Hate mongers | 8:39 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Go to Youtube and search "The Most Hated Family in America" and you can watch a documentary about this crazy family, which pretty much make up the whole congregation. It's enough to make your stomach turn.
Jeff B | 8:41 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
The truth will always be persecuted.
Steve | 8:40 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Wouldn't it make a great statement if everyone attending the funeral would lay a single flower at the feet of any protesters as the passed by without saying a word.
Comments continue below
Honor GBH | 8:46 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
The best way for us to honor President Hinckley is to follow his example. He exemplified TRUE Christianity when he lived up to what is sometimes the more difficult requirement of our religion, as spoken by the Savior: "But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you." (MT 5:44)

When a group of protestors showed up at the Rexburg temple open house, volunteers took them punch and cookies from the open house. That is what it means to be Christian. I don't mean to preach, because I am FAR from perfect. But, President Hinckley would not want us to say negative things about these individuals, because to do so is contrary to what Christ taught. They can't hurt the church anyway. I love President Hinckley and am inspired by his ever-positive approach to life.
Joe | 8:50 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
I feel bad for these people, they have obviously let their intolerance for the rest of the world blacken their hearts.

Lets show them love and show them what Christianity really means!

Ask them if they like Utah, thank them for visiting Temple square and turn the other cheek and don't let them ruin the spirit of our dear prophet. Let us live his legacy and do what he would want us to do.
Catherine | 8:44 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
IGNORE THEM. All they want is an audience and to create shock value. Don't even give them the time of day or waste your breath on any words to them in passing.
Anonymous | 8:50 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
I saw we form a group that blockades the corner they want to protest at. When they try to protest military funerals a group of bikers block them out, I saw we do the same.

CONFOUNDED | 8:50 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
So, this permit to demonstrate in the process of being approved? APPROVED? Seriously. You'd think Rocky was still mayor. But, I have to agree with the previous comments saying "let them come and make fools of themselves..."
Contrasts. | 8:52 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Notice us atheist let you morn and follow your beliefs in peace as civil citizens should? Maybe, it's not the secular humanist that you should hold in contempt.
GoodGuyGary | 8:53 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Don't they have jobs?
llm | 8:59 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
This is the same group that protests funerals of fallen soldiers with signs that say "God hates gays."

It's totally inappropriate and very low class.
baptist at out funeral? | 8:54 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Protesting a funeral? How little respect this shows on their behalf. Why not celebrate his goodness rather than focusing on some mute point that is hardly substantiated, considering the church literature produced on the topic. The Savior taught to love everyone regardless of differences. Pres. Hinckley emulated that teaching better than anyone.
Who to contact @ SLC goverment? | 9:03 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Does anyone know who to contact in the SLC gov. that could stop this this. It is just not right!
Bewildered | 9:05 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
I am somewhat familiar with the Westboro Baptist Church. I actually admire them for their firm stand against homosexual behavior. This is why I am a little surprised. Don't they realize that they and the LDS Church are on the same side on this particular point, that the LDS Church is one of the remaining churches out there that firmly refuses to bend its standards to the demands of the homosexual lobby?
Lynda | 9:06 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
I really feel sorry for these protestors. It is a shame that they don't have or want the truth. I will keep them in my prayers. I am so very greatful for the LDS church and President Hinkley and I hope and pray that someday everyone will have what we have and feel the love that we feel from our Savior and from each member of this church. God Bless America and America Bless God.
opportunity | 9:01 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Life is about lessons, this one is as basic as they come, "love your neighbor", "blessed are the peacmakers"..."turn the other cheek"...'if you have done it unto the least of these my brethren you have done it unto me'...great opportunity to apply these lessons, and teach them to our children.

As you listen to their words of hate you realize where it is coming from, and makes you feel like you must be doing something right. There really is no reason to take offense with these people. I'd be more concerned if they held a President Hinckley memorial honoring him, these really are troubled people...just hope that life's lessons will somehow touch them, and changed their troubled lives.
Love your "enemy" | 9:04 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
This is far from a christian act. Shame on these Baptists. I think it's obvious whose being led astray. I hope the rest of the Baptist community will condemn this action.
Anonymous in Sandy | 9:04 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
I love the idea of the crowd singing We Thank Thee Oh God for a Prophet, and other inspirational hymns while waiting in line. The voices of 100,000 people singing will uplift and overshadow any poison these people have to spew. We, as Latter-Day Saints, worship in song. Music comforts us as we grieve. Lets seek to uplift and be loving.
Funding? | 9:04 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Where does this church get their money to fly people all over the U.S. to do things like this? We should find out who attends there, what businesses their members are running and BOYCOTT and dry up their pockets any way we can. If anyone out there is reading this and has any info, please post so we can do something about this group.
S. L. Payton | 9:13 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
These people are sick. How can someone be so full of hate and anger? By their fruits I guess. God bless our Prophet and his family. President Hinckley is truley where these folks think they are going.
Pres Hinckley | 9:17 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Any group of individuals who support the stances taken by this group of so called Christians should be ashamed of themselves. I have no problem with people having different religious views or with people who have no religion. They are completely free to choose what they believe in.
If President Hinckley were still alive he would probably council us to extend a hand of love to them and to make them feel as comfortable in Salt Lake City as possible.
Thank God for the restoration of the gospel and for great Prophets like President Hinckley
Jo Ann Armour | 9:19 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Pray for these people, do not stoop to their level by calling them names. We are COMMANDED to love one another, and we must follow the example of our Lord and Savior, and ALL the prophets. They loved and forgave everyone who trespassed against them. The Savior at the last supper, at his trial, on the cross, etc. We have the TRUTH, and it is our responsibility to tell those who are in darkness to come to the light. President Hinckley IS a true prophet(as were those before him),ordained in the pre-existence. They all used their agency in the right way and served, as asked, in this divine calling. When those of other faiths, religions and beliefs have gone beyond the veil, and meet the Savior face to face, they will not be able to say that we did not tell them. They will be responsible for themselves. In the meantime, we must open our mouths and not sit on the things we have been taught, witnessed and been partakers of. Press forward!
Re: Contrasts | 9:16 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Who said we hold you in contempt? I know several secular humanists that are great people, and I like them...I am sure that you also are a nice person. Let us know when your atheist leader dies, and we will mourn with you.
re: Who to contact | 9:22 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Let them speak.

We can all decide if we agree or not.

Unfortunately the Constitution protects "Stupid Speech"...

DUCKMAN
Anonymous | 9:20 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Jesus said love everyone. I would say that this baptist church is not practicing what Jesus taught. Shame on them.
Keep in mind.... | 9:27 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
.... that even though we've had our differences with Baptists in the past, these guys aren't the same thing. These Westboro lunatics are a fringe movement, completely marginalized and ignored by every mainstream denomination and not affiliated with any of the Baptist Conventions. They get their press by doing these sorts of stunts, but they're just a bunch of extremist twits.

Don't give these jerks the pleasure or the dignity of any attention. Just help give President Hinckley the dignified and loving farewell he deserves, and let those people do what they will.
Anonymous | 9:27 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
I don't think we should stop it. I like the right to express my oppinions. Let them say their peace and ignore it. It doesn't change who he was or what he did. And, in the end they have chosen to live angry spiteful lives, so they have payed the price for their choices already. If you fight them it only lends creadence to what they are saying.
Freedom | 9:29 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
I am against any personal disrespect for Mr. Hinckly. I think he was a good man and deserves the love of his followers. I think people have the right and reason to protest the office he held. There are many questions and concerns about the authenticity and practices of the church that people fear and disrespect. People should have the right and opportunity to know the truth and not be bound by irrational indoctrination and force. I hope one day the mormon people will be free.
Sarah | 9:24 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
To Contrasts: I'm sure I'm not just speaking for myself when I say that the comments of sympathy and respect from non-religious, or non-member, individuals are greatly appreciated. I've been very humbled and touched by everyone's kind words this week, as I'm sure many others have. Thank you.
SLT | 9:25 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Isn't Mike Huckabee a Baptist?
GeeZ | 9:30 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Every one of you are holding up your own signs..just do what Hinckley would do and go about your business..recognize it's America the beautiful. Then follow what you profess to believe in CHOOSE THE RIGHT! Don't get uptight! Have a good day and walk w/love , peace , happiness!
UW-Mad | 9:27 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
If the Westboro baptists are the only people going to heaven I don't think I'd want to be there anyway!

On a 1st amendment note, the city has to approve their right to a peaceful law-abiding protest. "Protest" implies that the views held by one group are contrary to the views held by others. We can't just shut it down because we don't like what they have to say. In order to retain our rights to speak, to gather together, and to express and practice our religion we need to respect the rights of others. Their protests are frustrating and annoying, but if we don't pay attention to them they have no lasting effects.
Anonymous | 9:33 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
They are our brothers and sisters too and we should shower them with love and kindness. As the old saying goes.....Kill them with kindness. Remember the Prophet and Sister Hinckley will be in attendance and watching. Let's honor them both by protecting what we hold dear and sacred and not lose the Spirit. Pray and fast that day and unite your families together and Satan will NOT prevail. We must be doing something right, if the adversary is using others to make such a fuss about the leaders of our church. Hmmmmmmm????????? Something to think about......
Robert | 9:28 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Folks the best thing you can do is ignore them, they WANT reaction, you can either have civility and peace in your heart when President Hinckley is laid to rest, or you can ad to the atmosphere by being confrontational, think about which one the Prophet would have approved of.
Anonymous | 9:29 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
These people would love to cause a fight and controversy. The response that would best honor Pres. Hinckley would be to simply ignore them. I'm sure that's what he would do.
outsider looking in | 9:32 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
That anyone would protest or disrupt a funeral, whether that of a fallen soldier or a church leader, is disgraceful. These monsters want to get a reaction from the LDS members who attend the funeral. The best way to handle them is to ignore them. Don't give them the angry reactions they crave.

I am not LDS, but perhaps this episode will make LDS members more sensitive to what the rest of the country has experienced for years at the hands of Westboro Baptist "Church" (they are independent and NOT affiliated with any national Baptist group, no one would want them!).

They protested the funeral of Matthew Shepard (the man who was murdered in Wyoming for being gay); their website despicts Shepard burning in Hell.

They protest at military funerals all over the country, upsetting the families of soldiers they never even met.

They even said the tsunami disaster in Thailand and Indonesia---to which the LDS Church sent substantial aid---was punishment from God.

I would not want to see the First Amendment suspended. Rather, is it too much to ask for these kooks to show some decency and respect to the bereaved?
Anonymous | 9:32 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Here is a chance to live what he taught. I can think of no better way to honor him. Avoid contention. Don't wrestle with a pig in the mud.
REALLY | 9:39 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
I am pretty sure this is what Jesus would do. NOT!! Your time could be better spent feeding the poor or something else. Obviously the work of Satan to incite feelings of hate and discontent.
LDS in TN | 9:43 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
All I can say is that I stand on my committment to support the rights of others to express their opinions. Otherwise, I will not lower my standards to the level of these people.
Ironic | 9:47 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Can't put the link here, but Westboro has a press release regarding their protest of the Prophet's funeral. There are 2 great ironies about this stemming from the press release and this article:

1. The press release criticizes LDS teaching that man can become like God, yet apparently they already know "Hinckley is in hell," something only God can know.

2. Westboro's spokesperson criticized Pres. Hinckley for apparently not being tough enough on gays. I'm sure there are groups who would disagree and say he and the Church were too tough.
Scott S, Vacaville CA | 9:48 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
What can I say that hasn't been said already? They don't have the truth, its clear to all. They are very misguided but that is clear as well. To the members of the Westboro Baptist Church, you are only embarrasing yourself but we still love you and as wrong as you are, we believe you have the right to choose, but be prepared to accept the consequences. The distasteful action will just go ignored by most, now is not the time to belittle someone, let it go, remember love the sinner, not the sin.
Levi | 9:50 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
I think everyone that attends the funeral should shake hands with these people and say "hello". Be kind and show them what we are all about. We follow Christ's example.
Anonymous | 9:51 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
I have seen it all: I used to be a member of a local Baptist church, and they were very judgmental against the LDS faith. That is why I left to join this wonderful LDS church that says be kind to everyone. But I don't think even that Baptist church would go as low as protesting during a funeral. That is very disrespectful no matter whose funeral.. Would you find a LDS ward protesting during Billy Graham's funeral or the Popes funeral?? I think not that is why We are the true Church Of Jesus Christ,and are Christians!!
GeorigiaConvert | 9:50 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Love thy neighbor as you love yourself. It is a hard thing to do, but it is what Christ has asked of us.

I like the idea of members singing hymns in the streets. The misguided can feel our love and witness true praise and worship. Perhaps one of that group may be receptive to the spirit, and realize the error in judgement.

I can't be there physically, but I'll be at our Ward Building watching the service broadcast.

Praises to our Saviour!
unbelievable | 9:57 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
If these people claim to be christians they need to read up on what a christian is. I know for a fact that Jesus would not approve of protesting a funeral for anyone. I hope they realize that what they are doing is not christ like. They need to find more productive things to do with their time like serve the lord.
Anonymous | 9:53 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
We dont need a permit to walk down the street signing songs because we are not protesting.. We should all do it.
Empty | 10:02 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
What a great example of an empty life driven by pointless feelings we have before us here with the Baptist Church. What spirit is leading these people?
LDS in Michigan | 10:01 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
This group is afraid..afraid of truth. Most people who know something is true however do not want to admit it and will do whatever it takes to ensure that truth does not come to pass. President Hinckley was the perfect example of this truth and faith and we would all be better people if we followed his example of that truth and faith that he held so dear to his heart.
jmdspk | 10:08 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
First remember that the Baptist Church has nothing to do these people.

Second remember these people are a hate group pure and simple. They hate Mormons, they hate Catholics, they hate Jews, the hate Muslims, they hate the United States, they hate many other countries including our neighbor to the north.

Third these people will be there to create conflict. This so called church is supported by a law firm run by the church founders. They try to get people mad and take action. Then they will file lawsuits against the people, the city for not protecting them and anyone else they can get money out. Like Doug Wright said, stay clear of these people and ignore them because they want to start a fight.

Fourth, these people will die out because they are only allowed to marry within the church and most of the young woman are not getting married or having children.
Some Guy from Out West | 10:21 a.m. Jan. 31, 2008
It would be awesome if a couple area Relief Societies got together and made them some hot food (Mormon women do make a mean casserole) and hot chocolate (SLC in Feb.? burrrr) and brought them some extra blankets in case they get too cold.

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