I largely agree with Kaimi’s thoughts on how the Church is usually content to let teachings and statements of earlier authorities fade into obsolescence through silence, rather than through any kind of formal pronouncement. But I think that the opposite, that the silent treatment is intended as an informal repudiation, might not be true in all cases. I don’t think that any general authority will provide a clear answer on nineteenth-century polygamy any time soon, but I don’t think their silence will provide any guidance, either.
Month: December 2006
Sunday School Lesson #47
The Ninth Amendment Argument for Monogamy
The ninth amendment to the constitution is one of those wonderfully vague constitutional provisions that delights arm-chair theorists and annoys judges who might actually have to figure out what it means. It reads: The enumeration in the Constitution of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people. It turns out that this provision was an unlikely character in some of the earliest legal battles over polygamy.
Primary Lesson #46 Supplement
Linda’s blessing
It was the first time in years a baby would be blessed in this tiny Belgian branch. The missionaries had explained how it worked and the handbook provided some scanty instructions.
Sunday School Lesson 46
Lesson 46: Daniel 2
Blogging Reflections
As I end my two weeks of guest blogging, I would like to take a look back.
Relief Society
In my intro bio to T&S I said, “In truth a substantial part of my heart is in Relief Society—not for what it is now but for what I feel it can and must yet become.â€
Primary Lesson #43 Supplement
What the Smith Boys Said This Year
For previous installments, see here and here. Simon turned eight, Nathan turned five, and Truman turned two this year.
Sunday School Lesson #45
Lesson 45: Daniel 1, 3, and 6; Esther 3-5, 7-8
Sunday School Lesson #44
Christmas Traditions
Our family has two fun holiday traditions worth spreading.
Angels
I have lived long enough and had such a variety of experiences that I hardly think I can be called naïve on the subject of prayer.