Deseret News | David Archuleta still just a kid from Murray

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David Archuleta still just a kid from Murray

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Wendy Lu | 7:43 p.m. June 4, 2009

I don't understand why there's so much controversy about David Archuleta serving a prostelyting mission or not serving one. I think a mission is a great idea for all worthy LDS young men (and women) for many reasons but David is so high-profile that going on that type of mission would be very difficult (same situation as the Osmonds 35 years ago). There are all kinds of missions and many different ways of serving the Lord and the type you serve and when and how is strictly between you and Him. When you're as famous as David (although there's still quite a few people who haven't heard of him or heard him sing--but that will eventually change!) the world-wide media is sure to be watching and recording every move you make and every word you utter. I think David has handled the pressure very well. NO ONE IN THE WORLD HAS A VOICE LIKE DAVID ARCHULTEA; he is truly a light in a dark world. That's his mission IMO--to make the world a better place through the universal language of music. Go David!

Anonymous | 8:43 p.m. June 4, 2009

I and a lot of other people wish that he would make a ballad album. I'll have to get the Christmas one. He is a very good, sweet person. Not many like him.

Cassie | 9:11 p.m. June 4, 2009

People need to stay out of David's personal life. The course of his life changed dramatically the moment he stepped onto the AI stage. Most young people his age are involved in drugs, alcohol, sex, etc. He is a wonderful example to young people by being involved in charities and living his life the way he does. He is an awesome talent and a great person! Come on people give him a break. He is only 18 years old and has the right to make his own decisions about what he wants to do in the future.

Comments continue below

josh | 12:14 a.m. June 5, 2009

I don't know much about Mormon. But why do you judge others ? David was saved and loves the Lord so much. He is a living role model, and I really believe he has what others don't have; Pure spirit that connects with God on a higher level. Putting him in a Mormon procedure (going to missionary field) is just ritual. So if he doesn't do it, he can't be acceptable? How judgemental you are!

religious extremes | 1:10 a.m. June 5, 2009

Seriously, I can't be believe that some DLS people expresses themselves with such pride here. I wonder what will change in a youth to go in a mission? to become a better person with strong wise mentality? Guess what? David has it already and is sharing all his gifts with others. Fame and fortune comes along with his gift. You like it or not. He doesn't care about those things because he cares more about people. Give him a break. Unless you walk 2 miles on his shoes you may critize him, otherwise, do not comment. Subject close.

lds member | 9:09 a.m. June 5, 2009

David has to chose for himself if he wants to serve a mission. If he feels his voice can reach more people and teach them more than words can then go for it. He has to chose how to use his gifts and his life to bing people closer to Heavenly Father.

samrlim | 10:52 a.m. June 5, 2009

He is already serving his mission..... Nothing happens by accident - that why he got the voice to use for a good purpose.

FOR MUSIC MAKES THE WORLD GO ROUND.

samrlim | 11:15 a.m. June 5, 2009

To serve a mission according to Mother Teresa of Calcuta:

You don't need to come to India to serve. You can start where you are - in your home, in your neighborhood, in your state you don't need to travel to another continent to serve. And if you have that gift used it for a good purpose for that gift comes from God.

Don't let anyone tell you what to do just because that is a tradition of your church. That is between you and God. You just follow your heart for that how God communicate to everyone not to your head.

If God gives everyone a different gifts and if God gives you a singing voice then used it for a good purpose and I think David is already serving his mission.

FOR MUSIC MAKES THE WORLD GO ROUND AND IT INSPIRE PEOPLE AND GIVE HOPE TO EVERYONE.

David Archuleta's fan for life! | 11:34 a.m. June 5, 2009

David Archuleta is an amazing human being! a role model to people of all ages, religions and nationalities.

He is incredibly talented! He is going to be very successful doing whatever he decides to do. He will have time to finish high school and a higher level education; he has expressed how important education is for him. Right now he is taking advantage of a wonderful opportunity to do what he loves to do which is music. He is doing everything one step at a time; he is very smart and very wise. What a remarkable young man! David Archuleta is an inspiration, a blessing for so many people. I admire his so much! I'm learning from him so much and I'm not a teenager. I'm his fan for life!

samrlim | 11:37 a.m. June 5, 2009

HERE'S MY ANSWER: GOD DID NOT CREATE RELIGION IT'S THE PEOPLE WHO CREATED IT.

WHAT GOD WANT IS TO HAVE AN INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP WITH YOU THRU JESUS CHRIST - YOU DON'T NEED TO ADD MORE.

DON'T TELL DAVID WHAT TO DO FOR GOD DON'T COMMUNICATE HIS PURPOSE OF DAVID THRU A THIRD PARTY FOR GOD DON'T OPERATE THAT WAY. HE DIRECTLY SPEAK TO THE PERSON ITSELF THRU HIS HEART AND NOT TO HIS HEAD AND IF YOU DON'T LISTEN HE WILL CONVICT YOU TO DO IT.

AND DAVID ARCHULETA KNOWS WHAT HIS PURPOSE IN LIFE FOR IT WAS REVEALED TO HIM THAT IS THE REASON WHY HE IS DOING WHAT HE IS DOING.

Oh Brother | 11:44 a.m. June 5, 2009

I've been on a mission. It is not the most magical, life-transforming event people try to make it out to be. It's not for everyone. And frankly, it's none of anyone's business.

Wowzers | 3:08 p.m. June 5, 2009

Um..... .....I thought it was common knowledge that he is GAY??? No? Nothing? Hmmmmm....

DJ | 4:14 p.m. June 5, 2009

JEEZ Wowzers. does a comment like yours get you through the night. Not putting down gays. But why make a comment you can't really stand behind.

Wendy Lu great comment - as I would expect.

The thing is in the last year how many of you have had personal face time with President Thomas S Monson.

HMMM I know of at least two for David Arculeta. Don't you thing that David and President Monson have maybe covered this topic.

Here is one thing that David is really good at, besides that glorious set of lungs he has.
He does not pass judgement on ANYONE!

So why do we. David has this one covered.

Huge Archuleta Fan | 5:34 p.m. June 5, 2009

Although I do feel he should have his high school diploma or GED, I feel he is serving a "mission" in his own way. The Day I heard Angel I knew his music could reach into the souls of all people. I am so thrilled he is preparing a Christmas Album. He IS serving a mission. The way this country is going we need all the good "Christian" music we can get. Thank you David for the charity concert you were involved in for Breast Cancel...Get My point people? He is serving GOD in his way...back off on the criticism !!!

Karen | 5:51 p.m. June 5, 2009

From Ghandi: My imperfections and failures are as much a blessing from God as my successes and my talents and I lay them both at his feet.

(1) Change Yourself.
(2) You are in control.
(3) Forgive and let go.
(4) Without action you arent going anywhere.
(5) Take care of this moment.
(6) Everyone is human.
(7) Persist.
(8) See the good in people and help them.
(9) Be authentic and be your true self.
(10) Continue to grow and evolve.

Everybody: Let David run his life as he sees fit. God will lead him on his journey because David's heart is open to God, unlike many judgemental people. Serving on an Official Mission is not necessary to please God. So worry about your own stand with God and let David worry about his. He will do fine without being crizicized by busybodies.

Ray | 6:37 p.m. June 5, 2009

Anonymous and PapaCorn. Ok you guy's, see what you did? You just made me loose my faith on humanity again. Gosh darn it! Now I have to go to another David Archuleta concert. You meanie's!!!!! Ding it!!!

Brett | 7:37 p.m. June 5, 2009

I am good friends with David. A previous post said that they have never heard David say anything about his religion...there was a picture of David going into the Manilla Temple (while on tour in the Philippines) and the caption said; "David is performing his duties as a member of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day-Saint...sometimes "actions speak louder than words". David...you're doing just fine!!!

Go Big "D"...

Jim Jones | 12:21 a.m. June 6, 2009

Doing something because you have been conditioned that its the "right thing to do" or you think its what others expect is not a wise course of action.

ONLY David should decide if a mission is best for him.

Whose to say he can't touch & inspire more people on his current path?

flint marko | 12:29 a.m. June 6, 2009

re: Wendy Lu | 7:43 p.m. June 4, 2009

"NO ONE IN THE WORLD HAS A VOICE LIKE DAVID ARCHULTEA"

And no one in the world has a voice like Geoff Tate (go ahead. Use the google.).

As far as DA going on a mission or not, it is as GT has sung many times, "Think for yourself and feel the walls become sand beneath your feet."

Anonymous | 1:03 a.m. June 6, 2009

What a doll! Look how happy he is. His picture has been in the New Era. He is pure in heart.

nek | 5:21 a.m. June 6, 2009

Go on a mission, David! Nothing can replace the special calling of a full time missionary.

Anonymous | 7:33 a.m. June 6, 2009

CTR - Go on a mission for the one that has been there for you

Sheila in Canada | 8:37 a.m. June 6, 2009

Wow...some of you people almost make me ashamed to be LDS. I don't even know the kid and have barely heard him sing. So many of us LDS people live in what I call the "mormon bubble". Back off and keep your opinions to yourself. On the other hand, you bubble people inspire me to want to be a way better Christian, and that would be a "different LDS Christian than you are. Go David! I will be looking for a Christmas CD

N2 | 8:39 a.m. June 6, 2009

When set apart for a mission you are putting the things of the world aside. You give up certain things and sacrifice your desires for God's. Because of this, I believe that it can help define the true nature of you as an individual. The experience will give you underlying strength that can carry you through your life's trials and give you perspective in your life's triumphs. God will protect you. And during the 2 years of service (should you choose to go) do your best to accomplish everything your mission has implemented to make you a better missionary as you only have a 2 year window. And you will be surprised at how many people WON'T know who you are but will still listen to your message of God's restored Gospel here on the earth. Don't miss out on the experience. There are certain people waiting for you to teach them personally. It won't be easy. You won't have the catered, pampered lifestyle and the glory of fame during your mission but you will certainly gain far more. And no excuses, finish High School. Love N2

Anonymous | 9:11 a.m. June 6, 2009

While I agree that serving a mission CAN be a priceless experience, one very important fact needs to be understood. There are many, many people, young girls, fans if you will that would love for David Archuleta to teach and baptize them. Be careful not to judge. I have a son who served a mission and it is priceless, but I don't think it would be the same for David. He would have FANS. And those of you who think he needs to serve a full-time mission, need to remember it's not about being popular. How many people do you think the Osmonds could have baptized? Would those people have been truly converted or just wanting to connect in some way? There are truly "other ways" to serve.

Many ways to serve... | 10:03 a.m. June 6, 2009

Missionary work/service can be done in many ways.

Choose your own path!

Anonymous | 10:17 a.m. June 6, 2009

I am so glad my life is not under a microscope. Thank goodness the Lord helps us decide our own paths through our Patriarchal blessings and prayer without taking away our God-given angency. All we have to do is keep commandments and we can be happy, and when we keep commandments then we are directed where to go and what to to. A lot of people who havn't served actual missions can look at their own lives and feel like they are serving missions through service. Doesn't waking up every morning praying and reading your scriptures finding out who you can serve and help, putting your all into your callings count? No one knows what he's doing when it comes to everyday life, let him learn on his own he has the Holy Ghost let him decide and when he makes a wrong choice he'll know. And what the heack is wrong with him singing at a farewell? God reaches people through music. What is wrong with a beautiful song about the Savior? He's not singing about himself. Wow people are really judemental.

Dawn | 10:22 a.m. June 6, 2009

I have no doubt that David will make wise choices. The key is to continue to keep his baptismal covenants, study & ponder the scriptures, and pray. My greatest hopes for him are that he makes his education the number one priority beyond what he is contractully obligated to do with his singing. And that he keeps the perspecitive that he currently has about the opportunity he has to witness for Christ and share the gospel in his current endeavors. And finally, I think the time will come that David will desire to serve a full-time mission and what an awesome opportunity that will be for him as he teaches his brothers and sisters about the Savior and His gospel. I look forward to hearing some of his original written songs and hope that he will have opportunities in this way to be a witness for Christ and His gospel also. What an amazing opportunity & blessing that has been given to this young man - a blessing if he is able to keep things in their true perspective! Best Wishes to you David!

Wilma Aebischer | 12:20 p.m. June 6, 2009

I am so very happy for this young man that he shares his talents with us. There is a lot of comments on whether he should serve a mission. The church teaches us that every member is a missionary, and that does not mean that every member is going to serve 2 years or 18 months. We each need to live the gospel and set the proper example for other people. I truly believe that David is doing that. When he refused to sing one verse of a song during the contest, because it had a phrase "there is no Redeemer" said a lot about this young man. My advise as a "grandmother" to him. "Live the gospel, share your talent, and love
those with whom you associate" Your Heavenly Father will be proud of you, and you will inherit many blessings. Keep singing.

D Willard | 2:56 p.m. June 6, 2009

I think you should go on a mission. When I was on my mission it really did help me. Keep up with your church work and your singing. May the Heavenly always watch over you.

salve | 2:59 p.m. June 6, 2009

I am from the Philippines. I am 35, I have a teenager and three young sons. My 3-year old sings his songs. My husband (not a member) and I love David because he is such a good role model for the kids. My daughter is over the moon that he came to have a concert and now believes you don't have to avoid being churchy to be cool. How wonderful is that??

Someone | 3:40 p.m. June 6, 2009

Yall are funny.
From his personality I am gathering that he has a great support system and loving family. I'm sure he is getting great counsel from those who actually can receive revelation to help him. Not to mention his own revelation that he receives from God Himself.

In my experience, what Heavenly Father says tends to be the better to follow. I've always gotten mixed up when I blindly follow what my well meaning "brothers and sisters" think is best for me. Thank you Father for the guiding promptings of the Holy Ghost and the personal answers to prayers!!

I think it is so wonderful how David has remained humble and honest amidst his stardom. So positive and uplifting. What a great example for young and old alike. It's not easy in this business. I know.

Way to go David!! Way to stay close to the family. That is, after all, a big chunk of why we're here.

And david, if by some miniscule chance you read this...I'm a great tutor. :o)

Someone | 3:49 p.m. June 6, 2009

I forgot to say....
Isn't he just the cutest, sweetest looking young man. I love that picture. What an angel.

I hope that he is not too overwhelmed with all of the pressure put on him and everybody involved in his business. It aint easy. Famous people give up so much and I don't think we actually know what is being sacrificed until we're in it.
Everybody judging every moment of your life, misunderstanding what you say and do. Ugh. bless his heart. No wonder so many famous athletes, singers, actors etc. wind up involved in so many ugly things.

David is so blessed to have the knowledge he has. I hope that he has the opportunity to share his testimony and knowledge of the gospel with others in his situation. Not many others will be able to have that same kind of access.

Hadley V. Baxendale | 3:51 p.m. June 6, 2009

Serving a mission is a personal decision, but keep in mind that many Apostles serving today or recently did not serve missions. Moreover, there are so many Mormon kids serving missions now that it hardly makes any difference if someone decides not to serve the traditional mission but instead chooses to become a missionary by singing, or playing professional ball, or whatever. I served a mission because I wanted to; basically it changed my entire life but I am unsure if that was good or bad. But when I served it was voluntary -- there was no "commandment" that everyone should serve. I think that made a difference in the caliber of missionary, but I could be wrong -- maybe a missionary draft is better than a voluntary missionary force? Anyway, the last thing this kid needs to do is be pressured into serving a traditional mission. If he becomes famous we will see him speaking at General Conference soon.

Anonymous | 4:33 p.m. June 6, 2009

To say that worthy young men should serve a mission is not a commandment is untrue. It is one. That said, there are exceptions to every rule, and there are many great, spiritual people in the church who have not served missions. Whether David decides to go or not, it's been him and our Heavenly Father, not any of the rest of us.

Seema | 6:05 p.m. June 6, 2009

David, thanks for sharing your talent to the world. Pray about every decision you make. I hope you have the desire to do both go on a mission (noting can take the place of those experiences you will have) and finish high school. Both are important to your spiritual and eternal progression. Whatever decision you make do it with the God's blessings.

a mom | 8:55 p.m. June 6, 2009

The Lord has blessed you greatly!!!! Sacrifice isn't sacrifice if it is easy to do. Put the Lord first and the rest will work itself out. A mission is ALWAYS the right choice to make. He has done EVERYTHING for us, 2 years service for HIM isn't much to ask!!!!

WE ALL LOVE YOU AND WANT THE BEST FOR YOU!!!!!

Grace | 12:52 a.m. June 7, 2009

The last thing this beautiful boy needs is to have his own community throwing rocks at him. Please refrain from your judgments. Kindly leave him to his own endeavors, and what is done and shall be done concerning his "mission" is forever and always between David and the Almighty. No one else.

Easton | 1:17 a.m. June 7, 2009

I am a 41 yr straight married male mormon who got chills when David sang. His singing is a gift from God and he has the spirit to back it up in word and deed. I did not serve a mission for my church but have served in many other ways in my life. I agree that an LDS mission is an irreplaceable experience in the maturation process that needs to take place before marriage but David is akin the the one who slayed Goliath. I believe he was sent by God to witness His love to the world. Who am I to say that this isn't truly his mission even if it isn't an LDS mission. To be where David is and retain his innocence, humility and purity says volumes of the stature of his soul. He was obviously a great spirit in the pre-mortal existence saved for this day when evil and immorality run so rampant. He is a beacon on the hill in a dark and chaotic world.

Thank you David for shining your light with us. We are blessed.

Anonymous3232 | 2:03 a.m. June 7, 2009

It is between David and God. Not for us to judge. He already is serving a mission, but it would be nice if he could serve a mission, but it is up to him and however he prays about it is the right decision!!

charity d. | 10:53 a.m. June 7, 2009

i agree so much to those people who sets a statement that he should go to a mission..i am a young woman here in the phil and one of my goal is to serve in the mission field because i know, we are offered such temptations that makes us hard to choose and test how strong our faith is for him..if we are ready to sacrifice those things for Him..just like our stake president here who had been offered a the position shopmanager 2 months before serving a mission..:)

Bette Lou | 2:23 p.m. June 7, 2009

Don't cop out David. A real mission will help you grow and you will be paying back the one who gave you the talent in the 1st place. When you come back you will be able to pick up where you left off only deffinetly more humble and a better person. Talent doesnt' leave you.

angelgrandma | 2:39 p.m. June 7, 2009

David, has made me feel so proud the way he is taking on his celebrity status and maintaining his religious principles. His voice certainly is a gift from God, and it can be used to reach millions of people as only music can. There is more than one way to serve a mission and for now maybe this is his. It isn't as if he's running out of time ,he hasn't even turned 19 yet! He'll know when the time is right.

DJ | 4:07 p.m. June 7, 2009

Brett I love your comment. GO BIG D I say GO BIG B.
Brett Prayers are always with you.
Love you both

Em | 4:46 p.m. June 7, 2009

David is AMAZING. He is very humble and happy for a famous person. I'm very happy that he isn't ashamed to show his religion. I trust his choice-that is the choice of whether or not to go on an LDS mission. He has prayed about it and after that he should know the right choice. Let him decide.
David, I know this comment is way back here at the end of this list, but I hope you read this. You are an inspiration to me for being a GREAT singer and keeping your standards. Thanks a ton! -Em

Over enthused | 5:29 p.m. June 7, 2009

You all seem Over enthused about David, why? Is it the fact that David can sing that makes him worth so many posts... or the fact that he's LDS???

anonymous 2 | 6:44 p.m. June 7, 2009

Donny Osmond did't go on a mission. He was too well known throughout the world and was counselled not to go. Didn't want people to join the church cuz of who he was. I think it might be the same for David. Where in the world is he not known.......This decision is up to him and the Lord and I trust that David will make the right decision. Who are we to judge him or say what he should do? He is a great young man and setting a standard of excellence and compassion for people all over the world. I wholeheartedly support him and hope that poeple aren't so self righteous to think they know what .......oh well.....I trust you David!

Rooting for David's success | 6:56 p.m. June 7, 2009

The decision to serve the Lord on a mission is between David and his Saviour. I hope he serves a mission bringing souls to Christ in the traditional way...by sacrificing career and two years to teach by the Holy Ghost and baptize and help others come unto Christ. The experience is incalculable. Nothing at that age can even compare to the experience, including having a singing career. Imagine what kind of instrument in the Lord's hands he could be after his mission in the music field if he was to serve the Lord as a regular missionary?

ELAINE | 10:20 p.m. June 7, 2009

I'm not Mormon, but David has brought me closer to god.David has this beautiful aura about him that draws people to him.Yes part of it is his special gift and character. But something else that can't be explained. I truly feel David will make the right decision, what ever it may be.

vickie barlow | 10:43 p.m. June 7, 2009

I am impressed at the number of comments there are so far and not one is negative. that is something to be proud of David!
We are mormons in mississippi and are so proud of you. you havent let us down even for one second!

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