Reader comments
Have compassion for immigrants, lawmakers urged
143 comments | Read story
Anonymous | 12:29 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
I hope the legislature looks compassionately at every bill they pass, not just
the ones on illegal immigrants. As said in the article the Church takes no
stand. I home the lawmakers enforce the laws, and do not take this as an
endorsement for allowing status quo. Something needs to be done, and eliminating
their ability to work is the sensible solution. But it should be done in a way
that they can return to their homeland unless they have violated the law.
Kinda Sad | 1:09 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
Kinda sad that Mormons have to be reminded to be compassionate and look and
illegal immigrants as God's children, just like every other human is. What
do Mormons teach in their Sunday School? (I suppose you can teach whatever you
want but that doesn't mean Mormons learn or follow their teachings). I
thought Mormons were Christians? Why the need for constant reminders that all
humanity is God's children - that's bread and butter gospel, but seems
like the members just don't get it.
Carlos B. | 1:55 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
Dear Country:
At last, someone is making sense in the issue of immigration.
Thank you Elder Marlin K. Jensen (LDS).
Thank you Bishop John C. Wester (Catholic).
And, Thank you Pastor Steven Klemz (Evangelical) for all your support and positive comments towards a comprehensive immigration reform.
I am also a Pastor and I too am in favor that our government pass a law that would benefit the millions of undocumented people in the United States of America. This is the reason why THE LORD has blessed this nation. The love and compassion towards our neighbor.
We need to remember that THE LORD GOD of JACOB, THE GOD OF ISRAEL and THE GOD OF THIS COUNTRY made the earth for us human being. But, because of our hard heart we have made borders. Let's be a blessing to those in need, so that GOD may bless more our nation and not only bless us, but PROTECT US from those who wants to damage the United States of America.
Sincerely,
J. Carlos B.
At last, someone is making sense in the issue of immigration.
Thank you Elder Marlin K. Jensen (LDS).
Thank you Bishop John C. Wester (Catholic).
And, Thank you Pastor Steven Klemz (Evangelical) for all your support and positive comments towards a comprehensive immigration reform.
I am also a Pastor and I too am in favor that our government pass a law that would benefit the millions of undocumented people in the United States of America. This is the reason why THE LORD has blessed this nation. The love and compassion towards our neighbor.
We need to remember that THE LORD GOD of JACOB, THE GOD OF ISRAEL and THE GOD OF THIS COUNTRY made the earth for us human being. But, because of our hard heart we have made borders. Let's be a blessing to those in need, so that GOD may bless more our nation and not only bless us, but PROTECT US from those who wants to damage the United States of America.
Sincerely,
J. Carlos B.
Comments continue below
barryrichfield | 2:42 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
I commend the LDS, BUT:
Should not those that ask others to give compassion give it themselves?
Of the many faithful ,legal immigrants that are sick, seperated from their families, hungry, or poor that are legally waiting to come to the USA are extended compassion? That those illegally here should receive it?.
How many LDS Chapels are being used to feed, house or care for these , either here in USA or 3rd world countries?.
The Church teaches its members to work toward an eternal Family. Families spend great wealth towards that end and do great work for the dead. But families do nothing for the living poor, hungry or sick among its own membership in 3rd world countries. let alone reach out to those outside its own to give this Christ like love, charity or compassion.
Where is the guidance given its membership to reach out and take in a poor family, someone sick or hungry into their home, or to sponsor the poor of other countries in their repective locations through their own branches , wards, or stakes?. Rather then ask a State law maker to have compassion , Maybe the LDS Church could begin at home?
Should not those that ask others to give compassion give it themselves?
Of the many faithful ,legal immigrants that are sick, seperated from their families, hungry, or poor that are legally waiting to come to the USA are extended compassion? That those illegally here should receive it?.
How many LDS Chapels are being used to feed, house or care for these , either here in USA or 3rd world countries?.
The Church teaches its members to work toward an eternal Family. Families spend great wealth towards that end and do great work for the dead. But families do nothing for the living poor, hungry or sick among its own membership in 3rd world countries. let alone reach out to those outside its own to give this Christ like love, charity or compassion.
Where is the guidance given its membership to reach out and take in a poor family, someone sick or hungry into their home, or to sponsor the poor of other countries in their repective locations through their own branches , wards, or stakes?. Rather then ask a State law maker to have compassion , Maybe the LDS Church could begin at home?
Karen Smith | 4:31 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
I do feel compassion, but I want people who enter our country illegally to go
back and return following US immigration law and regulation. We are a
law-abiding country and it will always stick in the craw of Americans to watch
people flaunt the law and begin their lives in America after having gotten in
by, basically, cheating the system and disadvantaging all the people who are
trying to follow the law and not circumvent the system.
Anonymous | 4:40 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
Two comments. I hope they have compassion also for the workers who reside in the
State legally, and for the 12-20 million people dealing with identity theft, so
people illegally in the United States can work.
Illegal aliens are not immigrants. Immigrants come legally to this country, following the immigration laws. Many wait for years and years. My forefathers came here after almost a decade of waiting.
Illegal aliens are not immigrants. Immigrants come legally to this country, following the immigration laws. Many wait for years and years. My forefathers came here after almost a decade of waiting.
Bob G | 5:12 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
This compassion for the illegal Mexicans the chruch speaks of is what has been
and continues to destroy America and the Unity of the American people. These
illegal aliens and foreign natiionals are preying on this compassion and using
it against the American people. The time has come to throw compassion out the
window for the illegals and put the american people and our country first, have
compassion for the americans that have and are victimized by these illegals.
Have compassion for the Americans losing their jobs and job security to these
illegls. Have compassion for our governement and social programs that are
supposed help the poor americans. Compassion for the illegals ends at the
Mexican border and the time to serve the american people and protect our rights
to have the american dream. The illegals, all 23+ million of them, have served
their purpose and now it's time to rid this country of them. The will of
the american people to have dreams of success has been crippled and destroyed.
The abundence of illegal labor for business has systematically destroyed any
hopes of the american workers and now it's time to take the illegals off
the pork of government.
fed up in salt lake | 6:03 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
i wonder if the same people that are so pro illegal immigration, have had their
pay cut by half over the last few years and when they do hold out for a living
wage only to watch their taxes go up and up to subsidize the employer who is
giving our jobs to people who are here illegaly, after all someone has to pay
for all the freebees, like housing,free medical, wick, free lunch at school,
heat , and many other programs, while watching crime follow closly behind. so
when you hear so many people talk about how we NEED the illegals hear , ask
yourself , DO WE ?
Oops . . . | 6:14 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
Let's fix that typo:
It's meant to say, "Have compassion for criminals".
It's meant to say, "Have compassion for criminals".
Karen K. | 6:26 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
Not taking a position? Are you kidding me? It is obvious that religious
leaders are taking a position in favor of illegal aliens. Oh well, I guess I
will continue to follow the advice my church leaders give me and honnor and obey
the law. No double standard here that I can see.
Re: Kinda Sad | 7:11 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
It's also KINDA SAD that mormons know so little of their own history that
they have no clue that their ancestors were once the same thing.
Only, THEIR ancestors fled to Mexico because their practices were not allowed by the 'promised land' "set up so that they could be founded".
Only, THEIR ancestors fled to Mexico because their practices were not allowed by the 'promised land' "set up so that they could be founded".
Unbelievable | 7:39 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
Elder Jensen can't possibly mean what he said about taking a
"factual" approach to the problem. That would certainly not lead to
more compassion. We have compassion fatigue because we see the problem growing.
And his comment about getting to know an illegal alien is absurd on the face of
it. When we hold home evenings at the prison, we love the felons. We forgive
them for what they did. BUT WE DON'T LET THEM GO AND PRETEND THERE WAS NO
CRIME. Do the Brethren realize that is their message? Will I be excommunicated
for my stand against illegal aliens?
John | 7:47 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
Elder Jensen -
At what point do we stop showing compassion for Gadianton robbers? Either you support rule of law or you ignore it. You can't choose the laws you want to obey and the ones you want to completely disobey - there are consequences. I support legal immigration 100%. It's illegal immigration I struggle with.
At what point do we stop showing compassion for Gadianton robbers? Either you support rule of law or you ignore it. You can't choose the laws you want to obey and the ones you want to completely disobey - there are consequences. I support legal immigration 100%. It's illegal immigration I struggle with.
Anonymous | 7:44 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
"Meet an undocumented person," he said. "Come to know their
family."
Not a good idea, they might sell your information to a relative living in another part of the country, and you'll end up trying to fix your credit once they use your identity.
Not a good idea, they might sell your information to a relative living in another part of the country, and you'll end up trying to fix your credit once they use your identity.
anders | 7:53 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
Utah's new immigration measures come straight from Apartheid South
Africa's book. Now there's a state to emulate.
RH | 8:15 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
Once again, the church is sticking its nose into legislative business. How about
the separation rule when it comes to law making and religious influence.
I hope the laws get passed and we can start taking control of the illegal immigrant situation. They are breaking our laws and I have no compassion for any law breaker. Round them up and send them home. Church leaders should keep to their business of running their church, not the government.
I hope the laws get passed and we can start taking control of the illegal immigrant situation. They are breaking our laws and I have no compassion for any law breaker. Round them up and send them home. Church leaders should keep to their business of running their church, not the government.
Dan H. | 8:17 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
Which side of the mouth is the church talking from today? We don't
generally take a stand on legislative issues - except alcohol and immigrants.
AlcoPop's are legal and we think they shouldn't be and immigrants are
illegal and we want them to be legal. I am getting dizzy in the winds of change.
Should we be excepting a rewrite of the Articles of Faith soon to suit the needs and will of the church - "We believe in not being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in disobeying , dishonoring, and opposing the law".
Should we be excepting a rewrite of the Articles of Faith soon to suit the needs and will of the church - "We believe in not being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in disobeying , dishonoring, and opposing the law".
Dug | 8:19 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
It is time for the churches to practice what they preach. Let the churches suck
it up and pay the price for being compassionate. Not the general public. I am
LDS and I hold to my belief, however let the different religions take up the
call and provide the expenses for medical care, WIC, free school lunches and the
many other programs that are handed out to the illegals. In this way I can
decide for myself wether to pay my tith and support my beliefs or not. Not
expect the citizens of this community or any other community to carry this
unlawful burdon. I know may illegals due to my employment and the majority are
very hard workers. BUT THE LAW IS THE LAW. Is it not what religions teach, to
follow and obey the laws of the land??? Let the immigrants come to this country
legally!!
Anonymous | 8:31 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
Elder Jensen, what part of obeying the law of the land do you not understand?
Illegal immigration is not the same as legal immigration.
Mark | 8:33 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
The ICE Officer can show compassion as he assists the illegal's onto the
bus and again show compassion as he assists the illegal's off the bus into
the country from whence they came.
The 12th Article of Faith of the LDS church says that we believe in obeying, honoring and sustaining the law.
We are fed up with the increased crime and other costs associated with the illegal's that are flowing into this country. This must cease. The Federal legislators have refused to take a serious stand and stop this insanity so it has become necessary for State legislators to do so. I hope that our legislators will not buckle to the comments by Bro. Jensen. I have had nothing but the highest respect for Bro. Jensen in the past but we part ways on this issue.
The 12th Article of Faith of the LDS church says that we believe in obeying, honoring and sustaining the law.
We are fed up with the increased crime and other costs associated with the illegal's that are flowing into this country. This must cease. The Federal legislators have refused to take a serious stand and stop this insanity so it has become necessary for State legislators to do so. I hope that our legislators will not buckle to the comments by Bro. Jensen. I have had nothing but the highest respect for Bro. Jensen in the past but we part ways on this issue.
Re: Bob G | 8:41 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
"The illegals, all 23+ million of them, have served their purpose and now
it's time to rid this country of them. The will of the american people to
have dreams of success has been crippled and destroyed. The abundence of illegal
labor for business has systematically destroyed any hopes of the american
workers and now it's time to take the illegals off the pork of
government."
Served their purpose?! How is it possible to take such a crass view of human life? I see that this country's culture of life only extends so far... Sad.
Somos hermanos -- get over it.
Served their purpose?! How is it possible to take such a crass view of human life? I see that this country's culture of life only extends so far... Sad.
Somos hermanos -- get over it.
Just Wait | 8:42 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
Just wait for all the devout Mormons to disavow Elder Jensen's words, make
justifications for their policy stance, make an excuse or find reasons to not be
compassionate. You'll hear them trot out the old "obeying the laws of
the land" but they ignore the weightier matters of the law like mercy.
Seven out of the first fifteen comments have already dismissed/discredited Elder Jensen.
Seven out of the first fifteen comments have already dismissed/discredited Elder Jensen.
Thanks | 8:45 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
Good to hear a little sanity in this - Thanks Elder Jensen.
People, it's easy to label them as illegal and treat them like dogs but they are people. The biggest problem is that's it is near impossible to come to the US legally. I have friends who have married people internationally and they new spouses aren't allowed inside the country. It can be a year. The US really needs to get on top of things. Until then, have some compassion for goodness sakes.
People, it's easy to label them as illegal and treat them like dogs but they are people. The biggest problem is that's it is near impossible to come to the US legally. I have friends who have married people internationally and they new spouses aren't allowed inside the country. It can be a year. The US really needs to get on top of things. Until then, have some compassion for goodness sakes.
David W | 8:59 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
All I know about illegal immigration is that if I were in the position that most
undocumented workers were in, I would also cross the border illegally and work
here as long as I could. I would do whatever it took to build a better life for
my family. I am all for immigration reform, but the vitriolic response that
these people are sneaky, law-breaking low-downs who deserve to be tossed out of
the country for cutting in line is ridiculous.
Fed Up Californian | 8:59 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
Elder Jensen and the other clergy need to come to California and see what the
ILLEGAL immigrants have done to the state. I welcome all LEGAL immigrants who
come here and follow our laws. The whole premise of being here ILLEGALLY is that
they broke the law to get here and continue to break the law every day they
remain.
We have high crime, lower standard of living and cna't get emergency rooms help because they flood them for the free medical care. Try waiting for 6 to 8 hours for medical help some day.
We have high crime, lower standard of living and cna't get emergency rooms help because they flood them for the free medical care. Try waiting for 6 to 8 hours for medical help some day.
BD | 9:02 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
I also hope that we consider that thousands upon thousands of sex offenders and
drug dealers are crossing our borders also. Potentially, terrorists could be
crossing also. Also, I am looking for a second job to pay for medical bills
since my insurance forces me to pay 20%. I wonder how many illegals have
received FREE health care - and yet I have to work two jobs to cover my family.
I do not support mass deportation of illegal immigrants. But I do support the
Constitutional right of protecting our borders - and I do not think it to be
inhumane to do so. Also, I support giving fines to employers who knowingly hire
illegal immigrants. And I do not feel it to be non-compassionate to illegal
immigrants to do so. The bad thing about this statement is that it will be
over-interpreted and given to private interpretation. Elder Jensen said nothing
about protecting the border or not, nothing about what employers should do, etc.
Thus, in reality I support Elder Jensen's statement - I just think that
there are more compassionate ways of dealing with the issue which I already
mentioned.
MSM | 9:11 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
This is how our Government is working for us; The United States Senate voted to
extend Social Security Benefits to Illegal Aliens beginning in 2008. Now, the
following are the senators who voted to give illegal aliens Social Security
benefits.
Alaska: Stevens (R)
Arizona : McCain (R)
Arkansas : Lincoln (D) Pryor (D)
California : Boxer (D) Feinstein (D)
Colorado : Salazar (D)
Connecticut : Dodd (D) Lieberman (D)
Delaware : Biden (D) Carper (D)
Florida : Martinez (R)
Hawaii : Akaka (D) Inouye (D)
Illinois : Durbin (D)
Indiana : Bayh (D) Lugar (R)
Iowa : Harkin (D)
Kansas : Brownback (R)
Lou isiana : Landrieu (D)
Maryland : Mikulski (D) Sarbanes (D)
Massachusetts : Kennedy (D) Kerry (D)
Montana : Baucus (D)
Nebraska : Hagel (R)
Nevada : Reid (D)
New Jersey : Lautenberg (D) Menendez (D)
New Mexico : Bingaman (D)
New York : Clinton (D) Schumer (D)
North Dakota : Dorgan (D)
Ohio : DeWine (R) Voinovich(R)
Oregon : Wyden (D)
Pennsylvania : Specter (R)
Rhode Island : Chafee (R) Reed (D)
South Carolina : Graham (R)
Vermont : Jeffords (I) Leahy (D)
Washington : Cantwell (D) Murray (D)
Wisconsin : Feingold (D) Kohl (D
Alaska: Stevens (R)
Arizona : McCain (R)
Arkansas : Lincoln (D) Pryor (D)
California : Boxer (D) Feinstein (D)
Colorado : Salazar (D)
Connecticut : Dodd (D) Lieberman (D)
Delaware : Biden (D) Carper (D)
Florida : Martinez (R)
Hawaii : Akaka (D) Inouye (D)
Illinois : Durbin (D)
Indiana : Bayh (D) Lugar (R)
Iowa : Harkin (D)
Kansas : Brownback (R)
Lou isiana : Landrieu (D)
Maryland : Mikulski (D) Sarbanes (D)
Massachusetts : Kennedy (D) Kerry (D)
Montana : Baucus (D)
Nebraska : Hagel (R)
Nevada : Reid (D)
New Jersey : Lautenberg (D) Menendez (D)
New Mexico : Bingaman (D)
New York : Clinton (D) Schumer (D)
North Dakota : Dorgan (D)
Ohio : DeWine (R) Voinovich(R)
Oregon : Wyden (D)
Pennsylvania : Specter (R)
Rhode Island : Chafee (R) Reed (D)
South Carolina : Graham (R)
Vermont : Jeffords (I) Leahy (D)
Washington : Cantwell (D) Murray (D)
Wisconsin : Feingold (D) Kohl (D
Ignacio M. Garcia | 9:11 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
It is sad to hear such crass comments against what Elder Jensen said. But
unfortunately we are reaping what we sow. For years, Mormon leaders,
politicians, etc. have stood on the sidelines of important moral issues, afraid
or ambivalent about what position to take. Now, as they come to undertake their
great responsibility as followers of Christ, they find that many in their flock
do not care to follow. For years, many of us Latter-day Saints implored our
leaders to speak out and to change the attitude of society and of our own. For
years we were ignored. Now that the Church is doing the right thing, it is so
much harder because so many of our people have developed a harsh, uncaring
attitude for those who suffer. I hope now that the Church will not be
intimidated by such violent reaction and continue to actively speak out against
the harshness of the Utah Legislature. It is the only moral thing to do.
Re: Anonymous | 9:20 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
You must have cut a pretty dashing figure in the 1960s when you forced that
blatant lawbreaker Rosa Parks from her seat on the bus.
tenx | 9:16 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
My religion teaches to honor and obey the rule of the land. Therefore I support
legal immigration. Having traveled and worked all over the world I am aware
that there are more people wanting to immigrate to the USA than we can
accomodate. Thus we have quotas to control the number that can immigrate. I
have compassion for the Filipino, who at this moment is standing in a long long
line in front of the embassy in Manila, in the hot sun, seeking his life long
dream to immigrate to the USA and upon submitting his papers is told that he
will be approved in 12-15 years. His grandfather fought with the Americans on
Bataan and never received recognition or the renumeration that was promised to
him. Still he will wait it out and come legally, bringing perfect English, a
college diploma and a desire to be an American Citizen. How about some
compassion for him and others like him and less for the ones who break into our
coutry and demand their rights and burn our flag????
Mickotis | 9:20 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
The 12th A of F says We believe in honoring, obeying and sustaining the law.
ILLEGALS are not doing this, hence the word illegal. Wake up Bro. Jensen, they
are a cancer to our economy and country.
The Raven | 9:26 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
Is the LDS Church encouraging illegal immigration? I must admit, it sounds like
it. Last year Lou Dobbs criticized the LDS Church for encouraging illegal
immigration. The Church and the Deseret News complained he was being unfair and
the Church didn't encourage illegal immigration. Now we are being told to
have "compassion" and to do nothing to discourage illegal immigration.
Am I missing something here? Does the Church support illegal immigration or not?
If so, what other laws can also be ignored by Church members (and others for
that matter)? "Compassion" is a warm fuzzy word that doesn't deal
with the problem very well. Illegal immigration is illegal and wrong. It's
time the legislature did something about it and society's leaders at all
levels recognize the "people" are sick of illegal immigration!
Pretty Sad | 9:33 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
Its pretty sad when you enter an LDS temple and see people in there who have
broken the law by illegal immigration, identity theft, etc. (I know this as a
fact because they are members in my stake), yet a man who drinks a cup of coffee
is barred from entering. Which is the greater sin??? If the LDS church wants to
change the 13th article of faith, maybe they should also look at some of the
other rules, so that we don't come across as looking "stupid"
when you really think about it.
LDS Republican voting Democrat | 10:12 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
Once again the Republicans legislatve majority and one Democrat on the Hill have
shown their true colors. I want to thank the handful of Republicans and all but
one Democrat for voting against this law.
You are the true followers of Christ's message of "love one another...", you are the true humanitarians, and I promise that I will be voting for more Democrats to help bring back respect and dignity to our State House and Senate.
Please forgive me for not opening my eyes sooner.
You are the true followers of Christ's message of "love one another...", you are the true humanitarians, and I promise that I will be voting for more Democrats to help bring back respect and dignity to our State House and Senate.
Please forgive me for not opening my eyes sooner.
bottom looking up | 10:17 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
Does the LDS church show any compassion to those of us who have had our social
security numbers usurped by ILLEGAL aliens? Does it take care of debts incurred
and crimes committed in our names? Does it straighten out our credit for us?
Compassion should first go to the law abiding CITIZEN and then to the alien who broke the law to get here.
Compassion should first go to the law abiding CITIZEN and then to the alien who broke the law to get here.
Stewart | 10:22 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
So we are accused of inviting illegal immigration? That may be true, but if so
are we stuck with them forever? When your house party is filled with party
crashers do you not have the right to call the police to remove them? The
Catholic and LDS churches wish to continue to enable a bad situation for the
rest of the citizens. Illegal immigration is not a "moral issue" it
is a political, ethnocentric, cheap labor issue.
Enablers always use compassion, sympathy, and love to justify their continued enabling of the addict, and Utah is addicted to cheap labor and increasing the number of consumers to buy stuff. Illegal immigration is immigration anarchy, and very short sighted economic policy. The Utah legislature has every "moral" right to act in defense of the taxpayers. In fact it would be immoral to act in favor of the Church and not the taxpayers since the taxpayer are paying the bill for illegal immigrants.
By the way has the LDS Church rescinded that pesky 12th Article of Faith?
Enablers always use compassion, sympathy, and love to justify their continued enabling of the addict, and Utah is addicted to cheap labor and increasing the number of consumers to buy stuff. Illegal immigration is immigration anarchy, and very short sighted economic policy. The Utah legislature has every "moral" right to act in defense of the taxpayers. In fact it would be immoral to act in favor of the Church and not the taxpayers since the taxpayer are paying the bill for illegal immigrants.
By the way has the LDS Church rescinded that pesky 12th Article of Faith?
Kevin Taylor | 10:29 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
Before my fellow LDS members find fault in Elder Jensen, they should read
other parts of his talk quoted in the other local paper: "While repeating
the mantra that the LDS church generally takes no position on political issues,
Jensen noted that immigration was not strictly a political issue but a moral and
ethical one. And as such, he said, he was not simply speaking for himself or
even for the Quorum, a group of Mormon leaders who act as church emissaries.
"I was assigned to come here by the First Presidency of the church," he said, referring to the church's three most senior leaders, including LDS Church President Thomas S. Monson."
So, while you honor obey and sustain the law, you may want to consider the advice of the leaders of the Church. Are there any among you who now want to ask President Monson, "What is it about the word 'illegal' that you don't understand?" If so, I recommend that you look into your own hearts, not Elder Jensen's or President Monson's.
Thank you Elder Jensen and President Monson.
Signed,
LDS Service Missionary assigned to serve in one of 63 Spanish speaking units in Salt Lake Valley.
"I was assigned to come here by the First Presidency of the church," he said, referring to the church's three most senior leaders, including LDS Church President Thomas S. Monson."
So, while you honor obey and sustain the law, you may want to consider the advice of the leaders of the Church. Are there any among you who now want to ask President Monson, "What is it about the word 'illegal' that you don't understand?" If so, I recommend that you look into your own hearts, not Elder Jensen's or President Monson's.
Thank you Elder Jensen and President Monson.
Signed,
LDS Service Missionary assigned to serve in one of 63 Spanish speaking units in Salt Lake Valley.
Patriot | 10:30 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
Somebody is confused about legal and illegal immigration. That same someone is
also too worried about offending others of his own faith in some other part of
the world. What price do we have to pay for the image of the church? I wonder
when we'll get someone calling for compassion for the stolen birth right of
our children? I wonder when someone will call for compassion for all of us who
have our income stolen legally by government only to be re-distributed to those
who invaded our country and dropped their kids on us to take care of.
Compassion is a fuzzy word but the implications are clear and the conference
participants and art work come from the open borders pro-illegal, appeasing,
pandering and possibly racist side of the argument. As a nation, America has
been more than compassionate already. We have fed, clothed educated and healed
millions of illegals. We are now asking that our laws be enforced and upgrated
to stop an invasion that has crippled California and Arizona to the point that
they are losing their culture and land to foreign invaders. Enough is Enough!
Our legislators need to act now! This year!
wrz | 10:35 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
>
Oh, but it has taken a position. It says so in the Articles of faith... something about "obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law." Illegal immigration is... well, breaking the law.
Oh, but it has taken a position. It says so in the Articles of faith... something about "obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law." Illegal immigration is... well, breaking the law.
Thank you, Elder Jensen | 10:36 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
What wonderful advice: "Meet an undocumented person. Come to know their
family." I have an undocumented friend. Although he is trapped in a
low-wage job through a temp agency because his employer is afraid to hire him
full time, he pays his taxes. Whether or not others would agree, in his mind he
was confronted with the decision between crossing a border without proper
documentation, or providing for his children. Call him a criminal if you will,
but his motive was pure. He works hard. He is compassionate. He often helps
people without compensation. He did not take anyone's job--he took the job
nobody wanted. He is a benefit to our community. We would do better for
ourselves to provide him a pathway to citizenship than to make life so
unbearable for him that he is forced to return hopeless to his poverty.
Freeman Loveslife | 10:38 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
The Church has spoken through Elder Jensen. The discussion is over.
It�s time for faithful members of the legislature to bow
their heads and say yes�.. Although I find the puppet like
behavior of the faithful LDS members of the legislature distasteful, I am in
agreement with the Church�s position on the issues
surrounding illegal immigration. After allowing or enticing people to come here
with a wink and a nod now we�re all indignant that they
came. I think taking draconian action is not the answer. We need to humanely
facilitate citizenship for the honest hard working folks who are here, get rid
of or lock up the criminals, secure the borders and implement a national
identity system. I can not believe that in this computer age we can not have a
fool prove identification system making it virtually impossible to obtain
employment or government benefits without citizenship. Without jobs or benefits
there would be no incentive to come illegally
wrz | 10:44 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
>
Let's see... we know they are sneaky. They sneak across the border. As for law-breaking... well doesn't that speak for itself?
Let's see... we know they are sneaky. They sneak across the border. As for law-breaking... well doesn't that speak for itself?
Rob M. | 10:47 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
If I were in Mexico, without possibility, and with a family I would do the same
as so many others have done. I also find it sad that people in the United
States feel that the undocumented workers are the problem. We are the problem.
We hire them, we want cheep products. Some employers hire undocumented workers
and help them find a better life. Most however hire them for one reason, greed.
There are solutions, but only if we see understand the real problem.
There are solutions, but only if we see understand the real problem.
Anonymous | 10:49 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
The compassion isn't for the undocumented workers. It is for their
children.
What are they really saying? | 11:02 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
To my understanding, these church leaders have never said they condone law
breaking. So why are we putting words in their mouths? All they are saying is
that if our representatives tried to get to know some of these people, the
majority of them are good natured people who love their families and want to
contribute to our society. We voted these people into office because they have
a brain, hopefully, to come up with solutions to difficult problems. I think
most of us would agree that not a laws are right at all times. Segregation was
legal, and many people in favor of it, until that law was changed, thankfully!
Are these church leaders saying it's okay to break the law? Or are they
just trying to urge our representatives to be compassionate and use their brains
when they are in a position to make or change laws that have an impact on human
lives? I am sure there can be compromises made, solutions found to help this
crisis, and I'm sure they won't please everyone. But let's try
and forget about ourselves and try and help these people. Try and find
solutions, instead of complaints!
Anonymous | 11:06 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
Lets not read into Elder Jensen's words here... We can honor the Rule of
Law and still show compassion. "Getting to know their families" is not
a bad idea. Become their freinds, encourage them to obey our contries laws, get
their home address in their country, help them and their family back to their
country (maybe the Church can help with the airfare or comfortable bus travel??)
Write your new freinds, send them job skill training books in their language,
send them Christmas cards, Birthday cards, heck, you could even send some money
for those events. Just make sure they are together as a family in their home
country!! Then write the heads of state for their respective countries and tell
them to develop their country's Entrepreneurial spirit and export Products
and Services instead of People!! And please, please, PLEASE keep them away from
Network Marketing or MLM ventures which suck the money from 99.9% of the poor
and give it to the .01% of the Rich!!
Re: Pretty Sad - 9:33am | 11:18 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
Are you serious? The First Presidency put out a statement a couple of years ago
saying that immigration status is not part of qualifying for the temple. For
that matter, pretty much anything short of sex crimes or murder won't
disqualify someone for the temple.
Sure they are breaking the law - just like I go 75mph in a 65 mph zone on I-15, or when a number of other people fail to turn their turning signal to change lanes. You'll find the majority of LDS temple goers to be lawbreakers when if you include such petty traffic laws and ridiculous, outdated immigration laws.
For all those who don't like the church's admonition to be compassionate - leave. The church doesn't need compassionate apostates. I find more atheists with bigger hearts than some Mormons.
Sure they are breaking the law - just like I go 75mph in a 65 mph zone on I-15, or when a number of other people fail to turn their turning signal to change lanes. You'll find the majority of LDS temple goers to be lawbreakers when if you include such petty traffic laws and ridiculous, outdated immigration laws.
For all those who don't like the church's admonition to be compassionate - leave. The church doesn't need compassionate apostates. I find more atheists with bigger hearts than some Mormons.
Robo | 11:30 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
I don't think he was encouraging illegal immigration or saying that
something doesn't need to be done, I think he was just saying that it is
possible for mercy to be a part of justice. The system is obviously broken and
needs fixed. I think he was just encouraging some compassion in developing the
fix. I, for one, believe that part of the fix is to remove the incentive to
come here illegally (probably the most effective being to make it impossible to
get a job if you aren't here legally) and to make the procedure for
immigrating legally more expedient.
John Reynolds | 11:38 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
Elder Jensen must remember that his ancestors, like mine, came here legally, and
spoke English and became Americans. The issue here is the law Elder Jensen !
AC | 11:39 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
Thanks Elder Jensen and all others who are willing to stand up for decency for
all mankind. I want my voice to be heard also and not just the negative,
hate-slayers. How can I help?
Add your comment
Comments are monitored. Any comments found to be abusive, offensive, off-topic, misrepresentative, more than 200 words or containing URLs will not be posted.
Words Remaining
E-mail address: For internal use only. We may want to contact you to publish your comment (not your e-mail address) in the newspaper or for a separate story idea.
Elder Marlin K. Jensen of Quorum of the Seventy talks at interfaith dialogue. At his side is Bishop John Wester.
Related content
- Adventurer ditches in Atlantic, unhurt 1:18 p.m.
- Thousands comment on Idaho mine 1:14 p.m.
- SLC continues free parking tradition 1:10 p.m.
- Stocks rise following jobless news 12:54 p.m.
- Cache woman still critical after crash 12:09 p.m.
- Crews working to free man in cave 12:03 p.m.
- Utes fall to Seattle U. at home 11:56 a.m.
- Quinn backs embattled Weis 11:54 a.m.
- 7 charged in Mumbai attacks 11:38 a.m.
- Energy prices rise despite supply 11:27 a.m.
- Donny and Kym dance to victory
- Witness describes '99 killing
- Howard made the rivalry a rivalry
- Cougars cruise past Southern
- Utah, BYU are top choices for bowls
- Loyal to Cougarettes, Crimson Line
- Crews working to free man in cave
- Y. focused on 10-win season
- BYU would like friendlier rivalry
- Twitterati to BCS: 'We hate you.'
- BYU would like friendlier rivalry
252 - Glenn Beck to enter politics?225
- RSL wins MLS Cup on penalty kicks202
- Protests against Phoenix LDS temple200
- Bronco, Kyle rubber match138
- BYU records with win133
- Letters: Rushing to judge Palin127
- Hall, Johnson matchup key102
- 4A: Timpview wins 4th in 4 years96
- Cougars turn focus to dreaded rivals90
Latest comments
solve the puzzle | 1:16 p.m. Everybody but you already knows it was the...
granted, if he was married 4 or 5 times - is going to have a harder time...
I can't wait to see all the fur farmers. Maybe I won't wait until Saturday.
but, from observations at the game Sat. night our freshman seemed more...
That is great hyperbole- you got anything real to back that up or are you...
This just in: RSL lost no plaers to the expansion draft.
to add to 7:34 - Just imagine all the compromising of his position that he...
The thing you left out of your scenario is the upset factor. --The dreaded...
I apologize for coming on that strong, CJ is not the answer you harp on him...
He's been told repeatedly NOT to go down in that cave. Bronco will be most...
Advertisements