I’m an inactive member of the church. I was married for time five years ago, but I’ve now been divorced for three years. My ex-husband attends my home ward with his current wife, and I also want to return to the church. However, I don’t feel ready to see the two of them together. Can you tell me where I could find another LDS ward to attend? Thanks.
One Response to “I’m an inactive member of the church. I was married for time…”
Carlos Cruz
2010-02-13 06:54:53
Hi Susan. I'm very sorry to hear about the challenges you're facing. I can think of few things more difficult than a rocky divorce. I pray that you'll receive spiritual strength during these challenging times.
As you probably know, usually members of the church attend the Mormon chapel associated with their own neighborhood. When people have problems with other members of their local congregation, they're usually encouraged to stay in their congregation to try to resolve the social conflict. Learning to forgive others can teach us a lot about the atonement of Jesus Christ. I hope that through Christ's grace you'll one day be able to forgive your ex-husband for what he's done.
A missionary hugging a bishop in Aracaju, Sergipe, Brazil.
However, the emotional pain associated with divorce can sometimes be overwhelming. While I hope that one day you'll be able to free yourself from your emotional burdens, I think it's entirely understandable that you may not yet be ready to deal with the challenge of seeing your ex-husband and his new wife on a regular basis. I'd probably feel just like you do if I were in your situation. I think, in your extraordinary case, attending a different ward or branch is understandable. Fortunately, the church has provided a website that you can use to learn the addresses and meeting times of the chapels near your house.
I also encourage you to speak with your current bishop or branch president. Describe to him the extraordinary circumstances you face. Hopefully he'll have the wisdom and inspiration to guide you further. May God bless you during these difficult times.
As you probably know, usually members of the church attend the Mormon chapel associated with their own neighborhood. When people have problems with other members of their local congregation, they're usually encouraged to stay in their congregation to try to resolve the social conflict. Learning to forgive others can teach us a lot about the atonement of Jesus Christ. I hope that through Christ's grace you'll one day be able to forgive your ex-husband for what he's done.
I also encourage you to speak with your current bishop or branch president. Describe to him the extraordinary circumstances you face. Hopefully he'll have the wisdom and inspiration to guide you further. May God bless you during these difficult times.