How many of these women are actually active members and have attended the templ?
Ed DeusenberryMarch 24, 2014
I am a High Priest and having served as a Branch President and a Bishop, I am in awe of the power of the sisters in the gospel. My opinion is women don't need to be ordained. They work hand in hand with our Heavenly Father to bring his spirit children to this earth. When a male priesthood holder is unavailable to administer to the sick women do in fact give blessings. My wife did so when are children were small and ill. She could not find any priesthood holder to come and give them a blessing, so she asked the Lord to bless them by virtue of the priesthood held by me, her husband. Men need the priesthood because we don't have the connection to the Lord that women have. This is only my opinion. I do not offer it as church policy. Thanks for listening.
dawnMarch 22, 2014
It is true that revelations that have changed fundamental practices (not doctrine) in the church have been received in response to thoughtful prayers and concerns. I believe this is the way most revelations occur. However, I do not believe anything has ever changed or is likely to change by the proponents going to the New York Times or using any other secular format to air their grievances. This, I doubt, would sway the Lord, and can only serve to give the masses an unfair view of the church. This is Maureen's main point and she is spot on.
Janet JohnsonMarch 22, 2014
In the March 2014 Ensign, pg 39
Elder Russell M. Nelson explains " All the purposes of the world...would be brought to naught without woman--a keystone in the priesthood arch of creation... "From the rib of Adam, Eve was formed. The rib signifies neither dominion nor subservience, but a lateral relationship as partners, to work and to live, side by side. She was designed by Deity to co-create and nurture life, that the great plan of the Father might achieve fruition. Eve was the mother of all living"
BarbaraMarch 21, 2014
As a convert to the Church (of 50 years), & active in the Church, these sort of people who want to protest for one reason or another, I say...let them! Their behavior and misunderstanding of the restored gospel refines the Church. We shouldn't be suprised that these sort of antics take place, as we are living in the latter days. The flip side of the negative message these women will give to the Church is, there will always be people who will want to know about the Church or know more about the Church when they read the negativity. Usually intelligent people don't believe everything some one else says. Usually intelligent people want to search out the truth of a subject on their own. It would be a perfect world if we diidn't have opposition. I find, opposition makes me stronger. The Church is true, it is led by revelation received by a prophet and apostles and the Church will continue to grow as the stone cut out of mountain without hands (see Daniel 2:35) and move through the earth until 'it' fills "the whole earth."
MariahMarch 19, 2014
Thank you for taking on this tough subject. As a woman I have felt the desire to bless my children since there is no Priesthood holder in my life. Then I realized, I do have Priesthood holders in my home teacher and my father. If I have a burning desire to know what goes on at the General Priesthood Session, it is available via the internet. In fact I know more about what goes on during general conference than my son does.
Brett AllenMarch 18, 2014
Loved this article!
If Ordain Women has the goal of holding the Church up to ever more ridicule and perpetuating more false ideas about our Church and it's members, and especially how women are treated, than they have and will continue to succeed.
They can also join with Family First Weddings that is advocating that anyone, regardless of membership or worthiness should be able to enter the temple and attend temple weddings.
Why stop there? We would be even more inclusive and tolerant if we did away with the Ten Commandments and every other standard of worthiness.
BonnieMarch 18, 2014
Thank you Maurine for presenting this article with intelligence and strength. It is nice to have a sister in the gospel who is bold and strong in their opinion, which is an opinion backed by the truth. I am a younger sister with two small children, I am still trying to establish in my mind exactly how to teach them the gospel and what is right, and how to follow the Prophet. I appreciate your example. It is easy to be swayed by ideas from the secular world and this article helps put peoples minds back to the fundamentals of the gospel and following the prophet. I would appreciate an article written by you about African Americans and the Priesthood. I think it would clear up confusion I have with the statement the church recently made regarding that subject. Thank you.
MarkMarch 18, 2014
The Lord does things in his own due time. If there ever is a need for a female Prophet, or General Authority I'm sure the Lord will take care of it. You can't force the Lord. This is a matter of prayer and a matter in which these women (if sincere), should be on their knees praying to the Lord about. If the Lord speaks to the prophet to ordain a woman, I am sure the prophet will consult with the Elders and this will happen. Don't be surprised. There were Prophetesses in the Old Testament. If it happens it will happen in the Lord's Time and no one elses.
Paul SextonMarch 18, 2014
Thanks for this article. The replies were all well crafted and sound. The only thing left for little-ole-me to do is to offer counsel to the NYT: You should strive to maintain a staff of reporters that is 50% liberal and 50% conservative.
hollandparkMarch 18, 2014
Thank you Maurine. So rationally and intelligently spelled out.
While we as a Church must bow to some judges and courts and have our desires for right overruled, it is nice to know that IN the Church, there is no way anyone can FORCE the Prophet and the First Presidency to acquiesce to their demands.
All this drama made me think of this by Elder Heber C. Kimball: "Let me say to you, that many of you will see the time when you will have all the trouble, trial and persecution that you can stand, and plenty of opportunities to show that you are true to God and his work. This Church has before it many close places through which it will have to pass before the work of God is crowned with victory. To meet the difficulties that are coming, it will be necessary for you to have a knowledge of the truth of this work for yourselves. The difficulties will be of such a character that the man or woman who does not possess this personal knowledge or witness will fall. If you have not got the testimony, live right and call upon the Lord and cease not till you obtain it. If you do not you will not stand. Remember these sayings, for many of you will live to see them fulfilled. The time will come when no man nor woman will be able to endure on borrowed light. Each will have to be guided by the light within himself. If you do not have it, how can you stand?"
SCMarch 18, 2014
This scripture means a lot to me:
". . .seek not to counsel the Lord, but to take counsel from his hand. For behold, ye yourselves know that he counseleth in wisdom, and in justice, and in great mercy, over all his works."
(Jacob 4:10)
Bill OsborneMarch 18, 2014
Thank you, Maurine, for standing up for truth. You make me proud to be LDS.
KusarigamaMarch 17, 2014
That man who rises up to condemn others, finding fault with the Church, saying they are out of the way, while he himself is righteous, then know assuredly, that that man is in the high road to apostasy; and if he does not repent, will apostatize, as God lives. - Joseph Smith
echarles1March 17, 2014
"I cannot recognize the Church or the gospel I love when the media reports about us. " As a Catholic I say 'Welcome to our world!'
BarbMarch 17, 2014
@ M. Lynn James: Polygamy was so a doctrine. It's in Doctrine and Covenants 132.
roxanneMarch 17, 2014
well said
DeeMarch 17, 2014
I live in the US, but far from Utah, in an area where there are very few Latter-day Saints. Once I was visiting with a friend, who had known me for over ten years, when I mentioned that I had to go because my husband was waiting for me in the car. She said, "Aren't you Mormon?" and looked positively horrified. I don't know what she thought my husband would do to me for keeping him waiting, but she was honestly afraid for me. It took a while to calm her down and assure her that I was perfectly safe.
These kinds of silly misunderstandings of our faith are spread by Ordain Women and other groups that deliberately misrepresent the status of women in the Church in a bid for attention. Their tactics are not harmless and not loving--they are aggressive and dishonest.
BWBMarch 17, 2014
No one said Ordain Women does not represent intelligent women. It just that the vast majority of LDS women who disagree with them are also intelligent. And the emotional plea of the mother to hold her baby while her baby receives a blessing seems to forget a few things: She alone held her baby for nine months. This is the father's turn to hold his baby .... does he not matter? Her precious baby is receiving a wonderful blessing from the Lord via His priesthood power and she's complaining? It would help her to understand that life will not always be about her.
Bravo for this article.
BrooksMarch 17, 2014
As I read about the desire of women to hold the Priesthood, I wonder if many conflate secular and political equality. The don't need to be the same.
As a social scientist, I see other concerns.
1. The role of men has rapidly diminished in the past 60 years. If women have the priesthood, the need of men in the family is diminished.
2. Most religions have trouble attracting men. If women can hold the same positions as men, the number of men holding the positions will decline and as will their participation.
3. Women holding the priesthood would be an organizational mess. The Church diligently guards against men and women who are not married to each other being isolated together. Imagine a Bishopric with one man and two women as an example. You would have more sexual misconduct even with our most solid members.
I have not seen these concerns expressed elsewhere. Perhaps they are not expressed because they are wrong or ill considered. If so, I apologize for taking any readers time.
D. HesslingMarch 17, 2014
The woman is the crown of the Creation and work directly with God to perpare bodies for His spirit children.
The Priesthood is at present an earthly power to govern the Church before Christ returns. The bretheren guide the Church but the sisters guide the bretheren through rearing an teaching.
The character of a person is developed before the 6th year, and where is that child? Home being taught by the mothers!
Or should be, if the mother loves her Creator and her God given duries instead of demanding personal recognition.
Sisters, wake up!
MaryannMarch 16, 2014
Bottom Line: With the open invitation these women have given, inviting the world to persecute the church, how can we consider them anything more than self-proclaimed enemies to the church and apostates? I am sick to death of their tears and "hurt feelings." They need to grow up and decide once and for all whether they believe the church is true or not---if not, they can start their own church and "ordain" themselves!
Jean SaintongeMarch 16, 2014
Prior to leaving to go on mission, missionnary sisters enter the Temple directly to receive their endowments. Men must be ordained to the Priesthood before entering for the same. Who is missing what ?
IAM MORMONMarch 16, 2014
Imagine if men start a movement to have babies? Who do they complain to? Isn't nurturing the baby for 9mos enough for us women? Have you ever heard a mother say, "Oh doctor, is there anyway to keep my baby an additional two more months? There is not ONE woman on earth who can not wait to "push" that baby out by 7mos. God knows all things and what we're capable of...why do we need to feel validated by holding the priesthood?
We already have the sacred duty of carrying a spirit in our wombs, so men can NEVER be equal to us. Perhaps, that may be the answer? Women seeking equality are asking the wrong question! The question should be, "How can men equal to women?" NEVER! We are God's favorite.
What is wrong with having more priesthood holders speak at GC? All they do is praise women anyway? Listen to the message with your heart...not your intellect. That is why the "learned" is unteachable.
Mjd1973March 15, 2014
J. B. said "...I am a priestess unto God."
Apparently, like the O.W. feminists, she has not paid attention when she attended the temple, either.
GrandmaMarch 15, 2014
I just don't get it. I try to be compassionate and understanding about so many issues that trouble people but the reality is that this is is a world wide church. And there are so many that do not know what that means.
I have served in the presidency of every organization and taught seminary and worked in the temple. I don't want to be a bishop, or elder's quorum president, ward clerk, high councilman, stake president, or general authority. I can't even fathom how that would work?
M. Lynn JamesMarch 15, 2014
Eric, you are confusing a doctrine or principle of the Gospel with a practice of the Church. Polygamy was never a doctrine. It was a practice. Certainly, the Brethren listen to the members of the Church and observe practices that they have implemented to move the Church forward. The development of the welfare program was greatly influenced by my mission president, Paul C. Child, when, as a Stake President, he tried various approaches in his stake to help those who were in need. However, the Welfare Program is a practice of the Church not a doctrine. It is, of course, related to the doctrine of caring for one another, but it is still a practice to accomplish the goal related to the doctrine.
Scott SoulierMarch 15, 2014
Oh, how I can feel a Spirit of Peace when I read words written with power that comes from great command of the language, founded on faith and knowledge, plus an appropriate reverence for the way God reveals His will through his authorized servants.
Maurine hits the bulls eye on all three accounts. I pray for those who think otherwise to feel like Alma inthe 29th chapter wherein he confesses, "I do sin in my wish for I ought to be content with things the Lord hath allotted unto me." Peace, dear Sisters, for the "All that my Father hath" portion will be showered down upon faithful sisters just as it is for faithful brethren. You will not be served any leftovers!
Aleni FuatimauMarch 15, 2014
Thank you for a well written article Maurine!
Let us all pray and fast for those sisters and others who support this movement so they can receive confirmation from the Spirit that what they are doing is wrong.
JaneMarch 15, 2014
As a businesswoman who travels, when people know I am from Utah I often get asked if I'm a Mormon. I've had some really great missionary experiences this way. But Marilyn, and anyone else who thinks this Ordain Woman group "won't harm the church" is wrong. There are already many untruths and mis-perceptions about our church, and now add to that women I meet assuming I am a poor, naive Mormon woman because they've heard about "the need" for this group because the men in our church hold all the superior positions and we are held back. Oh please! On a good note, it gives me a chance to explain how respected and nurtured women are in this church-and that has always been my experience. It's also a chance to let them know that this group is a very, very small percentage of women, the majority do not agree with them.
So yes, articles such as in the NY times ARE harmful to the church and plant negative seeds in minds that may have been open to learning more about the gospel.
Superb article Maurine!
DavidMarch 15, 2014
I wonder if any of the women who are members of the "Ordain Woman" group have read Sheri Dew's book _Women and the Priesthood: What One Woman Believes_. Although Sheri Dew is very forthright in explaining this is what she believes, she draws from several sources in examining this issue - many of which, I was unaware of. Her book was very thought-provoking. One of the insights I learned is that Mormon women can already do things in our church that require ordination in other churches. But, she's got several other insights: this insight is just the tip of the iceberg.
SharonMarch 15, 2014
I really appreciate the thoughtful comments here made from various views. I would just like to offer a slightly different perspective on "the church being influenced from outside pressure". In my own life, I have had the experience of "knowing" why something happened, only to discover years later, that there were many other extenuating circumstances, things I had no idea about, things that put what happened in a much clearer, expanded and understandable view. I expect that this will keep happening as I learn "line upon line". I certainly do not know enough to finally judge why the church ceased ordaining "blacks", after doing so to begin with. What I do know is that the message of the gospel had to go forth to all the world and that as a new church, there were many outside pressures to stop, misrepresent, and hinder that work. I have learned of the deep separation between the races in the South following the civil war. I have learned of the segregation, whether voluntary or not in the churches in the Southern states. Are there still mostly "black" or "white" congregations around the US? What level of preparedness were we at as a people here in the US, to accept ordination, bishops, missionaries, etc. in mixed congregations? Martin Luther died in 68. Then ten years later in 78, the proclamation was made. So, I think it might be just as valid to say that we as a "people" here in the USA needed a chance to grow up. We may have needed to grow to the place where we could accept, support, gather, and preach to all the world. It just may be that those faithful saints were not waiting on the Lord, but on us as a people, to be able to fully carry forth HIs word and His work. God is kind. He has promised to pour out revelation upon revelation .... when we are ready to receive it. Sometimes we are like impatient children who want what we want when we want it. But God will not give me what I am not ready or humble enough to receive. I do not remember any of the faithful men of the church, who "demonstrated" to receive the priesthood. Their testimonies kept them faithful. They are blessed, despite whatever hardship our general (as a people and society) unreadiness may have caused them. I do not say that this is for sure the reason. I hope to continue to learn. It is just that I trust Gods love and mercy and timing much more than that of the world.
Gunnel LarsenMarch 15, 2014
Thank you Maurine for Your articles
ErikaMarch 15, 2014
These women apparently do not subscribe to "The Lord's house is a house of order". When did they go so wrong to consider themselves wiser than God? I hope that they will remember that long before they came on the scene, there was another who wanted to tell The Lord what and how to do things. We all know what happened to him and who was the Chosen One in the end.
I sure hope that these women find something else like work,take care of children, help the ones that can not help themselves, to do instead of tempting God. Do they really think that they can tell The Lord how to run/govern His kingdom? Do they think that they are wiser then He?
This is a very dangerous path that they are on and The Lord wants them to repent but if they are unwilling, His might will reach them. At that time, the only thing that will be said is "Lord have mercy on them and do not totally destroy them"
I can only say that I do not need the puny representation of some "women's right advocates" because I made covenants with The Lord and they are mightier than anything this world can offer.
Erika,
Texas
David WalkerMarch 15, 2014
One has to wonder how many of those lining up at the door will actually be Church members, active or otherwise. Perhaps the line-up will actually comprise many in the feminist sisterhood from outside the Church (or those in the borderlands who never attend Church) who are merely there to make the numbers look good.
TrishMarch 15, 2014
The story of Mary and Martha comes to mind when thinking of these women who are complaining about not having the priesthood. They are definitely "careful and troubled about many things." I know a woman who has even left the Church over this issue. It's such a shame. Honestly, it doesn't bother me one bit that I don't have the same responsibilities as the male members. I don't feel that I'm second class at all. The Church is true, and that's all that matters to me.
ChristineMarch 14, 2014
As a woman who has served on both ward and stake councils, I am surprised that the women who are advocating for women's priesthood ordination believe that women's voices are not heard in the church. I do not need to be ordained to the priesthood to serve. I do not need to be ordained to the priesthood to receive the blessings of the priesthood. I have had specific experiences in my life where I was able to personally access those priesthood blessings that my family needed in difficult times. When one of my babies was accidently burned I was unable to quickly contact a priesthood holder to give her a blessing. My young son and I knelt as she screamed in pain. I pleaded with Heavenly Father to give her the same relief of healing that she would have when her dad's hands would be laid on her head as soon as he arrived home. She soon feel asleep in my arms. When we took her to the doctor after my husband arrived home (and gave her a priesthood blessing) the doctor was amazed that she wasn't in pain. I see women who somehow feel 'left out' who are choosing to deny the priesthood blessings they have already received and have access to in demanding more. Please, dear sisters, study the doctrine of the Priesthood to better understand your blessings and your privileges. Please don't throw away your testimony and opportunities for eternal blessings because you think your plan is better than Heavenly Father's plan!
Jason EcholsMarch 14, 2014
Memo to Mormons: Media reports about Mormon women lobbying for change in their church actually *improves* the image of the Mormon church.
Do Mormons really not get how that works?
Janice MohetauMarch 14, 2014
Kristy, You want to hold your baby as it is blessed. That would be nice, however what if you were called to be a bishop or stake president or their councilor while that baby is still a baby? Who is going to hold your baby while you spend 7 or8 hours on Sunday on the Lord's work as well as the hours during the week working out the problems of the ward and the members? I raised 2 children and fully supported my husband as he sat on the stand for 16 years serving the God in his priesthood callings. I had callings which took less time and fulfilled my life while raising two children who are now active members of the church, one with the priesthood and 4 children and one a mother of 6. Praise God for the gift of motherhood which no priesthood holder has.
CalvinMarch 14, 2014
Too bad they don't have a real testimony of the Gospel.
Renaissance NerdMarch 14, 2014
I believe that at some point the earthly manifestation of the Priesthood will be extended to women. Perhaps in the Millennium, or perhaps before. In any event, God will decide, and attempting to force Him is generally a bad idea. That is after all the main complaint of modern humanity against God: He just won't do as He's told. This is a matter of progression, and we aren't quite ready yet, but we're getting there. This is a Telestial world; women's equality not coincidentally came at the same time as the small, concealable, percussion-cap pistol. In many parts of the world women remain 3rd class citizens, especially where such equalizers are banned. God isn't going to jump when't He's told because of a bit of wishful thinking. When we have reached the proper state of righteousness, it'll follow naturally.
LorieMarch 14, 2014
Marilyn,
If you are going to compare the issue of all worthy male members being ordained to the priesthood with the issue of women being ordained to the priesthood, then you need to complete the comparison.
There was not a protest of the worthy male black members of the church to get the doctrine changed. Some petitioned--but did not come out in open rebellion against the doctrine of the church. Most humbly waited on the Lord for His will to be done. And it was.
Historically there have always been movements and causes leveled against the church leadership and doctrine. But when the stirring comes from within--the same spirit of dissension if not checked, morphs into the spirit of rebellion.
It was a similar spirit of dissension that led to the martyrdom of Joseph Smith. Unhappy members formed the nucleus which led to persecutions, mobbing, and killing of the saints in early church history.
Can a petition to the president of the church be done without having a spirit of dissension or rebellion? Can it be done without calling in the world to point out the so-called weaknesses of the church they profess to love?
It is in the attitude where the greatest danger lies--not in the petition for change. The demanding, exposing attitude puts the women in a state of opposition to the prophet and the church. Pointing fingers at prophets is the entrance fee paid by those who choose to join other pointing fingers in the large and spacious building as seen in Lehi's dream.
People only have two hands. How is it possible to hold onto the iron rod with one hand, faithfully serve others with the other hand, and still have a finger left to point out the weaknesses of others?
Can they petition without pointing fingers? Can they petition without prideful hearts? Can they petition without mocking others? Can they petition without letting go of the iron rod?, If they can petition without entering the great and spacious building--then their motivation may be pure and innocent.
The change from innocent questioning to outright rebellion is so subtle. The women in the group would be well served if they will take their eyes off of their cause long enough to take a good look around them to see where they are standing.
Robert KeelerMarch 14, 2014
For what it's worth, I'd like to offer the following comments about the roles of men and women in the Church, the gospel, and in the eternities: In the eternal scheme of things, God has given to men and women equally important, but different, gifts. To men, he has given the priesthood, which we are told in the first sentence of Chapter 2 of the Church's Handbook 2, is "the power and authority of God." The ultimate expression of this authority is when God the Father or His Son issue verbal commands and the elements obey. (See Abraham Ch. 4, especially verses 14-18.) God showed Moses a vision of this creative power in Moses Chapter 1, beginning with verse 27. Moses was dumbfounded by what he saw, and in verse 30 he asked God why He was doing all this. God didn't answer Moses directly at first, but continued to show him the "worlds without number" that He has created. We get a limited glimpse of what Moses must have seen when we view the stunning photos taken by the Hubble space telescope and other major observatories. After 8 more verses of these awe-inspiring visions, God finally gets around to telling Moses why He creates "worlds without number." Verse 39: "For behold, this is my work and my glory -- to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man." In other words, "Moses, I'm doing this for you and for all your brothers and sisters, so you may one day become like me." What God is really saying to Moses is that all His physical creations assume their ultimate purpose only when they are populated with life. And it is to women that God has given His other precious gift: the power to create life. Thus, the power to create worlds (i.e., the priesthood) is only rendered meaningful when complemented with the equally powerful and awe-inspiring gift to create life. Only when these two gifts are exercised together by an exalted, glorified couple can they realize their divine potential. Alone, they lack real significance. Together, they can be divine. And the reason God has given men and women these two gifts in this life is so they can begin to learn how to manage and exercise them, and prepare to realize their divine potential in the eternities. Any man who has been in the delivery room as his wife has given birth has witnessed the mystery and power of God's gift to women, where two of you enter the room and three of you -- sometimes even more -- come out! To those women who think their ultimate potential can only be fulfilled by holding the priesthood, I would suggest that they don't understand the divine potential of the gift God has already given them.
steveMarch 14, 2014
When the new O.D. comes out is everyone prepared to faithfully follow the prophet and unconditionally accept these sisters as new Elders?
lawrenceMarch 14, 2014
@Kristy... My third daughter was blessed in Sacrament meeting held in her mothers arms. Everyone in the ward was supportive. Both mother and daughter are now outside the Church. If it's an earthly organization, that doesn't matter. If you really believe the Priesthood is the power of God, then you'll recognize how tragic that result is. What are you really hoping for?
MikeMarch 14, 2014
Even though in many states we have voted to have marriage between one man and one woman, it doesn't stop the other side from trying to change. They will not stop until they get their way. It is the same thing here, the Ordain Women will not stop until they get their way.
Kathleen O'MealMarch 14, 2014
OK, so ask President Monson to go to The Lord on behalf of Women in the Church and ask if it is time for Women to be ordained to the Priesthood..that is to have the power of and in the priesthood both. If it is, then so be it. If it is not then so be it.
If you do not have testimony enough to believe The Lord's Prophet can recieve revelation then you certainly cannot retain enough portion of The Lord's Spirit to operate within the bounds for use of Priesthood power set by God the Father.
TimMarch 14, 2014
When the Joseph Smith organized the Relief Society in 1842, did he not state that the restored Church of Jesus Christ could not be perfect or complete without it? Logically, there would be no need for Relief Society if women were to be ordained to offices within the priesthood (every non-ordained woman would immediately become a prospective elder, after all) which would then make Joseph Smith a false prophet.
DarylMarch 14, 2014
I respect the Lord's order on the issue of priesthood and gender. However, I am saddened by the parade of women who say they wouldn't want the priesthood because it adds too much responsibility to their already busy lives. Fortunately our men are not of the same opinion.
NezMarch 14, 2014
Thanks Maurine Proctor for your wisdom and insight. You are spot on!
Robert SlavenMarch 14, 2014
Yes, it's true that the church "does not move forward by secular pressure.... It moves by continuous revelation received by living prophets." But where does that revelation come from? Revelation to establish the Relief Society, Primary, and Sunday School came after faithful worthy active Saints though of something, thought it was good and praiseworthy, and showed it to the Brethren, who then approved it. The 1978 revelation on the priesthood came after many, MANY Saints had been praying mightily that the priesthood might be extended to all worthy men. The 9th Article of Faith says "we believe that [God[ will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God." And I don't know the stats, but I know there are MANY female Saints who have felt "left out" and "less worthy" when current priesthood holders act and lead in ways that do not properly include our sisters and their needs and concerns. I don't know where I stand on the issue, but I refuse to condemn the participants in Ordain Women. They are seeking the truth, just like a teenage boy did 194 years ago. Instead of accusing them of somehow wanting to "coerce" the kingdom of God, we should all listen to them, love them, and pray with them. There is NOTHING wrong with a faithful Saint praying to God and asking for answers about the priesthood now, the same as there was NOTHING wrong about doing so 40 years ago. I'm very disappointed you didn't take a more positive approach with this article.
GuyMarch 14, 2014
Great article. To answer Eric's question, we are commanded to obey the laws of the land. Government leaders ignored Constitutional Law and outlawed Polygamy. With the passage of this law, the church was forced to end the practice. But in doing so, the church didn
JohnMarch 14, 2014
After reading Matthew 19: 4-6 It hit me --- that the priesthood is given, shared, blesses, and benifits both the man and wormen -- as one.
CameronMarch 14, 2014
Faithful, righteous, temple-going women of the Church will grow to understand that women have an eternal and wonderful role to play in the Gospel and are greatly loved and blessed by the Lord. We are priviledged to share in Priesthood authority through every calling we receive as we are set apart by our Bishops and/or Stake Presidency with all of the power and authority to perform those callings and given extra insights and blessings while we do so.
As Sisters called to be Ordinance Workers in the Temple we are set apart with Priesthood authority to perform those ordinances for the women of the church.
The Priesthood Sessions of General Conference are printed for ALL to read, and now to watch online. As Sisters we have Priesthood responsibilities to our Children and to our husbands and brothers to allow them to attend their meetings, as they do in return to allow us to attend our Relief Society and Primary meetings.
We just need God and our Prophets and Apostles to be able to continue to lead the Church forward and stop questioning our role when all of the answers are already within the Scriptures and the Gospel!
KamieMarch 14, 2014
While I disagree with the majority of this article, I appreciate a response to Ordain Women that isn't riddled with sarcasm or arrogance.
I support Ordain Women. I have met Kate Kelly and several other women who have profiles on the website. I perceived them to be loving and faithful women who want to help our Church. You may disagree with their methods, but I respond with a question. How would you prefer they gain attention regarding an issue they feel very strongly about (and have received personal confirmation about)? They have written letters to the leaders of our Church in SLC. They are returned unopened. Almost a year ago they requested a face-to-face meeting with a general authority, and an invitation has not been extended to them. I long for the days of the Prophet Joseph Smith where he was accessible and ready to listen to the concerns of his members. Have we grown so large of an organization that the concerns of thousands of women is not taken seriously? It has been disheartening to see first hand how the Church members have responded to these women.
Fundamentally if you think that prophets can't be wrong, and that revelation never happens due to members asking the prophet for further direction regarding a certain topic, you wont' understand these women. But I believe our scriptures, and more recent history since the restoration, all point to a God who often answers specific prayers from prophets who are often led by their people as to what things they would like to be addressed.
And more importantly, let us all remember to be Christlike to our brothers and sisters, no matter if we have a contrary opinion.
KayleneMarch 14, 2014
I love Ashlyn's comment. and I love this article...Well said!!!
MarilynMarch 14, 2014
I am touched by the women who line up at the conference center. While I don't feel strongly enough about the issue to do so, any study of church history will show you that gentle, but firm pressure, both from within and without, has historically caused the prophet to ask the question that resulted in revelation. The Manifesto and the 1978 ruling on the blacks did not happen in a vacuum. In every case members were absolutely sure that there was a doctrinal basis for something that was cultural and could be changed while still retaining the beauty of the gospel. Perhaps this will be the same type of issue, perhaps not. Either way, God gives us a conscience for a reason, and these women are attempting to both honor the prophet and follow their consciences. God bless them. They won't harm the church by seeking the truth.
CindyMarch 14, 2014
Women hold their babies constantly. The baby's blessing is a special moment with the father and family priesthood holder. We could look at all of life and claim that allowing one person a privilege or opportunity is a denial to another, or we can recognize that we each have privileges unique to us and to what we bring to our families and to the world. Frankly, I find the idea that men and women need to be the same tiresome. That philosophy takes away from those things that make me unique and special to my family and those around me.
SarahJMarch 14, 2014
I find it terribly sad that these women seek to counsel the Lord. There are many stories in the scriptures warning of the consequences of such an endeavor. "[His] ways are higher than [our] ways." We need to 'trust in the Lord with all [our] heart and lean not unto [our] own understanding."
It seems to me that seeking the Priesthood for our own gratification and gain is actually priestcraft.
DavidDMarch 14, 2014
Does the prophet speak for the Lord and receive continuous revelation to guide the Church or does he need your input? I do not think for one second that the Church doctrine on who may hold the Priesthood will or should change. And I think that public protests, however characterized, are flat wrong. I would note, though, that we are all just now coming to grips with the fact that for 126 years, between Brigham Young's pronouncement in 1852 and Pres. Kimball's revelation in 1978, the Church engaged in rascism that official Church policy now unequivocally condemns. Those who believe that, as it turns out, sometimes our prophets don't get it completely right and could use our input at least have an understandable point.
Gregory TalleyMarch 14, 2014
Nicely written article, except Broome County is in New York, not in Pennsylvania. I should know as I live in Broome County, New York, which is on a shared border with Pennsylvania, but is firmly situated in New York.
ShareeMarch 14, 2014
I agree with those who believe we women already have the priesthood when we are endowed. I think what the Ordain Women people want is to be Bishops and stake high council members, etc. They want to be able to bless and pass the sacrament and give blessings. For some reason they think equality means sameness. I do not agree with them. However, I do agree with them that women are underutilized in the church and women's voices need to be listened to more. Who can be ordained is a doctrinal thing and only God can change that. However, many of the ways women are used in the church is policy, not doctrine, and that could be changed. I was in a ward once where the Sunday School president was a woman. The calling was not one that required the priesthood. However, that has changed--it was a policy change, not one of doctrine. There are numerous areas in which women could be allowed to serve without being "ordained." But to those who think motherhood is the woman's priesthood, I disagree. The correlation to motherhood is fatherhood, not priesthood. Many of us have not had the opportunity in life to be wives and mothers.
RussMarch 14, 2014
Eric, you misunderstand why Pres. Woodruff declared the manifesto stopping polygamy. It was not due to pressure from others. Think about how the Word of Wisdom came about. Emma Smith was cleaning the room where the Prophet Joseph was teaching the brethren the principles of the gospel. As was the case at that time, the men were smoking, chewing and spitting. The floor was in an awful mess. She "complained" to Joseph. He then sought the Lord to ascertain if there was a better way, and received the revelation we know as the W. of W. (D&C 89). It's as simple as that. The Lord guides us in response to our queries. It's the same way when we pray for help of any kind we may think we need.
SarahJMarch 14, 2014
I find it terribly sad that these women seek to counsel the Lord. There are many stories in the scriptures warning of the consequences of such an endeavor. "[His] ways are higher than [our] ways." We need to 'trust in the Lord with all [our] heart and lean not unto [our] own understanding."
It seems to me that seeking the Priesthood for our own gratification and gain is actually priestcraft.
BrendaMarch 14, 2014
Maurine, thank you again and again.
EricMarch 14, 2014
With all due respect sister proctor, the statement: "The Church does not move forward by secular pressure, no matter how intense" - doesn't hold up very well in light countless examples of the operation of the faith since the beginning of time - but one of the most clear Wilford Woodruff and the Manifesto - wasn't this a direct amount of pressure brought to bear on the church that required immediate action? Isn't the church one of pragmatism too? Isn't that part of its beauty? Woodruff did, in accordance with revelation apparently, what was necessary and pragmatic for the organization to continue to exist in spite of the outside political pressure that threatened to take all the temples, all the assets of the church and the like. The record seems pretty clear on this point on this matter, no? I'm not saying I agree necessarily with Ordain Women but I don't agree with your statement on this particular point. please reconsider.
AshlynMarch 14, 2014
I have never seen a priesthood holder sit in a chair, place his hands on his own head and give himself a blessing. Why? Because the Priesthood is meant to bless others. Mothering and nurturing is a tremendous amount of responsibility and in turn I am grateful that the brethren are willing to take the responsibility of the priesthood upon themselves. If we all have the same powers, whether to bear children or confer the blessings of the priesthood, then we would not need each other. Dependence on each other for life
KimMarch 14, 2014
Kristy, do you intend to hold your child while being baptized? Do you intend to hold your son when he is being ordained to the Priesthood? Do you intend to hold your son or daughter when they receive their temple ordinances? I think the bottom line about this movement is that you either believe Thomas S. Monson is the Prophet and he receives revelation for the entire church as that is his stewardship or you don't. You either believe that Jesus Christ is at the head of this church and the church is organized in accordance with His will, or you don't. The thing that rubs me wrong is that these women feel the need to "request" that the prophet inquire about what they desire. I have a testimony that Thomas Monson is the prophet and he is very mindful about us as well as what the Lord wants for the Kingdom of God. These women assume that the prophet has not prayed about women receiving the Priesthood in the same capacity as men. What if he has? If he received the answer to extend the Priesthood to women, then we would be hearing about it the same way we heard about the ages of missionaries being changed or the building of a new temple. If the answer is no, does he need to make a public statement to satisfy these women? And if they are told the answer from God to His Living Prophet is No, would they accept it? I testify that God speaks to us through our Prophet as if it was His own voice. I testify that God directed Christ while he established His church and that there is a purpose to everything, whether we are given an explanation or not. It is my hope that we can all as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have hearts that say not my will, but Thine be done.
JoopMarch 14, 2014
Tahnk you Maurine Proctor for an article well written. There is spirituality in your article, something completely absent in the efforts of the Ordain Women movement. Theirs is a movement organised along the lines of the human rights movements, thinking that making noise will convince the Lord.
LaileMarch 14, 2014
It makes me sad that these women do not respect their roll in the family and the gospel. I wholeheartedly agree with Becky, I have enough to do without adding priesthood responsibilities on top of everything else. I do not believe we women are not already equal. These women are not asking for equality. They are asking to be MORE than men. They want the responsibility of everything leaving the men with no responsibilities to call their own. Heavenly Father intended men and to fit together like a puzzle, not to mirror one another. I find it sad these women are unable to respect themselves as wives, mothers and daughters of Heavenly Father to see we are equal despite our roles being different.
Nola CollierMarch 14, 2014
"We thank thee O God for a prophet." Amen. Thank you Sister Proctor. You are inspired.
so lameMarch 14, 2014
Bet you $1m that you only post comments that tow the line and cheer lead your agenda. And you call the media a tool. You are the tool. The person who will undoubtedly disapprove my post and any others who offer a different view. You don't have to hide things of you have the whole truth m
WhitMarch 14, 2014
Sally Jo- what a horrible thing to say. You are insinuating that women who want the priesthood are not intelligent or are less intelligent than yourselves. While I have no stance on the issue, you should be ashamed of your behavior and should worry about how YOUR words influence the world's view of the church.
Nanacoool March 14, 2014
This is an exceptional analysis of the issues and protest. The blatant error in logic...that the protesters want the priesthood of God ie the power to act in the name of God but don't recognize the power or authority of those God has already called and ordained. It is a superficial and thinly veiled attempt at self-aggrandizement in an organization dedicated to the opposite, The Lord's humble example of charitable service. I am a convert to the Church. The teachings and inspired organization of the Church have brought my husband and me, our five children, their spouses and our twelve grandchildren a level of happiness we could have achieved in no other way. My prayer and faith is that the Lord's Church will remain in tact for all the remaining generations to come. Thank you for your clear insights and Meridian Magazine!
Dwyn LarsonMarch 14, 2014
Thanks Maurine! Especially for the bit about Newell Knight. These women may never "get it" but we do. You've given us words/images to support our confidence in Heavenly Father's plan.
sally joMarch 14, 2014
Thank you for being the voice of an intelligent woman for intelligent women who "get the Gospel"!
jdmort10March 14, 2014
Amen. Ordain Women will do much to distort the public perception of the church and it's relationship with women. There is no expectation to receive the priesthood in my corner of the church and I find that expectation by others offensive. Only by revelation would I find the priesthood acceptable. I do not feel slighted in the least without it.
Maury JonesMarch 14, 2014
Women function in a Priesthood capacity at the highest level of the LDS Church, within the Temple. In the endowment ceremony they give signs and tokens, and specifically in the Washing and Anointing room they anoint with oil and lay on hands and pray a Priesthood blessing.
Debbie MenconiMarch 14, 2014
The New York Times is known for their 'brand' of reporting. Barbara Bush recently mentioned in an interview that she had discontinued her subscription! Those who want to find the truth in this will. As those who don't-will not even try. Instead believing the worst. All we can do is Live up to our covenants and not respond negatively to those who choose to distort the truth.
J. B.March 14, 2014
These women must have not been listening when they went through the temple for the first time, or in subsequent visits. We hold the keys of the priesthood through our husbands, fathers, brothers, and sons. I have felt the power of the priesthood that the male members of my family hold. I have listened when I've attended the temple, when they say that we ARE ordained Priestesses in the Gospel. I don't need an outward - in public, ordination or the ability to perform ordnances that are viewed by all to know that I am a priestess unto God. I can't understand why would Heavenly Father keep the existsance of Heavenly Mother from those who would demean or degrade her? Why? Because He knows that those who don't understand Her role in the universe, the gospel, and the family, will only find ways to do just that, demean and degrade Her. I have understood, ever since I joined the Church over 35 years ago, and especially since I was married in the Temple, that I hold the priesthood through my husband and, now, my sons. I know that when I had a close friend of mine stand as my earthly father's proxy, that I am now blessed with a father who now holds the priesthood too, even though he passed on. I know my Dad (earthly) is a strong patriarch of my family. I feel his strength of his priesthood as much as I do my son's, my husband's, and Heavenly Father's and Jesus Christ's. Do I need an ordination that is openly "known", to feel the power and strength that comes to me, because of the men that are around me? Nope! I say that with conviction. I know my priesthood power comes to me from Heavenly Father, just as strongly as it comes to the men around me. If I had never married, I still would have had the strength of the knowledge that I was holding the priesthood through any who were my Bishop (or Branch President), Stake President, and on up the line to the living Prophet and ultimately to God Himself. I don't need to show the world that I'm equal to men. I know I am. I also know that I am a woman. Women can do something men can't, we carry within us the ability to create physical bodies for our spiritual brethren and sisters that are waiting yet to be born. There are innumeral spirits that need to be born that need a physical body so they can complete their "journey" back to God, to be with Him, our Elder Brother Jesus Christ, our Heavenly Mother and to be reunited with our ancestors who are already there waiting for all of us.
They have made a choice to want the world to "see and know", what they already have. They want women to be out there doing what the men do. What they don't see is they are already ordained. Every woman who has been to the temple for ordnances, for themselves or others, has been ordained. God's plan is plain. It is simple. Why complicate it by asking for something that they already have.
Every woman in the church should think about what we learn in the temple. Women should see that we have been given a very hard task to bear the children, to literally hold the family together. We are the bearers of men, as daughters, sisters, wives, and mothers. Our priesthood is as strong, it just has a different task.
I know that this has been a LONG comment, but, I needed to say these things.
Thank you for "listening".
grant nicholasMarch 14, 2014
excellant arfticle. I have allways liked the quote: If you believe the church is true and it does have the priesthoold of God then you understand that He can give that power to whom ever He chooses. If you don't beleive the church is true then your are not missing out on anything. I have aways associated the Use of the Priesthood like ballroom dancing, Only one can lead and his partner more than shares the limelight
beckyMarch 14, 2014
I do not want anymore on my plate as it is. I have a hard enough time..trying to be a wife...mother..and a sister of zion. I sometimes swear..eat a breakfast on fast Sunday...and remain temple endowed. My husband holds the priesthood and I try to live up to that. I do not want another label on me. Look..these women want change and to make a difference...spend your efforts doing so by trying to change the condition of our gvt and this world. I dont need them to be my spokesperson. Im opinionated as it is.
Diane KunkelMarch 14, 2014
Thank you once again, Maurine, for addressing this issue and being so bold in declaring the truth.
DaleMarch 14, 2014
Well said!
Brett March 13, 2014
There are certainly things that the church could do to impress the secular media... But that's not our goal, is it?
We are certainly led by a living prophet who receives revelation. But to pretend that the prophetic revelation isn't sometimes prompted by members outside the hierarchy is to deny our own beautifully rich history.
KristyMarch 13, 2014
As the woman with her baby interviewed for that NY Times story, let me answer your question: "yes, we are ready for that responsibility!" I long to hold my babies in my arms when they are named and blessed. And I have faith our prayers will be answered.
Comments | Return to Story
Frances MorrisseyMarch 27, 2014
How many of these women are actually active members and have attended the templ?
Ed DeusenberryMarch 24, 2014
I am a High Priest and having served as a Branch President and a Bishop, I am in awe of the power of the sisters in the gospel. My opinion is women don't need to be ordained. They work hand in hand with our Heavenly Father to bring his spirit children to this earth. When a male priesthood holder is unavailable to administer to the sick women do in fact give blessings. My wife did so when are children were small and ill. She could not find any priesthood holder to come and give them a blessing, so she asked the Lord to bless them by virtue of the priesthood held by me, her husband. Men need the priesthood because we don't have the connection to the Lord that women have. This is only my opinion. I do not offer it as church policy. Thanks for listening.
dawnMarch 22, 2014
It is true that revelations that have changed fundamental practices (not doctrine) in the church have been received in response to thoughtful prayers and concerns. I believe this is the way most revelations occur. However, I do not believe anything has ever changed or is likely to change by the proponents going to the New York Times or using any other secular format to air their grievances. This, I doubt, would sway the Lord, and can only serve to give the masses an unfair view of the church. This is Maureen's main point and she is spot on.
Janet JohnsonMarch 22, 2014
In the March 2014 Ensign, pg 39 Elder Russell M. Nelson explains " All the purposes of the world...would be brought to naught without woman--a keystone in the priesthood arch of creation... "From the rib of Adam, Eve was formed. The rib signifies neither dominion nor subservience, but a lateral relationship as partners, to work and to live, side by side. She was designed by Deity to co-create and nurture life, that the great plan of the Father might achieve fruition. Eve was the mother of all living"
BarbaraMarch 21, 2014
As a convert to the Church (of 50 years), & active in the Church, these sort of people who want to protest for one reason or another, I say...let them! Their behavior and misunderstanding of the restored gospel refines the Church. We shouldn't be suprised that these sort of antics take place, as we are living in the latter days. The flip side of the negative message these women will give to the Church is, there will always be people who will want to know about the Church or know more about the Church when they read the negativity. Usually intelligent people don't believe everything some one else says. Usually intelligent people want to search out the truth of a subject on their own. It would be a perfect world if we diidn't have opposition. I find, opposition makes me stronger. The Church is true, it is led by revelation received by a prophet and apostles and the Church will continue to grow as the stone cut out of mountain without hands (see Daniel 2:35) and move through the earth until 'it' fills "the whole earth."
MariahMarch 19, 2014
Thank you for taking on this tough subject. As a woman I have felt the desire to bless my children since there is no Priesthood holder in my life. Then I realized, I do have Priesthood holders in my home teacher and my father. If I have a burning desire to know what goes on at the General Priesthood Session, it is available via the internet. In fact I know more about what goes on during general conference than my son does.
Brett AllenMarch 18, 2014
Loved this article! If Ordain Women has the goal of holding the Church up to ever more ridicule and perpetuating more false ideas about our Church and it's members, and especially how women are treated, than they have and will continue to succeed. They can also join with Family First Weddings that is advocating that anyone, regardless of membership or worthiness should be able to enter the temple and attend temple weddings. Why stop there? We would be even more inclusive and tolerant if we did away with the Ten Commandments and every other standard of worthiness.
BonnieMarch 18, 2014
Thank you Maurine for presenting this article with intelligence and strength. It is nice to have a sister in the gospel who is bold and strong in their opinion, which is an opinion backed by the truth. I am a younger sister with two small children, I am still trying to establish in my mind exactly how to teach them the gospel and what is right, and how to follow the Prophet. I appreciate your example. It is easy to be swayed by ideas from the secular world and this article helps put peoples minds back to the fundamentals of the gospel and following the prophet. I would appreciate an article written by you about African Americans and the Priesthood. I think it would clear up confusion I have with the statement the church recently made regarding that subject. Thank you.
MarkMarch 18, 2014
The Lord does things in his own due time. If there ever is a need for a female Prophet, or General Authority I'm sure the Lord will take care of it. You can't force the Lord. This is a matter of prayer and a matter in which these women (if sincere), should be on their knees praying to the Lord about. If the Lord speaks to the prophet to ordain a woman, I am sure the prophet will consult with the Elders and this will happen. Don't be surprised. There were Prophetesses in the Old Testament. If it happens it will happen in the Lord's Time and no one elses.
Paul SextonMarch 18, 2014
Thanks for this article. The replies were all well crafted and sound. The only thing left for little-ole-me to do is to offer counsel to the NYT: You should strive to maintain a staff of reporters that is 50% liberal and 50% conservative.
hollandparkMarch 18, 2014
Thank you Maurine. So rationally and intelligently spelled out. While we as a Church must bow to some judges and courts and have our desires for right overruled, it is nice to know that IN the Church, there is no way anyone can FORCE the Prophet and the First Presidency to acquiesce to their demands. All this drama made me think of this by Elder Heber C. Kimball: "Let me say to you, that many of you will see the time when you will have all the trouble, trial and persecution that you can stand, and plenty of opportunities to show that you are true to God and his work. This Church has before it many close places through which it will have to pass before the work of God is crowned with victory. To meet the difficulties that are coming, it will be necessary for you to have a knowledge of the truth of this work for yourselves. The difficulties will be of such a character that the man or woman who does not possess this personal knowledge or witness will fall. If you have not got the testimony, live right and call upon the Lord and cease not till you obtain it. If you do not you will not stand. Remember these sayings, for many of you will live to see them fulfilled. The time will come when no man nor woman will be able to endure on borrowed light. Each will have to be guided by the light within himself. If you do not have it, how can you stand?"
SCMarch 18, 2014
This scripture means a lot to me: ". . .seek not to counsel the Lord, but to take counsel from his hand. For behold, ye yourselves know that he counseleth in wisdom, and in justice, and in great mercy, over all his works." (Jacob 4:10)
Bill OsborneMarch 18, 2014
Thank you, Maurine, for standing up for truth. You make me proud to be LDS.
KusarigamaMarch 17, 2014
That man who rises up to condemn others, finding fault with the Church, saying they are out of the way, while he himself is righteous, then know assuredly, that that man is in the high road to apostasy; and if he does not repent, will apostatize, as God lives. - Joseph Smith
echarles1March 17, 2014
"I cannot recognize the Church or the gospel I love when the media reports about us. " As a Catholic I say 'Welcome to our world!'
BarbMarch 17, 2014
@ M. Lynn James: Polygamy was so a doctrine. It's in Doctrine and Covenants 132.
roxanneMarch 17, 2014
well said
DeeMarch 17, 2014
I live in the US, but far from Utah, in an area where there are very few Latter-day Saints. Once I was visiting with a friend, who had known me for over ten years, when I mentioned that I had to go because my husband was waiting for me in the car. She said, "Aren't you Mormon?" and looked positively horrified. I don't know what she thought my husband would do to me for keeping him waiting, but she was honestly afraid for me. It took a while to calm her down and assure her that I was perfectly safe. These kinds of silly misunderstandings of our faith are spread by Ordain Women and other groups that deliberately misrepresent the status of women in the Church in a bid for attention. Their tactics are not harmless and not loving--they are aggressive and dishonest.
BWBMarch 17, 2014
No one said Ordain Women does not represent intelligent women. It just that the vast majority of LDS women who disagree with them are also intelligent. And the emotional plea of the mother to hold her baby while her baby receives a blessing seems to forget a few things: She alone held her baby for nine months. This is the father's turn to hold his baby .... does he not matter? Her precious baby is receiving a wonderful blessing from the Lord via His priesthood power and she's complaining? It would help her to understand that life will not always be about her. Bravo for this article.
BrooksMarch 17, 2014
As I read about the desire of women to hold the Priesthood, I wonder if many conflate secular and political equality. The don't need to be the same. As a social scientist, I see other concerns. 1. The role of men has rapidly diminished in the past 60 years. If women have the priesthood, the need of men in the family is diminished. 2. Most religions have trouble attracting men. If women can hold the same positions as men, the number of men holding the positions will decline and as will their participation. 3. Women holding the priesthood would be an organizational mess. The Church diligently guards against men and women who are not married to each other being isolated together. Imagine a Bishopric with one man and two women as an example. You would have more sexual misconduct even with our most solid members. I have not seen these concerns expressed elsewhere. Perhaps they are not expressed because they are wrong or ill considered. If so, I apologize for taking any readers time.
D. HesslingMarch 17, 2014
The woman is the crown of the Creation and work directly with God to perpare bodies for His spirit children. The Priesthood is at present an earthly power to govern the Church before Christ returns. The bretheren guide the Church but the sisters guide the bretheren through rearing an teaching. The character of a person is developed before the 6th year, and where is that child? Home being taught by the mothers! Or should be, if the mother loves her Creator and her God given duries instead of demanding personal recognition. Sisters, wake up!
MaryannMarch 16, 2014
Bottom Line: With the open invitation these women have given, inviting the world to persecute the church, how can we consider them anything more than self-proclaimed enemies to the church and apostates? I am sick to death of their tears and "hurt feelings." They need to grow up and decide once and for all whether they believe the church is true or not---if not, they can start their own church and "ordain" themselves!
Jean SaintongeMarch 16, 2014
Prior to leaving to go on mission, missionnary sisters enter the Temple directly to receive their endowments. Men must be ordained to the Priesthood before entering for the same. Who is missing what ?
IAM MORMONMarch 16, 2014
Imagine if men start a movement to have babies? Who do they complain to? Isn't nurturing the baby for 9mos enough for us women? Have you ever heard a mother say, "Oh doctor, is there anyway to keep my baby an additional two more months? There is not ONE woman on earth who can not wait to "push" that baby out by 7mos. God knows all things and what we're capable of...why do we need to feel validated by holding the priesthood? We already have the sacred duty of carrying a spirit in our wombs, so men can NEVER be equal to us. Perhaps, that may be the answer? Women seeking equality are asking the wrong question! The question should be, "How can men equal to women?" NEVER! We are God's favorite. What is wrong with having more priesthood holders speak at GC? All they do is praise women anyway? Listen to the message with your heart...not your intellect. That is why the "learned" is unteachable.
Mjd1973March 15, 2014
J. B. said "...I am a priestess unto God." Apparently, like the O.W. feminists, she has not paid attention when she attended the temple, either.
GrandmaMarch 15, 2014
I just don't get it. I try to be compassionate and understanding about so many issues that trouble people but the reality is that this is is a world wide church. And there are so many that do not know what that means. I have served in the presidency of every organization and taught seminary and worked in the temple. I don't want to be a bishop, or elder's quorum president, ward clerk, high councilman, stake president, or general authority. I can't even fathom how that would work?
M. Lynn JamesMarch 15, 2014
Eric, you are confusing a doctrine or principle of the Gospel with a practice of the Church. Polygamy was never a doctrine. It was a practice. Certainly, the Brethren listen to the members of the Church and observe practices that they have implemented to move the Church forward. The development of the welfare program was greatly influenced by my mission president, Paul C. Child, when, as a Stake President, he tried various approaches in his stake to help those who were in need. However, the Welfare Program is a practice of the Church not a doctrine. It is, of course, related to the doctrine of caring for one another, but it is still a practice to accomplish the goal related to the doctrine.
Scott SoulierMarch 15, 2014
Oh, how I can feel a Spirit of Peace when I read words written with power that comes from great command of the language, founded on faith and knowledge, plus an appropriate reverence for the way God reveals His will through his authorized servants. Maurine hits the bulls eye on all three accounts. I pray for those who think otherwise to feel like Alma inthe 29th chapter wherein he confesses, "I do sin in my wish for I ought to be content with things the Lord hath allotted unto me." Peace, dear Sisters, for the "All that my Father hath" portion will be showered down upon faithful sisters just as it is for faithful brethren. You will not be served any leftovers!
Aleni FuatimauMarch 15, 2014
Thank you for a well written article Maurine! Let us all pray and fast for those sisters and others who support this movement so they can receive confirmation from the Spirit that what they are doing is wrong.
JaneMarch 15, 2014
As a businesswoman who travels, when people know I am from Utah I often get asked if I'm a Mormon. I've had some really great missionary experiences this way. But Marilyn, and anyone else who thinks this Ordain Woman group "won't harm the church" is wrong. There are already many untruths and mis-perceptions about our church, and now add to that women I meet assuming I am a poor, naive Mormon woman because they've heard about "the need" for this group because the men in our church hold all the superior positions and we are held back. Oh please! On a good note, it gives me a chance to explain how respected and nurtured women are in this church-and that has always been my experience. It's also a chance to let them know that this group is a very, very small percentage of women, the majority do not agree with them. So yes, articles such as in the NY times ARE harmful to the church and plant negative seeds in minds that may have been open to learning more about the gospel. Superb article Maurine!
DavidMarch 15, 2014
I wonder if any of the women who are members of the "Ordain Woman" group have read Sheri Dew's book _Women and the Priesthood: What One Woman Believes_. Although Sheri Dew is very forthright in explaining this is what she believes, she draws from several sources in examining this issue - many of which, I was unaware of. Her book was very thought-provoking. One of the insights I learned is that Mormon women can already do things in our church that require ordination in other churches. But, she's got several other insights: this insight is just the tip of the iceberg.
SharonMarch 15, 2014
I really appreciate the thoughtful comments here made from various views. I would just like to offer a slightly different perspective on "the church being influenced from outside pressure". In my own life, I have had the experience of "knowing" why something happened, only to discover years later, that there were many other extenuating circumstances, things I had no idea about, things that put what happened in a much clearer, expanded and understandable view. I expect that this will keep happening as I learn "line upon line". I certainly do not know enough to finally judge why the church ceased ordaining "blacks", after doing so to begin with. What I do know is that the message of the gospel had to go forth to all the world and that as a new church, there were many outside pressures to stop, misrepresent, and hinder that work. I have learned of the deep separation between the races in the South following the civil war. I have learned of the segregation, whether voluntary or not in the churches in the Southern states. Are there still mostly "black" or "white" congregations around the US? What level of preparedness were we at as a people here in the US, to accept ordination, bishops, missionaries, etc. in mixed congregations? Martin Luther died in 68. Then ten years later in 78, the proclamation was made. So, I think it might be just as valid to say that we as a "people" here in the USA needed a chance to grow up. We may have needed to grow to the place where we could accept, support, gather, and preach to all the world. It just may be that those faithful saints were not waiting on the Lord, but on us as a people, to be able to fully carry forth HIs word and His work. God is kind. He has promised to pour out revelation upon revelation .... when we are ready to receive it. Sometimes we are like impatient children who want what we want when we want it. But God will not give me what I am not ready or humble enough to receive. I do not remember any of the faithful men of the church, who "demonstrated" to receive the priesthood. Their testimonies kept them faithful. They are blessed, despite whatever hardship our general (as a people and society) unreadiness may have caused them. I do not say that this is for sure the reason. I hope to continue to learn. It is just that I trust Gods love and mercy and timing much more than that of the world.
Gunnel LarsenMarch 15, 2014
Thank you Maurine for Your articles
ErikaMarch 15, 2014
These women apparently do not subscribe to "The Lord's house is a house of order". When did they go so wrong to consider themselves wiser than God? I hope that they will remember that long before they came on the scene, there was another who wanted to tell The Lord what and how to do things. We all know what happened to him and who was the Chosen One in the end. I sure hope that these women find something else like work,take care of children, help the ones that can not help themselves, to do instead of tempting God. Do they really think that they can tell The Lord how to run/govern His kingdom? Do they think that they are wiser then He? This is a very dangerous path that they are on and The Lord wants them to repent but if they are unwilling, His might will reach them. At that time, the only thing that will be said is "Lord have mercy on them and do not totally destroy them" I can only say that I do not need the puny representation of some "women's right advocates" because I made covenants with The Lord and they are mightier than anything this world can offer. Erika, Texas
David WalkerMarch 15, 2014
One has to wonder how many of those lining up at the door will actually be Church members, active or otherwise. Perhaps the line-up will actually comprise many in the feminist sisterhood from outside the Church (or those in the borderlands who never attend Church) who are merely there to make the numbers look good.
TrishMarch 15, 2014
The story of Mary and Martha comes to mind when thinking of these women who are complaining about not having the priesthood. They are definitely "careful and troubled about many things." I know a woman who has even left the Church over this issue. It's such a shame. Honestly, it doesn't bother me one bit that I don't have the same responsibilities as the male members. I don't feel that I'm second class at all. The Church is true, and that's all that matters to me.
ChristineMarch 14, 2014
As a woman who has served on both ward and stake councils, I am surprised that the women who are advocating for women's priesthood ordination believe that women's voices are not heard in the church. I do not need to be ordained to the priesthood to serve. I do not need to be ordained to the priesthood to receive the blessings of the priesthood. I have had specific experiences in my life where I was able to personally access those priesthood blessings that my family needed in difficult times. When one of my babies was accidently burned I was unable to quickly contact a priesthood holder to give her a blessing. My young son and I knelt as she screamed in pain. I pleaded with Heavenly Father to give her the same relief of healing that she would have when her dad's hands would be laid on her head as soon as he arrived home. She soon feel asleep in my arms. When we took her to the doctor after my husband arrived home (and gave her a priesthood blessing) the doctor was amazed that she wasn't in pain. I see women who somehow feel 'left out' who are choosing to deny the priesthood blessings they have already received and have access to in demanding more. Please, dear sisters, study the doctrine of the Priesthood to better understand your blessings and your privileges. Please don't throw away your testimony and opportunities for eternal blessings because you think your plan is better than Heavenly Father's plan!
Jason EcholsMarch 14, 2014
Memo to Mormons: Media reports about Mormon women lobbying for change in their church actually *improves* the image of the Mormon church. Do Mormons really not get how that works?
Janice MohetauMarch 14, 2014
Kristy, You want to hold your baby as it is blessed. That would be nice, however what if you were called to be a bishop or stake president or their councilor while that baby is still a baby? Who is going to hold your baby while you spend 7 or8 hours on Sunday on the Lord's work as well as the hours during the week working out the problems of the ward and the members? I raised 2 children and fully supported my husband as he sat on the stand for 16 years serving the God in his priesthood callings. I had callings which took less time and fulfilled my life while raising two children who are now active members of the church, one with the priesthood and 4 children and one a mother of 6. Praise God for the gift of motherhood which no priesthood holder has.
CalvinMarch 14, 2014
Too bad they don't have a real testimony of the Gospel.
Renaissance NerdMarch 14, 2014
I believe that at some point the earthly manifestation of the Priesthood will be extended to women. Perhaps in the Millennium, or perhaps before. In any event, God will decide, and attempting to force Him is generally a bad idea. That is after all the main complaint of modern humanity against God: He just won't do as He's told. This is a matter of progression, and we aren't quite ready yet, but we're getting there. This is a Telestial world; women's equality not coincidentally came at the same time as the small, concealable, percussion-cap pistol. In many parts of the world women remain 3rd class citizens, especially where such equalizers are banned. God isn't going to jump when't He's told because of a bit of wishful thinking. When we have reached the proper state of righteousness, it'll follow naturally.
LorieMarch 14, 2014
Marilyn, If you are going to compare the issue of all worthy male members being ordained to the priesthood with the issue of women being ordained to the priesthood, then you need to complete the comparison. There was not a protest of the worthy male black members of the church to get the doctrine changed. Some petitioned--but did not come out in open rebellion against the doctrine of the church. Most humbly waited on the Lord for His will to be done. And it was. Historically there have always been movements and causes leveled against the church leadership and doctrine. But when the stirring comes from within--the same spirit of dissension if not checked, morphs into the spirit of rebellion. It was a similar spirit of dissension that led to the martyrdom of Joseph Smith. Unhappy members formed the nucleus which led to persecutions, mobbing, and killing of the saints in early church history. Can a petition to the president of the church be done without having a spirit of dissension or rebellion? Can it be done without calling in the world to point out the so-called weaknesses of the church they profess to love? It is in the attitude where the greatest danger lies--not in the petition for change. The demanding, exposing attitude puts the women in a state of opposition to the prophet and the church. Pointing fingers at prophets is the entrance fee paid by those who choose to join other pointing fingers in the large and spacious building as seen in Lehi's dream. People only have two hands. How is it possible to hold onto the iron rod with one hand, faithfully serve others with the other hand, and still have a finger left to point out the weaknesses of others? Can they petition without pointing fingers? Can they petition without prideful hearts? Can they petition without mocking others? Can they petition without letting go of the iron rod?, If they can petition without entering the great and spacious building--then their motivation may be pure and innocent. The change from innocent questioning to outright rebellion is so subtle. The women in the group would be well served if they will take their eyes off of their cause long enough to take a good look around them to see where they are standing.
Robert KeelerMarch 14, 2014
For what it's worth, I'd like to offer the following comments about the roles of men and women in the Church, the gospel, and in the eternities: In the eternal scheme of things, God has given to men and women equally important, but different, gifts. To men, he has given the priesthood, which we are told in the first sentence of Chapter 2 of the Church's Handbook 2, is "the power and authority of God." The ultimate expression of this authority is when God the Father or His Son issue verbal commands and the elements obey. (See Abraham Ch. 4, especially verses 14-18.) God showed Moses a vision of this creative power in Moses Chapter 1, beginning with verse 27. Moses was dumbfounded by what he saw, and in verse 30 he asked God why He was doing all this. God didn't answer Moses directly at first, but continued to show him the "worlds without number" that He has created. We get a limited glimpse of what Moses must have seen when we view the stunning photos taken by the Hubble space telescope and other major observatories. After 8 more verses of these awe-inspiring visions, God finally gets around to telling Moses why He creates "worlds without number." Verse 39: "For behold, this is my work and my glory -- to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man." In other words, "Moses, I'm doing this for you and for all your brothers and sisters, so you may one day become like me." What God is really saying to Moses is that all His physical creations assume their ultimate purpose only when they are populated with life. And it is to women that God has given His other precious gift: the power to create life. Thus, the power to create worlds (i.e., the priesthood) is only rendered meaningful when complemented with the equally powerful and awe-inspiring gift to create life. Only when these two gifts are exercised together by an exalted, glorified couple can they realize their divine potential. Alone, they lack real significance. Together, they can be divine. And the reason God has given men and women these two gifts in this life is so they can begin to learn how to manage and exercise them, and prepare to realize their divine potential in the eternities. Any man who has been in the delivery room as his wife has given birth has witnessed the mystery and power of God's gift to women, where two of you enter the room and three of you -- sometimes even more -- come out! To those women who think their ultimate potential can only be fulfilled by holding the priesthood, I would suggest that they don't understand the divine potential of the gift God has already given them.
steveMarch 14, 2014
When the new O.D. comes out is everyone prepared to faithfully follow the prophet and unconditionally accept these sisters as new Elders?
lawrenceMarch 14, 2014
@Kristy... My third daughter was blessed in Sacrament meeting held in her mothers arms. Everyone in the ward was supportive. Both mother and daughter are now outside the Church. If it's an earthly organization, that doesn't matter. If you really believe the Priesthood is the power of God, then you'll recognize how tragic that result is. What are you really hoping for?
MikeMarch 14, 2014
Even though in many states we have voted to have marriage between one man and one woman, it doesn't stop the other side from trying to change. They will not stop until they get their way. It is the same thing here, the Ordain Women will not stop until they get their way.
Kathleen O'MealMarch 14, 2014
OK, so ask President Monson to go to The Lord on behalf of Women in the Church and ask if it is time for Women to be ordained to the Priesthood..that is to have the power of and in the priesthood both. If it is, then so be it. If it is not then so be it. If you do not have testimony enough to believe The Lord's Prophet can recieve revelation then you certainly cannot retain enough portion of The Lord's Spirit to operate within the bounds for use of Priesthood power set by God the Father.
TimMarch 14, 2014
When the Joseph Smith organized the Relief Society in 1842, did he not state that the restored Church of Jesus Christ could not be perfect or complete without it? Logically, there would be no need for Relief Society if women were to be ordained to offices within the priesthood (every non-ordained woman would immediately become a prospective elder, after all) which would then make Joseph Smith a false prophet.
DarylMarch 14, 2014
I respect the Lord's order on the issue of priesthood and gender. However, I am saddened by the parade of women who say they wouldn't want the priesthood because it adds too much responsibility to their already busy lives. Fortunately our men are not of the same opinion.
NezMarch 14, 2014
Thanks Maurine Proctor for your wisdom and insight. You are spot on!
Robert SlavenMarch 14, 2014
Yes, it's true that the church "does not move forward by secular pressure.... It moves by continuous revelation received by living prophets." But where does that revelation come from? Revelation to establish the Relief Society, Primary, and Sunday School came after faithful worthy active Saints though of something, thought it was good and praiseworthy, and showed it to the Brethren, who then approved it. The 1978 revelation on the priesthood came after many, MANY Saints had been praying mightily that the priesthood might be extended to all worthy men. The 9th Article of Faith says "we believe that [God[ will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God." And I don't know the stats, but I know there are MANY female Saints who have felt "left out" and "less worthy" when current priesthood holders act and lead in ways that do not properly include our sisters and their needs and concerns. I don't know where I stand on the issue, but I refuse to condemn the participants in Ordain Women. They are seeking the truth, just like a teenage boy did 194 years ago. Instead of accusing them of somehow wanting to "coerce" the kingdom of God, we should all listen to them, love them, and pray with them. There is NOTHING wrong with a faithful Saint praying to God and asking for answers about the priesthood now, the same as there was NOTHING wrong about doing so 40 years ago. I'm very disappointed you didn't take a more positive approach with this article.
GuyMarch 14, 2014
Great article. To answer Eric's question, we are commanded to obey the laws of the land. Government leaders ignored Constitutional Law and outlawed Polygamy. With the passage of this law, the church was forced to end the practice. But in doing so, the church didn
JohnMarch 14, 2014
After reading Matthew 19: 4-6 It hit me --- that the priesthood is given, shared, blesses, and benifits both the man and wormen -- as one.
CameronMarch 14, 2014
Faithful, righteous, temple-going women of the Church will grow to understand that women have an eternal and wonderful role to play in the Gospel and are greatly loved and blessed by the Lord. We are priviledged to share in Priesthood authority through every calling we receive as we are set apart by our Bishops and/or Stake Presidency with all of the power and authority to perform those callings and given extra insights and blessings while we do so. As Sisters called to be Ordinance Workers in the Temple we are set apart with Priesthood authority to perform those ordinances for the women of the church. The Priesthood Sessions of General Conference are printed for ALL to read, and now to watch online. As Sisters we have Priesthood responsibilities to our Children and to our husbands and brothers to allow them to attend their meetings, as they do in return to allow us to attend our Relief Society and Primary meetings. We just need God and our Prophets and Apostles to be able to continue to lead the Church forward and stop questioning our role when all of the answers are already within the Scriptures and the Gospel!
KamieMarch 14, 2014
While I disagree with the majority of this article, I appreciate a response to Ordain Women that isn't riddled with sarcasm or arrogance. I support Ordain Women. I have met Kate Kelly and several other women who have profiles on the website. I perceived them to be loving and faithful women who want to help our Church. You may disagree with their methods, but I respond with a question. How would you prefer they gain attention regarding an issue they feel very strongly about (and have received personal confirmation about)? They have written letters to the leaders of our Church in SLC. They are returned unopened. Almost a year ago they requested a face-to-face meeting with a general authority, and an invitation has not been extended to them. I long for the days of the Prophet Joseph Smith where he was accessible and ready to listen to the concerns of his members. Have we grown so large of an organization that the concerns of thousands of women is not taken seriously? It has been disheartening to see first hand how the Church members have responded to these women. Fundamentally if you think that prophets can't be wrong, and that revelation never happens due to members asking the prophet for further direction regarding a certain topic, you wont' understand these women. But I believe our scriptures, and more recent history since the restoration, all point to a God who often answers specific prayers from prophets who are often led by their people as to what things they would like to be addressed. And more importantly, let us all remember to be Christlike to our brothers and sisters, no matter if we have a contrary opinion.
KayleneMarch 14, 2014
I love Ashlyn's comment. and I love this article...Well said!!!
MarilynMarch 14, 2014
I am touched by the women who line up at the conference center. While I don't feel strongly enough about the issue to do so, any study of church history will show you that gentle, but firm pressure, both from within and without, has historically caused the prophet to ask the question that resulted in revelation. The Manifesto and the 1978 ruling on the blacks did not happen in a vacuum. In every case members were absolutely sure that there was a doctrinal basis for something that was cultural and could be changed while still retaining the beauty of the gospel. Perhaps this will be the same type of issue, perhaps not. Either way, God gives us a conscience for a reason, and these women are attempting to both honor the prophet and follow their consciences. God bless them. They won't harm the church by seeking the truth.
CindyMarch 14, 2014
Women hold their babies constantly. The baby's blessing is a special moment with the father and family priesthood holder. We could look at all of life and claim that allowing one person a privilege or opportunity is a denial to another, or we can recognize that we each have privileges unique to us and to what we bring to our families and to the world. Frankly, I find the idea that men and women need to be the same tiresome. That philosophy takes away from those things that make me unique and special to my family and those around me.
SarahJMarch 14, 2014
I find it terribly sad that these women seek to counsel the Lord. There are many stories in the scriptures warning of the consequences of such an endeavor. "[His] ways are higher than [our] ways." We need to 'trust in the Lord with all [our] heart and lean not unto [our] own understanding." It seems to me that seeking the Priesthood for our own gratification and gain is actually priestcraft.
DavidDMarch 14, 2014
Does the prophet speak for the Lord and receive continuous revelation to guide the Church or does he need your input? I do not think for one second that the Church doctrine on who may hold the Priesthood will or should change. And I think that public protests, however characterized, are flat wrong. I would note, though, that we are all just now coming to grips with the fact that for 126 years, between Brigham Young's pronouncement in 1852 and Pres. Kimball's revelation in 1978, the Church engaged in rascism that official Church policy now unequivocally condemns. Those who believe that, as it turns out, sometimes our prophets don't get it completely right and could use our input at least have an understandable point.
Gregory TalleyMarch 14, 2014
Nicely written article, except Broome County is in New York, not in Pennsylvania. I should know as I live in Broome County, New York, which is on a shared border with Pennsylvania, but is firmly situated in New York.
ShareeMarch 14, 2014
I agree with those who believe we women already have the priesthood when we are endowed. I think what the Ordain Women people want is to be Bishops and stake high council members, etc. They want to be able to bless and pass the sacrament and give blessings. For some reason they think equality means sameness. I do not agree with them. However, I do agree with them that women are underutilized in the church and women's voices need to be listened to more. Who can be ordained is a doctrinal thing and only God can change that. However, many of the ways women are used in the church is policy, not doctrine, and that could be changed. I was in a ward once where the Sunday School president was a woman. The calling was not one that required the priesthood. However, that has changed--it was a policy change, not one of doctrine. There are numerous areas in which women could be allowed to serve without being "ordained." But to those who think motherhood is the woman's priesthood, I disagree. The correlation to motherhood is fatherhood, not priesthood. Many of us have not had the opportunity in life to be wives and mothers.
RussMarch 14, 2014
Eric, you misunderstand why Pres. Woodruff declared the manifesto stopping polygamy. It was not due to pressure from others. Think about how the Word of Wisdom came about. Emma Smith was cleaning the room where the Prophet Joseph was teaching the brethren the principles of the gospel. As was the case at that time, the men were smoking, chewing and spitting. The floor was in an awful mess. She "complained" to Joseph. He then sought the Lord to ascertain if there was a better way, and received the revelation we know as the W. of W. (D&C 89). It's as simple as that. The Lord guides us in response to our queries. It's the same way when we pray for help of any kind we may think we need.
SarahJMarch 14, 2014
I find it terribly sad that these women seek to counsel the Lord. There are many stories in the scriptures warning of the consequences of such an endeavor. "[His] ways are higher than [our] ways." We need to 'trust in the Lord with all [our] heart and lean not unto [our] own understanding." It seems to me that seeking the Priesthood for our own gratification and gain is actually priestcraft.
BrendaMarch 14, 2014
Maurine, thank you again and again.
EricMarch 14, 2014
With all due respect sister proctor, the statement: "The Church does not move forward by secular pressure, no matter how intense" - doesn't hold up very well in light countless examples of the operation of the faith since the beginning of time - but one of the most clear Wilford Woodruff and the Manifesto - wasn't this a direct amount of pressure brought to bear on the church that required immediate action? Isn't the church one of pragmatism too? Isn't that part of its beauty? Woodruff did, in accordance with revelation apparently, what was necessary and pragmatic for the organization to continue to exist in spite of the outside political pressure that threatened to take all the temples, all the assets of the church and the like. The record seems pretty clear on this point on this matter, no? I'm not saying I agree necessarily with Ordain Women but I don't agree with your statement on this particular point. please reconsider.
AshlynMarch 14, 2014
I have never seen a priesthood holder sit in a chair, place his hands on his own head and give himself a blessing. Why? Because the Priesthood is meant to bless others. Mothering and nurturing is a tremendous amount of responsibility and in turn I am grateful that the brethren are willing to take the responsibility of the priesthood upon themselves. If we all have the same powers, whether to bear children or confer the blessings of the priesthood, then we would not need each other. Dependence on each other for life
KimMarch 14, 2014
Kristy, do you intend to hold your child while being baptized? Do you intend to hold your son when he is being ordained to the Priesthood? Do you intend to hold your son or daughter when they receive their temple ordinances? I think the bottom line about this movement is that you either believe Thomas S. Monson is the Prophet and he receives revelation for the entire church as that is his stewardship or you don't. You either believe that Jesus Christ is at the head of this church and the church is organized in accordance with His will, or you don't. The thing that rubs me wrong is that these women feel the need to "request" that the prophet inquire about what they desire. I have a testimony that Thomas Monson is the prophet and he is very mindful about us as well as what the Lord wants for the Kingdom of God. These women assume that the prophet has not prayed about women receiving the Priesthood in the same capacity as men. What if he has? If he received the answer to extend the Priesthood to women, then we would be hearing about it the same way we heard about the ages of missionaries being changed or the building of a new temple. If the answer is no, does he need to make a public statement to satisfy these women? And if they are told the answer from God to His Living Prophet is No, would they accept it? I testify that God speaks to us through our Prophet as if it was His own voice. I testify that God directed Christ while he established His church and that there is a purpose to everything, whether we are given an explanation or not. It is my hope that we can all as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have hearts that say not my will, but Thine be done.
JoopMarch 14, 2014
Tahnk you Maurine Proctor for an article well written. There is spirituality in your article, something completely absent in the efforts of the Ordain Women movement. Theirs is a movement organised along the lines of the human rights movements, thinking that making noise will convince the Lord.
LaileMarch 14, 2014
It makes me sad that these women do not respect their roll in the family and the gospel. I wholeheartedly agree with Becky, I have enough to do without adding priesthood responsibilities on top of everything else. I do not believe we women are not already equal. These women are not asking for equality. They are asking to be MORE than men. They want the responsibility of everything leaving the men with no responsibilities to call their own. Heavenly Father intended men and to fit together like a puzzle, not to mirror one another. I find it sad these women are unable to respect themselves as wives, mothers and daughters of Heavenly Father to see we are equal despite our roles being different.
Nola CollierMarch 14, 2014
"We thank thee O God for a prophet." Amen. Thank you Sister Proctor. You are inspired.
so lameMarch 14, 2014
Bet you $1m that you only post comments that tow the line and cheer lead your agenda. And you call the media a tool. You are the tool. The person who will undoubtedly disapprove my post and any others who offer a different view. You don't have to hide things of you have the whole truth m
WhitMarch 14, 2014
Sally Jo- what a horrible thing to say. You are insinuating that women who want the priesthood are not intelligent or are less intelligent than yourselves. While I have no stance on the issue, you should be ashamed of your behavior and should worry about how YOUR words influence the world's view of the church.
Nanacoool March 14, 2014
This is an exceptional analysis of the issues and protest. The blatant error in logic...that the protesters want the priesthood of God ie the power to act in the name of God but don't recognize the power or authority of those God has already called and ordained. It is a superficial and thinly veiled attempt at self-aggrandizement in an organization dedicated to the opposite, The Lord's humble example of charitable service. I am a convert to the Church. The teachings and inspired organization of the Church have brought my husband and me, our five children, their spouses and our twelve grandchildren a level of happiness we could have achieved in no other way. My prayer and faith is that the Lord's Church will remain in tact for all the remaining generations to come. Thank you for your clear insights and Meridian Magazine!
Dwyn LarsonMarch 14, 2014
Thanks Maurine! Especially for the bit about Newell Knight. These women may never "get it" but we do. You've given us words/images to support our confidence in Heavenly Father's plan.
sally joMarch 14, 2014
Thank you for being the voice of an intelligent woman for intelligent women who "get the Gospel"!
jdmort10March 14, 2014
Amen. Ordain Women will do much to distort the public perception of the church and it's relationship with women. There is no expectation to receive the priesthood in my corner of the church and I find that expectation by others offensive. Only by revelation would I find the priesthood acceptable. I do not feel slighted in the least without it.
Maury JonesMarch 14, 2014
Women function in a Priesthood capacity at the highest level of the LDS Church, within the Temple. In the endowment ceremony they give signs and tokens, and specifically in the Washing and Anointing room they anoint with oil and lay on hands and pray a Priesthood blessing.
Debbie MenconiMarch 14, 2014
The New York Times is known for their 'brand' of reporting. Barbara Bush recently mentioned in an interview that she had discontinued her subscription! Those who want to find the truth in this will. As those who don't-will not even try. Instead believing the worst. All we can do is Live up to our covenants and not respond negatively to those who choose to distort the truth.
J. B.March 14, 2014
These women must have not been listening when they went through the temple for the first time, or in subsequent visits. We hold the keys of the priesthood through our husbands, fathers, brothers, and sons. I have felt the power of the priesthood that the male members of my family hold. I have listened when I've attended the temple, when they say that we ARE ordained Priestesses in the Gospel. I don't need an outward - in public, ordination or the ability to perform ordnances that are viewed by all to know that I am a priestess unto God. I can't understand why would Heavenly Father keep the existsance of Heavenly Mother from those who would demean or degrade her? Why? Because He knows that those who don't understand Her role in the universe, the gospel, and the family, will only find ways to do just that, demean and degrade Her. I have understood, ever since I joined the Church over 35 years ago, and especially since I was married in the Temple, that I hold the priesthood through my husband and, now, my sons. I know that when I had a close friend of mine stand as my earthly father's proxy, that I am now blessed with a father who now holds the priesthood too, even though he passed on. I know my Dad (earthly) is a strong patriarch of my family. I feel his strength of his priesthood as much as I do my son's, my husband's, and Heavenly Father's and Jesus Christ's. Do I need an ordination that is openly "known", to feel the power and strength that comes to me, because of the men that are around me? Nope! I say that with conviction. I know my priesthood power comes to me from Heavenly Father, just as strongly as it comes to the men around me. If I had never married, I still would have had the strength of the knowledge that I was holding the priesthood through any who were my Bishop (or Branch President), Stake President, and on up the line to the living Prophet and ultimately to God Himself. I don't need to show the world that I'm equal to men. I know I am. I also know that I am a woman. Women can do something men can't, we carry within us the ability to create physical bodies for our spiritual brethren and sisters that are waiting yet to be born. There are innumeral spirits that need to be born that need a physical body so they can complete their "journey" back to God, to be with Him, our Elder Brother Jesus Christ, our Heavenly Mother and to be reunited with our ancestors who are already there waiting for all of us. They have made a choice to want the world to "see and know", what they already have. They want women to be out there doing what the men do. What they don't see is they are already ordained. Every woman who has been to the temple for ordnances, for themselves or others, has been ordained. God's plan is plain. It is simple. Why complicate it by asking for something that they already have. Every woman in the church should think about what we learn in the temple. Women should see that we have been given a very hard task to bear the children, to literally hold the family together. We are the bearers of men, as daughters, sisters, wives, and mothers. Our priesthood is as strong, it just has a different task. I know that this has been a LONG comment, but, I needed to say these things. Thank you for "listening".
grant nicholasMarch 14, 2014
excellant arfticle. I have allways liked the quote: If you believe the church is true and it does have the priesthoold of God then you understand that He can give that power to whom ever He chooses. If you don't beleive the church is true then your are not missing out on anything. I have aways associated the Use of the Priesthood like ballroom dancing, Only one can lead and his partner more than shares the limelight
beckyMarch 14, 2014
I do not want anymore on my plate as it is. I have a hard enough time..trying to be a wife...mother..and a sister of zion. I sometimes swear..eat a breakfast on fast Sunday...and remain temple endowed. My husband holds the priesthood and I try to live up to that. I do not want another label on me. Look..these women want change and to make a difference...spend your efforts doing so by trying to change the condition of our gvt and this world. I dont need them to be my spokesperson. Im opinionated as it is.
Diane KunkelMarch 14, 2014
Thank you once again, Maurine, for addressing this issue and being so bold in declaring the truth.
DaleMarch 14, 2014
Well said!
Brett March 13, 2014
There are certainly things that the church could do to impress the secular media... But that's not our goal, is it? We are certainly led by a living prophet who receives revelation. But to pretend that the prophetic revelation isn't sometimes prompted by members outside the hierarchy is to deny our own beautifully rich history.
KristyMarch 13, 2014
As the woman with her baby interviewed for that NY Times story, let me answer your question: "yes, we are ready for that responsibility!" I long to hold my babies in my arms when they are named and blessed. And I have faith our prayers will be answered.
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