Truth Tethered to Love: Navigating the Gather Movement and Covenant Keeping

Brothers and Sisters, friends of the Gather, the winds of change swirl around us, sometimes carrying scents of sweetness and sometimes the bitter dust of confusion. We, who feel the pull of the gathering, the yearning for Zion, find ourselves at a crossroads. Like Samuel the Lamanite upon the walls of Jerusalem, we must discern the signals, the whispers of truth amidst the clamor of the world.

Recently, a significant event has drawn attention: the participation of a former presiding bishop of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at a conference hosted by an organization called “Gather.” The details, as shared in a powerful podcast episode, reveal a focus on identity and lifestyle affirmation, with the ultimate goal of same-sex sealing in the temple.

Now, let’s be clear. Love is the very essence of the gospel. Jesus Christ loves *all* of God’s children. But as Ammon taught at the Waters of Sebus, love without truth is not charity. It’s a fragile thing, easily swayed by the currents of popular opinion. It's not enough to simply say, “Jesus loves you; therefore, nothing you do matters.” That’s a dangerous distortion, a siren song leading away from the rock of truth.

The Builder's Dilemma

This situation presents a profound challenge for those of us who strive to be builders, not destroyers. We recognize the deep pain and longing that individuals experience, and we extend compassion and understanding. Yet, we also hold steadfastly to the covenants we have made, the doctrines revealed through prophets and apostles. It’s a delicate balance, a tightrope walk requiring courage and discernment.

We’ve seen before how those who cleave to the world's ways often seek to erode the foundations of truth. Remember the Stone cut without hands, the monument to God’s power and purpose? There will always be those who seek to chip away at it, to dismantle what is sacred.

Covenant and Compassion: The Right Approach

The podcast highlights organizations like North Star, which offer a path forward – a way to love and support LGBTQ individuals while remaining grounded in gospel principles. They emphasize the importance of keeping covenants, adhering to scripture, and seeking direction from prophets. This is the path that allows us to extend empathy without compromising truth.

It's about recognizing the divine potential within each individual, while also upholding the standards of righteousness. It's about offering a hand of friendship and understanding, while gently guiding others toward the waters of covenant. Like the five smooth stones David gathered to face Goliath, we need to arm ourselves with truth, love, and unwavering faith.

The Gather Movement and the Missionary Fund

This discussion underscores the vital role of the Gather movement. It’s more than just a community; it's a gathering place, a digital Zion where builders from diverse backgrounds can connect, collaborate, and contribute to the work of the Lord. And your engagement here—your support of the Charity Flywheel—directly fuels the expansion of the Gospel message. It funds advertising campaigns in places like Ghana, bringing the light of truth to those who hunger for it. Consider contributing to the Missionary Fund, amplifying that reach.

Take a moment to study the Map of Churches and see how you can claim your church's place in this growing network. Outback Jack, with his steady wisdom, reminds us of the urgency of this moment – Alma 17-19, D&C 4, Moroni 10:4-5 speak of the need for boldness and unwavering commitment.

Let us, like Ammon, stand firm in the face of opposition, tethered to truth and overflowing with love. Let us build Zion, brick by brick, covenant by covenant, until the day when the Lord’s work is fully established upon the earth.