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I don’t usually discuss my faith here on my blog other than generically. However, lately I have felt a strong desire to share more of ME on this blog. My faith is what makes me who I am.
And. . . it is a huge part of why I am homeschooling.
I know that religion is a touchy subject. This is because it goes to the core of who we are. It comes from our inner-most thoughts and feelings. I am not sharing this post to criticize the faith you may have. I admire you for having faith- whatever it may be. If you do not yet have a faith that you fully believe in, maybe this post will stir something in your heart to search it out. I am sharing this post because it is me, and for some reason you keep coming back here to read more about me. I hope this post does not scare you away, but helps you to understand a little more about me and about others of my faith.
I am a Mormon
(or more correctly called The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints)
My faith is my core and the greatest joy in life.
It is my faith that makes me stronger, more motivated, more in tune with others, more joyful, more willing to serve, more loving, a better person. My faith makes me whole.
My faith is often misunderstood.
I believe in Jesus Christ.
He is my King. He is my Salvation. Through his atonement I will be able to live with him someday in heaven. I also believe in a loving Heavenly Father and in the Holy Ghost. I do not believe they are all one, but separate personages. Mormons are not considered traditional Christians because we do not believe in the trinity. However, I fully consider myself to be a Christian. I believe in Christ with all of my heart and love him more than I know how to express in words.
I believe in the Bible- it is the true word of God.
I also believe in the Book of Mormon- Another Testament of Jesus Christ.
These two books together make a whole and complete picture- they make it all clear. They both testify of Christ- of his divinity and of his way to salvation.
I believe in modern-day prophets and apostles.
They testify of Christ and continue to receive revelation that is pertinent to us in our day- just as there were apostles and prophets in the Bible. Our prophet today is Thomas S. Monson and he is amazing.
I believe that the family plays a central role in God’s plan.
We have a document called The Family: A Proclamation to the World that defines my beliefs on what a family is and should be. I believe family’s are eternal- we will be together in heaven as families. This is what our temples do- it is a place that seals us together as families for eternity.
Because of my faith, I believe in living a virtuous, honest, righteous life. I pray-many times each day. I read my scriptures daily and spend time pondering them. I love all things that are good, pure and true.
Why do I believe? I have felt it in my heart to be true more times than I can count.
Are you curious to know more? Visit Mormon.org. Would you like a free copy of the Book of Mormon? (no strings attached) Send me an e-mail and I will gladly send you a copy: karyn@teachbesideme.com
I ask one thing of you that are reading this post.
Please show only respect and kindness in your comments.
Bugs says
Hi Karyn. I always think it’s wonderfully brave when people share their beliefs so publicly. Hugs to you.
Ashley says
Karyn, it is great that you were open about your beliefs here. I actually didn’t know Latter Day Saints didn’t believe in Trinity (I don’t either btw). We also hold several other beliefs that wouldn’t be considered mainstream. Maybe one day I will feel compelled to share on my blog. 🙂
alhsjej says
Hello from another LDS blogger! chickensbunniesandhomeschool.blogspot.com
Karyn Tripp says
Thanks, guys! I will admit I was a little scared about posting this 🙂
Mom In The USA says
Hi Karyn,
I learned something from this post. I was raised Catholic and went to Catholic schools. We did not really learn about other religions, except through a history of religion class. I enjoy reading posts like this because they are informational. Knowing about a religion in general is one thing, but to learn about a religion from a practitioner is invaluable information.
You are right. Religion is centered in our core. I think where the conversation gets heated is when people forget the phrase: Agree to disagree or just plain ol’ respect. Thank you for opening up the conversation and making me just a little bit smarter about another topic.
Sincerely,
Karina
http://www.momintheusa.net
Jolene says
Bless you.
Pennies of Time says
Love the courage and clarity you have shared here! I share your beliefs. It is because of those beliefs that I have started pennies of time. A great post to read, especially as we prepare for General Conference. Well said!
Shecki Grtlyblesd says
Even though our beliefs differ, I respect yours, and your concise way of sharing them.
Chasity says
What a wonderful, well written post! Thanks for sharing your testimony! I too belong to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 🙂
Sarah Avila says
Thank you for sharing Karyn! Growing up, one of my best friends was mormon (well, she still is), so I was very much exposed to mormon life. I did often wonder what set them apart from other Christians – I didn’t realize you don’t believe in the trinity, so that helps clear things up a bit. I have gone to the Hill Cumorah pageant a couple times (we live about 20 minutes from where it is held) and I was even able to go inside a temple (the one in Palmyra) before it was dedicated. It was pretty amazing to see.
I’m a born-again Christian, and I totally respect your beliefs and you as a person!
I really enjoyed reading this!