Return to About Mormons home

1597:  On 02/09/00, Rick asked:  [Are Mormons really Christians?  I know they believe in Jesus, but don't they interpret some things differently than my Church?]

See The Exclusion by Definition

1596:  On 02/09/00, Michelle asked:  Hi - i have a friendwho is about to serve his mission in france - i was wondering if you could tell me a little more about what this entails as I am not of the mormon religion. Thanks

See Misisonary Work home page

1595:  On 02/09/00, Ann asked:  My nephew has converted to the Mormon Religion, and is marrying a girl of the same faith. Can you tell me about the wedding ceremony. I would like to know if it's like other religions? Mostly, I would like a better under~ standing of the ceremony if it is different.

See Eternal Marriage

1594:  On 02/09/00, Alex asked:  My question is, if you elect to fast at some point during the month in addition to the usual Fast Sunday, should you pay fast offerings on the additional fast as well?

Church leaders have only asked members to pay fast offerings for the formal Church-wide fasting that occurs on the first Sunday of the month (See Fast and Testimony Meeting).   Elder Russell M. Nelson said:

"As individual members of the Church, you and I participate in the Lord's "own way." At least once a month, we fast and pray and contribute generous offerings to funds that enable bishops to disperse aid. This is part of the law of the gospel. Each of us truly can help the poor and the needy, now, and wherever they are. And we, too, will be blessed and protected from apostasy by so doing."  (CR 1986 Apr:33)

Whether members choose to pay fast offerings for additional fasts is an individual preference.  If someone failed to do so, they would not be in violation of any specific commandment.  However, the prophets and apostles have encouraged us to be generous in our fast offerings.  President Spencer W. Kimball said:

"We wish to remind all the Saints of the blessings that come from observing the regular fast and contributing as generous a fast offering as we can….  This principle of promise, when lived in the spirit thereof, greatly blesses both giver and receiver. Upon practicing the law of the fast, one finds a personal wellspring of power to overcome self-indulgence and selfishness." (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, p.145)

The Lord would certainly look kindly upon additional fast offerings. The Book of Mormon teaches:

"But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him." (Moroni 7:47)

(See Financial Contributions; Charity)

1593:  On 02/09/00, Richard asked:  [Isn't Plural marriage always sinful?]

The Bible teaches that the Patriarchs of the Old Testament, who had multiple wives, were still admitted to Heaven:

And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 8:11)

I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob[.] God is not the God of the dead, but of the living. (Matthew 22:32)

There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you [yourselves] thrust out. (Luke 13:28)

If their marital relations were inherently sinful, they surely would have been condemned by God. Why were their actions accepted? Because plural marriage had been sanctioned by the Lord in their case.  Only those who reject the Bible would claim that plural marriages are always sinful. (See Plural Marriage home page)

1592:  On 02/09/00, Meg asked:  what does it mean to be an Elder of Israel?

An Elder is an office in the Melchizedek Priesthood.   Israel is another name of Jacob, son of Isaac and grandson of Abraham.  The name was given to him by a messenger of God, as recorded in the Holy Bible:

"And [the messenger of God] said unto him, What [is] thy name? And he said, Jacob.   And he said, Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed." (Genesis 32:27-8)

The descendants of Jacob are often called the children of Israel.  Therefore, an Elder in Israel is a descendent of Jacob who holds the Melchizedek Priesthood.  (See Elder; Israel)

1591:  On 02/05/00, a visitor asked:  Supposing I am baptized correctly, and have received the necessary ordinances in the temple, including temple marriage, and supposing i`ve progressed greatly before that time, but am still not perfect, let`s suppose i receive a glory.  The Terrestrial.  Will i be able to continue perfeccioning myself in the sense that i will keep repenting and progressing so as to be able to progress within the Terrestrial glory, and eventually be able to inherit a higher glory, that of a Celestial, and in time and throughout eternity progress and perfection myself based on the same principles until I become as my Heavenly Father is now? 

President Spencer W. Kimball taught:

"No progression between kingdoms. After a person has been assigned to his place in the kingdom, either in the telestial, the terrestrial, or the celestial, or to his exaltation, he will never advance from his assigned glory to another glory. That is eternal! That is why we must make our decisions early in life and why it is imperative that such decisions be right." (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, p.50)

(See Second Chance Theory)

1590:  On 02/05/00, Bob asked:  Can you tell me where the Golden Plates that Joseph Smith Jr. found are now located? 

See Gold Plates

1589:  On 02/05/00, Nicole asked:  Do Mormon men still marry more than one wife? And when Woodrow(?) changed the Mormon law, did he do it just to keep the religion or did he really realize it's wrong? 

No, Latter-day Saints may presently have only one wife.  The Church considers plural marriage a divine and holy principle, when sanctioned and approved of by God.   The Church stopped practicing plural marriage in this dispensation after the Latter-day Saint people were threatened with total extermination by the United States Government.  Based on divine revelation, President Woodruff decided it would be better to temporarily suspend the practice than have God's people systematically annihilated.  We believe we will return to the practice again, at a time of the Lord's choosing. (See Plural Marriage home page)

1588:  On 02/05/00, Stephen asked:  [Why does the Church keep Sunday as the Sabbath, instead of Saturday?]

See Is Saturday the True Sabbath?

1587:  On 02/05/00, Doug asked:  I am trying to prepare a page that lists major denominations and sect's beliefs in regard to End Time prophecy.  A good explanation of LDS teachings on the end of the world, possibly a good commentary on the prophecies of Daniel and the Book of Revelation would be super.  Do you know of any? I visited an LDS bookstore today and they did not know of any books on the subject.

See The Last Days home page

1586:  On 02/05/00, a visitor asked:  Hi. I was wondering about something. Are the reasons Mormons aren't allowed to drink coffee and tea because of the caffeine in them? If so are they not allowed to drink other caffeinated beverages such as some sodas and hot chocolate or chocolate milk. And if that is true then can they eat chocolate candy?

See Why Are Certain Things Forbidden by the Word of Wisdom?

1585:  On 02/05/00, a visitor asked:  Is it a sin to have oral sex in marriage or is it just something that is discouraged?  And if you have oral sex in marriage, do you have to see your bishop and repent?

See Sex in Marriage

1584:  On 02/05/00, Daniel asked: [Why is a Temple Recommend Required to Enter the Temple?]

See Why is a Temple Recommend Required to Enter the Temple?

1583:  On 02/05/00, a visitor asked:  I have a daughter who has been referred to a psychiatrist because she is hearing voices and seeing  "people" who tell her she in worthless.  There is some concern about the possibility that she is delusional and self destructive.  My question concerns whether it is possible that what she is hearing and seeing are some of the spirits that were cast out of Heaven with Satan.   Is it possible for them to actually be heard and seen by someone, rather than just to influence thoughts?  Also, either way- if she has a chemical imbalance or if it is evil spirits- should a blessing be sought for her?

The Prophet Joseph Smith noted:

"Not every spirit, or vision, or singing, is of God. The devil is an orator; he is powerful; he took our Savior on to a pinnacle of the Temple, and kept Him in the wilderness for forty days." (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, Section Four 1839–42, p.162)

If the Devil could perform such works on the Savior, then he could certainly affect the children of men as well.   Regardless of the cause of your daughter's affliction, then I would certainly seek a priesthood blessing for her.  In addition, I would have your Bishop refer her to LDS Family Services, which may be able to help in prescribing a treatment plan.

1582:  On 02/05/00, Emily asked:  and I was wondering why we know nothing about the Heavenly Mother.  Is it because our Heavenly Father cares and loves her too much to ever take the chance of Her being put down, or taken advantage of?  I know that she has the most divine nature, I was just wondering where I can read more about Her.

The Lord tells us the things that we need to know for our salvation.  We know many things about our Mother in Heaven and can infer others from what we know about the plan of salvation.  Those things we have not been told are either not necessary for us at this time or we are not prepared to receive them.  Certainly, our Heavenly Father guards his beloved companion with great care.  And the frequency in which his own name is taken in vain might influence his willingness to share that which is not essential for us to know at this time.  (See Mother in Heaven)

1581:  On 02/05/00, a visitor asked:  please send me some of the lds veiws on the subject of Christ birth and his Christmas gifts

See Birth of Christ

1580:  On 02/05/00, Sandy asked:  If married Mormons progress and become Gods and populate a planet of there own will they be worship these people.

See Biblical Support for Deification

1579:  On 02/05/00, a visitor asked:  is it okay for Mormons to have non-Mormon friends?  If so, then why is a Mormon dating a non-Mormon not readily accepted?

Yes, Latter-day Saints often have many nonmember friends.  However, Latter-day Saints are encouraged only to date faithful members of the Church.  Latter-day Saints believe that the purpose of dating is to select a marriage partner.  Since a major component of the gospel is the concept of eternal marriage, Latter-day Saints are encouraged to only date and marry faithful members of the Church. This is because only faithful members of the Church can enter a holy temple and be married for time and all eternity. In other words, Latter-day Saints believe that when two people enter into temple marriage (i.e., eternal marriage) and are faithful to their covenants, then they will rise in the resurrection as a married couple and live together forever in the married state. Members are encouraged to stay away from any path which might take them away from this great blessing.  (See Dating and Marrying Nonmembers)

1578:  On 02/05/00, Chris asked: How did this religion begin? Who was its founder? How many believers belog to the group?

See The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

1577:  On 02/04/00, Sergio asked:  [I am a member.  I am living with someone to whom I am not married and we have a two year old daughter.  What is the right thing to do?]

The Church teaches that sexual relations should only occur between a man and a women who are legally and lawfully wedded (See Premarital Sex).  To rectify this situation, you should 1) see your Bishop and discuss the matter with him, and 2) marry the mother of your child and ensure that your daughter has all the blessings of righteous family living.

1576:  On 02/04/00, Loren asked:  Moroni 8:18  Is this talking about God not being a changeable being?  Or is it talking about God's word is never changeable?

The Book of Mormon states:

"For I know that God is not a partial God, neither a changeable being; but he is unchangeable from all eternity to all eternity." (Moroni 8:18)

(See Is God the Same Yesterday, Today, and Forever?)

1575:  On 02/04/00, a visitor asked:  I was wondering what the meaning of a verse was. I know it cant have the meaning that it appears to have but i cant figure it out. so any insight that you have i would be thankful. EXO 32:14 And the LORD repented of the evil which he thought to do unto his people.  How can the Lord repent?

This verse is a perfect illustration of why modern Bibles cannot be considered perfect and free from all error.  Whether it is an incorrect translation or a corrupted text, it is obvious to all believing Christians that the Lord, who is perfect and free from all error, does not repent.  The Lord inspired the Prophet Joseph Smith to correct many of the problem texts in the Bible.  These corrections are known as the Joseph Smith Translation (JST).  The JST version of Exodus 32:14 says:

"And the Lord said unto Moses, If they will repent of the evil which they have done, I will spare them, and turn away my fierce wrath; but, behold, thou shalt execute judgment upon all that will not repent of this evil this day. Therefore, see thou do this this thing that I have commanded thee, or I will execute all that which I had thought to do unto my people."

(See The Holy Bible home page)

1574:  On 02/04/00, Enriko asked:  I have heard that LDS believe that one of the reasons Jesus was crucified was because he held multiple wives.  Is this true?

See Was Jesus Crucified Because of Plural Marriage?

1573:  On 02/04/00, Scott asked:  I'm writing a paper on "U.S. Policy towards Mormons in the early-mid-nineteenth century" and I was wondering if you had any information on this subject or if you could tell me where I could find this information.

See Church History, paying special attention to the Bibliographies of each article.

1572:  On 02/04/00, Kenny asked:  What is the church's standing on kissing?

See Passionate Kissing

1571:  On 02/02/00, Larry asked:  Some non-Mormon friends told me, however, that the LDS church owns large amounts of Pepsi Cola stock.  I wonder whether this is true? The same Mormon Missionaries told me that in the Words of Wisdom, there is no specific prohibition against caffeine.

Unfortunately, your friends are misinformed.  The Church does not own any significant amount of stock in PepsiCo, a publicly traded company.  For information on caffeinated beverages, see Cola Drinks

1570:  On 02/02/00, Brock asked:  please explain the atonement to me

See The Atonement of Jesus Christ home page

1569:  On 02/02/00, Justin asked:  i have a question about a organ donorship.  i had heard that Mormons were encouraged NOT to donate their organs after death.  is this correct?

See Organ Transplants and Donations

1568:  On 02/02/00, Fran asked: I am interested did B. Young ever declare that there were men on the SUN !! did Joseph Smith .. ever say that there were men on the MOON !!  if not then tell me what I am reading !!

See How Could a Prophet Believe in Moonmen?

1567:  On 02/02/00, Loren asked:  Where it says that if a man wishes to be saved he must have a woman by his side?

See Exaltation

1566:  On 02/02/00, Loren asked:  Where it says that the Holy Ghost is a son of God just as Jesus is a son of God?

See An Overview of The Holy Ghost

1565:  On 02/02/00, Lee asked:  We would like to know where Pres. Hinckley was born and baptized

See The First Presidency:   Present Members

1564:  On 02/02/00, Brian asked:  What are some teachings of this religion that make it unique and different.  Are there and " Unique or different practices that no other religions practice. 

See Distinctive Teachings

1563:  On 02/02/00, Brian asked:  What is your concept of God...or gods.  How do you understand God to be and work. 

See Teachings About the Godhead home page

1562:  On 02/02/00, Troy asked:  I am seeking information / evidence that the apostasy (falling away) has already been. I have a personal testimony that the restoration through Joseph Smith was the end but would like to help some non-member friends see that the apostasy started around the turn of the first century and ended with the restoration. Any help you can provide would be most appreciated.

See Restoration of the Gospel home page

1561:  On 02/02/00, Aaron asked:  To me it seems we are saved through and by faith. The LDS Church seems to think otherwise? Insight appreciated.

See Grace vs. Works

1560:  On 01/30/00, David asked:  I'm surprised that you have people working here in Greece. Do you think that the Greek people are not Christian? If you do, I would be very grateful if you could explain why.

See Why do the Latter-day Saints send their missionaries out into the world, especially into Christian nations?

1559:  On 01/30/00, a visitor asked:  What is marriage time and marriage for eternity?

See Eternal Marriage

1558:  On 01/30/00, Connie asked:  We recently lost a pet we were very attached to and wondered if there is evidence in the scriptures of our being reunited with our pets.

Latter-day Saints believe that animals will inhabit the Celestial Kingdom.  Elder Bruce R. McConkie noted:

"....all these forms of life will come up in the resurrection, 'in their destined order or sphere of creation, in the enjoyment of their eternal felicity.' (D. & C. 77:3.)" (Mormon Doctrine, p.38)

(See Animals)

1557:  On 01/30/00, Tina asked:  I would just like to ask you how the Mormon religion views the resurrection of Jesus Christ, and how does the Mormon religion view resurrection of everyday people?

See Resurrection

1556:  On 01/30/00, Tyrell asked:  Why were blacks not allowed to hold the priesthood when first organized in 1830?  - What brought about the second Official Declaration and why in 1978?

See Are Mormons Prejudiced?

1555:  On 01/30/00, Linda asked:  My friend frequently invites me to functions at her LDS church.   I have made friends with many of the members of her church and enjoy their company.   My question is: At some point, are they going to ask me to join the church?   In other words, will they be okay with me being Presbyterian and not wanting to be Mormon?

If your friend is a faithful Latter-day Saint, she will always desire you to join the LDS Church.  We believe our Church teaches the true plan of salvation which enables one to achieve peace in this life and eternal life in the world to come.  However, Latter-day Saints are taught that every person has the right to choose their own path in life, with accountability to God alone for that choice (See Agency).  We are taught to be friends with those not of our faith, and if we do not agree with them on all things, then work with them in areas of common interest.  President Gordon B. Hinckley taught:

"We can respect other religions, and must do so. We must recognize the great good they accomplish. We must teach our children to be tolerant and friendly toward those not of our faith. We can and do work with those of other religions in the defense of those values which have made our civilization great and our society distinctive." (See We Bear Witness of Him)

(See Missionary Work home page)

1554:  On 01/30/00, Ashley asked:  I am a member but I have always wanted to know what we believe about abortion?

See Abortion

1553:  On 01/30/00, William asked:  [The word "Christian" has come to refer to those beliefs based solely upon the Bible and held in common by Catholic, Protestant, and Evangelical churches. Therefore, since Latter-day Saints don't believe what these groups believe, how can they by Christians?]

See The Doctrinal Exclusion

1552:  On 01/30/00, Robert asked:  Hello john, i have a question to ask you. My father told me the Mormons were made fun of and beaten up and hated because Joseph smith and others claimed to have the only true church and if not joined they will not receive all the blessings or go to the same place in heaven. The Catholics were extremely made because of this so they were the ones to do most of these things. Is that true and also what is your response? Thank you for your time

See Persecution

1551:  On 01/29/00, a visitor asked: [Could you please provide a biblical scripture of the baptism of the dead. Thank you for your time.]

See Baptism for the Dead

1550:  On 01/29/00, a visitor asked:  Could you please provide the biblical scripture to help me understand your belief of the heavenly mother?

LDS belief on this subject comes from the teachings of Latter-day prophets.  For more information on this subject, see our Mother in Heaven article.

1549:  On 01/29/00, a visitor asked:  An investigator recently asked me.... "So who did Adam and Eve's children marry?" I wasn't sure how to answer that delicately.  The investigator then asked me "doesn't the bible say not to marry our kin?" What is the church's teaching of Adam and Eve's children marrying each other?

Elder Milton R. Hunter taught:

"The majority of Adam's and Eve's children were righteous and they paired off two by two in accordance with the law of celestial marriage and begat many children." (Pearl of Great Price Commentary, p.148; See Adam and Eve)

1548:  On 01/29/00, Chenea asked: Hi, I just got married in the temple, and both my husband and I want me to get my belly button pierced, I was wondering what the rules in the temple regarding body piercings ie. could I wear my belly button ring in the temple?

The Church teaches that since the physical body is a dwelling place for the Holy Spirit, it should not be desecrated by tattoos and/or body piercings.  Our area authority recently discussed this during stake conference.  It may be possible that your Bishop has more information on this subject.  The temple can advise you regarding the specific rules for temple worship for those who have undergone these procedures. (See Tattoos)

1547:  On 01/29/00, Daniel asked:  Are there any sites(links) for home teachers?

See Fellowshipping Members home page

1546:  On 01/29/00, Brock asked:  i am 14 and am a Mormon. This girl at school says that we are saved through grace rather than by works, and it says so in the Bible. Will you please tell me a way that i can tell her what we believe about this subject?

See Grave vs. Works

1545:  On 01/29/00, Loren asked:  I have been trying to find in the Book of Mormon where it says that God is married.

This teaching is not found in the Book of Mormon, but in the teachings of Latter-day prophets.  For more information on this subject, see our Mother in Heaven article.

1544:  On 01/28/00, a visitor asked:  how did the Mormons change American history?

We created many of the trails which were used to settle the American west.  (See Church History c. 1844-1877, Exodus And Early Utah Periods)

1543:  On 01/28/00, Ron asked:  Does the church provide any counseling ( mental) for its members. I am on disability and can not afford to pay for it myself.

The Church provides mental health counseling through LDS Family Services.  If members are unable to pay for the service, then funds are often provided from a congregation's fast offerings.   To use the service, you should obtain a referral from your Bishop.  (See Mental Health; LDS Family Services)

1542:  On 01/28/00, a visitor asked:  If Mormons are Christians why is such a big deal for them to date/marry a
non-member of the LDS church?

See Dating and Marrying Nonmembers

1541:  On 01/27/00, Brian asked: do Mormon have to marry Mormons?  

See Dating and Marrying Nonmembers

1540:  On 01/27/00, Jared asked:  Hello,   I was wondering if you might be able to give me the URLs of some good  sites dealing with BOM archaeology?  I have a non member friend who is interested in learning on this subject.  Thank you for your time.

See http://www.farmsresearch.com

1539:  On 01/27/00, Ronnie asked:  if you guys don't add to the Bible, then what do you call the Book of Mormon?

See Adding to the Bible:  Revelation 22:18

1538:  On 01/27/00, Loren asked:  I am trying to find where it teaches in the Book of Mormon that God was once a mortal man and that he was not always God.

This teaching is not found in the Book of Mormon, but in a sermon given by the Prophet Joseph Smith instead:

"I will go back to the beginning before the world was, to show what kind of being God is. What sort of a being was God in the beginning? Open your ears and hear, all ye ends of the earth, for I am going to prove it to you by the Bible, and to tell you the designs of God in relation to the human race, and why He interferes with the affairs of man.

God himself was once as we are now, and is an exalted man, and sits enthroned in yonder heavens! That is the great secret. If the veil were rent today, and the great God who holds this world in its orbit, and who upholds all worlds and all things by his power, was to make himself visible,—I say, if you were to see him today, you would see him like a man in form—like yourselves in all the person, image, and very form as a man; for Adam was created in the very fashion, image and likeness of God, and received instruction from, and walked, talked and conversed with him, as one man talks and communes with another." (See King Follett Discourse)

(See Teachings About the Godhead home page)

1537:  On 01/27/00, Loren asked:  Where in the Book Of Mormon does it teach that God has a body of flesh and
bone?

This teaching is not found in the Book of Mormon, but in the Doctrine and Covenants instead:

"The Father has a body of flesh and bones as tangible as man's; the Son also; but the Holy Ghost has not a body of flesh and bones, but is a personage of Spirit. Were it not so, the Holy Ghost could not dwell in us." (D&C 130:22)

(See Teachings About the Godhead home page)

1536:  On 01/27/00, Jennifer asked:  I'm interested in joining the church of LDS.  I've been raised Catholic and   Presbyterian and find both very unfulfilling.  I have a few friends who are Mormon and seem very content and satisfied.  I am very interested!  How do I get started?  Who do I talk to?

The best thing to do is to find a local LDS congregation and show up for Sunday services.  If you would like to have LDS missionaries visit you in your home, please call (U.S.) 1-800-453-3860 and ask for the Missionary Department.  (See Joining the Church)

1535:  On 01/27/00, Paul asked:  How do I get a subscription to The Ensign?

1534:  On 01/27/00, Jessica asked:  Hi  I am doing a report on The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and I was just wondering the difference of your religions from Christianity? And how do your beliefs differ? 

See Are Mormons Christians?

1533:  On 01/27/00, Amie asked: [What can you tell me about God being married?]

See Mother in Heaven

1532:  On 01/27/00, a visitor asked:  could you send me more information on getting to know god?

Our Prayer, Fasting, and Revelation home page has a number of articles that teach people how to obtain communication and communion with the Lord.

1531:  On 01/27/00, Dave asked:  I will attend a funeral of a Mormon friend in a few days.   Could you please tell me briefly what the funeral traditions are for the LDS church. 

See Burial

1530:  On 01/27/00, Karen asked:  What does "sealing" to parents or children mean?

See Temple Sealings

1529:  On 01/27/00, Kurt asked:  Does the church have a position on caring for creation (i.e. recycling, conserving, etc.)?

See Earth

1528:  On 01/27/00, Aleena asked:  What are the "rules of conduct" for an elder that is on his mission?

See Missionary Life

1527:  On 01/27/00, Dianne asked:  My teacher said that there is one belief that separates the Mormon religion from others.  He said that there is something that you don't believe happened in biblical history, that other religions do believe happened.  I know the question is a little vague, but any ideas would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

Latter-day Saints believe that a universal apostasy occurred in the early Christian Church which necessitated a restoration of the true doctrines and authority of God.   (See Restoration of the Gospel home page)

1526:  On 01/27/00, Heather asked:  what if for financial reason's the mother must work My husband can not earn enough money to support the family by himself in our area anymore most of the companies have left. I make good money at my work and it is just to expensive to move from our current house.

The Family: A Proclamation to the World states:

"By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families. (See Teachings About Fatherhood and the Role of Men home page) Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children. (See Teachings About Motherhood and the Role of Women home page) In these sacred responsibilities, fathers and mothers are obligated to help one another as equal partners. Disability, death, or other circumstances may necessitate individual adaptation. Extended families should lend support when needed."

It's up to each individual family to determine if their individual circumstances warrant a deviation from the divine plan of our Heavenly Parents.

1525:  On 01/27/00, Heather asked:  What if members of the church can not have children do you support invetro-fertilization? or would you rather they adopt?

See Artificial Insemination

1524:  On 01/27/00, a visitor asked:  i am a catholic. and i really want to date a girl i met who is a Mormon.  She is fifteen and i heard that i cannot date her due to the fact that the religion does not permit it.  Is this true?  if it is is there anything i can do to date her? i appreciate your response. thank you very much.

See Dating and Marrying Nonmembers

1523:  On 01/27/00, Mark asked:  Could you please explain the doctrine of baptism for the dead?  I am a member  of the church of Jesus Christ, a Christian only.   Can you please explain to me your position on 1 Corinthians 15:29 also? 

See Salvation for the Dead; Baptism for the Dead

1522:  On 01/27/00, a visitor asked:  do animals have spirits?

See Animals

1521:  On 01/27/00, Adriane asked:  What are the Mormons rituals? 

See Priesthood Ordinances home page

1520:  On 01/27/00, a visitor asked:  What is the official church stand on homosexuality?

See Homosexuality

1519:  On 01/27/00, Paul asked:  Does the Church truly teach that Jesus was born of a virgin, or that Mary was simply a virgin at the time of the Annunciation?  If the Church can invent a theology surrounding the "inference" of a Heavenly Mother, why then does it discount the importance of Jesus' mortal mother, who raised him and taught him as any righteous mother would?

The Church teaches that Mary was a virgin at the time of Jesus birth.  President Ezra Taft Benson said:

"He was the Only Begotten Son of our Heavenly Father in the flesh—the only child whose mortal body was begotten by our Heavenly Father. His mortal mother, Mary, was called a virgin, both before and after she gave birth." (Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson, p.7)

Elder Bruce R. McConkie noted:

"We cannot but think that the Father would choose the greatest female spirit to be the mother of his Son, even as he chose the male spirit like unto him to be the Savior" (The Mortal Messiah, Book I, p. 327).

(See Mary, Mother of Jesus, Virgin Birth; Mother in Heaven)

1518:  On 01/27/00, Scott asked:  Hi,   Can you give me the reference where Joseph Smith talks about men on the moon with tall hats?

See How Could a Prophet Believe in Moonmen?

1517:  On 01/27/00, Kate asked: [Where did the book of Mormon come from?]

See The Book of Mormon

1516:  On 01/27/00, Jenny asked:  Hello, I am taking a world religions class and I am currently writing my final exam essay.   I would like to know what beliefs Mormons have towards treating their fellow people.  What is taught as the "correct" way to interact with coworders, friends, enemies, strangers, etc.? thank you for your time.

Elder Bruce R. McConkie taught:

"'All things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.' (Matt. 7:12; 3 Ne. 14:12.) This perfect code for personal conduct, taken from our Lord's sermon on the mount, is commonly referred to as the Golden Rule, a name which attempts to point up the transcendent wisdom of the counsel involved. Sometimes the Golden Rule is paraphrased to say: Do unto others, as you would have them do unto you." (Mormon Doctrine, p.326)

(See Charity)

1515:  On 01/27/00, Mary asked: I would like to know if one can be baptized a Mormon if they went through all of the classes with the missionaries and did everything but become baptized. I almost became baptized 2 years ago but did not go through with it all the way, can I "re-enter" (for lack of a better term) the church? I really feel called.

Yes, the Church offers a continual invitation to everyone to come and enjoy the blessings of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ.   I suggest you find a local LDS congregation and visit services this Sunday.

1514: On 01/27/00, Tanya asked:  I am a member and have heard many times that the prophet has advised us NOT to drink cola drinks. I also know growing up as a child, we were taught to stay away from Caffeinated drinks.     Now I am trying to find references and cannot find any, anywhere! I am a wee bit frustrated. I did find a site where it said cola drinking was not advised and it was found in an old priesthood manual from the 70's. Please, help! Any quotes or interviews or ideas where I can look would be appreciated.

See Cola Drinks

1513:  On 01/27/00, Bob asked:  Do you know of any references to the LDS churches views regarding oral sex (within marriage)?  Is it prohibited, allowed, or up to the couple to decide?  I know that anything that feels unnatural or uncomfortable to either partner should be avoided, but what if it is desirable and feels natural to both?

See Sex in Marriage

1512:  On 01/26/00, John asked:  Are Family Members who do not belong to the LDS Church permitted inside the temple to witness the wedding ceremony of their sibling?

Only faithful members who have a temple recommend may enter a dedicated temple.  (See Why Is a Temple Recommend Required to Enter the Temple?)

1511:  On 01/26/00, Gavin asked:  Does Mormon doctrine accept evolution?  Wouldn't evolution be the only way the God could become exalted, since he had ancestors? Wouldn't God just be a man who's people evolved into a higher state?  I find no other explanation than this.

Does the Church accept evolution?  It depends upon what one means by the term.   The First Presidency has stated:

"Man is the child of God, formed in the divine image and endowed with divine attributes, and even as the infant son of an earthly father and mother is capable in due time of becoming a man, so the undeveloped offspring of celestial parentage is capable, by experience through ages and aeons, of evolving into a God." ( Messages of the First Presidency, Vol.4, p.206; See Godhood)

On the other hand, Church leaders have taught certain organic evolution theories regarding the origin of man are false.  (See Evolution)

1510:  On 01/26/00, a visitor asked:  I am a member of the Church and what bothers me right now is about the tubal ligation done by several members, in the Philippines, most of the doctors advise family planning, and one way to promote this is to advice the family for tubal ligation. What is the standing of the church about tubal ligation?

See Birth Control

1509:  On 01/26/00, Katie asked: What are the differences between being Mormon and being a Christian? 

See Are Mormons Christians?

1508:  On 01/26/00, Katie asked:  What is seminary? 

See Seminaries

1507:  On 01/26/00, Cindy asked:  I was reading about how your wife's sister did not go to your endowment ceremony because she had not been endowed herself. I had a secretary for a short time who was LDS. She had been a member for 7 or 8 months. She had never been married but she had been to the temple. She even showed me her temple recommend. Why would a single woman who is not getting married go to the temple? I hope that you can answer this,  but if it would violate your beliefs I understand.

In the temple, Latter-day Saints perform a number of temple ordinances for both the living and the dead.  Some of these ordinances like Washing and Anointings and the Endowment are usually performed when a person is scheduled to go on a mission or enter into a temple marriage. Those who have exceeded the age at which people normally perform these activities are sometimes approved for these ordinances as well, but only after they have been members for at least a year and are deemed spiritually prepared.  Since these ordinances are associated with sacred covenants, the Church tries to ensure that all those who receive these ordinances have the maturity necessary to make and keep these sacred obligations.  

The Church also performs baptisms for the dead in the temple.  Since there are no additional covenants associated with these baptisms, all Church members, age 12 and older, who meet the standard worthiness requirements can enter the temple to perform baptisms for the dead.  While it's theoretically possible that a new convert would be allowed to enter the temple 7-8 months after baptism for an Endowment, it would be a very unusual and would take special permission.  The Church Handbook of Instructions says a one year waiting period is mandatory.  Therefore, I suspect your friend showed you a temple recommend that was issued specifically for baptisms for the dead, which require no waiting period. (See Teachings About Temples home page)

1506:  On 01/26/00, Kaity asked: Do Mormons believe in Baptism?  If so what age is appropriate?

See Baptism

1505:  01/26/00, William asked:  Last Monday, the Los Angeles Times had an article about an upcoming California Ballot issue that would forbid same-sex marriages.  It appeared that different Christian and Jewish groups were on both sides of this issue but it wasn't clear to me which side they were on.  Since your Church was mentioned, can you tell me what are your beliefs regarding same-sex marriages and can they be performed in your Church?  And also whether or not you support the Cal. issue?  Thanks.

Latter-day Saints support the California initiative and do not believe same-sex marriages are valid before God.  When two people of the same sex join in using their bodies for erotic purposes, this conduct is considered homosexual and sinful by the Church, comparable to sexual relations between any unmarried persons.  (See Homosexuality)

1504:  On 01/23/00, Jack said:  Is it true that Mormons say that there are many gods, each has his own wife

See Is There One God or Many?

1503:  On 01/23/00, Jack asked:  Is it true that Mormons say that Jesus and Satan are brothers?

See Are Jesus and Satan Brothers?

1502:  On 01/23/00, Jack asked:  Is it true that Mormons deny the virgin birth of Jesus. They say that God in his
physical body had sex with the Virgin Mary to conceive Jesus.

See Was Mary a Virgin?

1501: On 01/23/00, Andrew asked:  [Did Brigham Young ever teach the Adam-God theory or ever proclaim it to be a gospel truth or necessary for salvation?]

See Adam-God's Last Stand

(See Question and Answer home page; Question and Answer 36)