Chapter 9 - Tender Mercies

Author: Philip Paul Bliss's hymn: "Brightly Beams Our Father's Mercy"

Discussion context revolves around finding spiritual solace and community amid personal challenges.
Emphasizes the importance of guiding others, with themes of hope and service in the face of adversity.

Motivation for relocation:
- Desire to escape high New York taxes (Westchester County).
- Proximity to partner's internship and residency to minimize travel time.
- Previous connections to New Canaan Ward through a former BYU roommate.

Connection to the Chapel:
- Frequent drives past the chapel created a sense of spiritual pull.
- Growing desire to rebuild a strong spiritual foundation.
Manifestations of Spiritual Yearning:
- Listening to hymns, particularly those by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.
- Attending church with parents rekindled memories of purpose and community among believers.
- Experiencing the General Conference in the conference center reaffirmed understanding of doctrines.
Church Experiences:
- Attend various churches with partner demonstrating strong Christian commitment but lacking in understanding specific doctrines of Christ's atonement and commandments.
- Initial attendance at sacrament meeting to explore if the community aligns with personal spiritual needs without seeking social interactions with members.

Re-engagement with Scriptures:
- Previous answers from prayers about the Book of Mormon instilled desire to deepen study once again.
- Sent a note along with fast offerings expressing desire to meet with bishop.

Meeting Bishop Bruce Larson:
- Newly appointed bishop with a background in human resources at Goldman Sachs, familiar with LGBT colleagues.
- Generating welcoming discussions, encouragement to participate actively.
- Unexpected request to bear testimony regarding the Book of Mormon and its restoration.
Ward Council's Support:
- Bishop Larson's follow-up on council's receptive and welcoming stance toward the author and his partner.
Navigating Conversations about Identity:
- Discussing approachability about questions on personal relationships and transparency versus deception.

Initial Experiences of Attendance:
- Feeling out of place but sensing the Spirit during meetings.
- Writing personal testimony during Fast and Testimony meetings; reflecting on personal aspirations.
Summer Challenge to Study the Book of Mormon:
- Author joins effort leading to strengthened personal witness of the gospel.
Patriarchal Blessing's Guidance:
- Emphasis on studying Church history, leading to an appreciation of Joseph Smith and the gospel restoration.

Relationships with Bishopric Members:
- Attending gospel doctrine class and conversations about participation in priesthood meetings.
Significant Moment:
- Prayer with Bishop Larson establishing a nurturing relationship.
Service Opportunities:
- Involvement in church service projects to align with others in fulfilling Christ's mandate to serve.
- Building trust through babysitting opportunities, marking acceptance within the community.

Communication with Family:
- Regular updates shared with family about spiritual experiences and seeking advice.
Support of Brother Todd's Calling:
- Family gathering celebrating the elevation of Todd to apostolic leadership, enhancing familial bonds and support.

Engaging with Bishop Larson on Lesson Preparation:
- Invitation to prepare lessons for high priest group, initial intimidation transitioning into confidence through shared testimonies and community participation.
Stewardship in Gospel Doctrine Class:
- Inspired teachings provided through knowledgeable instructors fostering understanding of scriptural connections.

Networking within the Ward:
- Encounters with other members extending beyond the church setting further enriching relationships.
Coming out process at Work:
- Disclosure involving close friends and professional colleagues about personal faith and identity, creating understanding within the professional sphere.

Ward's Unique Environment:
- Suburban context of diversity awareness facilitating acceptance of various identities and experiences.
Challenges of Proposition 8:
- Strain caused by church involvement in legislative matters leading to relationship strains, especially around same-sex marriage.
Community Support:
- Friends reaching out to the author's partner, highlighting the importance of genuine friend circles aligned with compassion and understanding.

Friendships with Ben and Julie McAdams:
- Insights into navigating societal challenges while maintaining church involvement and advocacy for LGBTQ rights.
Collaborative Successes in Advocacy:
- Ben's contributions to crafting legislation promoting inclusivity in Salt Lake City, reinforcing constructive interactions and genuine care across diverse communities.

Transitioning Leadership After Bishop Larson:
- Ongoing warmth and acceptance exemplified by new bishop, President Checketts.
Personal Scripture Study and Bonding with Leadership:
- Monthly meetings with President Checketts exploring doctrine and fostering brotherhood through mutual spiritual development.
Educational Opportunities:
- Invitation to speak at the Arizona LDS LGBT conference following personal loss, reinforcing connection with the community and courage in sharing personal faith.
Addressing Loss and Commitment to Community:
- Attending the conference emphasizing healing and connection with shared experiences during a pivotal life event.

Lessons from Elder Neal A. Maxwell:
- Reflection on the significance of submitting one’s will to God, emphasizing a continuous personal journey in faith.
Learning Through Experiences:
- Understanding that practicing gospel principles results in a deeper connection with others and acknowledgment of Christ's love.

Definition of Active Love:
- Emphasized by Elder M. Russell Ballard, involving small, everyday acts of kindness rather than grand gestures.
Personal Commitment to the Savior's Directive:
- Ongoing intention to embody the teachings of Jesus Christ in daily life, focusing on actions and becoming like Him.