Tonight, I visited temple square and took this picture of the nativity. Peaceful, calm beautiful. I love the gospel of Jesus Christ that this scene epitomizes. Humility, tenderness, love.

I’m going to relate a different story of what is happening in the Church which bears His name. But, this narrative bears no resemblance to His gospel.

I was 15 and had a 18 year old boyfriend. I lost my virginity. My parents went to my bishop and asked him to talk to me. I was forced to go. I Confessed and he asked me, “Do you know what people called girls like you?” He called me a Slut. He told me I’d never get a descent young man and I had ruined all my chances. The rose petals were damaged and could never be made beautiful again.

I married the first boy that was nice to me at 17 and got the heck out of there. He was horribly abusive to me. We divorced at 21. Luckily no children.

That bishop, that monster! I was so young and already suffered from low self esteem. I felt absolutely horrible and then his words broke my heart. That kind of personal attack and degrading stays with me even today. For several years, I was very depressed and suicidal. I just needed a friend, an ear and some positive kind words.

As I write this, I’m calm. However, when I first read the story, I released an angry expletive when I came to the word ‘slut.’ This could have happened to any one of my six daughters. It will NOT happen to my granddaughters. That is what drives me to fight for change.

Back to the tender babe of the season, who is my Savior. Christ beckoned all children to come to him. He did not beckon any little girl to go behind a closed door, with an untrained older man, all alone, to be asked if she masturbates. And…what other dangers might lurk behind those closed doors? For one, calling a vulnerable 15 year old, a slut. That is not the embodiment of Christ’s love. It’s the embodiment of evil.

To my dear friend of this story :

I’m sorry this happened to you. It was wrong. You were wronged. I believe what you have shared. Thank you for honoring me with your trust. I can assure you that sharing your story you will help many, many others who are still struggling with self-loathing from this misguided practice.

Stand Up for Our Vulnerable Children

Help me, and thousands of others, eradicate this repugnant practice. Sign the Petition. Share the Petition.

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