Starting the week contemplating the soul feels like a serene journey into understanding the depths of our beliefs. Isn’t it beautiful that we have the freedom to choose what resonates with us spiritually?
In this exploration, I’ve found solace in my baptism into the Mormon faith back in 2006. Each of us holds unique beliefs, and for me, that path led me to becoming a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Now, let’s embark on a voyage to unravel misconceptions and illuminate the essence of my faith.
Just as I embarked on my own quest for truth, I encourage you to embark on yours. Visit a nearby chapel. One of the best ways to learn more is by engaging with missionaries — they dedicate themselves to sharing knowledge for 18 months to 2 years.
To understand our beliefs deeply, let’s delve into the 13 Articles of Faith, guiding principles that illuminate our convictions:
1. We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost.
2. We believe that men will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam’s transgression.
3. We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel.
4. We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.
5. We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof.
6. We believe in the same organization that existed in the Primitive Church, namely, apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelists, and so forth.
7. We believe in the gift of tongues, prophecy, revelation, visions, healing, interpretation of tongues, and so forth.
8. We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly; we also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God.
9. We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God.
10. We believe in the literal gathering of Israel and in the restoration of the Ten Tribes; that Zion (the New Jerusalem) will be built upon the American continent; that Christ will reign personally upon the earth; and, that the earth will be renewed and receive its paradisaical glory.
11. We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may.
12. We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law.
13. We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul—We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things.
In wrapping up our discussion
let’s take a moment to appreciate the richness of our beliefs and the paths we’ve walked to understand them. Each of us brings something unique to the table, like different pieces coming together to form a mosaic.
Think about it: just as a mosaic is made up of individual tiles, each of us contributes our own experiences and beliefs to the mosaic of humanity. Embracing this diversity helps us grow in empathy and understanding.
As you’ve gone through the 13 Articles of Faith, consider how they relate to your own journey, no matter your background. How do these principles align with your values and experiences? What can we learn from each other’s perspectives?
I’d love to hear your thoughts and questions in the comments below. Your voice matters here, and sharing your insights can help us all learn and grow.
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Feel free to share this discussion with others who might find it meaningful. Let’s spread love, understanding, and connection as we navigate our individual paths together. Thanks for being part of this journey with me.
