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Four Westboro protesters show up to protest funeral

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Anti-anti | 11:15 a.m. Feb. 2, 2008
Sorry but he is no different, anyone that protests at a funeral are doing the same thing. Whether they are yelling, or holding signs, there is just no good reason to protest at a funeral, and unless the signs say positive things, they are really protesting. Preaching is sharing beliefs and can be done respectfully at another time. A funeral, no matter who's it is isn't the time!
One's as bad as the other | 12:23 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
Confronting the Phelps protesters only gives them MORE publicity, and attempting to "convert" is like wrestling with a pig.

If the Phelps crowd didn't get publicity, they'd have to stop. But in Utah, I'm sure they believe they're "preaching to the choice".
Baffled | 1:30 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
Am I the only one who finds it ironically sad that the LDS Church-owned media outlets are the only ones splashing headlines about the Westboro Baptist Church? From my reading this past week, the only paper with a headline using the word "Westboro" or "protesters" is this one.

The Salt Lake Tribune has been embedding any references to the protests farther down in its more positive stories about the funeral. The Deseret News, however, has been explicitly writing stories directly about this protest.

On KSL Radio, you had Doug Wright on Thursday saying, "These hateful, bitter people only want one thing: attention." Then he turned around and invited his listeners to visit Westboro's Web site, godhatesfags.org.

I suppose part of the true irony is that the LDS Church is turning around and making money off a Baptist group hating President Hinckley by splashing these headlines and comments out there.

I, however, like the approach of the other media outlets to dealing with a group that while newsworthy, deserves so little of the heightened attention the Deseret News is giving them.
Comments continue below
I agree but | 2:39 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
I agree with much of what "Baffled" wrote but have concluded that it's a case of darned if you do and darned if you don't. If KSL and the DesMornNews didn't give them coverage there'd be a hundred commenters criticizing them for trying to "hide" them.
We thank thee for a Prophet! | 2:55 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
I think it is sad that people come to protest at the funeral of a man who has opened his arms to all people of other faiths! Those who are protesting say that they are christians and that they follow the bible and it's teachings, but do they follow the admonition of the savior when he said, "love your nieghbor as yourself."? Pres. Hinkley preached to all members to love everyone around you and to reach out to them. Love and not protest is the way to make a statement. As memebers We thank God for our prophet, and I hope that all people around trhe world can focus on what Pres. Gordon B. Hinkley did for the world, and how he loved everyone!!
arc | 3:30 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
The Deseret News and KSL may be the only group locally making a fuss about the un-Christlike group coming, but they are not the only groups talking about it..
Google
westboro baptist church Hinckley
Tom Wall | 3:42 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
The funeral service was wonderful. President Hinkley is a Prophet. When the LDS church is involved it is no news to me to find out some one or some group was protesting our beliefs. I can trace Mormon protesters all the way back to 1820( So What) it is all part of our heritage.
Anonymous | 5:15 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
I am a member of the Church who lives in the South and like to let people know that members of the Westboro Baptist Church (WBC) do not belong to any of the organized Bapist churches. They might have the word "Baptist" in their name, but most of the Baptists I know, and living in the South I know a few, have told me repeatedly that the Baptist churches they go to have nothing but contempt for the WBC, so please don't lump your local Baptists in with these people.
SJ Bobkins | 12:53 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
Did Pope John Paul have protestors at his funeral, I don't think so. It might take 2000 years before an LDS prophet, who has lived a life of humble service to EVERYONE, can expect to make his final trip without the intrusion of either the Evangelicals of the insane with their "Thank God for Dead Soldiers" signs.
One needs to realize that Westboro Baptist is made up Phelps family members solely. Thankfully their message of hate doesn't attract others.
I have read 100's of articles on this "church," not one, even those written but the spokesperson, Fred's lawyer daughter, has ever mentioned any service the group performs. No one is fed, clothed, inspired, loved, by these people. What a contrast to the man remembered this day.
They have the right... but... | 1:04 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
We love our country for free speech. We have the right, but this was just simply misguided. But consider the source. They protest at military funerals so they are used to adding to the grief of families who have lost loved ones. Pray for them. They are our brothers and sisters too.
Gordon | 3:51 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
I remarked that President Hinkley did not have an enemy in the World when I head of his passing. I guess I was wrong. Satan was able to round up 4.
in the END | 5:10 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
Only Kindness matters...if you believe , trully , you take the stonings ..with no animosity..and go about your father's business. Just as Hinckley would have.."charity..if you have not charity ..everything else is like a tinckling of a bell..somewhat revised but wise not the less." How many times have I had LDS people try to trample my beliefs as misquided and they were in groups of two or more. Your president would not have condoned these actions which at one pt. threatened my family..but we persevered and still do today. A good bishop appologised when these so called members didn't show the remorse to do so. Let others believe how they want to and go on because hate and disrespect isn't part of the journey illustrated by your great leader.
Anonymous | 5:22 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
why do you give them attention.
BostonTerry | 5:49 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
Good post SJ Bobkins. It is interesting to find that only the Deseret is the only paper in SLC to publish news on these folks. I think in a way it is admirable on both sides. SLTrib was respectful and Deseret didn't hide anything. I think it's fine. I like the man you listened to them and said he didn't get it after he'd heard them. I don't get it either. In a world of strange these are some of the strangest.
fdg | 7:47 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
I find it interesting that the Southern Convention Baptists are trying to say that they have no connection with this Westboro Baptist group and I believe them.They probably have to defend this every time the Westboro group protests.
Its like the LDS church trying to shake the perception that they are not a part of the group in Colorado City. Now matter what happens it will always be brought up when they hit the news and the defense starts all over again.
J. Cochrane | 8:07 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
Freedom of Speech is fine, but funerals are the wrong place and time for anyone to be making a protest or some sort of statement. Leave mourners alone to grieve and remember the deceased. It's ironic how many "Christian" people are so determined to be right and get their views across that they forget the compassion and human empathy that Christ taught and so highly valued in the first place.
russ | 8:01 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
More cops than protesters? That about sums it up.
observer | 8:09 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
Let them protest, let the reporters do their thing but as for us let us worship! Letting our emotions get the best of us, make us no different from them. Learn from the man himself, President Hinckley - there is no better way to let his legacy live than to follow his life and his teachings - Farewell my fellow saints, and farewell to my prophet.

Isn't it great that we belong to an organisation that we don't debate who is going to be the next president? That is a testament that we belong to something that came from the Master himself.
aqualad | 8:14 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
Anonymous from the South,

I am also an LDS member living in the South, and while the Southern Baptists here have contempt for the Westboro spawn, they also have contempt for us. I hear it every day at work, I see it in the news papers, I hear it on the radio, and I see it in the signs over Baptists, "Find out what the Mormons REALLY believe, Friday night, 8 pm, $20".
Dean | 8:12 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
I think it is deplorable that a group that claims to be "religious" would hold a protest at a funeral. President Hinckley shared a message of hope to the whole world. The LDS Church assisted people of all faiths during hard times.
If people think just because you belong to a church that you are a Christian, then they better find out what the word Christian really means.
Thank you Heavenly Father for the life of Gordon B. Hinckley. May he have eternal rest and peace with his wife and a loving Heavenly Father.
Alan | 8:23 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
There has been far much more mockery on the Internet. Wanting to see President Hinckley's last public address, the dedicatory prayer at the Utah State Capitol, I searched for a video on Google. I got a few nice tributes, but I also found no shortage of videos mocking President Hinckley and attacking him, and these were just the recent ones that noted (and generally laughed at) his death.

What does it mean? It means that Gordon B. Hinckley's life fits the prophetic model ... That true prophets are both loved and reviled. If Hinckley had no critics or detractors, THEN I'd be worried.

I love that this good man did what he did in spite of bitter opposition. His critics just can't handle him! He lived his life with dignity, honor, kindness and compassion that they simply can't or won't understand. While their lives may be mere protest, bitterness and rejection, Gordon B. Hinckley's life meant peace, joy and love to millions. Let others protest. It makes the difference between goodness and its opposition quite obvious.
jw haygood | 8:25 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
I beleve in free speach, however. Regardless of what your faith is or is not; Protesting at a funeral is more than disrespectfull (even hurtfull). If you can not find it in yourself to the support family and friends then leave them in peace. I am a member of the church and retired from the military. If you want to protest the militery due it in DC. If you want to share your faith with me; then fed me, clothe me, house me, invite me in to your house, share with me, inspire me and love me. Our response should be as Christ, even as he suffered he loved them. So should we. As others have said pray for them.
ray | 8:59 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
Some time the lost just don't want to find the way home.
ScottAZ | 9:10 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
It's a matter of common decency that no one should protest, or disrupt in any way, a funeral. I think the DMN is right to name the group(s) who do this. If people want to join them then that's their choice. I believe that if people investigate these groups more than likely they will know that these groups are not living the principals of Christ. True conversion comes from the testimony of the Holy Ghost. How will people know who is a True Prophet? "Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them." Matt 7:20.
Compasionate Tolerance | 9:21 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
Pitty them, pray for them, tolerate that which you might find offensive, and forgive them. That is the message that has been common from church leaders for over 150 years. A simple compasionate gesture on your behalf will difuse the hatred.
Mary | 9:30 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
Thank you "in the END". Your words are profound and beautiful. I too am sorry, if some LDS members were rude and threatening to your way of life. Love and kindness IS what life is supposed to be about. If people don't "choose the right", and I mean "right" to be to follow the path of kindness and love, then they choose their consequences for eternity. Thank you again, and God bless you.
True Minority | 10:42 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
There certainly are millions who do not agree with LDS doctrines. But those who would protest at a funeral are truly an extreme minority who find no support outside of their tiny circle. Extreme views will always exist but fortunately will remain very unsupported.
Southbay CA | 10:47 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
To Aqualad,
What an interesting concept. Charge to find out what Mormons really believe. I always thought that the missionaries taught that for free. Maybe they would have better luck setting up signs and undercutting the Baptists price (Say $15, then lower as needed). A price war.

How's this "Find out what the Mormons really believe, Friday Night, 8 pm,50% off lowest advertized price."
Weird | 11:00 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
I find it just plain weird that anyone would protest a person's funeral. The person has died so he or she is no mlonger a threat so why protest? So if that reason doesn't fly, how about just not being a knucklehead. It is rude beyond words to prtect a person's funeral. While most of us are adults, Pres. Hinckley has great-grandchildren who had to be extremely hurt by this kind of action. These people are just weird. Had someone protested the death of Jewish leader it would be called a hate crime, but once again it's open season on the Mormons. It's just wrong.
jd | 11:20 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
President Hinkley's gift of love for all people, even those who oppose him, demonstrate his true discipleship of Jesus Christ.

I have learned by his extraordinary example to keep my eye focused on the goodness of humanity and callas myself to the others.

The Dogs may bark, but the caravan moves on.
Completely Shocked! | 11:50 a.m. Feb. 3, 2008
I cannot believe that people would protest at a funeral!!! How bizarre is that? It is so rude to protest a church when there is a funeral being held, especially for someone as the Prophet!

Why do people go to such lengths like that to argue? I am mainly saddened by this because it just goes to show that people do not have feelings and they don't care if people are mourning.

I cannot believe people would do this!
Baffled at Baffled | 1:44 p.m. Feb. 3, 2008
If Baffled is so offended about the media coverage about the protesters, then why is that person reading, watching and listening to those who reported this? Baffled, you didn't need to read this article, that is your freedom, just as the protesters have freedom of speech and the media also has that, sometimes it is a pain. As for the protesters, I would bet that President Hinckley would not have a problem of them protesting at his funeral, but what would disturb him is a mother teaching her child to stomp on the flag of the USA.
Henry Drummond | 2:05 p.m. Feb. 3, 2008
I'm glad to hear that people did not allow themselves to be provoked. Silence is also an effective form of free speech.
FormerNauvooResident | 2:16 p.m. Feb. 3, 2008
Why don't you folks just admit that if these bigots were holding up their hateful signs at any *other* time, you'd be agreeing with them and encouraging them? How many hours and dollars have YOU spent persecuting gays, with your lobbying efforts?
Phil Hotchkiss | 6:34 p.m. Feb. 3, 2008
When anyone protests at a funeral
they are only wanting one thing.
And that is to fight.
they know that the people participating in the funeral, are at their most vulnerable.
They want others to show hatred as easily as they are willing to show it
I say just smile at them and turn the other cheek
Fetoai Parker | 7:24 p.m. Feb. 3, 2008
I feel so sorry for these people who tried so hard to get their message across but unsuccessful. Now not only they show their hatred to the living but they do it to the dead. Its a sure sign of an uneducated mind. It does tells more about who you really are. It also shows thats all you can do to get attention is to protest at a FUNERAL OF SOMEONES LOVE ONE. How low is that unless you are not a human being. Im not opposed to free speech but why adding more burdens to those who mourn their dead? It also shows that these poor people needs help. For those who live close by these poor souls, lend a hand and encourage them to use their time wisely to do something worthwhile for themselves. Use that time to work hard and build their families and the communities so we can all eliminate the hatred in this world. May God be with you at this time.
Crazys | 1:20 a.m. Feb. 4, 2008
like the two dumb old women in Arsenac and Old Lace who told the judge, everyone is twitterpated but us and sometimes I wonder about my sister! These "Baptist" people are nuts. Ignore them.
san diego | 6:04 a.m. Feb. 4, 2008
You need to know that these people want a confrontation. If you hit them they sue you. They are a family of lawyers who make a living this way. They were coming to San Diego when there was a tragic school shooting to do the same thing. They pick an emotional place to do these kind of thing just to get someone to assalt them. They aren't any kind of Christian church. They are money hungry evil people.
To aqualad | 6:41 a.m. Feb. 4, 2008
I chose a church that affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention to serve God; SBC did not chose me. I am free to leave anytime I choose if I desagree with their teaching. My suggestion to you is to find out what SBC really beleives in therm of Salvation, Jesus Christ, God ect....and compare them side by side with your church definition on the same subjects. My first encounter with Mormonism was in a religion 101 class in college not from SBC. SBC is not your enemy; we learn more from people who left the Mormon Church. The last book I red was "Leaving the Saints" by Martha Beck; you may want to give it a try. As a christian, I pray for people all the time including people in your church. My prayers go with the family of Mr. Hinkley during this difficult time.
My congragation mission statement is "To Know Christ and to Make Him Known".

God Bless!
to: to aqualad | 8:01 a.m. Feb. 4, 2008
you are still not being educated by "the source" disgruntled ex members are not a good source, and that includes ms beck's book. if you want to know was we REALLY believe read the book of mormon or for a quick version read our 13 articles of faith. go to the source NOT the anti source. i certainly wouldn't find out about the SBC by asking people who left it b/c they didn't agree with it.
Josh | 8:02 a.m. Feb. 4, 2008
Oh yes, "To Aqualad", ex-Mormons are surely the best source for an honest questioner. Yes, well done! Who's up for a book burning?
Bear Rug | 8:08 a.m. Feb. 4, 2008
The Westboro Baptists are bitter, and looking for a fight. For some reason they think that if they're persecuted, their religion is correct. However, they need to read the Bible more closely. Christ never went out, looking for trouble. He met every challenge that came his way, with soft, precisely focused answers. The only reason the people got upset was because the answers pierced their hearts to the very core. Never, NEVER did Christ use disparaging remarks and epithets to incite crowds, or to make a name for himself, in the media. His was a language of love and compassion. The Westboro guys 'n gals ought to read from the Epistles of Paul, " . . . if I have not charity, then I am as tinkling cymabals, and sounding brass. . . " The Gospel of Jesus Christ is a Gospel of love, forebearance, compassion, patience. All characteristics of our wonderful president and Prophet, Gordon B. Hinckley.
Rich | 8:21 a.m. Feb. 4, 2008
If you want to find out what the Mormons really believe, go to lds.org or visit one of their churches. The Anti-Mormons whose literature I have read distort the truth or emphasize obscure quotes by long-dead persons whose opinions did not square up with current beliefs. People are humans who are prone to error, and that includes anti-Mormons, Mormons and even long-dead Mormon leaders. The infallibility of its general authorities is not LDS church doctrine. No, the Mormons don't believe God is Adam or that all native Americans are descendants of Hebrews or that they can save themselves without the grace of God.
Carl | 8:49 a.m. Feb. 4, 2008
I was going to protest his funeral. Then I realized that I would be protesting his death. Then I realized that if I protested his death it would be because I did not want him to die. Then I realized that because of Adam, all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. Then I realized that I will die too--and I will resurrect as well. I would not want to protest the plan of God, now would I.

So, even though I prayed daily for President Hinckley, I prayed that he would be sustained in health and vitality to the end of his days--leaving it to God to select that time when that would be right. I found that under President Hinckley, the church has given about $600 million to impoverished people all over the world. The Westboro Baptist people spent money flying to Utah to protest at an old man's funeral. I wonder what....no, I don't wonder. It is not all that hard to figure out.
Charles | 10:53 a.m. Feb. 4, 2008
It is amazing to me the sheer stupidity of these so-called religious protesters. A moment's thought and reflection (which I highly doubt they are capable of) would make them realize how shaky their own foundation of Christianity is built upon. Imagine having their entire faith on some fourth century document that is so untenable that no one understands it, no one really believes it when confronted, and that is based on Greek philosophy rather than on scripture. These very people are protesting the only thing that makes any sense in this confused, secular, and increasingly degenerate world. They are entirely blind to anything true and trust in some depraved and arcane dogma. Those who support these idiots are just as depraved and blind. I am glad to belong to a Church that is focused on the truth and whose members for the most part are genuine Christians, not the phony caricutures of mainstream Christianity. We should celebrate the life of Gordon B. Hinckley for standing up for truth in a depraved and degenerate world full of sophistry, falsehood and outright mendacity.
Chuck Bennett | 11:01 a.m. Feb. 4, 2008
If you truly want to know your new neighbor, your future son-in-law, your child's school teacher; then you will make an effort to do so.

If you go to the principal to protest the grade your child's teacher gave him or her without talking first with the teacher, then who is not getting a fair shake?

Don't delude yourself. Getting to know President Gordon B. Hinckley is a great way to know the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Not doing so just shows you really aren't interested in knowing, just protesting. It's not a very good use of your time.

Read his biography, or just read in the many newspapers and magazines what people not of our faith say about him. Generous, kind, a great sense of humor, as well as a very real love for mankind. A true leader. A great man.
Message Received | 11:11 a.m. Feb. 4, 2008
Protesting at a good man's funeral or preaching hate. It's all the same to me. Not a nice message, these 4 individuals have represented themselves with.

I, however, won't let the actions of four ignorant protesters discredit good Baptist neighbors I have had, who live in more accordance with the message of kindness, love, and friendship as was taught and exemplified by President Hinckley's life.
Kjaerbye | 11:30 a.m. Feb. 4, 2008
The people who protest at LDS Church Conferences and Protest President Gordon B. Hinckley's funeral are 'NOT CHRIST LIKE�! They ought to be ashamed of themselves and need to repent! I sometimes often feel offended that living in America I have to deal with protesters of my faith or religion. Shame..Shame..Shame...on them!!!
To FormerNauvoo Resident | 11:57 a.m. Feb. 4, 2008
Please. You know nothing about the Church. You may know how a few homophobic members feel, but anecdotal evidience to condemn a 13 million member organization is so fallacious it boggles the mind. No, I, a life-long, card-carrying member would not applaud or condone the WBC protesting anything. I try to love the sinner and hate the sin. I believe homosexuality isn't a godly lifestyle, but one of my best friends is gay. Stop whining because someone in Nauvoo hurt your feelings. After all, we were the ones kicked out the city in the first place!
To Josh | 12:01 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
Yes, I did. It seems like I was reading a borrowing book from the Bible with minor changes. I have three editions of the book of Mormon, 1954, 1970 and current one and several other books written by Mormons. I even have one of the old version of the dream; I do hope you know they're several versions. I did not mean to upset you. And I am not surprise that you don't want to hear their side of their stories. In the Baptist world we agree to disagree, please feel free to talk to any ex-member of the Baptist Faith or SBC. By the way, I do have Mormon friends; one of them is a returned missionary. Oh, Mormon is not the only religion I research.

I also have a tittle missionary book.

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Sara Phelps, of Westboro Baptist Church in Topeka, Kansas, holds a sign on the corner of North Temple and State St. before the funeral of President Gordon B. Hinckley on Saturday.

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