As many of you know, I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which is also known as the Mormon faith. Similar to other large faith groups, our church is at times the focus of attention from Hollywood, books, and other media. Sometimes these depictions are accurate and sometimes they are not.
The past couple of days there has been a lot of focus on our church because of a recent episode of the HBO series Big Love. Before this series first aired more than two years ago, HBO executives and the show's creators told LDS Church leaders that the series would not be about Mormons. However, Internet references to Big Love indicate that Mormon themes are continually woven into the show and that the characters are often unsympathetic figures who come across as narrow-minded and self-righteous. According to TV Guide, the show's writers are now depicting what they understand to be sacred temple ceremonies. It is offensive when our most sacred practices are misrepresented and presented without context or understanding.
I understand that there are many misconceptions about our faith and beliefs so I would like to take this opportunity to share with you a little about Mormon Temples and what their purpose and meaning is through the short video below. I also invite you to respectfully ask me any questions that you may have and I will do my best to answer them.
Also, I want to share this video that I saw on my friend Becky's blog. This is a panel interview with a 20-year-old Harvard student named Rachel Esplin who is also a member of the LDS faith. She talks about misconceptions about the LDS faith as well as her testimony and upbringing. I would like to add my testimony to hers. My faith really is such a big part of my life. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is truly my compass. There is not a day that goes by that it is not integrated into my life in some way. It brings me hope, peace, love, endurance and strength. My faith and testimony of Jesus Christ has blessed my life and I am thankful for it.
Day of Faith: Personal Quests for a Purpose - 3. Rachel Esplin from Harvard Hillel on Vimeo.
4 comments:
I just read about it on fb...I can't believe that this is going to show!? I am shocked...but I guess that if it does...hopefully people will take into context who it is coming from. And who knows, it might bring people to find out what we really believe in. Thanks for you testimony =0)
I really appreciate your post Ashley. I enjoyed the video clips too...
I was a little saddened when I read the article about the show's decision. I guess the information is out there, whether on HBO or through some other source, but it's just sad. I really enjoyed your videos. Very informative and well put.
So glad you posted this! I grew up in Fairfax, VA just about 20 min outside of D.C. I love it back there! Hope you guys are doing well!
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