Annmarie Mckenzie | 5:15 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
I just wanna say that this protest is a display of fear and we will forgive them for they do not understand what President Gorden B Hinkley lived and died for . He has a respect for people, he loved children, and it is sad to see "Fear" in the souls that are truley lost do to the fact that no one would have a following of a great leader of faith in Christ in their church like our loving President Gorden B Hinkley. May God have great judgement and mercy for the lost Amen. Love, Mckenzie Family
Jason | 5:20 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
You can't say this particular group of Baptists are prejudice.....they hate everybody. You have to laugh at them...nobody takes them seriously
suzyk | 5:24 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Let's all of us do what President Hinckley would say we should do: As members and visitors approach the Conference Center start singing "We Thank Thee Oh God for a Prophet". The evil spirit cannot overtake the spirit of Christ. This article has brought many tears to my eyes, feelings of concern for the people who reverantly mourn...please don't bow to their wickedness...just say a prayer and start singing. Silence says more than words...if they are ignored they will not have accomplished what they set out to do. I hope and pray the members will bite their tongues and have the courage and wisdom to totally ignore their presence and words. Don't give them the satisfaction of upsetting you or your loved ones or others at the viewing. I will being praying for all those attending this special time. It just has to be one of peace, humility and calm.
Comments continue below
Klimber510 | 5:32 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
The unfortunate thing is that a miniscule congregation can get so much coverage because of their outrageous conduct. Perhaps it sells papers, but is it news?
Dwight Sheldon Adams | 5:33 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
To all of you who are not LDS: Thank you so much for your Christ-like attitude, humanity, and support. It is never more evident that we are all children and servants of God than when we stand together to support Christ's example despite our theological disagreements. We love you, and we appreciate your willingness to let us know that you love us as well. God blesses all who try to follow His teachings, no matter their faith.

To those who have been offended by church members: It is NEVER our place to say who is going to heaven and who is going to hell. Church members who treat you poorly because you are different from us are horribly in error. Understand that we see God's teachings as a means of judging for ourselves what we should and shouldn't do, as well as what we should and shouldn't expose ourselves to. We are never supposed to look down on others. If we do, our judgements are unrighteous, and we are no better than that which we oppose. Nevertheless, we have the responsibility to protect ourselves from that which we see as evil. But I'm truly sorry if we have been cruel.
Anonymous | 5:31 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
This group is so weird! I looked at their website, and firstly, it sounds like a 10 year old made up their website name. Then I looked and they actually have a petition schedule. All the different events they will protest for the next few months.
Valerie | 5:39 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
The modern-day Pharisees are at work. That this Baptist group doesn't recognize the parallel betwen their ancient counterparts and themselves is astonishing.
cupcakes are yummy | 5:33 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
It'd be flippin great if weather was very bad and their flights from Kansas to Utah got grounded. Or delayed till AFTER the funeral.

Or if we had a storm like Mondays. Unless they are VERY VERY stubborn, they'll not stand outside for too long.
Missourimom | 5:40 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
This guy is quite mad. His church is made up of his many children (all of whom were brutalized as children) and all seem to have inherited the rage gene. he wants attention - period. I actually met him once and he reminded me of something out of a Stephen King/ Stanley Kubrick nightmare. However, he has done gays a tremendous and much needed favor over the years. People take one look at him and think - well, I don't want to be like that - and begin to look at their gay brothers and sisters with compassion. Sort of a backwards way of creating compassion. Reacting to him at all, reporting on him at all - well that's what he wants. The dude has the scariest eyes I have ever seen by the way. We all have scary mad people in our religious traditions, but he does seem to be over representing the Baptists. Don't know a single Baptist who agrees with him even when they might be very uncomfortable with homosexuality. Sounds as if the LDS prophet went to the side of compassion. Fred can't.
MoJules | 5:49 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Wonder if Huckabee will be with them?
Lacey in CA | 5:55 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
I cannot believe the hate and the pathetic lengths at which people will go to hurt others. I am appalled that they are planning to protest the Prophet's funeral, but what else is to be expected from those who would protest a soldier's funeral. They care nothing for the hurt they cause others, and I believe Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ and President Hinckley are all weeping for them as they look down upon us all. Let's make them proud of the members of THEIR church by behaving the way they would want.
Michelle in washington state | 5:53 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
I am very saddened by these people who think it is a good thing to protest a person's passing....I hope and pray that they well be touched by God standing thier Saturday protesting and then realize what President Hinkley really meant to all of us who are Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
Swede | 6:00 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
This is so unfortunate but it is illustrative of the world in which we live and one that President Hinkley understood so well. I'm confident that we will all handle this unfortunate expression of the First Amendment (which I am so grateful for) as President Hinkley would counsel us to. He would encourage us to rise above it....

I love this great Prophet!!!
Baskt | 6:07 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
It saddens me greatly that our forefathers paid the prices they did for religious freedom. Here today, a time of mourning, they are protesting a man who was recognized by the very leader of this Country for the good President Hinckley did. He recieved the highest honor given to a civilian.
Why are the members still today hounded like Joseph Smith was in the Churches first years if not for fear itself.
Poncho | 6:02 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
I was at the Joseph Smith farm years ago in Palmyra while protesters were lining up and down the path to the Sacred Grove. It was extremely hot and humid, and a little (mature) sister missionary came out of the Smith home with cold lemonade and served them. When we returned from the grove they were gone. There's probably a lot a ways to handle this, but I know if done in anger or hatred it won't work. Many years ago the Savior walked to His death among protesters, whom He offered forgiveness. I believe GBH is OK with the MILLIONS who will honor him�not worried about the few who won�t.

goinghomeatlast | 6:15 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
you know...there's an abandoned commune site in Guyana that would be a great place for the Westboro Baptist congregation to live....
Porter Rockwell from CA | 6:17 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Isn't anything sacred anymore? For goodness sakes! I had to get over the SHOCK of reading a protest will take place at our dear beloved Prophet's funeral. On the other, I can imagine President Hinckley counseling us to BE KIND to the very end. God bless our Prophet dear.
Thomas | 6:17 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Re: the First Amendment -- Canada doesn't have the First Amendment, and it manages mostly fine.

The freedoms that the First Amendment protects are only as safe as they are cherished by the American people. Unless they are so cherished, the First Amendment is no more than ink and rotten parchment, which third-rate lawyer could interpret into insignificance. (Just as a lot of second-rate lawyers are trying to do to the Second Amendment.)

The First Amendment will be cherished as long as it is understood as protecting what Americans want protected -- that is, the genuine substance of free expression. When it becomes seen as something that allows the restriction of core political speech (as the McCain-Feingold "campaign finance reform" does), while shielding the right of pornographers to profit and Fred Phelps to be a [bleep], I fear we may start to lose sight of just what a treasure the real First Amendment is.

Even if we lose it, though, we'll be no worse than Canada, for whatever that's worth.
Diane | 6:25 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
How UN-Christlike, disrespectful,and UN-Christian!! It is because of people like this and believing the falseness of what they do that the gospel MUST be preached to ALL the nations! May God forgive these poor misled people.
Let's step back... | 6:25 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
I'm certainly hopeful this church will change it's mind - but let's step back and think about it.

What would President Hinckley say about this protest and how we should handle it?

Would he approve us villifying other children of God? would he suggest we tear then down and hate them?

I think that to truly honor our dear Prophet, we can be kind, gentle, loving and above all, Christian about this issue. How many times has he chided us as the Lord's people for treating others with anything other than love and respect as fellow children of God?


Quotes | 6:26 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
President Hinckley HAS spoken to us about this:

"I pray that each of us will be a little more kind, a little more thoughtful, a little more courteous. I pray that we will keep our tongues in check and not let anger prompt words which we would later regret. I pray that we may have the strength and the will to turn the other cheek, to walk the extra mile in lifting up the feeble knees of those in distress." (Gordon B. Hinckley, �Let Us Live the Gospel More Fully,� Liahona, Nov 2003, 102�3)

�I don�t like bigotry. I don�t like hate. They are so incompatible with the spirit of the gospel and the teachings of the Lord.

"I like peace. I like friendship. I like mutual respect. As we have these things, I don�t think that is going to slow down the growth of the Church�it may enhance it. I believe that we can do much, and I think we are doing much. I think we are making very substantial headway� (interview with Deseret News, 25 Feb. 2000).
Garyfromcolorado | 7:10 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
There are defining moments in everyone's lives. Hopefully the protesters will have one Saturday.
May Pres. Hinckley's family have peace at this time. And Pres. Monson have all of our prayers.
saddened | 7:30 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
It saddens me to think that another religion would attack a leader of another church. They have a choice to pick how they want to worship. Let LDS members mourn and remember such a fine leader in a way that he should be remembered.
Love | 7:36 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Love and pity people who think this is a good way to change anyone's mind about anything. I will be wearing duct tape over my mouth and earplugs in my ears. Not kidding.
Chad | 7:53 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
What a classless act. This is a day for people who truly cared for the Prophet to celebrate his wonderful life. There are many who care for and love this man greatly including myself. He was the perfect role model and if I can be one percent of the man he has become, I will have lived an amazing life with much happiness. Now there is only one individual or spiritual force which would love to see this uproar take place and that is Satan who is the father of all lies. He wants altercations and contention among the children of men at all times. When people argue or poke fun over sacred issues in life, it just creates a very negative sentiment and that is not the spirit of Christ nor will it ever be.
elizabeth | 7:56 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
This will have no effect on our Church. People of this caliber did not stop the Prophet Joseph, Brigham Young, John Taylor etc. I find it easy to ignore ignorance. The Church will keep moving forward.
Someone | 8:10 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
What a bunch of ninnies. Classless, stupid, hopeless ninnies. Who do they think they are going to "sway" with a demonstration at a funeral?

Some Guy from Out West is right. I was thinking more along the lines of water balloons, but i believe his way is more "Hinckley"like.
Robert | 8:05 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Maybe we should show how real Christians (Saints) behave and invite them to lunch.
Glad I'm not a child of theirs | 8:23 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
I'm am so thankful I was raised believing in free agency. Our biggest blessing is knowing that Our Heavenly Father is all about love and peace who put each of us here to become the best we are capable of becoming. I'm sure that they don't know of a Loving Heavenly Father and with all they do to promote hate guess they don't have time to work on becoming the best person they can. It makes me realize how important it is for us to always set a good and positive example in our daily lives.
Peter Walters | 8:25 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Remember the lessons of Ether: If the Baptists have not charity, it matters not to you.

Take some extra scarves, gloves, hats, and coats. Join them in the protest and make some hot chocolate to keep them warm -- not to support them in their anger, but to show them what you think a Christian is.

Can you be so Christian?

Being Christian doesn't mean having the right book on your table. It's what you do with your life.
Daniel | 8:26 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
People who cannot control their anger and who seek vengeance constantly on others are not Christ�s followers. It doesn�t take intelligence for a person to start riots, protests and hostilities. I believe it is a lower form of human existence to behave in this kind of matter. People who follow the Savior do not participles in such bad behavior.
kris k | 8:29 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
I sorrow for these people. Not because they don't belong to the LDS church, but because they live their lives filled with so much hatred for their fellow man.
Anonymous | 8:33 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
The people of God have suffered persecution from the beginning of time, and will till we return to our Father in Heaven. We can't expect Satan to not try to disrupt the services of this great man. He always tries to drive the Spirit of God out of our hearts. He cannot unless we let him. President Hinckley is a prophet of God and nothing these protestors do will change that. Follow the example of our great leader. Smile at everyone you see, it is contagious. Let love lead the way.
Michelle V. | 9:03 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
God doesn't Hate


1 John verses 7-8

7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.
8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.
Adam | 9:02 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
I find it hard to believe that there is anything negative that can be said about President Hinckley. He was such an amazing influence and example to all of us that I feel sorry for those that do not love him! I know he was called of God, and I will miss him greatly! Protest all you want, it doesn't matter, it never will! Like Elder Maxwell once said, "If in the end you haven't chosen Jesus Christ, it will make no difference what you chose instead." I testify to you all that President Hinckley is now in the presence of the Savior, continuing his mission. We thank thee o God for our Prophet!
Christi | 9:10 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
You are all right. It is a disgusting show of human character for this group to be acting out in such a way.Although everyone is entitled to their opinion of things, no grieving person should be subject to this. I am not LDS. I am not religious. I am, however, a concerned citizen of this state and I need to put my foot down an say, however cliche it may be, "Not in my city!" Don't worry. The angels will be there to protect the world from hate. Look for us.
LDS IN SIOUX FALLS SOUTH DAKOTA | 9:34 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
You know the Babtist can say all they want but all of us LDS Church members know the truth. That is what I will always remember about President Hinckley. He was our leader and our Prophet, who made us all feel the love and devotion he brought to all of us, whether we were born LDS or found our callings thru him. He will always be my prophet and nobody can ever change this for myself or my family. As for the protesters let them do and say what they want, we all know what is true and I know I owe all of this to our prophet PRESIDENT HINCKLEY. If I could be as good a member as he is my life would be perfect, but Im still working on this and I know I will be there to see my prophet when I join them. Maybe someday the baptists will learn that protesting does not get you very far HATRED is a strong word and heavenly father will be they first to say so.GOD BLESS PRESIDENT HINCKLEY AND HIS FAMILY.
FDG | 10:04 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
I have found that when you are tearing others down you are not growing yourself. That is why we should not confront them because when we do we become like them. President Hinkley was truly a great prophet and leader for our time. He would want us to stand a little taller, be kinder and love all people even when they turn on us.
Marcelo Gomes, Mesa, AZ | 10:48 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
The very fact that you are standing in front of a group of people deeply moved by the loss of a loved one and are desirous to openly attack their religious leader shows how much your religion is truly off on what it means to be a Christian and true followers of Christ. Afterall, did not Christ say something about "mourning with those who mourn, and comforting those that stand in need of comfort?
Megan and Amanda | 10:52 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
You all need some serious help! Do other church's have this going on? NO.. Then why do we? We don't bother anybody, President Hinkley is a good honest man and I totally respect him and you need to mind your own business. Instead of tearing other people down why don't you work on your faults and try to improve yourselves. Why are you blaming others, the only person to blame is yourself for your own happiness. Mind your own business and focus on yourselves rather then other people. The reason you are protesting is because deep down you know The church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is the true church!
arc | 11:03 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
I find it interesting that there is not a baptist church organization anywhere in the country that accepts Westbro Baptist Church as a member. They give all churches a bad name. Since there are many good people that belong to baptist church's typically, I would think that this "church", which is just a front for a hate group, is an embarrassment to all baptists.

I for one am offended that Westbro Baptist Church exists, and are showing up for another funeral. I just hope anyone that thinks this is typical of other baptists realize it is not. Even Huckabee wouldn't stoop this low.
Trevor | 11:24 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
They must have something more worthwhile to do with their time... I wish I understood what went through the heads' of these people - protesting at the funeral of a man that epitomized goodness and love. President Hinckley would show compassion to all and so should we, regardless of what they say or do.
Anonymous | 11:26 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
We thank thee oh God for a prophet... to guide us in these latter days! President Hinckley was and always will be a wonderful man. May his heavenly reunion be wonderful.

I will miss you!

Matt | 11:39 p.m. Jan. 31, 2008
Isn't it amazing that these people are so well known? I myself don't agree with what Hinckley has had to say in the past, but I would never in a million years pull the antics that these people do. I don't believe in hell, but I wish I did when it comes to these lunatics.
STICKS AND STONES....... | 12:00 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
Lets keep this tiny group of ignorants kept apart from and not mistaken for being "apart of" the mainstream faith of Baptists.
I for one know first hand as a Saint living years in Augusta Georgia that the Baptist church is abundant with good hearted, hard working Christians doing the best they can..just as we are.

I bet you if we all remembered to earnestly pray for these lost brothers and sisters in our evening prayers, the Lord would soften their hearts.

(or perhaps keep them home with the flu)

W.W.J.D? | 12:24 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
If we took just one flower out of the bouquet we brought to lay in rememberence of our dear Prophet and handed it to one of these protesters, they could feel what Christian LOVE truly feels like.
That is one feeling they seem to completely lack.
I believe That sort of show of brotherly love would open the door for the Holy Ghost to touch their hearts.
I don't believe these "other sheep" were brought up with the Spirit in their homes or their hearts, so how could anyone expect them to know how to show it to others?

LETS HELP THEM TO START TO BREAK THAT VICIOUS CYCLE.

Charity a Christ Like Love | 12:32 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
I think it is sad that people would do such a thing. Especially those who say they believe and follow Christ, our Savior and Lord. I know Christ would want all of us to respect others, he talked to Samaritans, when other would not. But us as member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, need to remember to Stand a Littler taller (SALT) and still love them. Jesus forgave those who crucified him, he even had mockers and "protesters" when he died. President Hinckely was the prophet that i grew up with, and I will dearly miss him. But the work will go forth. We do thank God for a Prophet!!!
Lanea | 1:36 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
how can someone call themselves "Christian" is they criticize the the very people who believe in the same principles as them? through this we see a real issue of ignorance and intolerance for discrimination against religions. Yes, it is beautiful that we are free to our own religion, i know that when President Hinckley's funeral takes place, that these people will feel the spirit, and that they'll be tormented by their own guilt!
Re: some guy | 4:02 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
Great post! I too would love to see the picture of LDS serving these people in a Christlike way while they practice their version of Christianity.

I believe you can judge the character of a man (and a church) by his friends and his enemies. I believe that I would people who are so consumed with hate protesting President Hinckley rather than mourning his loss, as the rest of us do.

Who finances this group, anyway? Do they have jobs?
Mom in MO | 4:51 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
I find this a little amusing. To be protested because we're not "anti-gay" enough. Tell that to the groups who protested because we're too strict on gay matters. Yes, we should ignore them. And stay tolerant of others' beliefs, whatever they are. I will follow the 13th Article of Faith, and do good to all men.

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