| Response |
You are correct about the fact that there is no specific
doctrine or principle about tattoos other than that which we read in the Bible
which you've already quoted. Our Prophet, President Gordon B. Hinckley,
has recently asked us to abstain from such practices so that we might
give the proper respect to our bodies that the Lord has given to us.
However, the tattoo will definitely not preclude her from being baptized.
Concerning your question about whether those who have used drugs or
other harmful products or had premarital sex prior to deciding to convert,
We must all remember that the great atoning sacrifice that our
Savior went through was for this very purpose. Our Savior knew that we
would make mistakes during our time here on earth. Because he loves us
so much, he took upon himself all of those sins so we may enter the
waters of baptism, literally washing away our sins of the past and become
clean and pure once again. The Lord forgives and forgets all sins so
prior actions do not affect the conversion process. Then, at this point,
the individual receives the gift of the Holy Ghost, free from any guilt
of the past. The key factor here is, as you have accurately stated,
they must be heartfully sorry for their actions and have a determination
to abstain hereafter.
I am thrilled that you and your friend are considering membership in
the Church. I am confident that you will not be sorry about that
decision.
Sincerely,
Donny Osmond
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