“To Heal the World,” For the Strength of Youth, May 2022.
Sunday Morning Session
To Heal the World
Excerpts
What is religious freedom?
It is freedom of worship in all its configurations: freedom of assembly, freedom of speech, freedom to act on personal beliefs, and freedom for others to do the same. Religious freedom allows each of us to decide for ourselves what we believe, how we live and act according to our faith, and what God expects of us. …
Amidst the turmoil in 1842, Joseph [Smith] published 13 fundamental tenets of the growing Church, including this one: “We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may” [Articles of Faith 1:11].
His statement is inclusive, liberating, and respectful. That is the essence of religious freedom. …
Consider with me four ways that society and individuals benefit from religious freedom.
First. Religious freedom honors the first and second great commandments, placing God at the center of our lives. …
Second. Religious freedom fosters expressions of belief, hope, and peace. …
Third. Religion inspires people to help others. …
And fourth. Freedom of religion acts as a unifying and rallying force for shaping values and morality. …
I invite you to champion the cause of religious freedom. It is an expression of the God-given principle of agency.