I am interested in the Mormon faith. I am a single mother of four and I have never been married. Would I be able to marry a Mormon man, and how would that work out with my children? Would I be able to be baptized? I have asked for forgiveness from my sins and have talked to my pastor at my old church, would I have to ask for forgiveness again with the Mormon church?
2 Responses to “I am interested in the Mormon faith. I am a single mother of…”
Diego Castro
2011-05-08 22:11:03
Hi friend. I'm happy you're interested in the LDS Church! This Church has been a great blessing in my life. You mentioned that you have four children. As someone who was raised in the Church, let me tell you that the gospel of Jesus Christ was invaluable during my formative years, just as it is invaluable to me today. I would not be the person I am if it weren't for the teachings and good examples that I received in my youth. I know that being a single parent can be hard. I have no doubt that you and your children could find much spiritual peace and support in the church, and I encourage you to continue learning more. There's a video I really like that could perhaps provide some insight into how the church can mold young people, though I should say that these young men are far more remarkable than I ever was!
This interesting video describes a single mother who's a member of the Church:
While the Church certainly does place a lot of emphasis on marriage, there are many single-parent Mormon households as well. In fact, one of my favorite church leaders is Elder Dallin H. Oaks, who was raised by a single mother. He often discusses his angel mother in the sermons he gives.
Regarding your specific question, single parents certainly can be baptized and married in our church. With permission from their father, your children could also be "sealed" to you and your future husband, meaning a special temple ordinance could be performed so that your family could be together forever, even after death. I mention sealing because it is the most important of the Mormon temple ordinances, so clearly there would be no restrictions on your personal/spiritual progress in the Church.
Regarding confession, baptism is itself a spiritually cleansing ordinance that is performed for the remission of sins. I think it would not be necessary to confess your past sins after your baptism because those sins would have already been forgiven, though you're certainly welcome to chat with your bishop if you think it would be helpful. The fact that you've talked with your pastor is all the more evidence that you've put your past behind you and are now moving forward spiritually.
I get so excited when someone expresses an interest in the Church. I'm certain the Church could be a blessing in your life and in the life of your children. It certainly has been a blessing in mine. Best of luck to you.
Richard
2011-05-09 15:31:26
The Church's missionary program is one of its most recognized characteristics.
Just to expand a little on a previous answer to your question. Yes your children would need also the permission of their Earthly Father in order to enter the waters of baptism, at a younger age. IE before they turn 18. After however they would be considered by the laws of our land, which laws are upheld by our church, to be adults and they would no longer need his permission, but could make their own choice.
As suggested before I would definitely talk with some missionaries as well as get to know, and council with, the Bishop over your living area. (and let your children get to know the Bishop, and other ward leaders, also)
This interesting video describes a single mother who's a member of the Church:
While the Church certainly does place a lot of emphasis on marriage, there are many single-parent Mormon households as well. In fact, one of my favorite church leaders is Elder Dallin H. Oaks, who was raised by a single mother. He often discusses his angel mother in the sermons he gives.
Regarding your specific question, single parents certainly can be baptized and married in our church. With permission from their father, your children could also be "sealed" to you and your future husband, meaning a special temple ordinance could be performed so that your family could be together forever, even after death. I mention sealing because it is the most important of the Mormon temple ordinances, so clearly there would be no restrictions on your personal/spiritual progress in the Church.
Regarding confession, baptism is itself a spiritually cleansing ordinance that is performed for the remission of sins. I think it would not be necessary to confess your past sins after your baptism because those sins would have already been forgiven, though you're certainly welcome to chat with your bishop if you think it would be helpful. The fact that you've talked with your pastor is all the more evidence that you've put your past behind you and are now moving forward spiritually.
I get so excited when someone expresses an interest in the Church. I'm certain the Church could be a blessing in your life and in the life of your children. It certainly has been a blessing in mine. Best of luck to you.
As suggested before I would definitely talk with some missionaries as well as get to know, and council with, the Bishop over your living area. (and let your children get to know the Bishop, and other ward leaders, also)