“In the beginning was the . . . “ The scene in which Faust first meets Mephistopheles takes place in Faust’s own Studierzimmer. After a long conversation with his buddy Wagner, Faust retires with the black poodle he encountered on the street (and which is actually Mephistopheles in disguise). Something I found positively fascinating about … Read more
The temple of Edfu, completed in 57 BC. Latter-day Saints since Primary are taught that reverence for God (especially in sacred space such as the temple) includes a softness of voice. Rev’rently, quietly, lovingly we think of thee; Rev’rently, quietly, softly sing our melody. Rev’rently, quietly, humbly now we pray, Let thy Holy Spirit dwell … Read more
I’ve heard, on many occasions, liberal or progressive Mormons* repeat the scriptural mantra “all are alike unto God” (2 Nephi 26:33) in their activism for feminist or LGBT issues. Take this image below, for example, or this website promoting more inclusive gender roles in the Church. Notice the sign second from the right. Without passing … Read more
Elder Dallin H. Oaks (b. 1932). Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles recently gave a devotional at Brigham Young University–Idaho on the subject of atheism and secular humanism. Elder Oaks’ comments are topical, as many recent polls have noted growing trends of irreligion (especially among those of my own generation) … Read more