The way a former bishop explained it to me when my son was molested was you have to be able to forgive the person. Not neccessairly the act in which the person committed. However, I feel that in time, I will be able to see the act for what it was: Satan's hand in the corruption of a man. I know that your nephew will be able to be helped as long a he is willing to accept the help being offered. There is still time to turn him around. When he becomes an adult, it will be much harder to rehabilitate him and get him to change. When you give your victim impact statement, remember that the whole family needs to heal from this. Ask for a priesthood blessing before going to court and the Holy Ghost will inspire you to know what to do. You are in my prayers always. Love Donna

Conference is wonderful. I just returned home from the Sunday morning session of conference. President Hinkley spoke on the importance of forgiveness. President Hinkley was speaking directly to me on this point but I still have a question and I need some input and advice from my dear friends and priesthood on this site. As you all have been reading, my 2 young daughters were sexually molested (raped) repeatedly over a years time by their cousin (my nephew). He's being sentenced in three days from now and as the victim's mother I have a right to write a letter to be read in court concerning our feelings about what he did to my daughters. Now for my question. Without a doubt, I forgive my nephew. I love my nephew but hate the actions he committed. Does Heavenly Father expect me to forgive his actions too, or is just forgiving the boy enough? I really, really need some immediate feedback on this point as time is only a couple days away. Thank you. Melody

Hi Amy, Here's my vote. We all are aware that many non-members think we are NOT a Christian religion. The Church made an effort some years ago to emphasize the words "Jesus Christ" by enlarging those two words on the official church logo and replaced the signs/plaques on all ward/stake buildings. I've lived in So Calif all my life (46 years) and I've heard so many mis-conceptions about our beliefs, including "Who is that person Mormon who you worship" (Okay, that's second to "Why do you pray to Joseph Smith?" ) Someday, you'll all have to ask me what I said to my (then non-member) husband on the day I met him, when he asked if I was a "Mormon". Anyway, I would prefer that our board be named: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (but I fear this may be too long of a title) Of course these would be fine too: - Latter Day Saints (Mormonism) - Latter Day Saints - LDS (not to be confused with LSD - Can you tell I'm a child of the 70's) I'm sure that whatever you decide, we will support your decision. Laurie

Thanks Jill. It's been a long road. Just when I thought I was doing better - I wasn't. I've found some excerpts of this book online and will be looking for it at the library tomorrow. Gala

Amy, It's all good in my book! Thanks for asking though! Jill