJanuary 17, 2017
When Meridian magazine comes out with an "endorsement" for Carol Lynn Pearson, you loose all credibility. Ms. Pearson has continually spoken against the teachings of our General Authorities and has set herself up as a source to enlighten them. I have no idea what this current book contains and I don't really care. She has proven herself to be rebellious and a spokesman against the teachings of the church, most notably her assertion that gay people should be entitled to sexual relationships. I know this will not be printed--Meridian is known for withholding comments they don't agree with.
MartiJanuary 17, 2017
It is my understanding that the eternal family unit consists of a Husband and wife (or wives) children of eternal families with have their own family unit with their spouses and so on and so on. We will be happy, and be able to know and interact with our children. So, the ultimate family unit is Husband and wife (or wives)
ShareeJanuary 17, 2017
I do believe that polygamy was ordained by God at certain periods of time and that those plural marriages will remain through eternity. But I do not believe that polygamy will be required of every exalted man. Mathematically, that would be unlikely. If we believe that children who die before the age of accountability automatically inherit the celestial kingdom--well, that happens to a lot more boy babies than girl babies. When I hear women say "I'm not sharing my husband in the next life," I consider that a mortal feeling, not a celestial one. Whatever the Lord has in store for us in the etenrities will give us more joy than we can imagine, whether it be in a polygamous union or not.
DarrelJanuary 17, 2017
I have been told that we are to show our Heavenly Father how we will raise HIS children and we should try and do our best.
John NelsonJanuary 17, 2017
This is a misleading argument. For one, several early leaders indicated the need for plural marriage as the only means of exaltation. That said, more and more evidence suggests Joseph Smith was NOT a polygamist and had never engaged in the activity. It wasn't until Brigham Young's mission to the Cochrinities that the practice was introduced and pursued as official "doctrine." Joseph was probably martyred over this an other issues.
Stacy NortonJanuary 17, 2017
This article and that book full of p.c. sophistry are deeply offensive. Eternal plural marriage is LDS doctrine and always will be. Those who make plural marriage out to be a bad thing, are doing the adversary's work for him.
Paralee M EckmanJanuary 17, 2017
Excellent article! Having had ancestors who followed both polygamy and monogamy, I haven't worried about this. I do have faith, as expressed in the article that our Heavenly Father wants us all to be happy. I also know that He gave us our agency, and that is an eternal principle. I believe it is dangerous to question our prophets, past or present. As it states in the D & C, we are to accept word from them the same as it were from God. I believe this, and it gives me great comfort.
Junk BinJanuary 17, 2017
remember. The only true doctrine comes from general authorities after they become general authorities. Everything else is conjecture, speculation, bloviating , and lies.
Kaarin EngelmannJanuary 17, 2017
I, too, have a testimony of Elder Eyring's words: President Henry B. Eyring addressed this concern:
“You are worrying about the wrong problem. You just live worthy of the celestial kingdom, and the family arrangements will be more wonderful than you can imagine."
Focus on what we can control. Trust that the Lord has our best interests at heart.
susie seggarJanuary 17, 2017
I was delighted to see this article appear in this publication. It was refreshing to read this and Pearson's book--both brought to light broadened perceptions of the polygamy issue for LDS women and men and gave much needed clarification on the painful topic.
Glen DanielsenJanuary 17, 2017
Quick comment: This is really a book review, so maybe good to headline it as such. Also good to have a subheading that capsulizes the conclusion, that is, that Pearson's book is not trustworthy nor faithful.
JeffreyJanuary 17, 2017
This truth we know.
Many Prophets have been sealed to more than one wife, because they outlived their first wife.
A few examples are:
Joseph Fielding Smith Jr. the 10th President of the church was sealed to three wives. Of course they love each other and will continue to do so throughout the eternities.
Howard W. Hunter the 14th President of the Church.
is sealed to two wives for eternity.
Dallin H. Oaks - current Apostle , is sealed to two wives for eternity.
Russell M. Nelson - Current President of Quorum of Twelve Apostles.
Is sealed to two wives.
L. Tom Perry - Apostle, now deceased - was sealed to two wives.
In the end God our Father will make all things right with our eternal marriage and family relationships.
Steve GoodwinJanuary 17, 2017
This article seems to be more interested in secular feminist ideology than scripture. I have never heard this line of thinking before, but since it is being discussed there must be some who obviously are concerned about it and able to fill the discussion in an entire book, really? It brings up more concerns on the reason to write it rather than understanding the principle of polygamy and how it affects me.
Richard LeahmanJanuary 17, 2017
Nope I disagree - Polygamy is NOT required for the Celestial Kingdom - get the facts !
A Happy HubbyJanuary 17, 2017
"Polygamy is required in the celestial kingdom"? Maybe so, but not the part that I have been encouraged to seek. I have been encouraged to go to the temple and seek more than just the celestial kingdom.
"The only men who become Gods, even the Sons of God, are those who enter into polygamy," (Journal of Discourses, vol. 11, p. 269).
So if someone desires the "highest" form of being like God - where there is "eternal increase", then a prophet HAS said it is required. If you are OK to shoot for way below that then you can ignore polygamy. Why don't we just take it easy and make sure we make it into the Terrestrial kingdom.
The wording in so much of this seems to be picking words very carefully so that they make sense if you read them. But when I dig deeper it isn't so "tame". I makes me cry for the fruits of this "doctrine".
I will state my stance on this again. I am not in a place to tell God that he can't command polygamy, but every time I pray about it I feel it was a mistake made by man.
For me I have to use occam's razor on this topic, especially after reading the book that is negatively critiqued here. Rather than go through these mental contortions to make it "of God", I mark this up as "not from God" and focus my time on loving others (and just my ONE wife).
Anne PJanuary 17, 2017
An earlier review of Carol Lynn's book by Allen Wyatt makes many of the same points, plus additional material which is very helpful in understanding this subject. It can be found at:
https://www.mormoninterpreter.com/scary-ghost-stories-in-the-light-of-day/
Comments | Return to Story
Renee Taylor, Ashburn VA StakeFebruary 16, 2017
Focus, friends. And facts. Baptism is required to enter the Celestial Kingdom. And obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel. We haven't perfected obedience yet, so that's where we need to be focused. Joseph Smith once said that it would be a long time after we leave this life before we are perfected. As for the need for more, I once heard Mark E. Petersen explain this beautifully in the adult session of Stake Conference. His explanation covered a plethora of 'issues' that we needlessly burden our minds with here in this life. He drew boxes representing the kingdoms on a chalkboard. The Telestial Kingdom took near half the board. The Terrestial Kingdom, about the size of large box of breakfast cereal. The Celestial Kingdom he rendered about the size of a matchbox. He divided that little box further into 3 unequal parts, the top being very small. He explained that it was there and only there that our sex would matter as this small portion would attain exaltation and have eternal increase. There Eternal Marriage was required. But there would be many others in the Celestial Kingdom. He also pointed out that we believe in eternal progression. And thus we see that we will probably not be sitting around watching reruns of Leave it to Beaver in the hereafter. And we need not worry about anything more than our journey here and our pursuit to be more holy with each passing day, more faithful and assured of the Plan of Happiness which our LOVING Father has set forth for us. The Atonement of the Savior, Jesus Christ is infinite. Yesterday, today and forever. I believe with ALL my heart that His mercy and love will be far greater than we imagine and that He will be reaching out to me - to pull me up into the Celestial Kingdom so long as I am reaching out to Him. Let us all press forward in faith! ❤❤
BobWJanuary 30, 2017
I read an article not too long ago from a non-member author that opined the church should do away with Section 132 because of the plural message issue. We know that won't happen. From the very first verse, it seems pretty clear that plural marriage seems to fit into the eternal plan somehow. A long time ago I looked at plural marriage from a doctrinal & logical point of view and came up with what I believe is a very viable reason for its existence. To get there we first need to acknowledge two facts accepted as doctrine. First, exaltation is reserved only for a man & a women sealed in the temple. Second, God will not force a man/woman to heaven. Next, I believe it is reasonable to accept the assumption that in the past, today and in the future, there was, are & will always be more celestial worthy females than males. Every time I read another article about this subject, the conclusion is the same, there are more available women in the church then men. I read an article just the other day that described the very same problem with Orthodox Jews; more available women than men. So how do you solve this disparity in numbers; i.e. more women then men? Since it appears there will never be a one for one parity, there is really only one way to solve the numbers problem - Plural Marriage. God is not going to force a one for one parity. So the only way to solve the numbers problem is plural marriage.
SDJanuary 23, 2017
A quote from my mother...."If you see Bob (my dad) walking around heaven with a bent halo....you will know he tried to take another wife."
AJJanuary 21, 2017
. "The only men who become Gods, even the Sons of God, are those who enter into polygamy," (Journal of Discourses, vol. 11, p. 269)
Ellen RJanuary 21, 2017
Some of the commenters here have serious need to repent. Sister Pearson is a member of the Church who has faced trials in her life that would have flattened most people. To label her daughter an apostate is unconsciencable. Without Sister Pearson's speaking up loudly and publicly, church leaders might still be recommending to homosexual young men that they marry and that would change them. In case anyone is unfamiliar with the ridiculous beliefs about the role and place of women that were being taught as church doctrine when Sister Pearson was a student at BYU, perhaps they should seek out some of those talks. Thank Heaven that she researched the actual history of the early Relief Society practices and wrote about them. The young women of my generation will be forever grateful to her for teaching us the truth and putting in the garbage heap the traditions of the fathers that had been carried forward into church culture from the Great Apostasy.
Karen CJanuary 20, 2017
I differ from most of the commenters in that I agree with many of the points Sister Pearson has made. I have watched the worry about eternal polygamy negatively affect marriages and families here and now. I have heard my bishop's wife warn the sisters in our ward not to marry her husband if she dies first. She will not be okay with it. And as for the author of this piece's assertion that mathmaticly polygamy cannot exist for everyone in the next life, I have to agree. With the higher birth rate for boys over girls and the higher death rate for male children, the only belief that can make sense is that women will be required to have more than one husband in the next life so that all the excess men will have a chance to be part of a celestial marriage. So men, get ready to be one of several in your wife's heart.
Gary DennisJanuary 18, 2017
One of the fundamental principles of Mormonism is to seek truth - no matter where it may be found. Our very limited perspective of marriage and family in the spirit world is expanded by a Swedish theologian and revelator 1688-1772, by the name of Emanuel Swedenborg who spent about 25 years entering the spirit world at will and conversing with angels and spiritual beings - allowing him to gain knowledge to impart to all mankind. He was first to declare of three degrees in Heaven-some claim him as forerunner to Joseph Smith - he studied his teachings.. Swedenborg produced many writings/ books - go to - Swedenborg.com. One book entitled "Love in Marriage" - free e-book or purchase on Amazon provides broader perspective and understanding of love in marriage - polygamy - divorce - families and children in spirit world - much more.
HughJanuary 18, 2017
The author, Carol Lynn Pearson, obviously had some very difficult time, and certainly impacted her daughter, too. I think that has impacted both of them in the way they look at eternal marriage. I have no absolute understanding of how this will work out for us; I'll leave that to our Heavenly Father to explain when the time comes. In the mean time, I'm DEFINITELY staying in the Church and doing what I can to become better and better.
Annette JantonJanuary 18, 2017
This is really a simple 'fix'. Heavenly Father is in charge. We don't need to know those things. If we have faith in our Heavenly Father's love and His plan, we just need to remember...it is His job to sort it all out.
KevinJanuary 18, 2017
I think we all need to remember that Heavenly Father is perfect and so is the plan of salvation. He lives in perfect happiness and glory and never makes any mistakes. Our limited mortal understanding of eternal life should help us to focus on our lives here and becoming closer to Christ rather then wasting energy on things we don't know. If you trust God with all your heart, live that way. Soon enough we will understand all when we pass on. Enjoy life in the moment
Allan SouthJanuary 18, 2017
Important and insightful article. Thanks. Not that this gives any look into polygamy in the eternities, but, interestingly, in my conversations about polygamy, I always include the insight recorded in Jacob 2 in The Book of Mormon wherein the Lord voices that it is his will that a man have only one wife --- unless he commands his people to raise up seed unto him. Though only a very small minority of the church practiced polygamy, when I was a missionary in the mid-1960s about 70% of them were of polygamist descent. Of course, things broaden in subsequent generations, but, to me, that is a vivid display of raising "seed unto...[him]."
Bob WellsJanuary 18, 2017
As the child of a polygamous father (my father was sealed to a second wife after the death of my birth mother) I have thought much about sealing of marriages and sealing of parents to children. I have no problem with having two mothers, one my birth mother, the other the mother who raised me. Both are good women who loved the Lord and their husband. I've joked about the question of whether it would be better for my father to die first and have some time to be reunited with his first wife before the second wife shows up, or for the second wife to arrive before her husband so that the two women could be reconciled first. Frankly, because of the goodness of all three, I don't think it will matter. I think a secondary issue is the question of children being sealed to their parents. What will that ordinance do for us in the eternal realms, when we are possibly having our own "eternal increase" and when we will be co-equal with our parents and far more able to choose our associations? I suspect that the issue will be less about being sealed in families as we see them today, and more about being sealed to everyone else (in the Celestial Kingdom? or even beyond that?) with a special partnership between husbands and wives. Since I can't comprehend eternity or celestial glory, I just take one step at a time, trying to be the best I know how, acknowledging weaknesses and trying to get better. I consider that to be the process of faith. I think that is what I should do whether I understand eternal family relationships or not.
Glen DanielsenJanuary 18, 2017
I am looking forward to being able to subscribe and also be a contributor to Meridian. Things like this helpful book review are reasons. I love Meridian and the Proctors! Sad to me though, that this book review is needed. It is clear to me that Carol Lynn Pearson has changed, and her acidic writings and interviews sadly show it. She also has an apostate daughter, Emily. To me, it is such a painful 'loss,' because I have her early books, and they are stunningly beautiful. In the mid 1970's she also wrote the marvelous musical play My Turn on Earth, which sings in my heart to this day. I choose to remember and think about her from those great earlier things. And I want to remember that she could still come back around. I pray for that.
vickieJanuary 18, 2017
I didn't read the entire thing....but I realized awhile bk that children being sealed to parents of a family who may have a deceased spouse and now a new spouse and all of that...will be ironed out when the time comes. also those children are adults who have families of their own and so on and so on and so on....so we were adult spirits coming into an infant body and some have grown to maturity on earth..and some not....and in all this...we are all brothers and sisters with eternal parents...
Lisa KyserJanuary 17, 2017
This is an interesting article from Meridian Magazine, and though I agree with Sue as the first to comment. Itt does bring out some real things to talk about. I have to admit, I am one of these women. I do wonder how I will be happy watching men be even more happy when they have more wives.' 'Would I want my husband to be that happy?' Its a funny question. I agree, its probably not worth worrying about considering all we have to worry about on this earth now. But in some article I read years ago, it said that when the resurrection comes, that in honestly many more women then men will make it to the Celestial Kingdom. " I can believe that whole heartily." So, do those good women not deserve a good man? "Could you share your husband, to bring about the family that God needs to bring Spirit children forth?" Interesting thought. What do you think?
Maurine Jensen ProctorJanuary 17, 2017
Please take a moment to look at the article you commented on. Meridian did not endorse the book, but criticized it.
Gary K. ColemanJanuary 17, 2017
A review of Pearson's book by Allen Wyatt is available from The Interpreter Foundation. He points out a lot of false information in the book.
sueJanuary 17, 2017
I do not agree with Carol Lynn's points at all. Knowing that she had a very difficult marriage, and that she has become critical of the church on her blog, I would not bother to read her books. One of my dear, 96 year old friends, is her cousin. Their mother's siblings married two different men. My friend does not agree with Carol Lynn, has her books, and only reads them as she is part of her family. Her points definitely reflect her feminist views and her personal problems with church doctrine. I care about Carol Lynn, but disagree with her personal views.
sherilslJanuary 17, 2017
I've never understood the worry about polygamy. I am sealed to my ex and he is to his new wife. Big deal. It bothers my not a bit. I may not be able to live with him here, hence the divorce but that doesn't mean I won't love him there. And If its so horrific I know my Father in Heaven loves me and wants to me to be happy. So I'll let Him sort it out and I'll just practice improving myself here.
GaryJanuary 17, 2017
The author makes a mistake that most of us make from time to time. She tries to explain the inexplainable based upon what we know and can see from a fallen world perspective. The Lord tells us that His ways and thoughts are far above ours. Why not wait and make judgements after we are shown the truth about everything rather than trying to probe into doctrines and concepts that we know little about? If we truly believe God is a god of fairness and perfect love, we can assume we will be convinced of the correctness of whatever He does or doesn't do. We waste our time and energy worrying about things we cannot find answers to in this life.
SunflowJanuary 17, 2017
All interesting comments. Elder Ballard's recent comment, at the November 2016 general conference, that the Restoration is a process not an event, is worth considering as we discuss this fraught theological and doctrinal issue.
BmrJanuary 17, 2017
Remember, we are talking about a future time that we cannot comprehend, after a future resurrection that we cannot comprehend, on a sea of glass that we cannot comprehend, in a state of existence that we cannot comprehend; not like mortality, which mortality we can barely comprehend. Nothing about any of this is but pure speculation and guessing. If you need "comfort" for things of the future that are beyond your comprehension you will receive made up ideas on what someone else thinks is comforting for now, about a future they themselves have no comprehension of. If you need comfort, seek the Comforter! These ideas are based on pure speculation and will only act as a numbing agent to your worries. When you feel worried about marriage after the resurrection you might call on the ideas set forth in a book like this, and say "oh I am comforted because these ideas are logical and I understand them, so I'm okay for now because someone explained it to me". But its not real comfort. The Comforter brings peace that is passed understanding, just as marriage and not only marriage, but life itself is beyond our understanding in and after the resurrection.
Nadine AndertonJanuary 17, 2017
"The only men who become Gods, even the Sons of God, are those who enter into polygamy," (Journal of Discourses, vol. 11, p. 269). I question this - my understanding has always been that celestial marriage is required, but not polygamous marriage! Otherwise, I'm sure many celestial marriages turn out to be unhappy ones during our lifetimes, and general authorities have given the understanding that no one will be forced into an eternal celestial marriage and things will be worked out in the hereafter. I'm sure these other concerns will be, also. I loved all the Carol Lynn Pearson poetry I read (all before the mid 1980s) but be careful about accepting her doctrinal analysis - she is not a prophetess!
MaryannJanuary 17, 2017
When Meridian magazine comes out with an "endorsement" for Carol Lynn Pearson, you loose all credibility. Ms. Pearson has continually spoken against the teachings of our General Authorities and has set herself up as a source to enlighten them. I have no idea what this current book contains and I don't really care. She has proven herself to be rebellious and a spokesman against the teachings of the church, most notably her assertion that gay people should be entitled to sexual relationships. I know this will not be printed--Meridian is known for withholding comments they don't agree with.
MartiJanuary 17, 2017
It is my understanding that the eternal family unit consists of a Husband and wife (or wives) children of eternal families with have their own family unit with their spouses and so on and so on. We will be happy, and be able to know and interact with our children. So, the ultimate family unit is Husband and wife (or wives)
ShareeJanuary 17, 2017
I do believe that polygamy was ordained by God at certain periods of time and that those plural marriages will remain through eternity. But I do not believe that polygamy will be required of every exalted man. Mathematically, that would be unlikely. If we believe that children who die before the age of accountability automatically inherit the celestial kingdom--well, that happens to a lot more boy babies than girl babies. When I hear women say "I'm not sharing my husband in the next life," I consider that a mortal feeling, not a celestial one. Whatever the Lord has in store for us in the etenrities will give us more joy than we can imagine, whether it be in a polygamous union or not.
DarrelJanuary 17, 2017
I have been told that we are to show our Heavenly Father how we will raise HIS children and we should try and do our best.
John NelsonJanuary 17, 2017
This is a misleading argument. For one, several early leaders indicated the need for plural marriage as the only means of exaltation. That said, more and more evidence suggests Joseph Smith was NOT a polygamist and had never engaged in the activity. It wasn't until Brigham Young's mission to the Cochrinities that the practice was introduced and pursued as official "doctrine." Joseph was probably martyred over this an other issues.
Stacy NortonJanuary 17, 2017
This article and that book full of p.c. sophistry are deeply offensive. Eternal plural marriage is LDS doctrine and always will be. Those who make plural marriage out to be a bad thing, are doing the adversary's work for him.
Paralee M EckmanJanuary 17, 2017
Excellent article! Having had ancestors who followed both polygamy and monogamy, I haven't worried about this. I do have faith, as expressed in the article that our Heavenly Father wants us all to be happy. I also know that He gave us our agency, and that is an eternal principle. I believe it is dangerous to question our prophets, past or present. As it states in the D & C, we are to accept word from them the same as it were from God. I believe this, and it gives me great comfort.
Junk BinJanuary 17, 2017
remember. The only true doctrine comes from general authorities after they become general authorities. Everything else is conjecture, speculation, bloviating , and lies.
Kaarin EngelmannJanuary 17, 2017
I, too, have a testimony of Elder Eyring's words: President Henry B. Eyring addressed this concern: “You are worrying about the wrong problem. You just live worthy of the celestial kingdom, and the family arrangements will be more wonderful than you can imagine." Focus on what we can control. Trust that the Lord has our best interests at heart.
susie seggarJanuary 17, 2017
I was delighted to see this article appear in this publication. It was refreshing to read this and Pearson's book--both brought to light broadened perceptions of the polygamy issue for LDS women and men and gave much needed clarification on the painful topic.
Glen DanielsenJanuary 17, 2017
Quick comment: This is really a book review, so maybe good to headline it as such. Also good to have a subheading that capsulizes the conclusion, that is, that Pearson's book is not trustworthy nor faithful.
JeffreyJanuary 17, 2017
This truth we know. Many Prophets have been sealed to more than one wife, because they outlived their first wife. A few examples are: Joseph Fielding Smith Jr. the 10th President of the church was sealed to three wives. Of course they love each other and will continue to do so throughout the eternities. Howard W. Hunter the 14th President of the Church. is sealed to two wives for eternity. Dallin H. Oaks - current Apostle , is sealed to two wives for eternity. Russell M. Nelson - Current President of Quorum of Twelve Apostles. Is sealed to two wives. L. Tom Perry - Apostle, now deceased - was sealed to two wives. In the end God our Father will make all things right with our eternal marriage and family relationships.
Steve GoodwinJanuary 17, 2017
This article seems to be more interested in secular feminist ideology than scripture. I have never heard this line of thinking before, but since it is being discussed there must be some who obviously are concerned about it and able to fill the discussion in an entire book, really? It brings up more concerns on the reason to write it rather than understanding the principle of polygamy and how it affects me.
Richard LeahmanJanuary 17, 2017
Nope I disagree - Polygamy is NOT required for the Celestial Kingdom - get the facts !
A Happy HubbyJanuary 17, 2017
"Polygamy is required in the celestial kingdom"? Maybe so, but not the part that I have been encouraged to seek. I have been encouraged to go to the temple and seek more than just the celestial kingdom. "The only men who become Gods, even the Sons of God, are those who enter into polygamy," (Journal of Discourses, vol. 11, p. 269). So if someone desires the "highest" form of being like God - where there is "eternal increase", then a prophet HAS said it is required. If you are OK to shoot for way below that then you can ignore polygamy. Why don't we just take it easy and make sure we make it into the Terrestrial kingdom. The wording in so much of this seems to be picking words very carefully so that they make sense if you read them. But when I dig deeper it isn't so "tame". I makes me cry for the fruits of this "doctrine". I will state my stance on this again. I am not in a place to tell God that he can't command polygamy, but every time I pray about it I feel it was a mistake made by man. For me I have to use occam's razor on this topic, especially after reading the book that is negatively critiqued here. Rather than go through these mental contortions to make it "of God", I mark this up as "not from God" and focus my time on loving others (and just my ONE wife).
Anne PJanuary 17, 2017
An earlier review of Carol Lynn's book by Allen Wyatt makes many of the same points, plus additional material which is very helpful in understanding this subject. It can be found at: https://www.mormoninterpreter.com/scary-ghost-stories-in-the-light-of-day/
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