Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

For discussion of liberty, freedom, government and politics.

Would you wear a mask during a priesthood ordinance/blessing?

Yes, no problem.
7
10%
No, it does not matter who asked me to or what the ordinance is.
38
54%
It depends on the circumstances. (What type of blessing/ordinance, who is asking me to, if I am sick, etc...)
25
36%
 
Total votes: 70
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Robin Hood
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Re: Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

Post by Robin Hood »

WikiUp wrote: October 27th, 2021, 9:11 pm Same situation: I have a grand daughter who wants me to baptize her Dec11.

Not sure I will be able to get a recommend because of my views on masks, etc.

At this moment, I'll have to ask her Step Father to perform the ordinance.
Mask wearing is not a recommend question.

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Reluctant Watchman
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Re: Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

Post by Reluctant Watchman »

Robin Hood wrote: October 28th, 2021, 5:44 am
WikiUp wrote: October 27th, 2021, 9:11 pm Same situation: I have a grand daughter who wants me to baptize her Dec11.

Not sure I will be able to get a recommend because of my views on masks, etc.

At this moment, I'll have to ask her Step Father to perform the ordinance.
Mask wearing is not a recommend question.
It isn't, yet it is. My stake president asked me if I would "sustain" him and my bishop in wearing a mask. If you do not "sustain" your leaders you cannot get a temple recommend. That opens the door for the removal of a recommend based upon the whims and opinions of any bishop or stake presidency member.

Mamabear
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Re: Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

Post by Mamabear »

Reluctant Watchman wrote: October 28th, 2021, 5:51 am
Robin Hood wrote: October 28th, 2021, 5:44 am
WikiUp wrote: October 27th, 2021, 9:11 pm Same situation: I have a grand daughter who wants me to baptize her Dec11.

Not sure I will be able to get a recommend because of my views on masks, etc.

At this moment, I'll have to ask her Step Father to perform the ordinance.
Mask wearing is not a recommend question.
It isn't, yet it is. My stake president asked me if I would "sustain" him and my bishop in wearing a mask. If you do not "sustain" your leaders you cannot get a temple recommend. That opens the door for the removal of a recommend based upon the whims and opinions of any bishop or stake presidency member.
That’s sad you have leaders like that. I just got my recommend and nothing like that was brought up.
I don’t think sustains means to agree with. That’s what they don’t understand.

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Re: Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

Post by Reluctant Watchman »

Mamabear wrote: October 28th, 2021, 5:58 am That’s sad you have leaders like that. I just got my recommend and nothing like that was brought up.
I don’t think sustains means to agree with. That’s what they don’t understand.
My situation was a little bit different than a recommend interview. I was serving as the senior high councilor at the time. I told my bishop I would not be wearing a mask to church. This got me called in to the stake president's office for a chat. The first words out of his mouth, "Will you sustain me and your bishop in wearing a mask?" The use of the word "sustain" was intentional. I asked to be released the next day. But not after I had a great experience with prayer, speaking with my Heavenly Father.

Mamabear
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Re: Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

Post by Mamabear »

Reluctant Watchman wrote: October 28th, 2021, 6:08 am
Mamabear wrote: October 28th, 2021, 5:58 am That’s sad you have leaders like that. I just got my recommend and nothing like that was brought up.
I don’t think sustains means to agree with. That’s what they don’t understand.
My situation was a little bit different than a recommend interview. I was serving as the senior high councilor at the time. I told my bishop I would not be wearing a mask to church. This got me called in to the stake president's office for a chat. The first words out of his mouth, "Will you sustain me and your bishop in wearing a mask?" The use of the word "sustain" was intentional. I asked to be released the next day. But not after I had a great experience with prayer, speaking with my Heavenly Father.
Wow. Thank you for stranding up for what you believe in. We need more people like you. They certainly lost a great high counselor. Their loss and the people’s loss. Unfortunate.
There are many people in leadership positions that do not want to wear a mask but do it anyway to show “obedience”. If these people just stood up and said enough, it would definitely change the outcome.
I was called to something a few months ago and during the interview I explained that I would not wear a mask under any circumstances. I said if that effects the calling then, sorry but I will only follow the dictates of my conscience and the Holy Ghost. The counselor said it was fine. I couldn’t care less what people think. I’m done.

Allison
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Re: Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

Post by Allison »

Reluctant Watchman wrote: October 28th, 2021, 6:08 am This got me called in to the stake president's office for a chat. The first words out of his mouth, "Will you sustain me and your bishop in wearing a mask?"
Answer: No, I will only sustain you in righteousness.

Same outcome, no doubt, but it felt good to imagine saying that to somebody so full of himself.

We are sure seeing a lot of unrighteousness dominion these days, in and out of the Church.

TrueFaith
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Re: Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

Post by TrueFaith »

keeprunning wrote: October 27th, 2021, 10:27 pm
WikiUp wrote: October 27th, 2021, 9:11 pm Same situation: I have a grand daughter who wants me to baptize her Dec11.

Not sure I will be able to get a recommend because of my views on masks, etc.

At this moment, I'll have to ask her Step Father to perform the ordinance.
Seriously? All because of masks?? I totally disagree with mask mandates, but not baptizing your own granddaughter who asked you too would be heartbreaking to her. Not worth it. Please just do it.
Baptizing while wearing a mask would likely make it invalid. She would need to be re-baptized anyway.

Wearing a mask is a sin because it is a lie. And it is a blasphemy to wear one while performing an ordinance.

This is the Mark of the Beast. Supporting this system will bring damnation to your soul.

WikiUp
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Re: Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

Post by WikiUp »

keeprunning wrote: October 27th, 2021, 10:27 pm
WikiUp wrote: October 27th, 2021, 9:11 pm Same situation: I have a grand daughter who wants me to baptize her Dec11.

Not sure I will be able to get a recommend because of my views on masks, etc.

At this moment, I'll have to ask her Step Father to perform the ordinance.
Seriously? All because of masks?? I totally disagree with mask mandates, but not baptizing your own granddaughter who asked you too would be heartbreaking to her. Not worth it. Please just do it.
I think teaching her "truth" and "Commitment" will be a valuable teaching moment.
Helping her (the family and others) understand correct principles of agency is valuable.
Helping her understand some of the evil in this world about the intentions to control others is valuable.
Helping her understand false propaganda, mind control and fear based behavior control is valuable.
Setting an example of being a critical thinker and standing independent of the crowd is most important.

“Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it is time to reform (or pause and reflect).” - Mark Twain

EllaJean
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Re: Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

Post by EllaJean »

I've studied meekness for the last year and not once took away that meekness is what you're suggesting. And I also dont believe and understand meekness to be bowing down to evil men like the other person suggested. If you look at the Saviors example and teaching of meekness study the Beatitudes. Meekness is strong self restraint, not lashing back in anger and loving your enemies. It's also being humble enough to admit when you're wrong and acknowledging Gods ways are higher then our own ways and yes, obedience to God when we dont understand everything is also being humble and meek. A perfect example of this was when Adam and Eve were cast out of the garden of Eden and built an alter then a angel appeared to him and asked him why he was building a alter of sacrifice. Adam said, I know not, save the Lord commanded me. We dont have to know the reasons behind a specific commandment. If we are striving to be meek and humble we align our will with Gods and sometimes that involves having to pray and fast for understanding. Meekness is not making fun or putting down others for thinking differently and sometimes meekness is staying silent and not having to be right to save a relationship. The Savior remained silent when he was being beaten and whipped. He didnt lash out in anger at his accusers and those who were hurting him. The most profound example, when he was on the cross and asked God to forgive those who were crucifying him.
[/quote]
IMO Joseph would be excommunicated today. Study the Hebrew definition of meekness. It does not mean we go along with every word that proceeds forth from the mouth of men.
[/quote]

TrueFaith
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Re: Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

Post by TrueFaith »

1. When you get baptized, you promise to follow the Lord and have Faith in His power.
2. When you take the Sacrament, you promise to remember the Lord, your baptismal covenant and to have Faith.
3. When you give a blessing you are asking the Lord in Faith to heal or comfort the sick.

You are not doing that when you wear a mask because you are disregarding Faith and Christ's power. You are telling the Lord, "I don't have enough Faith in your power, I'm trusting in the arm of the flesh instead."

Same goes for the receiver of these ordinances. They must also show and have Faith while doing them, or they mean nothing.

If you are not making the Faith commitment in your heart while doing these 3 things, you are simply taking a quick bath, having a Sunday snack of bread and water, and giving someone a head massage. They mean nothing to the Lord without Faith.

TrueFaith
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Re: Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

Post by TrueFaith »

Missionaries bearing the Mark of the Beast.

Image

Image


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Re: Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

Post by Reluctant Watchman »

EllaJean wrote: October 28th, 2021, 7:41 am I've studied meekness for the last year and not once took away that meekness is what you're suggesting. And I also dont believe and understand meekness to be bowing down to evil men like the other person suggested. If you look at the Saviors example and teaching of meekness study the Beatitudes. Meekness is strong self restraint, not lashing back in anger and loving your enemies. It's also being humble enough to admit when you're wrong and acknowledging Gods ways are higher then our own ways and yes, obedience to God when we dont understand everything is also being humble and meek. A perfect example of this was when Adam and Eve were cast out of the garden of Eden and built an alter then a angel appeared to him and asked him why he was building a alter of sacrifice. Adam said, I know not, save the Lord commanded me. We dont have to know the reasons behind a specific commandment. If we are striving to be meek and humble we align our will with Gods and sometimes that involves having to pray and fast for understanding. Meekness is not making fun or putting down others for thinking differently and sometimes meekness is staying silent and not having to be right to save a relationship. The Savior remained silent when he was being beaten and whipped. He didnt lash out in anger at his accusers and those who were hurting him. The most profound example, when he was on the cross and asked God to forgive those who were crucifying him.
We don't always need to know the reason behind any commandment.... but ONLY when the Spirit witnesses that we are to follow and obey. We almost always forgot that second part in the church.

TrueFaith
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Re: Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

Post by TrueFaith »

She's absolutely right. Bunch of cowardly, weak men we have all around us. Good news is that this is a great chance for courageous men to lead and be the heroes we need them to be.

And Ralph Wiggum is missing his mask in that cartoon. :)

keeprunning
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Re: Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

Post by keeprunning »

bbsion wrote: October 27th, 2021, 11:05 pm
Allison wrote: October 27th, 2021, 7:12 pm I could and in many ways do put up with discomfort to help another person. But for many of us, the mask is not so much (not much at all) about comfort, compared to what it communicates. It is symbolic to us of being on board with the agenda of the satanic secret combination that President Benson told us about.

In other words, we could substitute “swastika” or “hammer and sickle” for “mask.” Could you wear a swastika on your face or on your lapel to give a Priesthood blessing? Would you do it if it made your friend or loved one feel better?

It’s more of a dilemma for those of us who don’t see covid as the plague the Gadiantons want everyone to believe it is.
Well put. This is my dilemma, or at least very close to it, not comfort. A couple minutes of a mask is bearable comfort wise, but not symbolically.
I think you guys gave the mask this symbol and power. Doesn't mean it's true. Some people here are going to the extreme on the other side. One side is wrong when they say showing masks is a symbol of love. The other extreme is saying it's a symbol of Satan. I think both are wrong. I had a primary kid ask me where my mask was. I am one in church who doesn't mask. I simply replied, "I don't need one, I'm not sick."

If you are willing to risk family relationships and not baptize someone or participate in priesthood ordinances, then I would question who you are really following. Since when has anyone worn a mask while baptizing, anyway?? So weird. I don't think that would even be an issue. Just don't wear it.

This is all so crazy. We don't need to be adding more craziness to it.

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Subcomandante
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Re: Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

Post by Subcomandante »

keeprunning wrote: October 28th, 2021, 10:27 am
bbsion wrote: October 27th, 2021, 11:05 pm
Allison wrote: October 27th, 2021, 7:12 pm I could and in many ways do put up with discomfort to help another person. But for many of us, the mask is not so much (not much at all) about comfort, compared to what it communicates. It is symbolic to us of being on board with the agenda of the satanic secret combination that President Benson told us about.

In other words, we could substitute “swastika” or “hammer and sickle” for “mask.” Could you wear a swastika on your face or on your lapel to give a Priesthood blessing? Would you do it if it made your friend or loved one feel better?

It’s more of a dilemma for those of us who don’t see covid as the plague the Gadiantons want everyone to believe it is.
Well put. This is my dilemma, or at least very close to it, not comfort. A couple minutes of a mask is bearable comfort wise, but not symbolically.
I think you guys gave the mask this symbol and power. Doesn't mean it's true. Some people here are going to the extreme on the other side. One side is wrong when they say showing masks is a symbol of love. The other extreme is saying it's a symbol of Satan. I think both are wrong. I had a primary kid ask me where my mask was. I am one in church who doesn't mask. I simply replied, "I don't need one, I'm not sick."

If you are willing to risk family relationships and not baptize someone or participate in priesthood ordinances, then I would question who you are really following. Since when has anyone worn a mask while baptizing, anyway?? So weird. I don't think that would even be an issue. Just don't wear it.

This is all so crazy. We don't need to be adding more craziness to it.
When I baptized my daughter earlier this year, though masks are required in the chapel, we removed the masks for the performing of the ordinance. Masks are useless once they have been immersed in water anyway.

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Fred
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Re: Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

Post by Fred »

There is NO medical benefit to wearing a mask. To say otherwise is to lie. Every single person that wears a mask is proclaiming loyalty to the lie. May they all rot in hell.

Our country and world is on the brink of disaster. Every single mask wear down to the very last one prays that the United States will be destroyed and the the deep state will take over completely and that millions of people will be brutally murdered. That is what wearing a mask means.

We should NEVER enter a business or church that requires a mask. EVER!

We should tell relatives that continue to blatantly and overtly worship satan that we will have to part company. Please never call me again as long as you live unless you are done with masks.

Sissies that think it is okay to pretend they do not fully worship satan are making a big mistake. Any Bishop or Stake President that wears a mask is absolutely without exception a dedicated disciple of satan. May they all rot in hell.

It is not okay to perform an ordinance while flipping God the bird. That is what a mask is.

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Fred
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Re: Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

Post by Fred »

Subcomandante wrote: October 28th, 2021, 10:32 am
keeprunning wrote: October 28th, 2021, 10:27 am
bbsion wrote: October 27th, 2021, 11:05 pm
Allison wrote: October 27th, 2021, 7:12 pm I could and in many ways do put up with discomfort to help another person. But for many of us, the mask is not so much (not much at all) about comfort, compared to what it communicates. It is symbolic to us of being on board with the agenda of the satanic secret combination that President Benson told us about.

In other words, we could substitute “swastika” or “hammer and sickle” for “mask.” Could you wear a swastika on your face or on your lapel to give a Priesthood blessing? Would you do it if it made your friend or loved one feel better?

It’s more of a dilemma for those of us who don’t see covid as the plague the Gadiantons want everyone to believe it is.
Well put. This is my dilemma, or at least very close to it, not comfort. A couple minutes of a mask is bearable comfort wise, but not symbolically.
I think you guys gave the mask this symbol and power. Doesn't mean it's true. Some people here are going to the extreme on the other side. One side is wrong when they say showing masks is a symbol of love. The other extreme is saying it's a symbol of Satan. I think both are wrong. I had a primary kid ask me where my mask was. I am one in church who doesn't mask. I simply replied, "I don't need one, I'm not sick."

If you are willing to risk family relationships and not baptize someone or participate in priesthood ordinances, then I would question who you are really following. Since when has anyone worn a mask while baptizing, anyway?? So weird. I don't think that would even be an issue. Just don't wear it.

This is all so crazy. We don't need to be adding more craziness to it.
When I baptized my daughter earlier this year, though masks are required in the chapel, we removed the masks for the performing of the ordinance. Masks are useless once they have been immersed in water anyway.
They are useless anyway.

James Paul
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Re: Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

Post by James Paul »

To me this subject is very important for several reasons . AFter my 5 mini strokes I used an oxygen concentrater for a couple of years at night. I regained enough Oxygen level to make a 16 hour flight to a sea level nation with negative ions and cleaner air than Utah .
Masks are simply a visible sign of compliance to world govt. demands,.. They have NO valid purpose regarding non isolated viris.. I do have limited oxygenated blood flow to my feet and hands caused by 2 leaking heart valves. My query to the missionaries regarding oxygen available for mask wearers brought no answer but they would ask. Current Ward activity seems a bit shy to even staff Temples as before.

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Subcomandante
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Re: Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

Post by Subcomandante »

Fred wrote: October 28th, 2021, 10:37 am There is NO medical benefit to wearing a mask. To say otherwise is to lie. Every single person that wears a mask is proclaiming loyalty to the lie. May they all rot in hell.

Our country and world is on the brink of disaster. Every single mask wear down to the very last one prays that the United States will be destroyed and the the deep state will take over completely and that millions of people will be brutally murdered. That is what wearing a mask means.

We should NEVER enter a business or church that requires a mask. EVER!

We should tell relatives that continue to blatantly and overtly worship satan that we will have to part company. Please never call me again as long as you live unless you are done with masks.

Sissies that think it is okay to pretend they do not fully worship satan are making a big mistake. Any Bishop or Stake President that wears a mask is absolutely without exception a dedicated disciple of satan. May they all rot in hell.

It is not okay to perform an ordinance while flipping God the bird. That is what a mask is.
Hyperbole much?

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Fred
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Re: Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

Post by Fred »

Subcomandante wrote: October 28th, 2021, 10:47 am
Fred wrote: October 28th, 2021, 10:37 am There is NO medical benefit to wearing a mask. To say otherwise is to lie. Every single person that wears a mask is proclaiming loyalty to the lie. May they all rot in hell.

Our country and world is on the brink of disaster. Every single mask wear down to the very last one prays that the United States will be destroyed and the the deep state will take over completely and that millions of people will be brutally murdered. That is what wearing a mask means.

We should NEVER enter a business or church that requires a mask. EVER!

We should tell relatives that continue to blatantly and overtly worship satan that we will have to part company. Please never call me again as long as you live unless you are done with masks.

Sissies that think it is okay to pretend they do not fully worship satan are making a big mistake. Any Bishop or Stake President that wears a mask is absolutely without exception a dedicated disciple of satan. May they all rot in hell.

It is not okay to perform an ordinance while flipping God the bird. That is what a mask is.
Hyperbole much?
Nope. I just call it like I see it.

Allison
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Re: Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

Post by Allison »

EllaJean wrote: October 28th, 2021, 7:41 am I've studied meekness for the last year and not once took away that meekness is what you're suggesting. And I also dont believe and understand meekness to be bowing down to evil men like the other person suggested. If you look at the Saviors example and teaching of meekness study the Beatitudes. Meekness is strong self restraint, not lashing back in anger and loving your enemies. It's also being humble enough to admit when you're wrong and acknowledging Gods ways are higher then our own ways and yes, obedience to God when we dont understand everything is also being humble and meek. A perfect example of this was when Adam and Eve were cast out of the garden of Eden and built an alter then a angel appeared to him and asked him why he was building a alter of sacrifice. Adam said, I know not, save the Lord commanded me. We dont have to know the reasons behind a specific commandment. If we are striving to be meek and humble we align our will with Gods and sometimes that involves having to pray and fast for understanding. Meekness is not making fun or putting down others for thinking differently and sometimes meekness is staying silent and not having to be right to save a relationship. The Savior remained silent when he was being beaten and whipped. He didnt lash out in anger at his accusers and those who were hurting him. The most profound example, when he was on the cross and asked God to forgive those who were crucifying him.
You may think that wearing a mask is meekness, as much Elder Renlund thought it was a sign of a Christlike love, and you all may be right. Some of you may feel a sense of satisfaction inside, knowing how meek and charitable you are.

However, you might be surprised how humbling it can be to stand by your personal convictions, especially when they are not popular. It’s humbling to be the only person you’ve seen all day without a mask, to have store employees refuse to wait on you or let you buy anything, or flat out ask you to leave, and to see the occasional cold stare from a masked person who sees you as murderously selfish. And it can be humbling to wonder if everyone else sees you that way, too.

It’s humbling to be asked not to step inside the church building that a lifetime of tithing funds have helped to build and maintain. And it requires some meekness to keep sending those tithing checks, as many of us willingly do.

It’s depressing to be kept out of the temple because of our efforts to be true to our own clear promptings of the Spirit. Our choice is to betray what we do hear when we #HearHim, or stay away, with no end in sight.

Many wouldn’t likely get much out of attending anyway, if we had to see a swastika on the faces of so many people we know and love. We don’t judge, we realize they don’t know what it represents, but it is still a demoralizing reminder that the Enemy of God’s children is even calling the shots in the temple, our former refuge and place of safety from the world.

Maybe it’s not a swastika; maybe it’s more like seeing our friends in shackles. Volunteer shackles. That’s probably a better description.

Have you heard stories of people trying to make themselves go with a mask, having asthma or COPD, and weeping because they were told to either pull up their mask or “feel welcome to come back to the temple later, when masks are no longer required?” I would imagine those people leaving in defeat, with such feeble knees and hands hanging down are at least as humble and meek as the good mask wearers who are able to do it.

But anyway, if we come here to fortify ourselves and you hear some bitterness and bluster, try not to judge us too harshly. Some people might have thought Moroni was a little bombastic, as well.

EllaJean
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Re: Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

Post by EllaJean »

Allison wrote: October 28th, 2021, 11:11 am
EllaJean wrote: October 28th, 2021, 7:41 am I've studied meekness for the last year and not once took away that meekness is what you're suggesting. And I also dont believe and understand meekness to be bowing down to evil men like the other person suggested. If you look at the Saviors example and teaching of meekness study the Beatitudes. Meekness is strong self restraint, not lashing back in anger and loving your enemies. It's also being humble enough to admit when you're wrong and acknowledging Gods ways are higher then our own ways and yes, obedience to God when we dont understand everything is also being humble and meek. A perfect example of this was when Adam and Eve were cast out of the garden of Eden and built an alter then a angel appeared to him and asked him why he was building a alter of sacrifice. Adam said, I know not, save the Lord commanded me. We dont have to know the reasons behind a specific commandment. If we are striving to be meek and humble we align our will with Gods and sometimes that involves having to pray and fast for understanding. Meekness is not making fun or putting down others for thinking differently and sometimes meekness is staying silent and not having to be right to save a relationship. The Savior remained silent when he was being beaten and whipped. He didnt lash out in anger at his accusers and those who were hurting him. The most profound example, when he was on the cross and asked God to forgive those who were crucifying him.
You may think that wearing a mask is meekness, as much Elder Renlund thought it was a sign of a Christlike love, and you all may be right. Some of you may feel a sense of satisfaction inside, knowing how meek and charitable you are.

However, you might be surprised how humbling it can be to stand by your personal convictions, especially when they are not popular. It’s humbling to be the only person you’ve seen all day without a mask, to have store employees refuse to wait on you or let you buy anything, or flat out ask you to leave, and to see the occasional cold stare from a masked person who sees you as murderously selfish. And it can be humbling to wonder if everyone else sees you that way, too.

It’s humbling to be asked not to step inside the church building that a lifetime of tithing funds have helped to build and maintain. And it requires some meekness to keep sending those tithing checks, as many of us willingly do.

It’s depressing to be kept out of the temple because of our efforts to be true to our own clear promptings of the Spirit. Our choice is to betray what we do hear when we #HearHim, or stay away, with no end in sight.

Many wouldn’t likely get much out of attending anyway, if we had to see a swastika on the faces of so many people we know and love. We don’t judge, we realize they don’t know what it represents, but it is still a demoralizing reminder that the Enemy of God’s children is even calling the shots in the temple, our former refuge and place of safety from the world.

Maybe it’s not a swastika; maybe it’s more like seeing our friends in shackles. Volunteer shackles. That’s probably a better description.

Have you heard stories of people trying to make themselves go with a mask, having asthma or COPD, and weeping because they were told to either pull up their mask or “feel welcome to come back to the temple later, when masks are no longer required?” I would imagine those people leaving in defeat, with such feeble knees and hands hanging down are at least as humble and meek as the good mask wearers who are able to do it.

But anyway, if we come here to fortify ourselves and you hear some bitterness and bluster, try not to judge us too harshly. Some people might have thought Moroni was a little bombastic, as well.
Not once did I consider wearing a mask as being meek and the only satisfaction I have from being consistent in wearing one is that me and my family have not had COVID and we feel like we are following the prophet's guidance on such a divisive issue but I've tried to never make anyone feel like you're suggesting. Like you, I have experienced many of your same feelings but for the opposite reasons. I've struggled going to church for the first time in my life because of the comments and looks my family have received from being one of the only few who wear masks. I've been lectured in a grocery store by a past ward member on why I shouldn't be wearing one. When I refer to meekness it's like you mentioned, continuing to endure, keep going and not quit going to church because of how I feel when I'm there. It's avoiding an argument, it's avoiding on-line contention, it's fasting and praying for strength to let the anger go. It's praying and fasting for strength to keep going to church when you dread it. It's teaching your teenagers to not be rude back when an adult makes fun of them for wearing a mask. Comparing a mask to a Swastika, shackles, the mark of the beast or satanic is insulting, knowing people I go to church with think the way you do and that are on this forum has made it even harder to keep attending. Church members saying it's child abuse to have your child wear a mask is mind blowing and devastating. I've worked in healthcare for over 20 years and masks were never compared to what many people are comparing them too until now. I have heard of stories of people trying to make themselves go with a mask and who have serious issues and can't wear one. It took me weeks to get used to wearing one when I had to start wearing them at work 2 years before COVID even hit, so I understand how hard they are to get used too. There is a complete difference between people who legitimately can't wear one and those who are being defiant and making fun of other's who do. I completely agree with you meekness is being felt on both sides of the spectrum but it seems most people who come here on LDS freedom forum and start threads like this are rude and condescending towards anyone who feels following the prophet's guidance is the correct thing to do but people say is a form of following Satan or bowing down to world leaders. A lot of people are wondering where our Captain Moroni is. What about Alma? He was told by the Lord that he and his people would be lead into bondage but if they kept the commandments and stayed humble, the Lord would make their burdens light. That's exactly what happened and it was God who created an escape. What about our ancestors who suffered persecution and were driven from town to town, where were their rights? I can guarantee you they felt their rights were being taken away and they often were. But whatever the Lord requires at the time is right. Would members today have quit following Nephi as their prophet if it went viral when he slayed Laban? Would they have called him a fallen prophet? I know President Nelson is the Lord's mouth piece on earth today and what he asks, or urges us to do comes from the Savior regardless if we think it's right or not. Both sides need to give each other the respect they are doing their own research and thinking instead of calling other's stupid when they think differently. Church should be a place of belonging and if anything it has felt the complete opposite. If it wasn't for my relationship with the Savior and gaining a better understanding of the atonement and my testimony of temple work, I probably would have quit going to church by now.

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Re: Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

Post by keeprunning »

Both extremes are evil.

For normal people opposing masks, it's because it's being forced for no good reason. Surely you know cloth masks do nothing. Yes, I do think forcing little children to wear masks is abuse. The hypocrisy with covid has been annoying. Never before covid have any of my doctors or nurses worn masks, except during special circumstances in the hospital.

But with all that, there is still no reason to go to the other extreme and call them evil. It's the force that is evil. We should be fighting the government, not our scared siblings who are only doing what they think is responsible because that is all that they hear in the world.

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Re: Wearing Masks During Priesthood Blessings/Ordinances (Poll)

Post by Reluctant Watchman »

EllaJean wrote: October 28th, 2021, 12:55 pm Church members saying it's child abuse to have your child wear a mask is mind blowing and devastating.
Does a child need to wear a mask for this virus? No, they do not. Not a single child has died from this plandemic in the state in which I live. But the physical and mental abuse will carry with them for a long time, especially now that the gubment is ramping up the jab fro 28M youth.

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