LDS Hosted Halloween Party Criticized for No ‘Cross-Gender’ Costume Rule
- Posted on October 29, 2011 at 12:25pm by
Christopher Santarelli
- Print »
- Email »
A LDS hosted Halloween party in Sandy, Utah, has drawn some criticism for a rule that specified no “cross-gender” costumes.
The Salt Lake Tribune newspaper reports that the ban meant no girls dressed as Harry Potter, for example. Fox 13 on the controversy:
Raquel Smith, who has lived for years down the street from the Mormon meeetinghouse that is hosting the party, says she was “appalled” when she read the party flier taped to her door. She is not a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Smith calls the ban “fear-mongering and hate-driven,“ and said to the Tribune ”I have several friends who are transgender or drag queens for a profession.”
LDS Bishop Dennis Toone says he thought the rule was church policy, but it wasn’t.
He says anyone who didn‘t like the rule didn’t have to come.
A representative for the Salt Lake City Pride Center said that party organizers for“Trunk or Treat” likely did not intend to hurt any nonconforming or transgender kids, but were just unaware of the potential consequences of such guidelines.
Another area resident shared similar concerns to Smith.
“I don’t think anyone should be excluded. I think if you’re a Christian-loving person. I think everyone should love everybody. To exclude somebody is not fair,” said Gilbert, who asked FOX 13 not to use his name.
Popular Stories
Does Misstated Marathon Claim Prove Paul Ryan Is Dishonest? (POLL) 703 Comments
Paper Details Obama Admin’s Alleged Secret Note Sent to Iran: If Israel Attacks, We Won’t Get Involved 541 Comments
‘Made Up Religion’: TV Historian Enrages Muslims, Receives Threats After Producing UK Documentary Questioning Islam’s Beginnings 360 Comments
Roseanne Barr: Most Billionaires ‘Violent Pedophiles’ & ‘Heartless’ Cocaine Addicts 357 Comments
This Is the Creationists‘ Response to Scientist Bill Nye’s Viral Pro-Evolution Video Claiming They Harm Children 356 Comments
Faith
- This Is the Creationists‘ Response to Scientist Bill Nye’s Viral Pro-Evolution Video Claiming They Harm Children 356 Comments
Pakistani Muslim Cleric Accused of Framing Disabled Christian Girl in Koran-Burning Case Read More- ‘Made Up Religion’: TV Historian Enrages Muslims, Receives Threats After Producing UK Documentary Questioning Islam’s Beginnings 360 Comments
Meet the Controversial German Imam Accused of Brutally Beating His Wife & Pushing Sharia Law Read More
‘Self-Proclaimed Messiah’ & Unification Church Leader the Rev. Sun Myung Moon Has Died — Here’s His Life Story Read More
Business
- President Obama Issues Major ‘Green Energy’ Executive Order 275 Comments
- Germany’s Upcoming Court Ruling Will be Huge for the EU Read More
Ford Looks to Beat Toyota for Best-Selling Car in 2012 With This Model 149 Comments
Bernanke & QE3: Here’s What You Need to Know Read More- ‘Extortion’: Why Did the Labor Department ‘Drop the Hammer’ on Oregon Farmers? 302 Comments
Technology
- This Is the Creationists‘ Response to Scientist Bill Nye’s Viral Pro-Evolution Video Claiming They Harm Children 356 Comments
‘TaserDrone’: Hackers Weaponize Quadcopter With Actual ‘Shocking’ Technology Read More
Ever Heard of the Wild ‘Burning Man’ Festival in the Middle of the Nev. Desert? Here’s Your Primer Read More
Stanford Develops Technology ‘Better Than Steroids’ for Athlete Recovery Read More
Have You Pretended to Know What ‘the Cloud’ Is? You’re Not Alone Read More
Submitting your tip... please wait!
Comments (247)
Deda1
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:30pmWhat is the controversy? There is none unless you are a non-christian. We don’t believe in and is not the way of God. If you want to fudge pack and or cross dress and be a fruit loop then go somewhere else, like a mosque.
Report Post »metalurgy
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:44pmC’mon now, there is fudge-packing by people in every religion. Don’t confuse the sin with the religion condoning the action.
I know. I’m Catholic.
Nuff’ said.
Report Post »toto
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:45pmWell said. Not only that, these idiots that object to making your own rules for an event you sponsor are tyrants that want to control everyone. We all need to more forcefully and loudly stand up for FREEDOM.
Report Post »RabidPatriot
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:59pmPeople with no morals are always outraged when anyone (especially religion) questions their behavior in their own groups but they are quick to give their 2 cents about religious groups. Here is an idea, the LDS will not get involved in the dress code of your transvestite orgy and you stay away from the kids at trunk or treat.
Report Post »InversionTheory
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 2:16pmI’m a non-Christian and I don’t get it either. Private party….you set the rules. When I have Transgender Sushi Night at my house, I don’t want anyone deciding the rules but me and the people who show up.
What‘s the difference between the LDS’ rules in this case and the Halloween party I went to last year where to get in your costume had to be of a dead homosexual? Nothing in my book.
Report Post »Sheepdog911
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 3:07pmSo what? Where’s the controversy? I’m always offended the Muslims refuse to eat or touch pork. Now that is something to be outraged over. I don’t want crossdressers or muslims at my party tonight.
Report Post »proliance
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 3:39pmSheepdog911, I believe that not eating pork and not cross dressing come from Leviticus. If one offends you, then they both should.
Report Post »ashestoashes
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 3:59pmIt’s hard to believe any true church celebrates pagan holidays..and this being one of evil spirits.
cgfree1
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 4:19pmDid the flier on your door say that you had to go to the Halloween Party? If you don‘t like the rules don’t go!
Report Post »Founding Father2
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 4:59pmHey, Ron Paul supporters, show some respect to Herman Cain: http://www.thedailycandidate.com/video/2011/oct/paul_supporters_cain.html
Report Post »Shiroi Raion
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 6:09pmI never really cared about politics most of my adult life. I just wanted to finish college and teach higher math. I only started paying attention when I noticed the dishonesty coming from the Liberal media and the Clinton administration. The more of this bigotry, dishonesty and hypocrisy I saw, the more I pointed out the Liberal corruption and lies to my friends and family. My father HATES religion and he WAS a life-long Democrat. Not anymore. I woke my family up. It took a long time, but as much as my father hates religion, he hates corruption and liars more. After 40 years of blindly pressing [D] on the ballot, he and my entire family decided to register as Republicans. My parents talked to their friends and they’ve all switched to the Republican party too.
Report Post »Keep pushing your hatred, Liberals. You’re driving all the good people away. Look at OWS. What a bunch of dirt bags. We see the same behavior from Liberals over and over. Hypocrisy, lies, shouting over anyone that tries to explain an opposing view, name-calling, and on and on… What have you attracted to the Democrat party? Communists, Socialists, Anarchists, Muslim extremists, Nazis, Black Panthers and KKK! Did I miss anyone? Democrats have attracted the very worst of humanity and you’re pushing good people away.
We expect to vote for Herman Cain next year. Last year, we voted out our Democrat congressman and governor. Our Democrat school board will probably go on Nov 1.
coffeeblackplease
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 7:43pmSad, very sad DEDA1 that your comments do not reflect Scripture, nor the character of God. I am not talking about the issue of the article, but your crass and vulgar comment. Sad!
Report Post »bmwrider
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 9:14pmWho cares what a non-christian, fringe religious cult like the mormons have to say?
Report Post »bmwrider
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 9:31pmSo an LDS party is like a halloween party without alcohol or the chance of getting laid? Sounds like a real fun time.
Report Post »WeDontNeedNoSteenkinBadges03
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 9:52pm“LDS [Latter Day Saints or Mormons] Hosted Halloween Party Criticized for No ‘Cross-Gender’ Costume Rule … LDS Bishop Dennis Toone says … anyone who didn‘t like the rule didn’t have to come.”
Well, that leaves Glenn Beck out … ’cause he’s a champion to homos and other sex perverts.
(Let’s leave aside, for the moment, the whole issue of even having a “Halloween party”.)
and
“Another area resident [said] … I think if you’re a Christian-loving person. I think everyone should love everybody [cross-dressers].”
Crossing-dressing and such sex perversions are a crime so abominable it has the death penalty:
“A woman shall not wear anything that pertains to a man, nor shall a man put on a woman’s garment, for all who do so are an abomination to the LORD your God.” -Deuteronomy 22:5
6 – Now these things became our examples, to the intent that we should not lust after evil things as they also lusted.
Report Post »7 – And do not become idolaters as were some of them. As it is written, “The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.”
8 – Nor let us commit sexual immorality, as some of them did, and in one day twenty-three thousand fell; …
11 – Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the ages have come.
-1 Corinthians 10:6-11
Darren
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 10:27pmBMWRider;
“So an LDS party is like a halloween party without alcohol or the chance of getting laid? Sounds like a real fun time.”
Is that your example of mainstream? Exuse me but I think I’ll just prefer to stay out along the“cultish” fringe.
Report Post »jzs
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 11:01pmShiroi Raion says, “What a bunch of dirt bags. Hypocrisy, lies, Communists, Socialists, Anarchists, Muslim extremists, Nazis, Black Panthers and the KKK, the very worst of humanity!
No wonder you joined the Republican party! The Republican party is calling it the way they see it! Who could blame you for switching parties, given the pure evil on the other side? It basically comes down to Jesus vs. evil. Good choice Shiroi!
Report Post »jzs
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 11:09pmI guess Toy Story characters are out for girls. No girl Buzz Lightyear costumes.
Report Post »colt1860
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 11:52pm@Founding Father2 Really? Respect?
Cain claims Paul’s campaign “sends one of its ‘Paulites’ everywhere” he shows up. He also said, “I get the same stupid question at almost every one of these events… I know it’s a deliberate strategy. How can a person randomly show up at a hundred events and ask the same stupid question to try to nail me on the Federal Reserve? It’s really becoming annoying more than anything else.”
Herman Cain told Ron Paul that the Federal Reserve isn’t a top priority at a previous GOP Debate.
youtube.com/watch?v=H5tUdkj80cA
Herman lied about the Federal Reserve
youtube.com/watch?v=PXH1DPJurO0
“It is well enough that people of the nation do not understand our banking and monetary system, for if they did, I believe there would be a revolution before tomorrow morning.” Henry Ford
“I am a most unhappy man. I have unwittingly ruined my country. A great industrial nation is controlled by its system of credit. Our system of credit is concentrated. The growth of the nation, therefore, and all our activities are in the hands of a few men. We have come to be one of the worst ruled, one of the most completely controlled and dominated Governments in the civilized world no longer a Government by free opinion, no longer a Government by conviction and the vote of the majority, but a Government by the opinion and duress of a small group of dominant men.” -Woodrow Wilson, after signing the Federal Reserve into existence.
Report Post »colt1860
Posted on October 30, 2011 at 12:02am@foundinf father2 Trying to save our Nation from bankruptcy and economic collapse, and to be independent of international bankers, is a most serious matter. It is an urgent quest, not to be taken likely.
I sincerely believe … that banking establishments are more dangerous than standing armies, and that the principle of spending money to be paid by posterity, under the name of funding, is but swindling futurity on a large scale. Jefferson
The issuing power should be taken from the banks and restored to the people, to whom it properly belongs. Jefferson
The few who understand the system, will either be so interested from it‘s profits or so dependant on it’s favors, that there will be no opposition from that class. Rothschild Brothers of London, 1863
Give me control of a nation‘s money and I care not who makes it’s laws. M.A.B. Rothschild
We have, in this country, one of the most corrupt institutions the world has ever known. I refer to the Federal Reserve Board. This evil institution has impoverished the people of the United States and has practically bankrupted our government. It has done this through the corrupt practices of the moneyed vultures who control it”. Congressman McFadden 1932
These 12 corporations together cover the whole country and monopolize and use for private
Report Post »gain every dollar of the public currency. Crozier of Cincinnati 1913
colt1860
Posted on October 30, 2011 at 12:08am@Founding father2
The [Federal Reserve Act] as it stands seems to me to open the way to a vast inflation of the
currency… I do not like to think that any law can be passed that will make it possible to submerge the gold standard in a flood of irredeemable paper currency. Henry Cabot Lodge Sr. 1913
By this means government may secretly and unobserved, confiscate the wealth of the people,
and not one man in a million will detect the theft. – J.M. Keynes (the father of ‘Keynesian Economics’ which our nation now endures) in his book THE ECONOMIC CONSEQUENCES
OF THE PEACE 1920
The money powers prey upon the nation in times of peace and conspire against it in times of adversity. It is more despotic than a monarchy, more insolent than autocracy, and more selfish than bureaucracy. It denounces as public enemies, all who question its methods or throw light upon its crimes. I have two great enemies, the Southern Army in front of me and the Bankers in the rear. Of the two, the one at my rear is my greatest foe.. corporations have been enthroned and an era of corruption in high places will follow, and the money powers of the country will endeavor to prolong its reign by working upon the prejudices of the people until the wealth is aggregated in the hands of a few, and the Republic is destroyed. Lincoln
jesus-is-savior.com/Evils%20in%20Government/Federal%20Reserve%20Scam/quotes_on_the_federal_reserve.htm
Watch the Money Masters youtube.com/watch?v=JXt1cayx0hs
Report Post »colt1860
Posted on October 30, 2011 at 12:13am*It is an urgent quest, not to be taken likely. – It is an urgent quest, not to be taken lightly.
Is this “stupid” and “annoying” enough?
Report Post »ThankBabyJesus
Posted on October 30, 2011 at 7:08amUSA! USA! Woot woot. :D
Report Post »stmikearchangel
Posted on October 30, 2011 at 8:19amMetalurgy, you are sick…and I will pray for your soul.
Report Post »your sensei
Posted on October 30, 2011 at 5:55pmTOTO . . . Right . Stand up for FREEDOM! Unless I want the freedom to dress like a person of the opposite sex, then NO FREEDOM!
Report Post »Islesfordian
Posted on October 30, 2011 at 9:47pmSenseless thinks he should have the freedom to do what he wants IN SOMEONE ELSE’S HOUSE. We have seen elsewhere that he has a skewed understanding of what freedom actually means, so why should we be surprised.
Report Post »On The Mark
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:29pmThe tyrannical intolerance and deiphobia of the Gender Confusion Agenda is here exposed.
The non-LDS Smith’s accusations about LDS lifestyle choices as “fear-mongering and hate-driven” are themselves “fear-mongering and hate-driven” and, thus, hypocritical.
As for “Gilbert”, he essentially says, “Christians should love everybody, but don’t tell anyone *I* said that.” In fact, LDS did not “exclude somebody”. Rather, they excluded particular behavior they find objectionable, which is perfectly reasonable, and is precisely what Smith and “Gilbert” are doing. It’s ridiculous to expect otherwise.
Report Post »abbygirl1994
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:45pmWe can love someone but not accept their lifestyle or the way they live.. we expect them to live their lives they way they choose.. its called free agency.. we just don’t want our children confused by others who seem to want to shove their lifestyles down our throats. “Evil are those who say evil is good and good evil”. Some members of our church have these sort of people in their own families and though it is heartbreaking they still love their child..
Report Post »FormerLib
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 6:25pmYes. The church we used to attend in California offered a Halloween alternative “Harvest Festival” for the kids, and has all kinds of requirements- no blood, no demons or monsters, no sexually suggestive costuming- and everyone was fine with it. Those who didn‘t like it didn’t go. The same people who have problems with dress codes for church events- do they have issues with dress codes for restaurants or clubs?
Report Post »godlovinmom
Posted on October 30, 2011 at 7:17pmChristian organizations have been doing this for hundreds of years..the church of Christ is not a man made organization…its within all of us…if we want to join…are you going to hell celebrating pagan holidays…no where have I read that in his words..but..it does say in his word about the crowns we will lay at his feet…I feel good about the fact that I have overcome my desire for the good times that holidays bring…and that Jesus is far more important. Seriously though..some of the movies that come out this time of year border insanity…nice!
Report Post »Islesfordian
Posted on October 30, 2011 at 9:56pmDo you remember when being tolerant and accepting was to live and let live? We didn’t have to like what people did to recognize their freedom to do it. We could get along because we stayed out of their personal business. They could do what they wanted. It woudln’t change who we are or what we do.
Ahhh…good times. NOW, however, that kind of tolerance just isn’t enough. NO, now we DO have to change who we are in order to accomodate them. They don’t want to conform to our ways of doing and thinking but we sure as hell have to accomodate ourselves to THEM. We must change in order to conform to the minorities demands, but heaven forfend we should expect them to change. that would be hateful.
Only a people that despises themselves would put up with such idiocy. Cultural suicide is what it is.
Report Post »Ruler4You
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:25pmCriticized by who? let me guess…
Report Post »Chuck Stein
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 2:18pmFox 13 News is the most anti-Mormon news outlet in SLC, so the source of the publicity is not any shock.
Report Post »jcizarter
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:20pmhttp://www.history.com/topics/jack-olantern-history
Report Post »Legend of the lit jack o lantern
Asderathos
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:17pm“said Gilbert, who asked FOX 13 not to use his name.”… LMAO! poor Gilbert.
Report Post »MR_ANDERSON
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:38pmGilbert’s chances of becoming an anonymous informant are over.
Report Post »planeboy
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 9:01pmI know to funny…BTW love the avatar…
Report Post »Greenwood
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:11pmWhy would a “christain organization” even celebrate a pagan holiday in the first place ?
Report Post »metalurgy
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:31pmIt’s Halloween. Kids get to dress up in costumes. They get to play games and get bags full of candy. It’s probably a lot of family fun.
I don’t think anybody is really thinking nor cares about pagan holidays. You’re probably against no smoking sections in bars. Cigars smoke is used in voodoo ceremonies. Let’s ban cigars too.
Just because you want to attach some religious evil intent doesn’t mean everyone else has to live by YOUR rules.
Christians (former Jews) didn’t eat pork till Paul of Tarsus came along. Get a life.
Report Post »javasport
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:31pmOh stop it you hypocrite. They can still celebrate traditions like everyone else in the US and not be worshipping some pagan god. Technically Xmas is the 25th of Dec because a very popular pagan celabration was also going on at the time and Christians didn‘t want to be left out and Constantine wanted to unify his kingdom thus he erroneously declared Chirst’s birth the 25th of Dec. Christ wasn’t born in the middle of winter (tax season wasn‘t in Dec it was in the spring and shepherds don’t watch their flock in the middle of winter for an angel to appear to). Christians hijacked a pagan holiday that worshipped the SUN to worship the SON. So unless you are a Christian that refuses to celebrate Xmas on the 25th and refuses to follow the tradition of giving and receiving gifts, and celebrate it rightfully around Easter, you should get the mote out of your own eye.
Report Post »Doctor Nordo
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:39pmOh please.
Report Post »Latter-Day-Soldier
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 2:31pm@JAVASPORT:
Unless you are an atheist, don’t be afraid to keep Christ in Christmas.
Report Post »sta
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 2:36pmIt’s “All hallows Eve” or in otherwords, the day before All Saint’s Day. Hallows meaning “to honor”.
Report Post »This is actually a Catholic holiday.
Whiskey-Sierra-Yankee-7th-Calvary
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 2:43pm“But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”
You get it…..
Report Post »godlovinmom
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 4:08pmI’m with you Greenwood…these so called “christian” organizations don’t even have a clue..Would Jesus celebrate a holiday when the origins are pure pagan..I ‘touched” on this subject about a month ago…and the backlash I receive was tremendous…how could I as a mother take that precious holiday away from my kids…that precious holiday is being celebrated at my local bar tonight…for those adults who haven’t grown up…There is pleasure in all sin for a season…say it loud, say it proud…Be ye seperate sayeth the Lord!
Report Post »Fitz Gerald
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 4:41pmChristian organizations need to provide a more wholesom alternative to that exact problem. It is not that they are celebrating halloween, it is more of an outreach to provide a much better alternative.
Report Post »Bearfoot
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 5:49pmGreenwood,
Most people do not want to hear it, and they do not understand your logical question.
It always amazes me how easily they can cast aside our God to participate in pagan rituals.
What sharing does light have with darkness?
Report Post »Greenwood
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 6:26pm@BEARFOOT……….Thank you, you are right most people don’t want to hear it. Javasport says I‘m a hypocrite but he doesn’t know me. I don’t celebrate Christmast or Easter they are also rooted in pagan traditions. He uses Luke 6:42 as his resonse and I would say read 1 Corinthians 10: 21
Report Post »Darren
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 10:13pm“Why would a “christain organization” even celebrate a pagan holiday in the first place ?”
A better question would be would a Christian organization hijack a pagan holiday and make it into something wholesome? Lighting pine trees to celebrate has a very long line in Pagan celebration; yet millions of Christians and their respective organizations do this every year. And in the name of honoring the birth of Christ. In this case, a local ward of a Christian organization decided to have a “trunk-or-treat“ instead of ”trick-or-treat” and instead iof a free for all costume dress up, there were standards placed. These standards make the event more family-friendly. Celebrating with the family is not unChristian.
Report Post »Bearfoot
Posted on October 30, 2011 at 1:25amDarren,
So, what you are saying is, it is acceptable to take a pagan celebration, dress it up a little, change some words and call it good? And then say it’s for the children or the family.
What do you think Jesus, our ransomer, would say about that?
Would he declare a false religious pagan observance good, if the children are giggling?
I hope I don’t have to give scriptural counsel on this, it should be a no brainer to figure this out.
Report Post »Darren
Posted on October 30, 2011 at 7:31am“So, what you are saying is, it is acceptable to take a pagan celebration, dress it up a little, change some words and call it good? And then say it’s for the children or the family.”
Not, ‘dress it up a little’ but change it entirely. Root out the Pagan worship within and replace it with Christ or something wholesome lie family. I know you do not celebrate Christmas in December but the vast majority of Christians do. This despite the fact that it was decided to celebrate Christmas in December because the Winter Solstice was already celebrated at that time of the year. Very similar to why we celebrate Easter (which I do not think you do neither). “Easter”, as I’m sure you know, is named after a Roman goddess.
“What do you think Jesus, our ransomer, would say about that?”
Ummmm, “I’m glad you enjoyed yourselves,” ? I also think he’d see as good an honor/celebration for His birth.
“Would he declare a false religious pagan observance good, if the children are giggling?”
Nope; but that was hardly my point and not at all what I was advocating.
“I hope I don’t have to give scriptural counsel on this, it should be a no brainer to figure this out.”
If you’d like, than go for it. Just put it into the perspective as I have laid out.
Report Post »Bearfoot
Posted on October 30, 2011 at 12:21pmDarren,
On this, I cannot abide by your “perspective”.
Report Post »WhiteFang
Posted on October 30, 2011 at 4:16pmBearFoot asked – What sharing does light have with darkness?
Darren does not understand this point, he thinks he can change Halloween into something acceptable to God.
If a certain observance has it’s roots in darkness (paganism) then no matter what someone does to try cleaning it up, it is futile. It would be like putting a gold nose ring on a pig, it does not make the pig beautiful, it is still just a pig in the mire.
It is better to do as Jesus Christ said; His followers would be no part of the world.
Report Post »John 17:16, James 4:4, 1 John 5:19
Darren
Posted on October 30, 2011 at 7:25pm@Bearfoot;
“On this, I cannot abide by your “perspective”.”
OK.
@Whitefang;
“What sharing does light have with darkness? Darren does not understand this point, he thinks he can change Halloween into something acceptable to God.”
Sure I can. Many people do it all the time. Like Winter Solstice being used to celebrate Christmas, no?
I know that the Jehovah’s Witnesses do not believe in celebrations, especially when it comes to celebrations which have Pagan origins. But my “perspective” is that Christians have been doing this for centuries. Heck, doesn’t “Thursday” mean “day of Thor”? Should we not recognize “Thursday” in our personal lives? Should we call it “fifth fair” as they do in the Portuguese (translated literally)? We can also make strong arguments that certain stories of the Bible originated from Egypt. (See the works of Hugo Gressman). We are to live in the world but not of the world is true. Is celebrating inherently “of the world”? My “perspective” is that it is not.
“It would be like putting a gold nose ring on a pig, it does not make the pig beautiful, it is still just a pig in the mire. ”
Why bother with a gold ring? The most beautiful aspect of a pig is how awesomely yummy it tastes. Especially when cooked underground. Mmmmmmmmmmmmm…
Report Post »Islesfordian
Posted on October 30, 2011 at 10:19pm“he thinks he can change Halloween into something acceptable to God. ”
More importantly, YOU think you can speak with authority on what celebartions are acceptable to God. When did he say that we could not replace a pagan celebration with a remembrance of the saints in heaven? We have only your interpretation that says this is not of God but a pagan celebration. No other god is worshipped. No other god exists. So if Satan and Samhain are not mentioned in the Christian celebration of All Hallows Day, and of its Eve, how can you say it’s unChristian? Do we have to take your word for it? Are you guys the new Popes? The Christian church has been celebrating this day for a thousand years. That’s older than your churches, boys. So who has credibility here to speak for God?
Report Post »WhiteFang
Posted on October 30, 2011 at 11:14pmDarren,
You can do whatever you like, you can invent a celebration any way you want. My contribution to this conversation is to bring up a viewpoint that may need some clarification from God’s Word. That is what I tried to do but if you cannot accept it, then we can end our conversation in peace.
Jeremiah said the following to the independent thinking Israelites as they were disciplined by their God; Jeremiah 7:24 But they did not listen, neither did they incline their ear, but they went walking in the counsels in the stubbornness of their bad heart, so that they became backward in direction and not forward, 25 from the day that YOUR forefathers came forth out of the land of Egypt until this day; and I kept sending to YOU all my servants the prophets, daily getting up early and sending [them]. 26 But they did not listen to me, and they did not incline their ear, but they kept hardening their neck. They acted worse than their forefathers! 27 “And you must speak to them all these words, but they will not listen to you; and you must call to them, but they will not answer you. 28 And you must say to them, ‘This is the nation whose people have not obeyed the voice of Jehovah its God, and have not taken discipline. Faithfulness has perished, and it has been cut off from their mouth.’
Islesfordian,
Report Post »Faithfulness to God’s Word has been replaced by false teachings and traditions of men.
Darren
Posted on October 30, 2011 at 11:25pmWhitefang;
With all due respect, the only thing you‘re saying from those scriptures is that I’m too stubborn to give ear to God. What I’m actually saying is that there is nothing wrong with taking a Pagan celbration and altering it to be more godly. Christians have been doing this for centuries and something I wholeheartedly agree with. By altering a Pagan celebration and making it more godly I mean to do more than “dress it up” or to make something that’s fithly look pretty on the surface. i’m talking about rooting out the very Pagan core of the celebration and use the celebration for something Christian. Fun celebrating with family is very much a Christian tenet of living.
I think you’re a good man, fang and I do highyl admire your faith. In fact, I find the Jehovah’s Witnesses one of the most demanding when it comes to scripture study and I admire that about the faith.
May God bless you and yours, sir. Same goes for Bearfoot.
Report Post »Islesfordian
Posted on October 31, 2011 at 8:15am“Faithfulness to God’s Word has been replaced by false teachings and traditions of men.”
True in many cases. But who are you to say what are the “false teaching and traditions of men”? How can you prove that your beliefs are not themselves “traditions of men”? My faith has been celebrating All Hallows Day longer than your faith can be shown to have existed. Why should anyone take the word of sects that make up their own doctrines and can’t demonstrate that they have had it passed down to them through the ages from the apaostles?
Report Post »WhiteFang
Posted on October 31, 2011 at 12:00pmIlsefordian,
Who am I to say? I am just a regular guy trying to live by God’s standards, not man’s standards. To accomplish that goal, I and millions of others take God’s Word very seriously. Many people have chosen to ignore much of God’s counsel delivered by His Christ (anointed one) Jesus. Now, just because a tradition has been handed down through centuries, and accepted even in the so-called Christian congregation, which is so often apostate, does not necessarily make it right. No, it is a tradition of men and men can, a do go wrong.
So, lets read 2 Timothy 3:14 You, however, continue in the things that you learned and were persuaded to believe, knowing from what persons you learned them 15 and that from infancy you have known the holy writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through the faith in connection with Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial for teaching, for reproving, for setting things straight, for disciplining in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be fully competent, completely equipped for every good work.
Who am I to say? Just a man trying to persuade others to accept God’s counsel, counsel to make us wise for salvation.
If you want to celebrate a pagan holiday, then go and do it. That is your choice and I will not interfere with your decision.
Report Post »Doctor Nordo
Posted on October 31, 2011 at 12:54pm@BEARFOOT and WHITEFANG
In none of your postings and scriptural references have you actually provided ANY sort of evidence that say that it’s un-Christian to celebrate a holiday that has no more resemblence to the original pagan celebration than that it is celebrated on the same day. Please, cite me ONE SINGLE SCRIPTURE that actually says something that proves celebrating Halloween is wrong.
Yes, I will wait.
Report Post »WhiteFang
Posted on October 31, 2011 at 1:39pmDoctor Nordo,
The Halloween celebration is not mentioned in the Holy Bible because it was not invented in its present form until centuries after the Christian congregation was formed. So, there is no specific scripture that meets your question’s structure.
It is a celebration of pagan origins and false teachings, misrepresenting God’s Word.
The false teaching of immortality of the human soul is at its roots. The reveling in demonism is highlighted in Halloween. Everything associated with this gross celebration is condemned in God’s Word. You, Doctor can find no scripture that would even come close to endorsing Halloween.
John 4:24 says “God is a Spirit, and those worshiping him must worship with spirit and truth.”
There is no “truth” in Halloween!
Report Post »20 No; but I say that the things which the nations sacrifice they sacrifice to demons, and not to God; and I do not want YOU to become sharers with the demons. 21 YOU cannot be drinking the cup of Jehovah and the cup of demons; YOU cannot be partaking of “the table of Jehovah” and the table of demons. 22 Or “are we inciting Jehovah to jealousy”? We are not stronger than he is, are we?
- 1 Corinthians 10:20-22
Bearfoot
Posted on October 31, 2011 at 1:55pmDoctor Nordo,
Have you researched the origin in Halloween?
Report Post »Bearfoot
Posted on October 31, 2011 at 2:06pmThe question Greenwood asked at the beginning of this comment string is the question people need to answer.
Report Post »Comeandtakeit
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:09pmIt’s a private party. It’s freedom OF religion, not from it. And it didn’t ban anybody, it banned a certain type of costume the organizers decided would be inappropriate. And it is nobody’s business but those who go to that church. Some churches around here don’t believe in celebrating Halloween itself but have fall festival parties instead. So what. Tolerance cuts both ways. Suppose a mosque had a party and banned short skirts for girls. Wouldn’t it be their right to do so then?
Report Post »etoddt
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:18pmI really don‘t get the complainant’s point.
The instructions also said “No Masks” along with “No Cross-Gender Dressing”… so this sounds less like an attack on any specific group than simple guidelines about the kind of atmosphere the party was trying to set.
The only way this is offensive is if you’re looking for limitations in cross-gender dressing to be offended by.
Report Post »CatB
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:09pmMy Party my rules .. that has always been the way things are. We should not let “political correctness” take away that right. (they want to run everything!)
TEA!
Report Post »KickinBack
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:26pmSpot on. If it wasn‘t a private organization they might risk a spontaneous uprising of OWS’rs.
Report Post »bama54m
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:08pmIts time to stop being so PC,,,thats one of the things,,thta is ruining the country.
Report Post »We don’t need the minority pushing their belief sytem onto the majority anymore,,
We used to be able to say in this country “If you don’t like it GO HOME”
Just sayin’
jcizarter
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:06pmSalt Lake Tribune , do you take funding from the communists? are you aligned with the communist party? does George Soros pay your bills?
Report Post »Hey Tribune, leave us alone.
evilhatemonger
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:02pmDon’t like the rules? Don’t attend. How hard is that? Smoking and drinking won’t be allowed either. Ms. Smith says she isn’t an LDS member, so why the heartache? I’d bet she never had any plans to attend anyway. Someone with her sort of sensitivity would never attend an LDS function, they are much too oppressive for the transgender crowd (they consider it wrong). Just looking for an opportunity to whine about something. I was unaware that Sandy UT was a hotbed of trans-gender activism. It’s not exactly San Francisco.
Report Post »If Sandy UT has a mosque, perhap she should take her concerns to them. They love that whole LGBT agenda :)
CatB
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:10pmWell said .. go try that in a Mosque .. leave LDS alone.
TEA!
Report Post »ssbstspd
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 2:31pmI was thinking the same thing. This stupid Women who supposively lives down the street has a problem ? She is no member and most deffintely never attended an event at this church. Obviously she is not even a true believer in Jesus Christ. She states and i quote ”I have several friends who are transgender or drag queens for a profession.” So you have no problems with your friends engaging in illegal behavior and breaking the law ? but you have a problem with this church event ? This womens good friends are probally out there spreading diseases as well as engaging in prostitution. Shame on this news organazation for taking this womens opinion, who shouldn’t even have one, since she is so tolerant and open minded. Another model citizen. One who we look to live totally opposite of.
Report Post »Latter-Day-Soldier
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 2:39pmIf she was in an Islamic country (or a Muslim dominate neighborhood in {pick your city in the UK or any Euro country}) The first thing that would happen is that she would most likely be beaten for being out of her house without a male escort from her family. It’s a violation of Sharia Law B.T.W.
Report Post »Lord_Frostwind
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 4:17pmYou would think that wisdom would prevail, but alas, it’s not so much an argument of “we should all respect everyone” it has become of an argument of “Everyone has to accept us! No matter what their beliefs.” Their definition of tolerance only flows one way, towards themselves.
Report Post »hightide
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 12:56pmThe point is that cross dressing is not appropriate for children. As a Christian it’s ok to include everyone and then to tell them that we are all sinners and have to turn away from our sins to be accepted by God. and have our sins forgiven. But not an event for children. That is not acceptable.
Report Post »momrules
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 12:56pmAgain a persons belief in Christ is used as a weapon againt them. The other resident said if you are a Christian loving person you should include everybody, to exclude somebody isn’t fair. WHAT?
Report Post »Does being a Christian mean one has to welcome whatever we believe is deviant behaviour? Come on kids dress like a gang banger, a drug dealer, a ******.
These nosy neighbors need to start being Christian instead of telling Christians how to act.
Lord_Frostwind
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 4:20pmSadly, it’s so much easier to point out the mote in your brothers eye than it is to acknowledge the logs jammed in your own.
Report Post »swalt
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 12:50pmI am so sick to death of this PC nonsense! PC is one of the most dangerous things that has happened in this country, and we can thank the Progressives for it. It is one of the biggest tools in their toolbox, and they use it with impunity because they know when someone says “You can’t say or do that! It might hurt someone’s feelings!” then it makes people back down. This country needs to wake up!
http://www.securefutureinbadtimes.com
Report Post »lodgerat
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 4:24pmThe Muslims are pretty good at using it against us..just saying
Report Post »mattmo79
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 12:48pmGood rule! LDS is hosting the party, they can make the rules they want. If you don’t like it 1. Too flippin bad and 2. Don’t go!! Stop whining about it!
Report Post »Git-R-Done
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 5:46pmAmen to that. I‘m sick of the left wing trying to tell everybody else who people can and can’t include.
Report Post »RavenGlenn
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 12:46pmSuch a ridiculous rule. No cross-gender dressing? Why stop there then? The whole point is to be something you aren’t. I suppose you should only be allowed to dress as who you personally are.
Report Post »DandD
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:22pmIts their party and their rules. You certainly wouldn’t go into your friends house with a lit cigarette if they had a strict rule against smoking. Why should a church not be allowed the same respect and consideration? The LDS believe in the Bible and have every right to request that others meet the standards set out for their members when attending church functions.
IN addition, neither the LDS nor any other church has the responsibility to be “accepting” of perversion.
Report Post »mrsmileyface
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:28pmAmen to that statement Dan.
Report Post »Islesfordian
Posted on October 30, 2011 at 10:27pmIf a synagogue were hosting a halloween party would they be wrong to say that Hitler costumes were not OK? Should I be able to wear a Klan costume to a halloween party in a black church? I’m not a klansman, so it would be a real disguise.
Pretty flimsy sophistry posing as an argument.
Report Post »paying-for-freedom
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 12:43pmSo now the sexual deviates of our society are trying to use children as an excuse to make the rest of us do what they want. I don’t care what harm they think not allowing cross dressing might cause. If the child is genderly challenged, its seems someone has already harmed that child!!!
Report Post »TheCalvinistPastor
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 12:43pmGimme a break, people now days get offended so easy. If I were to throw a party, i can dictate whatever I want. ITS MY PARTY. its up to the guest to decide whether or not to come.
Report Post »The_Almighty_Creestof
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 12:41pmYour party, your rules…don’t like them, then you can sit at home and watch the Twilight Zone marathon.
Report Post »grayducttape
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 12:39pmMaybe the “Girl Scouts” could learn a lesson from the LDS Church
Report Post »Oh… that’s right… It wouldn’t be politically correct to exclude “girls” with boy’s genitalia.
jdog777
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 12:34pmI have the same rule for kids….. let the criticism begin. In fact, they can not dress like anything that is demonic, satanic, or remotely resembles Obama or his ilk.
Report Post »bama54m
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:05pmHey JDOG;
Report Post »Just loved the way you threw the Mullah in Charge into the group “satanic” My laugh for the day,,skillfully done,,I might say !
katiefrankie
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 2:57pmI’m still giggling over both your comments – classic!
Just went to a Halloween party at the LDS church in my hometown last night – lots of fun, lots of candy and chili, lots of great costumes. No complaints! (Except that it was raining, making my trunk-or-treat a bit damp.)
Report Post »Darren
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 10:30pm“they can not dress like anything that is demonic, satanic, or remotely resembles Obama or his ilk.”
LOL!!!
Report Post »YepImaConservative
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 12:34pmRaquel Smith, who has lived for years down the street from the Mormon meeetinghouse that is hosting the party, says she was “appalled” when she read the party flier taped to her door. She is not a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Smith calls the ban “fear-mongering and hate-driven,“ and said to the Tribune ”I have several friends who are transgender or drag queens for a profession.”
—————————————————————————–
Sounds like you girl are living in the wrong neighborhood. Maybe you and your friends would be more welcome at the “Dysfuncional Lifestyles Halloween Party” in the next state over.
Report Post »DiscGo
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 12:32pmI’ll bet that if a bunch of mormons went as cross dresser, they would get in trouble for making fun of cross-dressers. There is just no way for them to win.
Report Post »gramma b
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 12:31pmwe are entitled to set and enforce standards at our private parties. I’ll bet that ward will never try to include non-member neighbors again.
Report Post »Oldphoto678
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:39pmYes you do, just as others have the right to criticize your rules if they want to.
Report Post »gramma b
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 2:09pmCriticizing is one thing. Acting like they are entitled to dictate our standards to us is quite another.
Report Post »snixy
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 12:29pmIt’s their party – anybody whining about it does not have to go – it is not mandatory. I applaud their decision to protect the children that do go.
Report Post »motonutt
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 12:37pmI have one thing to say…….Whatever…..Bishop Toone, stick to your guns. You are right. Don’t back down. Please! “Pride center” that say’s it all.
Report Post »debbdi
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 12:42pmGood for them. It is nice of the church to organize a Halloween party – where kids can stay in one location and play games, ‘trunk or treat’ etc. Don’t like it, don’t go- parents can take their kids from house to house like the ‘old days’.
That being said, is the ‘no masks’ rule so only cute kids are allowed? Sorry, no ugly kids! I’m JUST KIDDING, but it may happen someday!
Report Post »cyclops
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:17pmAmen to that and I don’t even think, it is national news worthy or now that it’s on here, worldwide……Must have been a slow news day for Journalists in Utah……
Report Post »SamiMiami
Posted on October 29, 2011 at 1:57pmI think people are looking for things to be offended over. I can guarantee you that the church members weren’t even thinking of transgender individuals when they made the invites. The idea is simple… to keep the activity fun for everyone, even the little kids that would be there, they ban scary masks and dressing up as someone of the opposite gender. They‘re just trying to keep it family friendly that’s all. I’m LDS, was raised LDS, and in no case have I ever witnessed discrimination against homosexuals or transgenders or anything of the sort. Can’t speak for every Mormon out there, because people are imperfect regardless whatever belief they appear to follow, but the doctrine itself is actually very loving. We don‘t exclude people just because we don’t agree with them. It’s a difficult concept for a lot of people to grasp though.
Report Post »