Midwesterner | 5:58 a.m. Feb. 2, 2008
Our founding fathers granted us the right to practice our religous beliefs. Jesus even gave us strenght to turn the other cheek when our less than admimoral fellow man acts disgracefully toward each other. But their comes a time even when God turned the other cheek to get it slapped hard and said no more. It is one thing to practice religous freedom and another to practice a way to insight a riot. Westboro Baptist Church should be shut down by the Baptist Ministry for it they can not control one of their own. All I am saying is if he keeps up something bad is going to happen all in the name of Religous Freedoms.
why bother | 6:19 a.m. Feb. 2, 2008
Since we as LDS believe in faith in the Lord and repentance as the two fundamental beliefs guiding actions, 1)the prejudices of protesters wouldn't register because the Lord is the kind forgiving judge of everyone, and 2)if a person is concerned about their own errors of ommission or commission and is trying a little every day to overcome them, there would be no reason to be concerned with the actions of others, (other than to try and help them).

I hope that everyone in Utah has a great day honoring Pres. Hinckley.
cjp | 6:27 a.m. Feb. 2, 2008
Best thing that we can do is ignore these protesters in the media --- thats what they are there for.
Comments continue below
Amanda from MO | 6:37 a.m. Feb. 2, 2008
I don't know how anyone (including above mentioned Westboro) can call this group a "church." A church is not supposed to encourage hate. They don't agree with homosexuality? So what? That doesn't mean they should be out there protesting at funerals (the Prophet's, a fallen soldier's, or anyone else's-may they rest in peace). I am LDS, a couple of my friends came out of the closet, and my sister is gay. There is no way I could hate these people: I love them very much. Just ignore this group of haters.
SparkyVA | 6:46 a.m. Feb. 2, 2008
Many heckled Christ on the cross, we should remember His words: Father forgive them for they know not what they do.
Candace Salima | 7:56 a.m. Feb. 2, 2008
The Westboro Baptist Church is proving how incredibly insensitive and evil they have become. First they protest at the funerals of our fallen soldiers, which is reprehensible, at best! But to bring their lying, wagging tongues to the funeral of our beloved prophet who only reached out to all faith which maintain the standard which the Lord expect of him is beyond the pale.

I support the First Amendment, I do. But I equate the actions of the Westboro Baptist Church with those of Larry Flynt at Hustler Magazine. You're take a right and a privilege and abusing it.

Mormons fled the Midwest in the mid 1840's due the licentious, murderous behavior of its citizens and established a safe haven in the mountains of Utah. Leave us alone. Go back to your little town where hate reigns supreme and let people of God mourn the passing of one of His most valiant and beloved servants.
Anonymous | 8:47 a.m. Feb. 2, 2008
The strongest possible message is to ignore them.
NC LDS | 8:59 a.m. Feb. 2, 2008
By their fruits ye shall know them. Where your heart is there be your treasure. Let them show who they really are.
Brian | 9:23 a.m. Feb. 2, 2008
Shouldn't we be dissappointed if the evil Phelps group didn't show up? Pres. Hinckley is in good company when we look at who else Phelps protests. I think it is a good sign, further confirming that Pres Hinckley did the right things throughout his life. Protest away!!!
Vegas Ed | 9:25 a.m. Feb. 2, 2008
Poor people. The Rev. Jim Jones comes to mind. Just blind to picket at funerals and other religious occasions. WWJD is what many other religions use. Obviously not this.
It's not against the law to look stupid.
Lyle | 9:33 a.m. Feb. 2, 2008
The WBC protesters are clearly wanting their 15 minutes of fame. Otherwise, they would not be doing this. Popping up in a community to create controversy will do nothing for them in the long run. It is my hope that those in attendance of the Prophet's funeral heed the advise of the local leaders and pay no attention to them.

As a reminder, everything has an opposite. Light and darkness, truth and deceit...These things have always and will always be at war with one another. Light and truth will undoubtedly prevail.
Bob | 9:43 a.m. Feb. 2, 2008
I am sure that the "god" worshipped by these few deluded souls is NOT God the Father or his Son. They worship another hateful, vengeful god. A fallen angel driven from heaven.
BARRY | 10:18 a.m. Feb. 2, 2008
Just think our Prophet is with his Wife and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.He is also with all OF THE TRUE AND FAITHFUL PROPHETS FROM ADAM TIL NOW!
"Do what is right let the consequence follow"
Wendy Rojas | 10:15 a.m. Feb. 2, 2008
I think it's remarkable that President Hinckley's message was "Standing for Something." Today it will be evident what these protesters stand for. Let us all "Stand a little taller," as President Hinckley said, and leave them alone to gnash their teeth and clench their fists in attempts to draw anger out of us. When all is said and done, it will be our actions and our words of kindness what will separate us from the angry mobs.
Disappointed | 10:23 a.m. Feb. 2, 2008
Sad. Using the pain of others to get their fame. President Gordon B. Hinkley immulated the Savior in everything he did and, in my opinion, protesting his life is like protesting what the Savior stood for. They need to ask themselves, "What would Jesus Do?". Christ would never disrupt the mourning of others but have compassion for them and would not be pleased with others doing so in his name.
emma | 10:22 a.m. Feb. 2, 2008
I find the actions of the Westboro Baptist Church reprehensible. Even so, free speech should be allowed, even if offensive to some or even many. A good solution would be a group of Mormons singing hymns across the street or near this group.

Recently, a female in the group was interviewed on television and was questioned as to why she would be so judgmental when she was the mother of two illegitimate children. The hypocrisy was incredible. Most amusing was her rapid change in demeanor. You can probably google or youtube the interview.
Sharon | 10:43 a.m. Feb. 2, 2008
Although I personally feel disgusted with anyone that would protest at anyone's funeral, I can almost hear in my mind, President Hinckley telling us to not speak bad about any religion. He supported the First Amendment and everyone's right to speak their mind. I doubt that this protest would really even faze him. If anything, he would say that this will only end up being in favor of the church.

President Hinckley truly was the "People's Prophet;" he was the Prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; he was my prophet. I knew him - I shook his hand, and I was honored to stand in line for nearly 4 hours yesterday to pay my last respects. I love this man and I shall miss him greatly.

I hope that these protestor's will somehow be able to feel the strong spirit that will be in the atmosphere today as we bury our dear Prophet.

My love and sympathy, and my prayers are with his family this day as their lay their father, grandfather, uncle....to rest.
Anonymous | 10:45 a.m. Feb. 2, 2008
I usually don't care when these people protest at General Conference and other church events. I just ignore them. But to protest at this funeral is completely rude and ridiculous. How would they like it if there was protestors at a funeral for someone they loved and cared about? President Hinckley is truly a prophet of God. He lived a great life and blessed many people.
Mary | 10:54 a.m. Feb. 2, 2008
I checked out this group's website. They are also protesting the arrival of the Pope, events at the Catholic church in California, Hollywood award shows, and several more military funerals. What I also found interesting is that they have 4-5 protests all on the same day and at the same moment as President Hinckley's funeral. So, I would venture to say that their 'group' will be very small in size. Give them the respect that they deserve (none), and the attention that they deserve (none), and completely ignore all that they say. Their website clearly shows a group full of general hate for everything that they come across. Only Satan could instill that much hate into a life that only God could create.
Blake | 12:29 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
I am by no means a member of the LDS faith, but stories like this make my skin crawl. Just so everyone knows, this is what it feels like for the soldiers families as well. This group constantly protests at gay pride parades, funerals and any other occasion.

Nothing comes close to the horrible thing they are doing today. However, next time you think of "protesting" someone else, either in your own head, or by voting for someone that doesn't support gay rights...remember how this feels.
cache | 1:18 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
It's sad this group doesn't realize that their actions only reflect poorly on themselves, not the group or individual they are protesting.
A DEVOTED FAN OF PRESIDENT HINCK | 1:43 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
IT LOOKS LIKE IT HAS ALL BEEN SAID, AND I SAY "AMEN". I REALLY LIKE THE IDEA OF HAVING THE R.S. SERVE OUR POOR ENEMIES. TOO BAD THEY DIDN'T BRING THEIR COMMENTS AND DOUBTS TO A MAN WHILE HE WAS ABLE TO SAY SOMETHING ABOUT IT.
THESE ARE TRULY THE LATTER-DAYS, I LOVE PRES. HINCKLEY, HE IS A WONDERFUL MAN AND WE AS MEMBERS OF THIS TRUE CHURCH ARE BLESSED TO HAVE BEEN LIVING DURING HIS REIGN!
Carol Sue | 2:27 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
I am proud to be a member of the Church of Latter Day Saints, a forgiving Church. Sad that this Baptist Church is teaching thier followers to hate another. The Military...and the LDS church. I believe it is wrong to talk bad about any other church. I believe all churches have some truth in them. May our heavenly father open their hearts, and their minds one day...very soon. My heart sinks for our prophets passing..but it also sings, because I know he is watching and I feel him telling me to not be sad, to rejoice in his passing, for his work was well done. Blessing to All, LDS or not.
OIF Veteran SLC | 2:23 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
I am a veteran of the war in Iraq, as well as a member of the LDS church. I lost many friends while I was deployed, and one thing that they all had in common was an overwhelming sense of pride and love for our country. A country founded on personal and religious freedom. And as for President Hinkley's funeral... The thought that people would feel the need to detract from a service in the memory of a man who dedicated his life to making the world a better place, helping those in need, and sacrificing all in the service of others and of our father in heaven is unthinkable. In a time when there is so much darkness throughout the world, I feel deep sadness for individuals who feel the need to attack people's faith. Surely there must be things more worthy protest!
CJ | 2:45 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
As a vet and a non-Mormon, although I disagree with these people, I served so they might have the right to disagree. I hope I didn't make a mistake.

I think Mr. Hinckley would agree with me. He certainly taught tolerence to those of all faiths and those with none.
Helmsdeep(81) | 2:44 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
They've had their 15 minutes in the light of day and I for one will not be bothered one way or the other. My prayers be with Pres. Hinkley, his family and to the church thoughout the world. We mourn his loss but will remember and celebrate the tremendous life of great service he rendered to all of mankind ....even to the least of these who did not know him.
Nonbeliever | 3:10 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
This church has to be the most reprehensible organization ever. I am not a Mormon, indeed I'm atheist, but I happened to think a lot of Hinckley. I came a long way from agreeing with him on many things, but he seemed like a descent man who wanted to do right by his followers and the world. If there were a God, surely he would accept a man like that, no matter what religion he belonged to.
co | 3:40 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
I would just like to say, that our Prophet was loved, kind, sharing and was a morman to not just mormans but to everyone. It truly shows you the true church of christ, a church that does no harm, but shows everyone the feeling of beening loved and have a wonderful, devoted prophet to lead the way. I know that 20 people protesting will never stop the love our nations to our prophet. They may try and take us down with them or slay us like david and glyath, but there is nothing you can do it you dont truly believe in what you are fighting for. I know that those people out there fighting and protesting at our prophets funeral really belive in god. I know that there are people that will be protesting that will be hiding in the back of the group ashamed. And our church will walk out with our heads held high knowing that our prophet is the TRUE word of god and no one will ever stop our gods army. Rest in peace our beloved president hinkley you truly are a gift from god, thank you for your dedication, your wife has been waiting!
russ | 4:08 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
To No One of Consequence: couldn't have said it better. Thanks for laying it out there.
audra | 4:43 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
Funny how as an LDS people we would NEVER stand outside the funeral of the Pope or some other Church's leader & chant and yell disrepectful things. Let's show some respect people! Believers or Not. Christians or Not. How about just Common Courtesy? So sad!
Anonymous | 4:52 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
When a young solider from my hometown was killed word got around that protesters would be at his funeral, so my hometown showed up, in support and sympathy for this soliders family that the protesters did not have the guts to show their faces.

President Hinkley was a wonderful man of God. God loved him very much, President Hinkley loved everyone it did not matter to him if people were church members or not, he loved us all. Even the protesters, he was respectful, and encourged us all to be respectful of others, however you would never see him encourging any church members to protest outside their churches, or stating they will burn in hell.
We were lucky to have a great Man like President Hinkley.

People like those that protest about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, only strengthen us and reconfirm how true the church is
urroner | 5:09 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
I am a member of the Church and live in the South and I have had several Baptists tell me passionately that the protesters aren't members of their church and that they truly disagree rather strongly with what the Westboro Baptist Church does. Please don't point fingers at members of your local Baptist churches and lump them with members of the WBC.
Phil, Corona CA. | 6:45 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
I am a Christian, not Mormon. We love you and send our deepest compassion for the loss of your president. We are sorry to hear of this group protesting at the funeral and feel it is a unloving thing to do, and do not recognize this as true ministry.
We pray for your healing as you seek the true Jesus of the bible for comfort, as he is our only comfort.
As a christian, I often take time to make friends with the mormon community to reach out with the love of Christ. I stand in front of the temple from time to time handing out tracts and greeting people, I do not join in with the "street preachers". It is my duty as a practicing christian to share the gospel with all people and defend truth as it is writen in the bible. My calling is simple. 2tim 2:24-26
We will continue to pray for utah and the mormon community as they mourn.
Try to be nice to me next time you see me handing you a tract. Love and Respect.

Stormin mormon | 6:53 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
just do what president hinckley would have done...said to them..."I Love You" they are our brothers and sisters, they have just been led astray and will one day know the truth when judgement day rolls around, just ignore their words and believe our's follow the prophet, heed to his words, love everyone, forgive everyone, dont critisize the actions of others, yes what they are doing is wrong and disrespectful, but they are still our family
Bob | 6:57 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
Were the Westboro protestors also supporting Huckabee?
Non-LDS respect for the Prophet | 7:20 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
It disturbs me that anybody would protest at a person's funeral. Out of all the times that you could protest, a funeral just seems like the wrong time.

I'm not LDS so I think my odds of seeing Gordon B. Hinckley in heaven are slim. If I had a choice in the matter, I'd sure love it if I did see him and I could sit and have long conversations with that amazing man. Everything I saw about the man exuded class, honesty, love and integrity.

I've said for the longest time that there are certain LDS members who I've truly admired over the years. One of them is Gordon B. Hinckley, another is Ken Jennings, and last and definitely not least Salt Lake Tribune humor Columnist Robert Kirby.

God Bless Gordon B. Hinckley and all the members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I look forward to the new Prophet of the Church as I have fond memories for the man Gordon B. Hinckley who truly made the State of Utah and the World a better place.
BronxNY | 7:39 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
As i read these comments about this protest, which I find dispicable, I wondered what the LDS Church leader would have said or thought. I am not sure but I do recall that he never rediculed, never critized and never waivered in being a Christian and loving everyone. I know many wonderful Baptist people and this group does not represent Christian principles or the Baptist churches. It is a misguided group that does not need any attention, just prayers.
Paul Gibbs | 10:53 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
As a member of the LDS Church who loves President Hinckley, I want to thank these protesters for publicly announcing that we and our beloved Prophet are true, loving, tolerant Christians, and nothing like them.

I feel sorry for these protesters.What they sadly don't understand, and President Hinckley spent his earthly life teaching, was that God the Father and his son Jesus Christ love EVERYONE.
Las Vegan | 11:03 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
"Agree with thine advesary quickly, whilst thou art in the way, lest he turn and rend thee again."
D & C. Section 19 tells us not to revile the revilers.

I don't have this quote exactly but it goes something like this.

"Hate does not hurt the one on whom it is poured,
rather in the one it is stored."

Another. If we have hate in our heart, we might be looking for someone, or something to use it on.
LDS IN AZ | 11:03 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
BMACLVSPREZHINCKLEY you are absolutely right. That is what the prophet would do. The scriptures tell us that there must be opposition in all things. How wonderful it is to know that Christ lives, is our Savior and Redeemer. Alma the younger was much like those demonstrators. Imagine if the Lord works in their hearts in the same manner as he did young Alma. May President Hinckley legacy live in each one of us.
Army | 11:29 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
This just breaks my heart, not only for our dear President Hinckley, but for all of those soldiers who died protecting their First Amendment Rights. My husband is in the Army, and I would be proud of the sacrifice our family would make for this country.
Trina | 1:57 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
People of low intelligence and high level of hatred rarely understand what civility and compassion have to do with proper behavior.
Anonymous | 8:00 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
May these folks humble themselves and learn sound doctrine.
Butch | 10:36 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
And this is Christiany????
Jeff | 10:49 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
It is hard at times to understand and be all forgiving with these kinds of "whatever they are"...This MAN surely believed in his Lord and His teachings...I can only do the same...It is hard to be kind towards them, but I have to be.
ANYBODY KNOWS THAT | 11:54 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
There is such a thing as funeral etiquette. Even the God of every religion on earth, or no religion at all understands that.This group should not have ever been given any newspaper space at all. Don't reward rude behavior with attention.
Mountain High | 11:57 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
After viewing the Youtube sight "The Most Hated Family in America," I can only say that the premis of Jesus asking anyone in the mob, "Let Him who is without sin, cast the first stone;" was most certainly way over the heads of this group. Something so simple......but yet so least understood for these blinded obscure beings..

Trying to explain the difference between the "Old Law of Moses" and the "New and Everlasting Covenent," which Jesus ushered in during his ministry and sealed with his atoning blood, would be asking too much for this group to remotely understand. The sacrifices of so many good men and women seem so wasted on idividuals so lost as to put their hate into song and teach it to their own children. They fail to realize that God also had Hatemongers high on his list of dispises.
Protest too much | 12:50 p.m. Feb. 3, 2008
Methinks they doth protest too much.
becky | 1:16 p.m. Feb. 3, 2008
To all LDS:

Let us ignore all these evil protests against the church, leaders and the Gospel ...Just remember, these are the same type of taunts, disrespect and name calling from those people who crucified the Lord. They can not accept the truth...These are people who are proud and ignorant who doesn't know what humility is and strongly refused to listen the Gospel and the teachings of Jesus Christ. They would rather please Satan but subtly do it in the name of our Lord to get more people.
Remember, during the time when prophet Gordon Hinckley was called to be a leader in his early callings, the membership were only 500,000...Anti-mormons and mormon bashings mushroomed several years later that made people curious to know more about the church..The result--we now have 13 million members..In a way, these protests helps increase the membership of the church--makes people want to listen to the missionaries. Let's pray for those protesters that they would continue -- to enable those humble souls to open doors for the missionaries and to listen the true Gospel and be baptized.
did this happen? | 3:11 p.m. Feb. 3, 2008
The media covered the funeral proceedings. We were all more interested in President Hinckley. So I don't know if these people even demonstrated, did they?

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