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10 Times Elder Perry Proved He Was the Man

Early in the afternoon on Saturday, May 30th, Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles passed away peacefully at his home. He was an incredible man with endless enthusiasm for life and a smile that could light up a room. Not only that, but he had a deep and abiding love for the Savior that he shared whenever he could.

In tribute to this remarkable apostle of the Lord, here are ten moments from Elder Perry’s life that prove he was a man among men.

1. When he did the actions to “Popcorn Popping on the Apricot Tree” as he was leaving conference.

(Saturday morning session of 179th General Conference; photo via Deseret News)

2. When he helped rebuild Japanese churches after World War II and taught us what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ.

3. When he did everything possible to make it to church, even when he had tonsillitis.

As a young boy, Elder Perry had a perfect church attendance record. One week, when he was sick with tonsillitis, the entire family left Elder Perry and his mother at home and went to church. They were all shocked to see young L. Tom Perry walking through the chapel doors only a few minutes after the services had begun. He refused to ruin his perfect record.”

via ldsliving.com

4. When he gave Elder Bednar a fistbump and the Internet went wild.

5. When he challenged Elder Packer to a snowmobile race.

“I don’t remember the exact date when this took place, but it was a great time for me. Each year the Board of Education of the Church met at Ricks College. As food service director it was a special time to provide meals and snacks for the board. On one occasion Elder Perry, Elder Packer, President Eyring, Elder Jeffey Holland and others, along with their families were invited to go into Yellowstone Park on snowmobiles the day after the Board meetings. We stayed in a cabin near West Yellowstone Park. I was along as their chef. After breakfast we loaded onto the bus and went to West Yellowstone where we assigned either snow coaches or snowmobiles. Elders Perry and Packer each had a snowmobile. It was so much fun to see them all suited up and ready to go. As we were about to depart, Elder Perry looked over at Elder Packer and said, “Boyd, I’ll race you into Old Faithful.” With that the race was on. It was hilarious.”

via ftrver commenting on ldsliving.com

6. When he consistently proved that age is just a number.

7. When he focused on the one.

“While serving as a Guest Service Missionary (usher) on Temple Square & in the Conference Center, we were instructed to “never approach a General Authority”. Ushers put in many long hours on our feet, before, during and after events, mostly with very little acknowledgement. Following a First Presidency Christmas Devotional, many of the General Authorities passed through the door at which I was stationed. Mostly we are “invisible”. Elder Perry stopped, put one hand on my shoulder, shook hands with me, looked at my name tag and said, “Sister (my name), thank you for your service. Now you go home and get some rest!” What a kind acknowledgement!”

via grma747 on ldsliving.com

8. When he gave an exceptional BYU Devotional talk in 1974 and indirectly inspired P. Diddy.

Read the talk here: https://speeches.byu.edu/talks/l-tom-perry_best-whatever/

9. When he gave his first talk as an apostle and started it with a joke.

“Elder Loren Dunn, as I left for lunch, whispered in my ear and said, “They grade General Authorities on how little time they take in their first address.” I am trying for a straight A today.”

Watch and read the rest here: www.lds.org

10. When he eloquently defended the family.

In his last general conference address, Elder Perry gave an incredible defense of the family.

“What the restored gospel brings to the discussion on marriage and family is so large and so relevant that it cannot be overstated: we make the subject eternal! We take the commitment and the sanctity of marriage to a greater level because of our belief and understanding that families go back to before this earth was and that they can go forward into eternity.”

He ended with these sweet and powerful words:

“Let me close by bearing witness (and my nine decades on this earth fully qualify me to say this) that the older I get, the more I realize that family is the center of life and is the key to eternal happiness.

“I give thanks for my wife, for my children, for my grandchildren and my great-grandchildren, and for all of the cousins and in-laws and extended family who make my own life so rich and, yes, even eternal. Of this eternal truth I bear my strongest and most sacred witness in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.”

Read it here: www.lds.org

God be with you ‘til we meet again, Elder Perry.

What are your favorite memories of Elder Perry? Leave us a comment below or on our Facebook page.

May 30, 2015
How the Apostles Assign Missionaries: Expectation vs. Reality

Whenever I used to imagine how the apostles assign missionaries to missions, I usually imagined something like this:

Turns out the reality is a lot more mundane. Elder Dallin H Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles gave us an insight into the process yesterday with this Facebook post to his page:

Kind of looks like my desk at work only with comfier chairs.

I think we have a tendency in the Church to make our religion out to be more grandiose than it really is, and I find something weirdly comforting about imagining the Lord’s apostles quietly seated at a normal, unassuming desk, calmly carrying out their responsibilities. As much as I would have loved to find out that this process involved more chanting, and claps of thunder, it’s nice to know that when it really comes down to it, it’s all very… ordinary. And yet, perhaps not so ordinary. Behind the menial facade there is powerful priesthood authority at work. While the church outwardly espouses normality, the real miracles are of a spiritual nature, and this is proof.

May 28, 2015
Is Mormon Dating Broken?

The dating game within the Mormon culture can seem a bit broken at times. The guy is supposed to ask the girl, but the guy doesn’t ask at all. The girl is supposed to remain calm and unassuming when asked, but the girl is so rarely asked that she automatically jumps to the conclusion that the guy must REALLY be interested. Which in turn keeps the guy from asking out any other girl for fear that by doing so his simple invitation to get ice cream will be misinterpreted as a marriage proposal.

In the complex dance of dating within the Mormon culture, where traditional norms often clash with modern uncertainties, individuals seek clarity and guidance on matters of the heart. The intricacies of love and relationships, especially in a society bound by specific expectations, can leave many feeling perplexed. It’s here that the ancient practice of love reading can weave its magic. The cards, when interpreted by a skilled reader, offer a profound mirror reflecting desires, fears, and potential pathways. A tarot reading becomes a sacred space where questions find answers, and uncertainties transform into clarity.

Its a vicious cycle that can be easily avoided by understanding the 5 Stages of Dating. Yes. Five. Can you guess what they are?

Stage 1: Hanging Out

LDS singles have this concept down cold. This is the phase where you get together in large or small groups of both males and females, and you casually get to know people. In this stage you may not have any real ties to anyone (except for maybe your “wing-man”) and so you look to see if there is anyone who seems to have that certain charisma you’ve been looking for that you can add to your list of “potentials”.

Stage 2: Dating

Now this is the phase where the dating game becomes broken, because it is so easily misunderstood…or forgotten altogether. Dating is the stage where you review your list of “potentials” that you made from the hangout phase and you go with one person off that list to breakfast in the morning and then perhaps, you accompany a different “potential” out to dinner the next night. Some may call that being a “player”, a term that has such a negative connotation to it; defining someone as callous and insensitive to the feelings of others, and purely in the dating game for their own selfish purposes. But, if you think about it, aren’t we all in the dating game for “selfish” purposes. The ultimate goal is to find someone to call our own, right? While in the dating stage being a “player” in the game is exactly what you want to be! Dating is the phase where you pair off and get to know someone better one-on-one. When you’re dating your commitment to a person lasts for the duration of the date, and as soon as you’ve both gone your separate ways at the doorstep, that commitment is void until plans for a future date have been made. There is no reason to define the relationship in the beginning of the dating phase. There technically isn’t a relationship to define at this point. Just relax with the help from HHC cartridges, and let things happen. There is also no need to be offended if you see your morning date on a date with someone else later that night. And there is no reason to feel guilty if your morning date sees you out with someone else at dinner either. You are DATING, you are doing exactly what you should be doing. Dating is supposed to be fun and varied, because the whole point is to narrow down your potentials.

(The physical aspects of dating can complicate this, but that’s a conversation for another time. Mind your manners, people. Mind your manners. If you do, you shouldn’t have a problem.)

Stage 3: Courtship

It may seem a little old fashioned, but courting is, in fact, still a thing. The problem is that it gets confused with dating. Because people call courting “dating” which is why the dating phase gets

forgotten. Courting is NOT dating. Courting is two people who have agreed to date exclusively so that they can get to know one another on a deeper level. This is the part of the game where you really start to invest quality time and sincere effort to see if this person is someone you are truly compatible with. If you find they aren’t, please refer back to Stage 1. But if you find yourself wanting to use the “L” word frequently and they are reciprocating that love, then you will find yourself progressing to Stage 4.

Stage 4: Engagement

You put a ring on it, congratulations! This is the stage where you have committed to see if this can last for eternity. This phase is where you get down to the nitty-gritty, you ask the tough questions and you answer even tougher questions. You see if you can love them for who they really are and they see if they can handle you through all the good, the bad, and the ugly. However, If you find that there are some crucial things missing in your relationship, you can still revert back to Stage 1, even if the invitations are out. It may be a tad embarrassing, there may be a lost deposit or two, there may even be some hard conversations to have, but engagement is not a binding contract of forever, and therefore, if needs be, you can still call it off. Engagement is the like the final leg of the dating game, if there is a reason you shouldn’t cross the finish line, don’t. It’s okay. It’s all part of the game. On the other hand, if everything is coming up daisies, and your love has gone beyond just mere twitterpation, and the road ahead of you looks like the best life you could possibly imagine…You graduate to Stage 5.

Stage 5: Marriage

Stage 5 is the highest level of commitment; his and her towels, joint bank accounts, and happily ever afters. Where you have promised everything to your spouse and to God. All the other stages lead up to this. You have gotten to know a lot of different people. You’ve seen what is out there and you are confident in the choice you have made! You have conquered the dating game and you have found someone to call yours forever, and ever, and no matter what. Marriage is a beautiful thing, and although it can be incredibly scary while you’re in the dating phase, (because you aren’t ready to get married in the dating phase) by the time you’ve gone through courting and engagement it should be one of the easiest decisions you will ever make! It will make you feel complete and euphorically happy.

The very nature of dating makes it a rough sport. It can have you feeling like you’re walking on air one minute, and the next you will be in the depths of despair. Sometimes you may take a few hits to the head, and other times you’ll be the MVP. Someone once said “Wear a helmet.” when referring to the dating game. That is sound advice.

The truth is, dating doesn’t have to be as hard as we make it out to be. If you play the game the way it’s meant to be played, it can be quite fun, and you might eventually win! Don’t go straight from hanging out to engagement. It doesn’t work that way, and you can’t expect it to. Remember the stages, and implement them into your game plan. By the time you hit Stage 5 it will be all worth it. Promise.

Kandace Hatch is a snake person with over 8 years experience in the Mormon dating game before her game ended in 2009 when she married her wonderful husband, Chad. They now have two beautiful children and while she sometimes contemplates eating her young they bring her the most joy and fulfillment she could imagine. Yes, you could say that the family life suits her just fine and she is a firm believer that it suits everyone else as well.

May 24, 2015
Lindsey Stirling’s Billboards Dress Doesn’t Matter

Last month, I watched as a picture Lindsey Stirling posted on Instagram was flooded with dozens of negative, shaming comments. One read, “You’re so talented and smart. Why would you dumb yourself down with religion?” Another: “Go crawl back to your little church and beg for your faerie tale god to forgive you for being the very thing you think he created, little slave.”

It was a picture of the Savior with her testimony.

This week, I watched as another picture Lindsey Stirling posted on Instagram was flooded with dozens of negative, shaming comments. One read: “You were a role model until you publicly shamed your religion. Sad to see you go.” Another: “I found her appearance on the red carpet appalling.”

It was a picture of Lindsay smiling in front of the cameras before the Billboard Music Awards in a sheer-lined, cutout dress. The comments were from Latter-Day Saints.

If I were to set last month’s picture next to this week’s, I would see an obvious difference in the comments. Her picture of the Savior was filled with ridiculing, venomous voices that insulted her talent and her intelligence because of her religious beliefs. Most of the negative comments on her Billboards photo didn’t go beyond expressing severe disappointment. But as I consider these two photos and the reactions they prompted, I’m reminded of an alarming trend that both members of the church and nonmembers alike get caught up in.

When it comes to the people who represent us (our interests, our relationships, or our beliefs), we are all or nothing. The minute they slip up, whether they really do or we just think they do, we abandon them without mercy, as if they were never an imperfect human being to begin with and we can’t stand that they are.

That’s what I have a problem with.

I won’t express my opinion on Lindsey’s outfit. I won’t analyze whether or not her garments could be worn underneath her dress, and, in extension, whether or not she is keeping her covenants. That’s not my responsibility. At all. It’s between her and the Lord, and frankly, the only covenants that are any of my business in the first place are my own. But when I see my fellow brothers and sisters unforgivingly calling out another member in public for one choice they have made, expressing their disappointment with “I’m not judging, but…,” when I notice how it shifts the tone in public forums from “I love her” to “wow, I didn’t realize Mormons were so judgemental,” I mourn at the loss of an opportunity we too frequently destroy: the opportunity to love rather than to criticize. The opportunity to reinforce the truth that members of the church are imperfect, but that’s what makes the Gospel so precious and good, because everyone belongs in it. I believe that it is our efforts in our imperfections that make us true followers of Christ, not our perfections, and if the standard we set for ourselves is not as high as the standard we set for others, if we aren’t looking first and foremost at ourselves, we have an issue.

Whether or not we think Lindsey’s dress was modest, or that she’s completely destroyed her example as a role model, we’re overlooking how many times that beautiful girl has publicly expressed her love for the Savior in a forum of over 3.2 million followers, many of which ridicule her for it. We’re choosing, by making her dress an issue, to look on the outward appearance instead of on the heart, to hold a person’s wardrobe choice against them as if that is what defines them and the church, and it misses the mark. “We forget that teaching modesty does not have to include shaming or nitpicking other people” We forget that teaching modesty does not have to include shaming or nitpicking other people, and quite honestly, when we do that, we often aren’t very unassuming and modest in our censure. We could argue all day long about the ifs, ands, or buts about modesty and tell people how we think they should dress or look, but often, the cost of doing that is love and our own self-improvement.

Probably the most heartbreaking example of this that I’ve seen is when Al Fox, one of the most inspirational and beautiful people I know, was featured on the cover of LDS Living magazine last year. In the next issue, there was a letter to the editor by a member who condemned Al as a bad example of a covenant-keeping Mormon. In essence, it stated that LDS Living should be ashamed of featuring a Latter-Day Saint with tattoos because she set a terrible example for the youth. As a girl who looks up to Al for her amazing love of the Gospel and testimony, that letter horrified me. It horrifies me even more to think that there are other members of the church who are just as merciless toward other members and are very proud to cast the stones they throw.

The truth is that Lindsey Stirling’s dress and Al Fox’s tattoos — in extension, the way our brothers and sisters look or dress — matter far less than we act like they do. I know that we are human, and our first reaction is to make a judgement. Our first reaction is often to think about the example someone sets, how other people would react to what an individual says, does, or looks like. But in all our judgments, we might remember that we are asked to be Christlike, not Christ. What He thinks, not even necessarily of the outfit, but of the person inside is far more important than what other people think. For Pete’s sake, teach your children about covenants and modesty. Make sure that they understand why those things are important. But don’t do it in a way that would cause them to look down on or needlessly hurt another person.

Some of my best examples have been people who, like me, are utterly imperfect, people who live differently than I do and think differently and, yes, even dress differently. The common denominator is the Atonement and their love for the Savior. So, she wore a dress that a lot of people are analyzing for the sake of modesty right now. So what? Lindsey’s courageous effort to defend her beliefs against the ridicule of others is a much greater example to me than the clothes she wears.

May 20, 2015
What My Scriptures Taught Me About My Depression

“And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them.” Ether 12:27

It’s no secret that weaknesses are frowned upon in our society. In fact, society does basically everything possible to cover up weaknesses and flaws. We are surrounded by photo-shopped images, auto-tuned music, and the “perfect” lives that people live. Even social media is infiltrated by a perfectionist mentality—rarely do people post anything on Facebook or Instagram that isn’t severely filtered, edited, and changed to mask anything that would be considered less than perfect.

It is hard to live in a world like this. It is hard to be constantly barraged with perfection and assume that anything less than perfection is unacceptable.

Something that is largely considered a “weakness” in society is mental illness. I can’t count the number of negative things I’ve heard thrown around in daily conversation about mental illness—

“If she would stop just thinking about herself maybe she could just be happier. It’s not depression, it’s selfishness.”

“That guy over there must be insane. I don’t want to go over there.”

“I would never hire that man. He is crazy. I heard he is bipolar.”

In a way, society is right. Mental illness is a weakness—just like any other illness. Heart problems are a weakness. A broken leg is a weakness. Diabetes is a weakness. Here’s the difference though—you don’t hear people condemning someone for having a heart problem. It is time for the negativity and misunderstandings that surround mental illnesses to stop. Just because I struggle with depression doesn’t mean that I am any less of a person than the guy down the block. I have my challenges and weaknesses, and so does he.

One of the greatest blessings of the gospel of Jesus Christ is the promise of eventual perfection. One day, we will stand before God—perfected—because of our Savior, Jesus Christ. We aren’t perfect now, and there’s no use pretending to be. We are all given trials, challenges, and weaknesses to overcome. We are given these challenges that we “may be humble” and come unto God and ask for His supreme help. To expect perfection now or to pretend to be is to deny ourselves the blessings of turning to God in humility for His help. It is through challenges that God makes us stronger and forms us into the people that we need to be.

With my depression, I feel very weak at times. There are days when it is all I can do to drag myself out of bed and throw my hair into a ponytail. There have been dark nights when I have fallen to my knees and begged for there to be light. I struggle. A lot. And I know that my challenges aren’t nearly as bad as others who face mental illnesses.

In the depths of my struggle with depression, there were moments when life seemed unbearable. The weight of darkness felt insurmountable, and hope flickered like a distant star. Yet, amid the shadows, I found solace in unexpected places. One such source of comfort was the support I received from those who understood, who embraced my vulnerability, and who showed me that acknowledging my battle was not a sign of weakness but of incredible strength. It was through this journey that I discovered the power of connection and self-compassion, essential elements in combating the stigma surrounding mental health.

In the midst of my darkest hours, I stumbled upon the healing potential of OCN, a natural remedy that not only helped alleviate some of my symptoms but also provided a ray of hope. This revelation wasn’t a magic cure, but rather a part of my holistic approach to healing, reminding me that just as weaknesses can be transformed into strengths, there are pathways, like CBD, that can guide us toward the light, even in our most challenging moments.

My thoughts about depression and mental illnesses changed recently when I was talking to my bishop. He mentioned the scripture Ether 12:27. “And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them.” “Weaknesses don’t need to be frowned upon. They are a part of this mortal experience.” All of a sudden, it just clicked. One of my mortal weaknesses is depression. As I continuously come unto the Lord in humility, He will make this weakness a strength. Mental illness is something I can overcome. This doesn’t mean that I will for sure get completely better. In fact, I think it is something I will face my entire life. However, I can overcome it and turn it into a strength as I turn it over to the Lord.

Weaknesses don’t need to be frowned upon. They are a part of this mortal experience. My weaknesses and challenges make me human. I am human, but I am a daughter of a Divine Being. He loves me and all of us. We are precious to Him and He is waiting to help us. All we have to do is come unto Him.

Rachel is currently a student at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. She is studying English and is planning on graduating in 2016. Her main goal in life is to spread hope to others, especially those who struggle with mental illnesses. She uses writing to help herself cope with the challenges she faces with mental illnesses and to help others who are fighting similar battles. You can read more from her at her blog, Finding the Sunshine. (http://www.yellowinthegray.com/)

May 16, 2015
This Short Video Sums Up Every Sacrament Meeting Cliché

Did he miss anything? Comment below with the clichés you hear all the time!

Like this video? Check out: “This Primary Song Cover Made Us Feel All the Feels”

May 13, 2015
BYU Vocal Point Releases New Music Video for Their Cover of “Homeward Bound”

BYU Vocal Point recently released a new music video for their cover of “Homeward Bound” along with a behind-the-scenes video of its production. The song was arranged by McKay Crockett, and is currently trending at #2 on the Itunes classical chart. You can check out more of Vocal Point’s music on their website here: byuvocalpoint.com, or on their Youtube Channel.

Like this video? Check out: “This Primary Song Cover Made Us Feel All the Feels”

May 12, 2015
Read This Touching Poem from a Daughter to Her Mom

My Mom and I haven’t always been close. In fact, when I heard other girls say that their mom was their best friend, I never thought I’d be able to say the same thing. I wish I could take back the times that I distanced myself from her. But the older I grew, the more I realized that my mom was the one real friend that would always be there, always return my calls, and always love me… no matter what. I realized that my mom is a person too, with good days and bad days, strengths and weaknesses, triumphs and sorrows. We are both far from perfect, but without her love, acceptance, and guidance, I truly would not be where I am today. We truly have become best friends. I love you, Mom.

This poem is for all the mother hearts that surround us, whether they be our biological mothers, a friend, aunt, grandmother, or the neighbor down the street. Thank you for opening your hearts, and for inspiring us to someday become mothers like you.

Dear Mom,

Who would have taught me not to be scared of the dark,

Or of the monsters downstairs, or of the big slide in the park?

Who would have shown me how to walk, and tie shoes

And that there are good or bad consequences for each action I choose?

Who would have listened to my long melodramas

And stayed up too late helping with my school dioramas?

Who would have noticed when I felt sad and alone

Who would have sung lullabies and soothed me in all the right tones?

Who would have shown me to be patient and kind?

Who would have believed in me when I was so far behind?

Who could have seen all the potential within me?

And told me “keep going, I know how good you will be.”

Who would have forgiven me after the rude things I said

And give me a hug and a kiss when I was tucked into bed?

Who could have known all the right things to do

For all of my problems and things I went through

Who would have found my missing left shoe

Who would have supported all the dreams I’ve pursued?

Who else would wake early just to pack me my lunch

And who would have made your famous lemonade punch?

Who would have taught me about Jesus Christ?

Who would have shown me how to walk in the light?

Who would have told stories of courage and faith?

Who would have testified of truth and of grace?

Who would have held me and told me it was alright

After falling short yet again in this great mortal fight?

And who in the world could be better than you

To convince me unconditional love can extend to me too?

Only my angel mother could have done this and more

You’ve given me wings and taught me to soar.

I’m truly in debt, with every breath

I love you forever, love won’t stop after death.

Let it be etched into the book of my life

That I love you, dear mother.

Sincerely,

Your daughter

Rachelle H. is a twenty-something young lady who loves to travel, run, bike, and spend time outdoors. She loves her family and the gospel. She completed her RN and BSN degrees, and has just been called to serve as the mission nurse specialist in the Bolivia Santa Cruz Mission.

May 12, 2015
5 Amazing Videos That Give Tribute to Mom

Mothers Day, in my opinion, is one of the most important holidays of the year. Mothers are the glue that holds our society together. The First Presidency called motherhood seven decades ago “the highest, holiest service … assumed by mankind.” So to celebrate mothers this day we compiled some of the best videos on the web to express our love and appreciation.

1. We Can’t Stop…Having Babies

Chad and Andrea were accustomed to lots of excitement and support from friends and family when they had their twins girls and later their first boy. However, they were surprised by the lack of enthusiasm from their loved ones when they announced that they were pregnant with their 4th child. So in response to the judgment they received they made this music video that went viral, and we absolutely loved it.

2. The Unique Connection

This advertisement by Pandora Jewelry warmed our hearts as we watched blindfolded children try to identify their mother from a line of women. The results made us melt!

3. Olympics – Thank You Mom

P&G wanted to remind the world who was the driving force behind the olympic athletes really was; Mom. As the proud sponsor of moms, P&G want to say thank you to the Mom’s. You are going to love it as much as we did.

4. Mom’s 1st Birthday

Pampers Japan produced this video to allow some fathers to show their wives how much their first year of motherhood meant to them. We were blown away.

5. Ryan’s unforgettable Mother’s Day delivery to Mom

This Teleflora commercial made us all a little misty. This son’s tribute to to his single mother was absolutely touching and you are going to love what he does for his mother.

May 9, 2015
All of Mormondom Compared Star Wars and Mormons for May 4th

So apparently the whole Mormon blogging community decided to compare Star Wars with the Church for May the 4th (Including us). So we decided to gather them together into one post so you can get your Star Wars Mormon fix all in one place. First up:

6 Ways Star Wars Copied The Church

When I was younger, every Family Home Evening lesson seemed to relate back to Star Wars. I even remember encountering serious doubts in my testimony because it seemed that the Church was just a ripoff of Star Wars. After better understanding history, I can now confirm that the Church didn’t copy Star Wars. On the contrary, Star Wars copied the Church.

Jedi Council/ Quorum of the Twelve

In a clear rip off of the modern Church structure, Star Wars introduces us to the “Jedi Council”, made up of Twelve Jedi Masters in charge of teaching younger Jedi and fighting evil. Sound familiar? Because it is EXACTLY like the Quorum of the Twelve, only with weirder skin.

The flattering but still unaccredited mimicking is even more obvious when you compare Yoda and President Hinckley. They even copied the cane!

Read the rest at: whatsoeverisgood.com

How Mormon Missionaries are like Jedi

As a missionary we often would talk about how Missionaries were like the Jedi, it was even brought up in a Zone Conference, one of the Assistants said “President Wilkey is like Yoda, listen to him”. At lunch everyone talked about how Missionaries are like Jedi. Today is “May the 4th be with you” aka Star Wars day. Here are a few ways that Missionaries are like Jedi, if I missed one, add it in the comments, and I’ll update this!

Over arching power

The Jedi have the force.

Missionaries have the Spirit.

Dress code

Jedi have a dress code, most of them wear “Jedi robes”.

Missionaries have a dress code, and also wear “robes”.

Temples

The Jedi receive training at the Jedi Temple.
Missionaries receive training at Mormon Temples.

Revelation

Jedi when they need insight from the “force” they go meditate in the “meditation room” (in the Jedi Temple).

When Missionaries need insight from the Spirit they Pray, and if they can they go to the Celestial room (in a Mormon Temple).

Read the rest at: mylifebygogogoff.blogspot.com

10 Things Mormons and Star Wars Have in Common

“May the Fourth be with you!” That is the greeting that many Star Wars fans will be giving today. May 4th is officially “Star Wars Day,” a day that all Jedi enthusiasts celebrate.

Additionally, many fans of the Star Wars universe are excited for the filming of Episode VII that is beginning soon, starring some famous cast members from the original trilogy: Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, and Carrie Fisher playing their former roles as Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, and Princess Leia.

To commemorate this day, here is a list of things that Mormons and Star Wars have in common (be warned, there are spoilers ahead for those not familiar with Star Wars):

The Force

The Force from Star Wars has many similarities to the Spirit or the Holy Ghost. LikeYoda says, “you must feel the Force around you,” likewise, we can feel the Spirit around us when it is invited.

The Dark Side

The Dark Side from Star Wars can be compared to Satan and his ways. The Dark Side encompasses evil, and that is exactly what Satan is.

Read the rest at: lds.net

10 Star Wars Quotes That Sound A Lot Like General Conference

May 4 is considered, unofficially, to be National Star Wars Day! To celebrate, here are 10 of our favorite Star Wars quotes (in no particular order) with their General Conference counterparts. May the Fourth Be With You!

Number One

Number Two

Read the rest at: ldsdaily.com

Definitive Proof the Jedi Council and Quorum of the 12 are the Same Thing

What do the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and the most powerful group of Jedi in the galaxy have in common? Well, you might be surprised.

1. Both groups work with “the Force.”

Consider the following quote by Obi-Wan: “The Force is what gives a Jedi his power. It’s an energy field created by all living things. It surrounds us, it penetrates us, it binds the galaxy together.”

Now consider the following from Chapter 13 of the Gospel Principles manual: “The priesthood is the eternal power and authority of God. Through the priesthood He created and governs the heavens and the earth. By this power the universe is kept in perfect order.”

You can’t read those two quotes and tell us the Priesthood isn’t like the force. And with all the Priesthood keys, you could say the Twelve are Masters of “the Force.”

Force, Priesthood, to-may-to, to-maw-to.

2. Both groups meet in temples regularly.

We are a temple going people, as, remarkably, are the Jedi. Both they and the Twelve use temples in strikingly similar ways.

The Quorum of the 12 meets in the upper room of the Salt Lake City Temple every Thursday to receive direction from the Lord on how His church should be run. Similarly, the Jedi Council met in High Council Chamber in — get this — the top of the northwestern tower of the Jedi Temple to discuss issues regarding the galaxy.

Coincidence? We think not.

3. Both groups work closely with local and national governments.

If you could stomach Jar Jar enough to get through the first Star Wars films, you’re probably aware of the interconnected relationship between the Jedi and the Galactic Republic. The Jedi are well-known for being the peacekeepers of the galaxy, fighting for justice, fighting against the dark side, and involving themselves in government to do so (that’s a pretty simplified version of what they do, but you get the picture).

Similarly, members of the Quorum of the Twelve are actively involved in government to defend religious freedom and moral law-making. We frequently see church leaders shaking hands with government leaders in the news as they work with them on various policies. There’s even an LDS Public Relations office in Washington D.C. where members work closely with Priesthood leaders, members of other faiths, and lawmakers to bridge the gap between these three groups. The Twelve are just as concerned about good governing as the Jedi Council.

Read the rest here: mormonbuzzz.com

Did we miss any? Let us know what other comparisons you’ve drawn.

May 5, 2015