Church Educational System

I am a Child of God Poster BYU Honor Code by Jacob Payne

Be one: Listening to the LGBTQ+ students at BYU

April 22, 2020 |

They were born into OUR Mormon families. They grew up singing the same Primary songs, learning the value of family relationships and wanting that for themselves, being taught they are each a child of God, learning to love one another, learning to get their own answers through prayer, and learning to stand up for what is right, even if they must stand alone.

Car Driving Sepia Winter Spring

COVID-19 and the Honor Code debacle – An existential meditation

March 17, 2020 |

As I began my drive, I viewed the hillsides, fields, and woodlands here in upstate New York. Such scenery has become my chapel of holy reflection, and I was lost in the beauty of my surroundings. Despite the fact that the snows have only just receded and the color scheme is still tawny, slate, and charcoal, I still see God’s creation in all of it. I find God in nature, and God finds me there, too. 

A Peculiar People

Two Degrees off Center: A peculiar people

March 13, 2020 |

How do I handle this anger I’m feeling and still be authentic?  How do I bridle these passions, and channel this anger so I can feel Christlike love again?  The Lord and I talked it over quite a bit in the past week, and I’ve found an answer.  It’s not everyone’s answer, but it’s mine.

Gay Kids Grow Up Mormon

Unwritten rules can cause a lot of harm at BYU

March 7, 2020 |

All students have the right, regardless of sexual orientation to enjoy chaste, affectionate public behavior without any fear of reprisal. LGB students are worthy of the same rights, protections, and freedom of loving expressions which are afforded their heterosexual peers.