Mormons all over the world look forward to General Conference weekend — both as a break from the regular routine (pajama church) and as a source of inspiration. There’s also an element of mild suspense whenever another session convenes. Who will say what? Will it be business as usual? Or will there be surprises? And, of course, members tune in hoping to hear things that resonate with them.
I wrote a column last fall listing a few things I hoped to hear. This time I asked Mormon Facebook friends (and by Mormon, I meant anybody on the Mormon spectrum) what they hope to hear when the faithful gather around their televisions or computers or in the Conference Center in downtown Salt Lake City. Here are the results of my highly “scientific” survey.
Messages that emphasize the importance of love for others and for self.
One friend hopes to hear talks in the vein of LDS apostle Jeffrey R. Holland’s “Be Ye Therefore Perfect — Eventually.” Why? Because, like most of us, she already has mastered the art of self-criticism. As another woman put it, “I need to hear that even when we think we don’t measure up, we do.”
Messages that encourage tolerance and inclusion.
This was, in fact, the dominant thread that ran through the discussion. One commenter said he’d love to hear an “acknowledgment that Mormon culture is often lacking in unconditional love and acceptance of those who are perceived to be different.” Another wants to hear that “it’s OK to be gay.” Others hope to see more specific policies and programs designed to invite and support inclusion. Another wants “an unequivocally clear message denouncing hate, hate speech, racial hatred,” as well as recognition that white supremacy is a form of racial hatred. Another said, “I’d like to hear that asking questions is really OK and not tantamount to apostasy — that we should stop judging each other’s faithfulness quotient.”
Information about new temples.
Are there plans in the works to build more temples in Africa? One possibly in Heber City? Members want to know.
Announcements regarding new apostles.
Mormons naturally are curious about who will fill the two vacancies in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. One commenter was not alone in his desire “to see two new apostles who are not white Americans.” Another said, “I’m hoping new apostles will be called that better represent the diversity of a worldwide church.”
An opportunity to get to know the new church president better.
One woman is particularly interested in President Russell M. Nelson’s connection with China. Nelson speaks Mandarin and has been honored by the Chinese for helping to introduce open-heart surgery to that country.
Anything that speaks to the roles and experiences of women in the church.
“I always listen for the phrases ‘Heavenly Parents,’ ‘Heavenly Mother’ and ‘Mother in Heaven,’” said one young woman. “I would love to hear more than one woman speak,” another remarked. Others expressed hope for an announcement that the protocols have been modified for when bishops interview teenage girls.
Encouragement directed at single men in the church.
“They get far less encouraging than the single women do,” noted a single woman.
The installation of a nacho bar in the Conference Center.
Yeah. You’re right. That was Salt Lake Tribune columnist Robert Kirby’s contribution to the conversation. Thanks for that, Kirby.
Information about the church’s humanitarian efforts.
The church probably doesn’t get enough credit for its widespread nonsectarian efforts here and abroad. As one friend noted, members should learn more about and take pride in the excellent services offered by the church and its members.
Information about the church’s renewed emphasis on simplification.
“I love the new move towards simplification in meetings. I’d like to hear a talk applying this concept to our spiritual lives,” responded one individual. “An explanation of WHY they made the changes to the third hour” of the Sunday meeting schedule would be fascinating and informative, said another.
Speaking of simplification …
Pretty much everybody agrees a two-hour Sunday block schedule would be fabulous.
Finally, and most important, messages about Jesus, the atonement and the Resurrection.
It is Easter, after all.
Best wishes to everyone participating this weekend.