DiscussMormonism.com

Having have visited friends living in Utah a number of times I was struck by the real lack of celebration of Christmas and Easter in a manner other than commercial. Many other States I visit have the religious communities all working on major observances and celebrations for both occasions.

What is wrong in Utah?

By the way, am just back in North Dakota visiting my bud who invited me to come up and ride with the Test riders for the Polaris Snowmobile models that will be introduced for next season. What a blast!!!

Catching 70 feet of air jumping these things. Going 90+mph on beautiful gently rolling hills. A chance to really wring out a machine as they want real world testing to see how much they can take.

All I can say is next years models will really rock you if you like snowmobiles that push the performance envelope.

Now, back to the MoronicPriesthoodBaloney.

squawkeye wrote:
What is wrong in Utah?

This is not just a Utah phenomenon. It's worldwide.

What is wrong in Utah?

We do more Church than most throughout the year so I'd say we could have zero extra worship during Christmas and still be doing more than most. Not that I'm advocating zero on Christmas by the way....

I really noticed the difference when I married my Catholic hubby. Now I go to church regularly - every Christmas and Easter, regular as clockwork. The first few times freaked me out but it is now a highpoint. The kids know the day is special because Mum is coming to church as well.

Yesterday we went for 0900 mass; with all the Rigdon discussion lately I took note of the priestcraft satirised in the 3rd Epistle of Peter that Uncle Dale kindly linked to. And I disagree with Rigdon's assessment totally.

I really enjoyed the service, and have come to believe the value of a trained clergy far outweighs the cost of maintaining it for those who value faith. The 'flock' were such a varied assortment - no cookie cutter, bored and vacant, stress-fatiqued families. People turned up in whatever clothes they were wearing for the day, from jeans, to suits, cardis & pearls, colorful african garb, and even saris. That seemed to say "worship is a natural part of my life".

The catheral was beautiful too, with large stained glass scenes. #1 son took his starwars lego people to amuse himself as needed (but he really enjoys the singing - accompanied by a small band with guitar, harmonica, flute, tambourines and keyboard). #2 son had his Thomas trains, and no one minded when his babbling and tooting got a bit loud every now and then. (for normal services, noisy families can sit in the chapel, separated by soundproof glass, but with a similar view and speakers so the adults can listen and participate no problem).

My aunt, also an atheist, married a Caflick as well. She came to enjoy the services too, and even though now widowed, she still attends most sundays. Through all of this, there has been no pressure at all for either of us to convert, not even hints!

I don't think Mormons can claim maximum effort either. The Caflicks hold mass at least daily, with several sessions on Saturday night and Sunday, so that people can attend as and when they feel the need. I know of a number of people who attend every morning. There is also an extensive program of optional classes for all ages and situations. The beautiful thing is that worship is something freely given. There is no pressure to conform to any expectations.

I guess the modern Caflicks are probably very different to the papists of Rigdon's day. But even a staunch atheist like myself can appreciate the very real service a religious organisation can provide.

My only 'beef' with the Caflicks is the indoctrination of children - however, they do not contradict science (except for teaching miracles). Interestingly my Catholic schooled niece has studied a number of other religions as part of the curriculum. A recent assignment was to attend another faith's service and conduct an interview with a minister, followed by a presentation to the class. She chose the Mormons, of all the faiths chosen only the Mormons refused to participate!

squawkeye wrote:Having have visited friends living in Utah a number of times I was struck by the real lack of celebration of Christmas and Easter in a manner other than commercial. Many other States I visit have the religious communities all working on major observances and celebrations for both occasions.

What is wrong in Utah?

I think your exposure is limited. Mormon celebrate both religious holidays in a religious way. I grew up Mormon in Utah. I think your observations are erroneous.

This is not just a Utah phenomenon. It's worldwide

Oh horse crap.

What do you mean we don't celebrate Christmas? We had over a hundred gifts under the tree this year in similitude of the Savior's gifts to us. :)

I have been around countless LDS Christmas activities in various locations. They are not all temple square quality. Yet they are wonderful. Sometimes they are early in the Christmas season so that they do interfere with other community activities. Sometimes they are best live nativities in the community and are very near to Christmas day.

I think your perspective regarding LDS Christmas celebrations could be improved if objectivity is any goal.