Yes, I know that the temples are open to the public before dedication - I had a ticket for the Newport Beach, CA temple, (we were on vacation at the time) but there were too many people with us and I am the only one that is so interested in religion. I wasn't aware of the newest temple in Connecticut, it is funny that I didn't know that because I look very open at the Temple Web page. I am always "GOOGLE-ing" for the newest temples, because I love to read about them so much. As a matter of fact, I spent about an hour last night looking up articles about the Manhattan Temple. I know first-hand about disrespect that is shown to synagogues, and I read the Salt Lake Tribune every single day, so I am aware of the protests along Temple Square. I really feel sorry for these people that just think that this is the right thing to do. You know that they have been brought up with no love in their lives. I know about the garments and of course think that it is horrible that they have been destroyed and made fun of; as I said before, the people who do this don't know any better. It is extremely sad, but then I think that we are so fortunate to have been raised the correct way, with respect for all people and religions.

We just celebrated my nephews' Bar Mitzvah this past Saturday. It was a wonderful celebration and ceremony, attended by almost 200 people. My brother is a non-touring golf pro, at the local country club, and he literally could be governor of NJ if he wanted to - he and my sister in law have a million friends, and I am only exaggerating slightly! Anyway, besides our family, most of the people in the synagogue were Christian. I can't tell you all the compliments and comments that our family received that day, and at the reception that evening. So many of the guests had no idea what it is like to be Jewish, what we do, what we believe in....I think that the Mormon religion is the same way. Have you and your family ever been to a Bar or Bat Mitzvah? If not, the next one in our family is in 2 and a half years, and I will make sure that you get an invitation. That would be a thrill for my family!

I do have the Book of Mormon, and I have read it many times. As a matter of fact, we are leaving for vacation tomorrow, and since we are staying at Marriotts for the next 2 weeks, I will have the opportunity to read BOM again. However, I don't know what you are referring to about the family that left Jerusalem and the records that they kept. I would love to read about that.

As far as the Christmas mint, you got it....send me an address where you can receive UPS, ( I assume you don't give your home address, so if you have an office in a building, an office address for The Pyramid, etc.) we can send it there. UPS just doesn't deliver to PO Box addresses. We will send it to you as soon as we start shipping again, probably sometime in October because of the weather.

Alright, Donny, it was wonderful talking to you, I wish for the best for you and your fabulous family.

Did you know Mrs. Hinckley? She seemed like a great woman also. I was very sad to hear of her passing.

Did you have a chance to see the multimedia presentation on the Book of Mormon in My Beliefs? It will explain about the origin of the people in the Book of Mormon and that they came from Jerusalem.

I am pleased you can relate to my wonderful parents. It seems to be more of a rare blessing nowadays to have two choice parents who love each other and their children. It is a great source of comfort and love to have that.

I would love to attend your Bar Mitzvah, though I doubt it would be possible. I appreciate the invitation.

I has the opportunity to meet President Hinkley's wife a few times. She was is a wonderful person whom everybody loved. She was well up in years as is President Hinckley. He is in his mid 90's now.

Thank you so much, but you needn't go to the trouble of sending the Chrismas mints. It's nice of you to offer though.

Sincerely,

Donny Osmond


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