LDS Freedom Forum

https://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/ ... invitation

The article states:

Acclaimed performers and distinguished guests will provide musical performances, personal tributes and tender insights into the life, ministry and service of President Nelson.

Another quote:

“These types of celebrations, which we have seen since the early years of the Church, give us inspiring insight into the lives of those chosen by God to serve as His prophets,” said President Dallin H. Oaks of the First Presidency. “I have personally attended many such events for past prophets, and each time I leave with a sense of wonder and gratitude for the way in which our Father in Heaven shapes, trains and teaches His prophets. It will be a privilege for all of us to participate and to celebrate President Nelson’s 95th birthday.”

If YOU were the "beloved" prophet, would you feel comfortable with all this attention?

At what point does it cross the line? How does it cross the line? If it's appropriate in all respects, please explain.

I don't expect to get excited about it. although it may be a good event for many people.

No expense or amount of adulation is too great for the Dear Leader.

What's the big deal? If I had the money and resources, I'd be throwing birthday bashes for my whole family every single year. He's no doubt got the money, (assuming he's spending a dime), and he has the support network. It's common to throw a big bash for someone when they get older then dirt. After all, you don't know how much longer they'll be around. He's doing good, but it don't take much to kill someone that age. If he caught a cold, he'd be dead.

tdj wrote: ↑April 4th, 2019, 12:03 pm What's the big deal? If I had the money and resources, I'd be throwing birthday bashes for my whole family every single year. He's no doubt got the money, (assuming he's spending a dime), and he has the support network. It's common to throw a big bash for someone when they get older then dirt. After all, you don't know how much longer they'll be around. He's doing good, but it don't take much to kill someone that age. If he caught a cold, he'd be dead.

You can't separate the man Nelson from the president. They are one in the same. If he was your great grandfather, then sure, I 100% agree with you.

So could you think about my question from that perspective, from the perspective that he does hold a high and holy office, if you will?

Thus, if you were him, and were in a position of influence (as Pres Nelson in fact is), would you be okay with being held up as a light? Could there be some impressionable people out there who may get the wrong idea that he is the light, that HE is worthy of praise?

It makes me uncomfortable. I dislike it when it feels like we are celebrating or worshipping our leaders. They are supposed to point us to Christ, not be the main event.

It also brings up the problem- who suggested it? Someone who probably has a lot of influence with President Nelson, so this could be seen as gaining favor with him.

I don't think this is super wrong, but I don't like it.

Inappropriate "man worship". \

Just like having a huge statue in Rome or in any of the Temples or visitors centers is wrong. And the pictures, paintings or whatever of "Jesus" in all the chapels. All graven images. Jehovah's Witnesses understand that and don't have that. We too should, but ...
dc

I think it's whatever you make of it.

I’m on the fence with stuff like this. I can see it being a good thing in some ways, but then again I’m not wholly comfortable with it. I do remember President Hinckley saying that one of his challenges was remaining humble and not buying into his own press (so to speak).

I see no reason reason for such a birthday celebration.

topcat wrote: ↑April 4th, 2019, 12:12 pm

tdj wrote: ↑April 4th, 2019, 12:03 pm What's the big deal? If I had the money and resources, I'd be throwing birthday bashes for my whole family every single year. He's no doubt got the money, (assuming he's spending a dime), and he has the support network. It's common to throw a big bash for someone when they get older then dirt. After all, you don't know how much longer they'll be around. He's doing good, but it don't take much to kill someone that age. If he caught a cold, he'd be dead.

You can't separate the man Nelson from the president. They are one in the same. If he was your great grandfather, then sure, I 100% agree with you.

So could you think about my question from that perspective, from the perspective that he does hold a high and holy office, if you will?

Thus, if you were him, and were in a position of influence (as Pres Nelson in fact is), would you be okay with being held up as a light? Could there be some impressionable people out there who may get the wrong idea that he is the light, that HE is worthy of praise?

To some extent he IS worthy of some praise. The dude made all the right choices in his life. He went to a good school, got an outstanding career that was no doubt quite lucrative, and probably saved many lives. He got married, had a bunch of kids. Basically had the American dream. Then went on to becoming what is arguably one of the most powerful men in the world. Probably THE most powerful. As far as being a role model, and someone I'd point to when talking to my kids about what to aspire for, yeah, he's definitely in the top 3 to 5.

You're over thinking this. It's a birthday bash set up by those who love him. And his friends and family. They are expressing their love for him, and happiness in what he's been blessed with. They are congratulating him on still being alive.

I don’t care.

The GA's are like celebrities to the members and sometimes I think it goes to their head. Just look at the tens of thousands that showed up to hear RMN speak at sports venues in Seattle and Glendale, AZ.

topcat wrote: ↑April 4th, 2019, 10:49 am https://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/ ... invitation

The article states:

Acclaimed performers and distinguished guests will provide musical performances, personal tributes and tender insights into the life, ministry and service of President Nelson.

Another quote:

“These types of celebrations, which we have seen since the early years of the Church, give us inspiring insight into the lives of those chosen by God to serve as His prophets,” said President Dallin H. Oaks of the First Presidency. “I have personally attended many such events for past prophets, and each time I leave with a sense of wonder and gratitude for the way in which our Father in Heaven shapes, trains and teaches His prophets. It will be a privilege for all of us to participate and to celebrate President Nelson’s 95th birthday.”

If YOU were the "beloved" prophet, would you feel comfortable with all this attention?

At what point does it cross the line? How does it cross the line? If it's appropriate in all respects, please explain.

Man is that he might have joy.

setyourselffree wrote: ↑April 4th, 2019, 7:10 pm

topcat wrote: ↑April 4th, 2019, 10:49 am https://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/ ... invitation

The article states:

Acclaimed performers and distinguished guests will provide musical performances, personal tributes and tender insights into the life, ministry and service of President Nelson.

Another quote:

“These types of celebrations, which we have seen since the early years of the Church, give us inspiring insight into the lives of those chosen by God to serve as His prophets,” said President Dallin H. Oaks of the First Presidency. “I have personally attended many such events for past prophets, and each time I leave with a sense of wonder and gratitude for the way in which our Father in Heaven shapes, trains and teaches His prophets. It will be a privilege for all of us to participate and to celebrate President Nelson’s 95th birthday.”

If YOU were the "beloved" prophet, would you feel comfortable with all this attention?

At what point does it cross the line? How does it cross the line? If it's appropriate in all respects, please explain.

Man is that he might have joy.

Nothing brings joy quite like a smashing party. Complete with pizza, junk food snacks, sodas and dancing past midnight.

tdj wrote: ↑April 4th, 2019, 8:36 pm

setyourselffree wrote: ↑April 4th, 2019, 7:10 pm

topcat wrote: ↑April 4th, 2019, 10:49 am https://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/ ... invitation

The article states:

Acclaimed performers and distinguished guests will provide musical performances, personal tributes and tender insights into the life, ministry and service of President Nelson.

Another quote:

“These types of celebrations, which we have seen since the early years of the Church, give us inspiring insight into the lives of those chosen by God to serve as His prophets,” said President Dallin H. Oaks of the First Presidency. “I have personally attended many such events for past prophets, and each time I leave with a sense of wonder and gratitude for the way in which our Father in Heaven shapes, trains and teaches His prophets. It will be a privilege for all of us to participate and to celebrate President Nelson’s 95th birthday.”

If YOU were the "beloved" prophet, would you feel comfortable with all this attention?

At what point does it cross the line? How does it cross the line? If it's appropriate in all respects, please explain.

Man is that he might have joy.

Nothing brings joy quite like a smashing party. Complete with pizza, junk food snacks, sodas and dancing past midnight.

True that! Its kind of like the parable of the 10 virgins. The bridegroom probably had a smashing good party for the 5 girls that were prepared.

Crazy that Jesus first miracle was performed at a party. Maybe our Savior is OK having a good time as well?

I went to the RMN concert in Glendale and it was awesome! My only complaint was it was on Sunday. There should have been a Saturday concert too where concessions was open and souvenirs. I definitely would have bought a t-shirt or poster. I think they should all go on tour on a regular basis. You know, large venues in big cities where thousands would have the opportunity to see them in person.

mtm411 wrote: ↑April 4th, 2019, 12:17 pm It makes me uncomfortable. I dislike it when it feels like we are celebrating or worshipping our leaders. They are supposed to point us to Christ, not be the main event.

It also brings up the problem- who suggested it? Someone who probably has a lot of influence with President Nelson, so this could be seen as gaining favor with him.

I don't think this is super wrong, but I don't like it.

I will bet that EVERYTHING at this event is about our Savior. How President Nelson was an example of a devoted servant of the Lord from an early age. All the service to the Lord that President Nelson has given over the course of his life. The great things our Lord has done for us and testimonies of the Lord.

I will even go so far as to bet that the birthday party is a disguised missionary outreach to those who aren't active in the church and an encouragement to active members to become more faithful.

It's bad form. Very very bad form. He ought to celebrate privately with family untelevised and unremarked. Not in a televised invitation to the world to tell them how good and righteous he is.

"And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God."

brianj wrote: ↑April 4th, 2019, 9:56 pm

mtm411 wrote: ↑April 4th, 2019, 12:17 pm It makes me uncomfortable. I dislike it when it feels like we are celebrating or worshipping our leaders. They are supposed to point us to Christ, not be the main event.

It also brings up the problem- who suggested it? Someone who probably has a lot of influence with President Nelson, so this could be seen as gaining favor with him.

I don't think this is super wrong, but I don't like it.

I will bet that EVERYTHING at this event is about our Savior. How President Nelson was an example of a devoted servant of the Lord from an early age. All the service to the Lord that President Nelson has given over the course of his life. The great things our Lord has done for us and testimonies of the Lord.

I will even go so far as to bet that the birthday party is a disguised missionary outreach to those who aren't active in the church and an encouragement to active members to become more faithful.

Maybe, but I'd show up for the fireworks and snacks.

In my mind there is no doubt that he will be there...but at his age what if he wasn't? All that planning for?

Personally, I have never liked these birthday celebrations just for the president of the church.

But let's see if I can make a devil's advocate argument for them...

As members of the church, we mingle and interact with the common person and have a great influence. When you preside over a massive group of people you mingle and interact with others who preside over massive groups of people and big events are reasons to get together. The mayor is not going to come to my barbecue if I'm just some random citizen.

The leaders of the church should be influencing other national and world leaders in their spheres of interaction. The president of the church is an executive position and while dignitaries might not come to a religious meeting, a birthday party may be secular enough of an event to draw people out and make introductions that could further the work of the church in immense ways beyond the event itself.

That said, it is not something I would be interested in watching or attending, maybe if I knew him personally or he was a relative. I don't go to every birthday even among my own friends and I'm certainly not interested in watching a birthday on TV.

I don't have any negative feelings for Pres. Nelson, he's dedicated his life to his beliefs, had a great career, probably saved numerous lives, and undoubtedly works his tail off. I didn't expect to see so many changes under his presidency, but many of these changes have been in the works and none of them were made without unanimous consent. So it's a mixed bag for me but this is so low on the list of things that matter or are important in the world, I don't stress it.

https://www.thechurchnews.com/archive/2 ... tion-17949
Did y’all forget about President Hinckleys birthday celebration! It was a beautiful concert.

tdj wrote: ↑April 5th, 2019, 12:32 pm

brianj wrote: ↑April 4th, 2019, 9:56 pm

mtm411 wrote: ↑April 4th, 2019, 12:17 pm It makes me uncomfortable. I dislike it when it feels like we are celebrating or worshipping our leaders. They are supposed to point us to Christ, not be the main event.

It also brings up the problem- who suggested it? Someone who probably has a lot of influence with President Nelson, so this could be seen as gaining favor with him.

I don't think this is super wrong, but I don't like it.

I will bet that EVERYTHING at this event is about our Savior. How President Nelson was an example of a devoted servant of the Lord from an early age. All the service to the Lord that President Nelson has given over the course of his life. The great things our Lord has done for us and testimonies of the Lord.

I will even go so far as to bet that the birthday party is a disguised missionary outreach to those who aren't active in the church and an encouragement to active members to become more faithful.

Maybe, but I'd show up for the fireworks and snacks.

I'm going to try to get tickets simply because it's a cheap date that a lot of women would love. But I know that people in the audience aren't going to get any snacks. Indoor fireworks would be awesome, but probably a violation of fire safety codes.