In at least one country where homosexual activists have won major concessions, we have even seen a church pastor threatened with prison for preaching from the pulpit that homosexual behavior is sinful. Given these trends, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints must take a stand on doctrine and principle. This is more than a social issue - ultimately it may be a test of our most basic religious freedoms to teach what we know our Father in Heaven wants us to teach.
Dallin H. OaksTolerance obviously requires a non-contentious manner of relating toward one anotherโs differences. But tolerance does not require abandoning oneโs standards or oneโs opinions on political or public policy choices. Tolerance is a way of reacting to diversity, not a command to insulate it from examination.
Dallin H. OaksForgiving is divine. Plead for the guidance of the Spirit of the Lord to forgive wrongs, to overcome faults, and to strengthen relationships.
Dallin H. OaksWe should refrain from anything that seems to be a final judgment of any person...the Lord alone has the capacity to judge...And, in all of this we must remember the command to forgive.
Dallin H. OaksMy first fundamental premise of our faith is that God is real and so are eternal truths and values not provable by current scientific methods. These ideas are inevitably linked. Like other believers, we proclaim the existence of the ultimate lawgiver, God our Eternal Father, and the existence of moral absolutes. We reject the moral relativism that is becoming the unofficial creed of much of modern culture.
Dallin H. OaksHealing blessings come in many ways, each suited to our individual needs, as known to Him who loves us best. Sometimes a โhealingโ cures our illness or lifts our burden. But sometimes we are โhealedโ by being given strength or understanding or patience to bear the burdens placed upon us.
Dallin H. Oaks