My boyfriend is not a member of the church. I am, and I’m 17 years old. But I don’t know if I should invite him to come to church with me. My dad is the bishop and I feel like the other members won’t approve of me having a boyfriend who isn’t Mormon. Also, I’m not yet 18 years old. I’m very confused. Thanks.
2 Responses to “Should I invite my boyfriend to come to church with me?”
Mateo Campos
2013-12-01 16:25:55
The Mormon temple in San Diego, California.
Hi sister. It's excellent that you want to invite your boyfriend to come to church with you. Why do you care what other people think? As long as you're not breaking the commandments and are working towards an eternal marriage, even if that means you have to introduce your boyfriend to the gospel before you can proceed, you have no reason to be ashamed. Besides, For the Strength of Youth clearly states that young people can begin dating when they are 16. We shouldn't build "hedges around the law" by implying that the minimum age is anything but 16.
Why don't you talk with your mom and dad about these issues? Tell them there's a chance you think your boyfriend might become interested in the church if he were properly introduced. Ask for their help. I agree that you shouldn't settle for anything less than a temple marriage, but it's also true that many people become interested in the church when friends and loved ones introduce it to them. Perhaps you could bring that blessing into your boyfriend's life. I hope this answer helps!
Pamela Bonta
2014-04-11 14:45:08
Invite him! If he says yes, wonderful. If he says no, then it opens the doors for a frank and honest conversation about what you envision for your own future and how he may or may not fit into it. If you have your sights set on marrying a returned missionary or of becoming a missionary yourself, this is something you should probably discuss now!
Why don't you talk with your mom and dad about these issues? Tell them there's a chance you think your boyfriend might become interested in the church if he were properly introduced. Ask for their help. I agree that you shouldn't settle for anything less than a temple marriage, but it's also true that many people become interested in the church when friends and loved ones introduce it to them. Perhaps you could bring that blessing into your boyfriend's life. I hope this answer helps!