From time to time, journalists, social media content creators, and others attempt to understand and then explain The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and its members. Some of these explanations are respectful and accurate, while others are less so.
For some commentators and content creators who approach writing or posting about the Church of Jesus Christ, their research is done online, and they may also speak with critics of the Church. This leads to partial stories at best, and often distorted ones, at worst.
The lived reality of faithful Latter-day Saints is a different matter. They love God and their neighbour, as best they can, as Jesus Christ commanded us all to do when He lived upon the earth.
In conversations with others, they don’t strive to always be right, but to do and say what is right, taking the peaceful and mutually respectful route to living according to their core values and beliefs, and allowing others to do the same.
They are focused on strengthening families, being good neighbours and citizens, and contributing to caring communities. Underpinning it all is a desire to be close to God and to follow His Son, Jesus Christ.
The Church of Jesus Christ and its members are not perfect, but their God is, and their Saviour is. And so is the doctrine of Jesus Christ which they build their lives upon.
The work of the Church of Jesus Christ is simple, and for its faithful members, the greatest work on earth. It is to help all who wish to do so, to live the restored gospel of Jesus Christ; to care for those in need in our communities and around the world; to invite all to join with us as we strive to follow the Lord Jesus Christ; and to unite families for eternity. All this is done in a way that respects the beliefs of others, allowing all to live out their lives with human dignity and respect.
If a reporter or anyone wants to understand the Church of Jesus Christ, by all means talk to detractors, if you wish, but also be sure to talk to at least some of its believing members.
In that spirit, here are a few comments from members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in New Zealand about what it means to them to live according to their faith, as part of the rich tapestry of the nation’s social fabric.
"I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints because it helps me draw closer to God and His love. As a community of faith, I have experienced the love and support of people who care for those in need. In leadership positions I have witnessed the attention taken to protect those who experience abuse and use the resources of the Church for supporting others at home and abroad." Johnson McKay
Johnson-McKay
Johnson McKay.© 2024 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.“As a recent adult convert to the Church l can say that although I was hesitant at first, I have seen profound differences it has made in my life. Seeking truth and wisdom from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has removed all of my doubts and worries about life and made me a much better mother. I have felt more love and support here than I ever imagined. I am lighter, I am wiser, and I am happier.” Candace McNabb.
“My mission gave me the opportunity to learn life skills that when I returned from my mission, helped prepare me for the rest of my life. When I started my mission, I considered myself a pretty shy person and my mission boosted my confidence and gave me opportunities to learn life skills.” Telesia Tagavaitau.
“My mission helped me recognize that I love my Father in Heaven and He loves me, and I want to be like Him.” Kosaka Kivor.
“My mission was the greatest experience of my life. It helped me to grow spiritually and to be a better person.” Loy Nicola.
“In a world that is focused on accumulating and consuming wealth I am grateful that God has given his followers the instruction to tithe 10 percent of their increase. This law isn't about money. It is about faith.” Arti Shardanand.
Arti Shardanand.
Arti Shardanand.© 2024 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.“For over 40 years, I have paid tithing. This is something I believe has blessed my life more than the Church organisation. For me, it’s a commandment that has blessings attached. I’m sure the Church doesn’t need my money, but I need the blessings. I can recount times in my life where I have seen miracles transpire and I put those down to the obedience of this commandment. I am grateful that financially I have always been able to manage and help others along the way and know that this is a result of paying tithing.” Derek Good.
“The gospel has changed my life. It has helped me be a better person, a better husband, and a better father. The gospel is centred around Jesus Christ. So, everything we do is to try and be like the Saviour Jesus Christ and that makes us a better person.” Abinadi Lemeko.