Freedom Conference

Dad was asked once again to participate in the Freedom Group conference.  They are a group of people focused on building faith and learning about different religious opinions.  This night was "The Liberating Power of Forgiveness".

Dad did a wonderful job and presented the Plan of Happiness again with the Savior as the focus of our religion and the liberating power we feel when we forgive.  Healso used the clip from the church's website about the man who lost his wife and 2 children in a car accident in Salt Lake and was able to forgive the young man who had caused the accident.  We hope it motivates people to go to the websited.

These are the presenters for the night.  The man second from the left and the woman on his left represented the Buddist side which was very interesting and very sad.  Some of what they sad was beautiful and was a way to work on ourselves to help others.  But, from what they presented, they do not believe in the Atonement of the Savior and that we need him to receive forgiveness and to soften our hearts to also forgive.  It only comes from our own power.  Then, there was a nun who was so very sweet.  If only she was a member of the the Savior's true church.  Then, Dad, our friend, the Christian preacher, and the man on his knees is the director of the Freedom Group.  He is an Existentialist. Very philisophical but also a dependency on God.  What a broad spectum of ideas. 

Our Assistants came with us to give out informtion at the door as people left if they wanted it.  This is Elder Mendez.

And here is Elder Gonzalez.  The woman to his left that he's talking to is actually a nun who came to support the Madre who presented.  I don't think Elder Gonzalez realized this but he was very friendly with her.  Part of what we need to always do is allow those we meet to see us as good, loving, friendly people.

Here is the Christian preacher and his very nice wife.  Dad gave him a Book of Mormon as we were leaving and expressed the pleasure it has been for us to know them.

The Existentialist wanted a picture with Dad and the Assistants.  This group has been very kind and respectful of us and our beliefs.  We are, afterall, brothers and sisters.  The time is so short.  Anything we can do to move things forward is a step toward helping more see and understand the importance of the restored gospel and the saving ordinance of a valid baptism.