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Race To The Temple And Wearing Garments


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A new friend of mine that I met a week ago have found that we share a religious heritage. We have been talking about the Gospel and our relationship with the church. We made a pact. Over the next 6 months, we will prayerfully consider where our derailing with the church took place and figure out what led to these moments. We vary in our stories. Most of you know mine. He is a recovering heroin addict and has been sexually active since he was 17. He is still an Aaronic Priesthood holder.

I don't know if he will be excommunicated because of his actions considering he isn't a Melchezidek Priesthood holder and is not endowed. Any way, after this period of time, we will consider more intimately our own testimonies of the Restoration and possibly pursue a race to the Temple. We know it will take a while. I don't know the details, where the church is concerned, of his journey. I know that mine entails a period of attendence, followed by rebaptism. Following this is a year of activity prior to having all blessings restored and Temple attendence allowed.

If I beat him to the point of Temple worthiness, I will be his escort through the Temple. If he beats me, I foot the bill for an all expenses paid trip to Nauvoo. The way I see it...either way I win albeit somewhat :).

It really doesn't matter if he holds the Priesthood or not. Simply being a member of the Church subjects him to possible Church discipline. Though repentance is a longer and harder process if one has made covenants in the Temple it is still possible. Many have returned to full fellowship, some unfortunately have not.

Sounds like a win win situation to me. :good:

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A new friend of mine that I met a week ago have found that we share a religious heritage. We have been talking about the Gospel and our relationship with the church. We made a pact. Over the next 6 months, we will prayerfully consider where our derailing with the church took place and figure out what led to these moments. We vary in our stories. Most of you know mine. He is a recovering heroin addict and has been sexually active since he was 17. He is still an Aaronic Priesthood holder.

I don't know if he will be excommunicated because of his actions considering he isn't a Melchezidek Priesthood holder and is not endowed. Any way, after this period of time, we will consider more intimately our own testimonies of the Restoration and possibly pursue a race to the Temple. We know it will take a while. I don't know the details, where the church is concerned, of his journey. I know that mine entails a period of attendence, followed by rebaptism. Following this is a year of activity prior to having all blessings restored and Temple attendence allowed.

If I beat him to the point of Temple worthiness, I will be his escort through the Temple. If he beats me, I foot the bill for an all expenses paid trip to Nauvoo. The way I see it...either way I win albeit somewhat :).

It is always good to travel the road with friends as long as you lift each other up and not pull each other down. I hope you find what you are looking for.

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The Atonement is the most magnificent event in history---it not only opens up the way---but through its enabling power you can receive the strength and love to accomplish your goal----through and because of the Atonement, I have seen and witnessed and experienced miracles---I do not know why or how He can love us so much---but He does---I will be praying and cheering for you and your friend all the way.

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Hello Valentinus...

I agree with each of the previous posts... and particularly want you to know that I've always wanted your happiness and inner peace. I do believe the full measure lies within the gospel and CoJCoLDS. The path is not always easy, but you do not walk it alone. If this is the path you choose, and I pray it is, then rely on the Lord and walk in faith and the Spirit will comfort you... that is the promise, not from man, but from the Lord. Prayers...

GG

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A new friend of mine that I met a week ago have found that we share a religious heritage. We have been talking about the Gospel and our relationship with the church. We made a pact. Over the next 6 months, we will prayerfully consider where our derailing with the church took place and figure out what led to these moments. We vary in our stories. Most of you know mine. He is a recovering heroin addict and has been sexually active since he was 17. He is still an Aaronic Priesthood holder.

I don't know if he will be excommunicated because of his actions considering he isn't a Melchezidek Priesthood holder and is not endowed. Any way, after this period of time, we will consider more intimately our own testimonies of the Restoration and possibly pursue a race to the Temple. We know it will take a while. I don't know the details, where the church is concerned, of his journey. I know that mine entails a period of attendence, followed by rebaptism. Following this is a year of activity prior to having all blessings restored and Temple attendence allowed.

If I beat him to the point of Temple worthiness, I will be his escort through the Temple. If he beats me, I foot the bill for an all expenses paid trip to Nauvoo. The way I see it...either way I win albeit somewhat :).

Proud of you my brother! I'm sure it will be an interesting journey coming back home...and filled with some "mountain top experiences" as well as sprinkled with some "valley" ones too...just to keep things interesting...and to keep you focused on...and reliant upon the Lord. You both are very lucky to have such friends as each other! Just remember that when you wake up each morning...figuratively and literally..turn toward the light! Eat the elephant a bite at a time! Again....I'm very proud of you....and this exceptionally worthy....and eternally life-changing goal you have set! I have every confidence that you and your friend will be sitting in the Celestial room in the Nauvoo Temple...in the not to distant future! You CAN do it! Edited by randyj
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It really doesn't matter if he holds the Priesthood or not. Simply being a member of the Church subjects him to possible Church discipline. Though repentance is a longer and harder process if one has made covenants in the Temple it is still possible. Many have returned to full fellowship, some unfortunately have not.

Sounds like a win win situation to me. :good:

That makes sense. I just wasn't really sure how church discipline worked for those who are not endowed or have the Melchezidek priesthood.

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It is always good to travel the road with friends as long as you lift each other up and not pull each other down. I hope you find what you are looking for.

As do I. Last night when we made this agreement, we were up until 4 a.m. talking about different issues that we were concerned about, where we believe is God leading us as opposed to where we would like to see God lead us, and we even spent a great deal of time with Mosiah.

Edited by Valentinus
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I look forward to and dred the journey at the same time. I believe there is much to learn not only about myself but how I personally relate and respond to God. I have had a disastrous up and down roller coaster relationship with the church for many years. As N.T. Wright said, "It is time to put things to rights."

I have heard others say that those who leave the church cannot leave it alone. For this assertion and my friends here, I am grateful for. I have made impulsive decisions (i.e. The Episcopal Church) because they were instantly gratifying but upon reflection provided no sustenance for my soul. As our evangelical brothers and sisters would say, "It's time to give it all up and surrender to God."

Thank you to all for your well wishes. My bud and I will be attending the same ward though we live in different parts of the Phoenix Metro Area. This is to keep each other on track and to knock the other over the head when we intentionally divert from the journey we have chosen.

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Hello Valentinus...

I agree with each of the previous posts... and particularly want you to know that I've always wanted your happiness and inner peace. I do believe the full measure lies within the gospel and CoJCoLDS. The path is not always easy, but you do not walk it alone. If this is the path you choose, and I pray it is, then rely on the Lord and walk in faith and the Spirit will comfort you... that is the promise, not from man, but from the Lord. Prayers...

GG

If this is your way of trying to sucker me into being a BYU fan...FORGET IT! I refuse to sell my soul to the devil...except for BYU Rugby. They are ok...Heavenly Father told me so this morning during prayer. So ha!

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I look forward to and dred the journey at the same time. I believe there is much to learn not only about myself but how I personally relate and respond to God. I have had a disastrous up and down roller coaster relationship with the church for many years. As N.T. Wright said, "It is time to put things to rights."

I have heard others say that those who leave the church cannot leave it alone. For this assertion and my friends here, I am grateful for. I have made impulsive decisions (i.e. The Episcopal Church) because they were instantly gratifying but upon reflection provided no sustenance for my soul. As our evangelical brothers and sisters would say, "It's time to give it all up and surrender to God."

Thank you to all for your well wishes. My bud and I will be attending the same ward though we live in different parts of the Phoenix Metro Area. This is to keep each other on track and to knock the other over the head when we intentionally divert from the journey we have chosen.

Phoenix, eh?

Have you ever gone to the Temple Lot Local (what they call their congregations)? I know a number of people from the Church of Christ (TL) that live in Phoenix.

The Bickertonites have a rather large Branch in the area also. Did you know Alice Cooper (Vincent Furnier) was raised in the Church of Jesus Christ? His grandfather was their Church President for a number of years.

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If this is your way of trying to sucker me into being a BYU fan...FORGET IT! I refuse to sell my soul to the devil...except for BYU Rugby. They are ok...Heavenly Father told me so this morning during prayer. So ha!

:):angel:

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If this is your way of trying to sucker me into being a BYU fan...FORGET IT! I refuse to sell my soul to the devil...except for BYU Rugby. They are ok...Heavenly Father told me so this morning during prayer. So ha!

Yes, yet another who has refused to bow the knee to Baal...

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:).

The Holy Spirit will see each of you through to success, if you let him, and the time will fly by. Just some advice: Attend all meetings, and follow the bishop's instructions without hesitation. Repentance and grace are free. You only have to avail yourself of them. You are very fortunate to have a good friend with whom to share the journey. And, if either of you backslides, just repent and keep at it. It will get easier.

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Good morning Valentinus...

Gosh, it's one of those mornings... sunshine dancing through the newly green leaves... no wind... that helps us remember just why we love the Pacific Northwest... particularly the wilds of the beautiful Oregon coast... I was watching the tide tables and we're going to have some negative tides the next few days which are perfect for beachcombing...

As I sat down at my computer and looked out the window here by my desk at this beautiful morning (7:20 AM)... my thoughts went to you as I said my morning prayers... so I just wanted to say good morning and encourage you. Like one of the brothers said, one "bite" at a time.

Now then, today is the day... and you know what I mean... BYU going for the NCAA volleyball title....

Woo hoo! Even your chiding cannot dampen my enthusiasm... Go Cougs!

Have a good day, V....

from the beach... GG

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A new friend of mine that I met a week ago have found that we share a religious heritage. We have been talking about the Gospel and our relationship with the church. We made a pact. Over the next 6 months, we will prayerfully consider where our derailing with the church took place and figure out what led to these moments. We vary in our stories. Most of you know mine. He is a recovering heroin addict and has been sexually active since he was 17. He is still an Aaronic Priesthood holder.

I don't know if he will be excommunicated because of his actions considering he isn't a Melchezidek Priesthood holder and is not endowed. Any way, after this period of time, we will consider more intimately our own testimonies of the Restoration and possibly pursue a race to the Temple. We know it will take a while. I don't know the details, where the church is concerned, of his journey. I know that mine entails a period of attendence, followed by rebaptism. Following this is a year of activity prior to having all blessings restored and Temple attendence allowed.

If I beat him to the point of Temple worthiness, I will be his escort through the Temple. If he beats me, I foot the bill for an all expenses paid trip to Nauvoo. The way I see it...either way I win albeit somewhat :).

Still just as a great of a guy as before you made this decision! It brings joy to my soul and I am sure yours to know you are now a Disciple of Jesus Christ and Heir of Eternal Life. Soon enough, you will also be able to put your great empathy to work and be a Healer of Souls when you receive the Melchizedek Priesthood.

Let me know if you or your friend ever need a Priesthood blessing. I would recommend getting one to start your journey. The decision of who and if is your choice. God bless!

Edited by tyler90az
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Phoenix, eh?

Have you ever gone to the Temple Lot Local (what they call their congregations)? I know a number of people from the Church of Christ (TL) that live in Phoenix.

The Bickertonites have a rather large Branch in the area also. Did you know Alice Cooper (Vincent Furnier) was raised in the Church of Jesus Christ? His grandfather was their Church President for a number of years.

I know that the TL has a couple apostles that live in Scottsdale but I haven't really gotten into contact with them. The Bickertonite group is at Broadway and Val Vista in Mesa. The building is kinda small looking from the outside but that doesn't mean much. I have met Alice Cooper on several occasions. A few times at Cooper's Town and once at a concert sponsored by a local radio station. He's a great guy.

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Good morning Valentinus...

Gosh, it's one of those mornings... sunshine dancing through the newly green leaves... no wind... that helps us remember just why we love the Pacific Northwest... particularly the wilds of the beautiful Oregon coast... I was watching the tide tables and we're going to have some negative tides the next few days which are perfect for beachcombing...

As I sat down at my computer and looked out the window here by my desk at this beautiful morning (7:20 AM)... my thoughts went to you as I said my morning prayers... so I just wanted to say good morning and encourage you. Like one of the brothers said, one "bite" at a time.

Now then, today is the day... and you know what I mean... BYU going for the NCAA volleyball title....

Woo hoo! Even your chiding cannot dampen my enthusiasm... Go Cougs!

Have a good day, V....

from the beach... GG

The cougs will do well. But come football season...the gloves come off because the Lord's University, U of U, will destroy them. You silly BYU cultists are all the same. ;)

Thank you for your wonderful morning post. It means a lot.

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The next six months are more the discernment process. This is the time to see if and where we went wrong and to see if we have enough of a testimony left to salvage after the damage we have done. We are optimistic. At the end of this period will determine whether we walk away (what I don't want) or get back on the wagon (what I'm not opposed to). Last night we talked for a bit. I decided that in the next life God and I are gonna fight. He decided he would sit back and watch Him kick my butt.

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