Livingin the south | 5:54 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
Being LDS in the Southeast we deal with these types of people on a daily basis. It is plainly obvious that they do not subscribe to the basic teachings of Jesus Christ. How sad for them. I appreciate all good people no matter where they attend church. President Hinckley was a good human being who left this world a better place. Isn't that the goal for all of us?
Hmmmm | 6:14 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
It's REALLY stretching the definition for these people to call themselves Christians. Wouldn't it be interesting if the earth opened up and swallowed them during their protest?
NMP | 6:43 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
God bless you, President Hinckley. We will miss you.
Comments continue below
Anonymous | 6:40 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
The very fact the Baptist church uses such a solemn event as the funeral of ANY HUMAN BEING let alone a very respected LDS leader as a opportunity to protest ANYTHING tells me they lack world any compassion for their fellowman.
SAN | 6:53 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
The road to "Outer Darkness" begins with the loss of Inner Light and Truth. I am so grateful to President Hinckley for letting his light shine forth in all the world and feel such sorrow for the Dark Road these people are traveling. There can be no joy in their morning nor will their be honor in their going. President Hinckley surely has the greatest of both!
Paul in MD to Fantastic | 7:15 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
Fighting to protect marriage is not the same as hating gays. If you actually took the time to learn the LDS teachings on the subject of homosexuality you would find the church teaches compassion and love toward everyone, regardless what their words or actions are. We consider homosexual behavior a sin, and the church does not condone it. We believe marriage is a divine institution, defined as the union between a man and a woman. Period. We also believe that EVERYONE who walks the earth is a son or daughter of God, and as such deserves our love and respect.

Love the sinner but hate the sin. Read the Bible - that's what Christ taught, and what we should all be following.
Paul in MD to Hate is Hate | 7:23 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
I am truly sorry that you have experienced judgment and scorn from LDS members. That should never happen. That is NOT how we are taught to behave towards others. However, I have seen that attitude among members of our church. I have also seen that among almost every other group that happens to hold a majority in any setting - LDS in Utah, whites in affluent areas, African-Americans in DC, men in some companies, women in others... There is no end to the examples. It is especially pronounced among people who at one time were persecuted - they get a little room and power and have to flex that.

Please remember that we are taught in the church, and I am teaching in my home, that all of us are brothers and sisters, and all should be treated with the respect and esteem due all the sons and daughters of God.
Anonymous | 7:29 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
I hope these people are not representive of the Baptist church.....How sad ...They should be using there time and energy to help others..
OK I get it | 7:35 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
At first I was upset, but after reading the posts I finally get it. They do this kind of stuff to get people like me upset, do something stupid and get in trouble. They don't really care about you, me President Hinckley, LDS, other Baptists, or whatever. They will be here for as much publicity as they can get and then they move on to their next protest. As much as I would like to handle this the old fashion way, that is exactly what they want. I finally get it. IGNORE THEM.
Paul in MD to the Lion | 7:30 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
You bring up some good points, but you miss some as well.

True, the only people who can know beyond a shadow of a doubt are those who have spoken with Christ face to face. The rest of us have to rely on faith. I have heard many at the pulpit say they know. I just remind myself that this is an expression of extreme faith, but perhaps a poor choice of words. I do believe there are a few on the earth today who have seen Christ, but they won't say this. It is too sacred an experience, and would just give others another reason to bash the church.

I'm sorry you feel that missionaries are offensive. In the New Testament, the apostles talked about a coming apostasy. All Christians believe there was one as foretold, we LDS just believe it was complete, while the rest of the Christian world does not. These young people are sent out to testify of the Gospel, not to attack anyone. Look closely at our teachings, and you will find far more common ground than opposing viewpoints.

BTW, hypocrites preach that which they know to be false. We believe we preach the truth.
Appalled at first | 7:40 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
but now I'm reminded that they are doing this for sport. I only hope their "sport" doesn't hurt impressionistic children who witness their insensitivity and hate. If so, it's a great teaching opportunity for parents. I hope parents teach chldren to not return hate for hate. There is too much of that in the world. Best to teach children that these poor people haven't been touched by the spirit yet and hopefully they will sometime. Let's prove the demonstrators wrong by our Christlike actions, taking the high road and being courteous to them, or at the very least, not feeding their frenzy with contentious words ourselves.
Ron | 7:52 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
Why do the people of the Baptist faith not disalign their church from this radical group? I think Baptists are above these who call themselves Baptists..
ulidelto | 7:54 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
gostaria de dizer a todos que cristo vivi e que ele sempre chamou profetas e que o presidente hinckler é um profeta de deus,alguns pecadores acham que falando mau de um servo de deus vai aliviar seu sentimento de culpa o remedio está em cristo e não nas criticas e manifestações desejo a todos que sigamos o exemplo de cristo e nosso amado profeta.
Jennifer-Salt lake city | 7:56 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
If your faith is strong and your beliefs are true..... you are a fast moving train. People throwing pebbles at you will not derail you. We have the power to ignore hateful thoughts thrown at us by very hateful people. Us LDS members get accused of not being Christian.......What this Baptist church is doing, disrespecting a beloved sweet gentle man on the day of rest, is sick. Children will be there, his grandchildren, greatgrandchildren etc etc. It is sad, even dead this wonderful men gets beaten down.... i am SURE he is up there with his sweet little wife smiling down and giving us stegnth to ignore the hatred and stand strong. Shame on you for doing this. I agree, people should stand right next to them singing hymns of praise. If they move, then they get followed with even louder singing. Mute them out, walk on by, and let them tear their salvation to shreds.
Just a thought | 8:08 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
Mike Gallagher offered them air time to keep them away from the funeral of the Amish girls. Perhaps a similar arrangement could be made. I would rather have the ability to turn off my radio than to have to walk past them on the way to a funeral.

Urroner | 8:09 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
Yep, a little hot chocolate will do the trick, it will show them that in spite of their arrogance and stupidity, that we love them anyway.

And besides, the bit of Ex-Lax we slip into the hot chocolate will help make them not so full of what they are so full of.

It's definitely a win-win situation.
Katerina | 8:10 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
All I can say us unbelievable. If my baptist friends knew what these guys were doing, they would be very ashamed and disgusted!
Montana Mormon | 8:33 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
With regard to the vitriolic protesters:

Jude 1:10--"But these speak evil of those things which they know not: but what they know naturally, as brute beasts, in those things they corrupt themselves."

Alma 14:11 "And [the Lord] doth suffer them that they may do this thing . . . according to the hardness of their hearts, that the judgments which he shall exercise upon them in his wrath may be just; and the blood of the innocent shall stand as a witness against them, yea, and cry mightily against them at the last day."
ldsgirl | 8:35 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
Not even appropriate, or respectful of human life. It's wrong they would want to protest Heath Ledger and it's wrong they would protest President Hinckley. At least they believe in equal opportunity. Haha.
Raymond Takashi Swenson | 8:42 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
There will be 30,000 people at Temple square and millions more around the world who will gather to honor President Hinckley. The forces of good are winning. The Westboro Baptists and so many other churches that preach hatred in this season when a Mormon runs for US president are losers, in every sense of that word.
From appalled at first (again) | 8:43 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
Oops, I meant "impressionable children". That word "impressionistic" didn't seem right but I punched the add comment key anyway. I think you all knew what I meant.
Pac 10 Alumnus | 8:53 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
Deny them the permit.
Barbara | 8:53 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
The Kansas based hicks are at it again.
hold back | 9:18 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
As hard as it's going to be to not practice a little "laying on of hands" with these protesters we need to refrain. What would President Hinckley do? He'd probably walk up, wish them a good morning and say, "Why don't you put those posters down, bring all the good you've got in your heart (albeit nearly nothing) and see if we can't add to it." I wish the city would do like Augusta did with Martha Burke's protest at the Masters. She was allowed to protest about 1500 feet away from the golf course. Nobody even saw her.
sue | 9:14 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
to matt johnson's, paster of a SLC Baptist Church.
Thank you for pointing out that this particular Baptist group is not mainstream baptist, and actually a splinter group. They are just calling themselve's baptist so baptists loose crediblity.


and to all you lucky people who get to go to the funeral in person, IGNORE them and SING while waiting. i'd recomment not only we thank they o god for a prophet it, but We Believe in Christ, Jesus Said Love Everyone.... it is true, if anyone contronts or talks to them, they won. let's honor hinckley.
cyndi6653 | 9:19 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
These people that will be protesting are local members of this hatemongering church. I have seen them before.
PROTEST NEWS COVERAGE! | 9:39 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
I BEG the press to ignore these people. Please do not give them a voice. DO NOT put a microphone in front of their faces and allow them to desecrate the name of such a great man. I propose that the public boycott any news program or newspaper that gives them a minute of air time or a centimeter of newsprint. We have a voice also. Our voice will be heard in the news programs we choose to watch and the papers we choose to buy. LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD!
SLC | 9:45 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
Freedom of speach is one of our greatest liberties. And why complain the church sends missionarys around the world to canvass and convince people how to live a mormon existance and now the lord has delivered prospects to you. Show your salesmanship and convert them to your side. I don't see where it will make them much worse off.
The Authority | 9:56 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
Interesting that a supposedly Christian church is exploiting the rights we have as Americans to use the language and tactics of hate in an effort to soil the funeral of a man who preached a message of love. President Hinckley always shared a message of God's love for ALL of his children. It's sad to see someone trying to ruin a farewell to him with such a hateful and disgusting action.

If you've ever seen this group on the news, you'd know they come across as hillbillys from some really stupid, low budget horror movie. The good thing is that they are so ridiculous that they are not worth acknowledging. It's best just to ignore their hateful foolishness.
Nathan | 9:54 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
Phelps is a coward, Lead by example and show up to your own rally... I can't wait till he is 6 feet under. He won't even get the pleasure or Flattery of picketing... This is great! Im not even mormon but guess what I do know Pres. Gordy was an excellent leader and top dog Christian. Maybe I will go to church... Someone send me the Missionaries... I'm a military member serving in the Air Force... I would love to see someone disrespect one of my brothers in arms funeral... Talk about war...
tv | 9:58 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
I'm embrassed for the Baptist following!
Robyn J | 10:01 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
I am not an active member, but I must say that I am impressed with the way most of the devout are taking this news. Instead of pure anger at the seemingly direspectful protest, they are loving about it, even saying they deserve our love and prayers. Eventhough I am disappointed with up-coming protest against a man I love and respect, I am grateful to see how beautiful most of the attitudes about it are. You are all sweet and beautiful people indeed.
sunshine | 10:09 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
Just funny how if anything has The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day saints name on it or in it, it's a audiomatic drawn to. What would happen if this was done at their church? They wouldn't be too thrilled now would they? Why can't you so called baptist just live your religion to the fulliest and leave all the other religions alone. Besides that this is a time of mourning for a prophet who was amazing not only to the LDS religion but to those who weren't even a member. This man doesn't deserve any disrespect what so ever. Is all you are doing is making a fool out of your own self. How do you think that looks protesting at a funeral?? COME ON!!!!
Lorak | 10:09 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
the only thing that came to mind while reading all the comments was What Would Jesus Do.

Just ignore their comments, do what the Lord would do which is give them love and respect. Let's honor our president. I'm sure President Hinckley would have done the same. I'm grateful to know that President Hinckley was a true prophet of God.

Always respect others that's what President Hinckley used to say. Let's honor him by turning the other check.
From across the Pond | 10:22 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
Definitely things that make you go Hhhhmmmmm. I feel so sorry for these people. How can you have so much hate in your heart and be totally unaware of how you are being manipulated by Satan? However, I'm sure our dear Pres. Hinckley would be the first person to extend a friendly hand to them, wouldn't he? It would be very difficult for me to, I guess, because I haven't yet reached that level of love yet! Will one day I hope and I'm working on it! Much love to you all from London, England Saints.
Emma | 10:31 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
It is terrible to witness all the finger pointing, anger and hate demostrated by my Mormon brothers and sisters, you sound worse than those you are railing against. Go home and read your scriptures and work to bring light into the world. Our prophets will come and go, but our example will live on forever.
Human WALL | 10:31 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
Just a suggestion that has worked very effectively in other towns. Those who can should take every effort possible to create a HUMAN WALL to shield this group from those who would like to attend the funeral of this great man. I would encourage you all to sing hymns as well to drown out any antagonizing retoric that these insensitive folks will mosy likely spew forth.
canadian comment | 10:33 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
It was a shock to attend conference a few years ago and see protestors. At first I was offended but then you mostly feel sorry for them. They were really in our face. What a glaring difference with the spirit they had and what we felt in conference. We always have watched conference by satelite and had no idea people had to deal with this right out side the conference center. It made for great discussion with our children who had never seen anything like this before. Quite an eye opener. Thanks for the warning from the press. Now we can just feel sorry for them. We love and will miss our beloved Prophet. I can't be sad as I imagine his reunion with his beloved wife and loved ones!
Mo | 10:47 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
Extreme Protest Makeover! I don't know if traffic will be stopped, probably, but with cell phones a signal could be sent for "move that bus!" right in from of the protesters.

But then really what would President Hinckley do?
Millie | 10:49 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
It's important to remain calm and treat these losers with the respect they won't give us, or our prophet. The world will be watching... and maybe one of their children will leave and join the Church after sneaking away from the group and visiting Temple Square... you never can tell. Kill them with kindness.

"Whose funeral would Jesus picket?"

jmdspk speaks well | 10:50 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
jmdspk, you are absolutely right! There is much more than hate involved. Money is the root! Yes, be kind and even love these "enemies" but keep your distance! And warn others to not get caught in their lair.
Don | 10:50 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
When our daughter was killed in a car accident a little over a year ago in a small rural town in Southwest Washington, the whole community surrounded our family with love and support. Ministers from several Christian churches spoke at assemblies and gatherings of students at the high school and even attended services at the LDS Stake Center. People have told me that the unfortunate event provided an opportunity for our community to "come together" in a way we had not previously. My family will NEVER forget the true Christian love and spirit shared and expressed especially by those not of our faith.

This group that calls themselves Christians is misguided to say the least. They think they are following Christ's example though I do not recall Christ teaching his disciples to use this tactic in sharing the gospel.

I'm confident those that attend the funeral services will follow Christ's example and the teachings of the prophet and turn the other cheek and walk away from these protestors. I also hope that people will be supportive to those that are mourning and allow your emotions to be filled with love and not anger. Don in Brush Prairie, WA
M.A.T.T. | 10:59 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
I can't recall the 1st or the last time I ever heard a story about members of the LDS faith protesting another's religeon or faith. It's simply not done. Shame on those who abuse the 1st amendment in the name of God. "let he who is with out sin" and all that.
A in LA | 11:20 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
Wouldn't it be great if Saturday the members of all the non LDS churches in the SLC area came out and stood together in unity with the LDS church while these people are here. Maybe if this hate group saw that SLC is strong and united - even between faiths they might go away. Just a thought.
Humm-Mumm | 11:20 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
Prophetic Passing

I imagine he's running to Marjorie now,
Yes, running, not waving his cane.
I see him embracing his father and mother
While they keep repeating his name.

I see him now meeting his forebears,
Brother Brigham and Joseph are there.
Sweet reunion of prophets, united by service
That only such noble men share.

I see him embraced by the Savior
While Father says, "Good and well done.
So faithful in stalwart endurance, I welcome
My noble, most excellent son."

I then hear the ripples of laughter
As he says the reception's just fine,
But he hopes that he'll get an assignment or two
Since there's no need to waste any time.

I can hear his clear voice in the stillness
At the close of this sweet Sabbath day,
Have faith and move forward � there's work to be done.
President Hinckley would want it that way.

Anna M. Molgard
January 27, 2008
Re: Jenny & Others | 11:53 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
This Matt Johnson, Pastor of a baptist church in SLC. Jenny mentioned something that I think can be a misunderstanding. Unlike the LDS religion, most "baptist" churches (especially in SLC) are "baptist" because of what they believe, not because of an organization. Jenny mentioned that some in my congregations were rude to her family. We don't actually have ties with other baptist churches. I am only able to speak to the independent church that I lead. It is the same as the LDS president having no say as to what Warren Jeff's clan does. Most baptist churches in the West have little if any association with one another. I can assure you rude "baptists" are not a part of my congregation. I preach Truth, but I preach it with meekness and fear, not arrogance and strife. I hate the work of Westboro, because they profane the glory of God.
Losers | 11:52 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
That's all I can say, these guys are the biggest losers, don't they have anything better to do? Get a freaking life!
Jan | 11:58 a.m. Feb. 1, 2008
These guys who protest the Mormon Church are NOT CHRISTIANS! True Christians would not do this. They do not practice Christ like behavior. They follow Satan and are very full of HATE! God help their very poor souls.
jr | 12:03 p.m. Feb. 1, 2008
many a mormon can look in the mirror and witness their own actions. Funny how they have only looked one way until someonelse reveals their own ugliness. Organized religion is the cause of so much hatred. Believe in your heart and allow others also the same.
zxr | 12:04 p.m. Feb. 1, 2008
Too bad it's the middle of winter. Whenever there is a "protest" from this group, motorcycle groups attended the funerals armed with American flags to show the families of the fallen soliders that their loss is not forgotten or in vain like this group would led them to believe. I would think it would be kind of cool to see a bunch of men and women with their Harley-Davidson motorcycles along the funeral route hiding the "protesters" with American flags. I think President Hinckley would have gotten a kick out of that! :)

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