| Response |
I am so very sorry you are having to experience any kind of abuse. The
church leaders are very emphatic in their condemnation of such treatment. I
can certainly understand how you feel so hurt and even hopeless.
The Doctrine and Covenants teaches "That the rights of the priesthood are
inseparably connected with the powers of heaven, and that the powers of
heaven cannot be controlled nor handled only upon the principles of
righteousness. That they may be conferred upon us, it is true; but when we
undertake to cover our sins, or to gratify our pride, our vain ambition, or
to exercise control or dominion or compulsion upon the souls of the children
of men, in any degree of unrighteousness, behold, the heavens withdraw
themselves; the Spirit of the Lord is grieved; and when it is withdrawn,
Amen to the priesthood or the authority of that man. Behold, ere he is
aware, he is left unto himself, to kick against the pricks, to persecute the
saints, and to fight against God. We have learned by sad experience that it
is the nature and disposition of almost all men, as soon as they get a
little authority, as they suppose, they will immediately begin to exercise
unrighteous dominion. Hence many are called, but few are chosen. No power
or influence can or ought to be maintained by virtue of the priesthood, only
by persuasion, by long-suffering, by gentleness and meekness, and by love
unfeigned;" (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 121:36 - 41).
I do not think there is much that I can say to help you. I am confident,
however that the Lord loves you and that he will support you if you reach
out to him in prayer and in the way you live your life.
Sincerely,
Donny Osmond
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