3 Types Of "Testimonies" The Prophets And Apostles Have Told Us To Avoid.
3 Types Of "Testimonies" The Prophets And Apostles Have Told Us To Avoid.
The first Sunday of each month always was the most nerve-racking as a missionary. Never knowing what fast and testimony meeting was going to hold. Often testimony meeting was treated like an open mic night at church. When the testimony meeting went off the rails it was torture to sit there.
But testimony meeting is not meant to be an open mic event! It is not the appropriate forum for people to go on rants, confessions, publicity stunts or calls for attention. These are NOT testimonies. In a matter of fact, the prophets have actually told us the types of testimonies that are not appropriate. But just as important as knowing how we can share a true testimony is also not judging others for their testimony. With that understanding, here are three types of testimonies we should stop sharing during fast and testimony meeting and what we should do instead.
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1st. The Sermon-mony.
Everyone has heard the sermon-mony. The person approaches the pulpit and proceeds to share quotes, scriptures, and lecture on a topic they think we need to hear. Nothing is wrong with sharing a quote or verse and testifying about it. But don't sermonize, it is not the right place and you lack the authority to hijack a meeting like that.
"A testimony is not an exhortation; a testimony is not a sermon (none of you are there to exhort the rest); . . . The moment you begin preaching to others, your testimony ended."
Spencer W. Kimball (Teachings of the Prophets Spencer W. Kimball Chapter 7)
2nd. The Travelogue-mony.
The travelogue-mony happens often during the summer months. As a missionary, we had one member 'testify' about a river rafting trip for so long that one of our investigators stood up and walked out of the meeting. We went to his house right after church and he told us, "That was not church!" Travelogues are not evil per se, but they are not testimonies. The purpose of a fast and testimony meeting is not to talk about your vacation to California, Nauvoo, or Kirtland or Disneyland It is to testify of the truthfulness of the gospel. Sure you can reference that recently you visited XY or Z and it strengthened your testimony. But when your vacation is more prominent than the gospel your testimony is a travelogue-mony.
The same principles apply to the Health-mony where you talk about your health issues. Sharing a short faith confirming miracle of healing via priesthood blessing/prayer/fasting is totally fine. Personally, I love these miracles, but going off on a health log where that becomes the focus instead of the gospel is not.
"A testimony of the gospel is not a travelogue, a health log, or an expression of love for family members. It is not a sermon."
Dallin H. Oaks (Testimony, Conference, April 2008)
The Story-mony.
I often fall into the trap of story-mony. I think that many of us do. The problem with a story-mony is that it is not a testimony but a talk. The most powerful talks I've heard in sacrament meetings were the stories of conversion to a particular principle. When members are not given a chance to give talks about their conversion story, they revert to giving testimonies about their story.
My homeward Bishop decided to change that. No longer would anyone be asked to give a talk based on conference talks; instead, they would share their conversion story. Why they joined the church, or how they were converted to XY or Z topics. When that happened the members realized that their conversion story is a talk, not testimony.
"We need to replace stories, travelogues, and lectures with pure testimonies."
M. Russell Ballard (Pure Testimony, Conference, October 2004)
But what about the Thank-a-mony?
A thank-a-mony is a testimony in the seedling stage. There is nothing wrong with standing and giving thanks. After all, we are commanded to be grateful. I know that when I was praying for a testimony and did not have one yet often I could only give thanks, and oh how grateful I am now that I learned then to testify! But just like any seed, it should sprout into more. Of thank-a-monies Elder Ballard taught and I quote:
"We often hear some members, and especially children, bear their testimonies, listing things for which they are thankful: their love of family, the Church, their teachers, their friends. For them, the gospel is something that they are grateful for because it makes them feel happy and secure. This is a good beginning, but testimonies need to be much more. They need to be anchored very early to the first principles of the gospel.
"Too many of our members’ testimonies linger on “I am thankful” and “I love,” and too few are able to say with humble but sincere clarity, “I know.” As a result, our meetings sometimes lack the testimony-rich, spiritual underpinnings that stir the soul and have meaningful, positive impact on the lives of all those who hear them."
Russell M. Ballard (bold and italics added, Pure Testimony, Conference, October 2004)
So What Is A Testimony?
"You are there to bear your own witness. It is amazing what you can say in 60 seconds by way of testimony. . . Just tell how you feel inside. That is the testimony."
Spencer W. Kimball (Teachings of the Prophets Spencer W. Kimball Chapter 7)
How Often Should I Share My Testimony?
"Do you think that you can go three, and six, and nine, and twelve months without bearing your testimony and still keep its full value?"
Spencer W. Kimball (Teachings of the Prophets Spencer W. Kimball Chapter 7)
"Those who have a testimony of the restored gospel also have a duty to share it."
Dallin H. Oaks (Testimony, Conference, April 2008)
“Regarding one’s testimony, remember, that which one willingly shares he keeps, while that which he selfishly keeps he loses."
Thomas S. Monson (Pathways to Perfection [1973], 100–101, as found in Preach My Gospel Chapter 11)
I Don't Feel Like I Have A Testimony, What Can I do?
"We gain or strengthen a testimony by bearing it . . . testimonies are better gained on the feet bearing them than on the knees praying for them."
Dallin H. Oaks (Testimony, Conference, April 2008)
PS for fun enjoy some Fast and Testimony Memes.
What about when it's always the same people standing up month after month? It might be nice to hear from some different people sometimes.
We can't stop the same members keep on sharing their testimonies every month bec.they choose to do so. Others should follow without judging them of what they feel is right.
Exactly, this is not meant to judge others but for us to do better.
Yes, we can't stop them from bearing their testim0ny, as l0ng as u have a firm testim0ny of the gospel,that is a str0ng and valid reas0n to stand on the pulpit and witness of the gospel.
some people are just too shy to apeak i always give others a chance to bear their testimonies often after a pause when nobody else is forthcoming.
I bear my testimony each month because I know its true. I was baptised at 22 and now Im 61. Im still amazed that I am in the most true church on earth and that God and Jesus are at the helm. I want to meet Joseph Smith some day and say to him "I always knew you were a prophet of the most high while others dispised and hated you". I love this church.
If everyone followed Elder Oaks council the same people wouldn't feel they needed to get up. There is no excuse for 5 to 10 minute stretches of silence during testimony meeting.
Sometimes though a small lapse is ok. If everyone is still feeling the spirit and it's not one of those awkward and uncomfortable silences, its ok.
Maybe you could pull them aside privately and talk to them about it. You can mention that while you enjoy hearing them bear their Testimony, you'd appreciate it if they would also allow room for others to share there's as well.
Maybe if they tend to be one of these people who have problems with some of the things listed above, maybe you could share with them this message. You could also suggest that they wait a little longer than usual so that some of the other people who are shy can get that extra silent push from the Spirit. I know my Mom and I have had to learn how to not be the first ones all the time to jump up and participate in something whether that's bearing our Testonies or making a comment in class (Sunday School or Relief Society).
Also you might Learn from some of them that they made a personal commitment to God to always bear their Testimony when they got the chance. In any case, just meet with those you feel might need to know or be aware of these things and Remember to follow the Spirit.
I hope this helps you for future times!
Also, Thanks for the article.. this is a great reminder!
(PS: My main comment was in response to a question regarding some of the same people getting up in Sacrament Meeting to bear their Testimony.
A testimony should never be quashed. A testimony is a testimony, no matter who it comes from. It may not be strengthening your testimony, but it might be the key to another's. We are not there for ourselves, but to help others. As soon as we start thinking about ourselves, we lose the purpose of being there.
Thanks so much for the article. There's also the "medical problems-mony."
The quote from Elder Oaks addresses that.
In my opinion is the medical testimony is the most annoying (sorry couldnt think of a better word). When people get up and ramble on and on about their medical report. I'm sorry but when someone starts with this the spirit immediately fades for me. I know I shouldn't be this way and I'm working on it, but members really sometimes it's just TMI.
Bishop's must have the courage to stand up and cut the long winded, travelog, sermonizing, droning people off.
I was in a testimony meeting not to long ago where a sister stood at the pulpit and proceeded to tell everyone how evil her former husband and mother in law were. A member of the Stake Presidency and the Bishop sat there and let it happen. Wrong place for that.
Most of the time it is more Christlike to be kind than right.
I have a problem with people who just get up and parrot and have their children parrot about the bbm saying the book is true . I love god . I love my parents. Well yeah we all know this. Do they all have to say it so robotic like? Whispering in their childs ear? It just irritates me. Its like brainwashing. Children will learn from good examples .
I love it when children bear their testimony. It is the purest it can be. You remember the saying, "Fake it til you make it?" This is how a parent supports a child's testimony. It's not parroting so much as supporting. I needed that when I visited the church in the beginning. They helped me to form the words to express how much I loved the Gospel and Jesus Christ, while hopefully I could know it was true. The missionaries were the ones who helped me with the words. When others get up and say what they know to be true, don't we get up and parrot the same things. It's no different.
@Taylor Manning, Yes, being kind is important, Jesus Christ would not say mean things because someone did not bear their testimony the exact right way, we need to understand that in bearing true testimony involves strong emotions, not exact correct presentation. However the time element is important, if the Bishop says 60 seconds, that is what we should do. A sister in RS bore her testimony for over half an hour, people were getting annoyed,the next day she died.
@theresa baylor, I agree with you about telling the children what to say as they stand with the child and whisper in their ear. Maybe better to do some of this learning process in family home evening or another comfortable place for the child. They will learn and when they're ready, they will give their own testimony.
This is a good article... but I would suggest that it is better if you have source of when, where or what article those quotations can be found. It will be more powerful.
I have added the citations with links!
You forgot about the "Thank-a-monies".
I was looking for ones that I could find authoritative quotes against, and I did not find one on that. If you know of a quote I'll add it.
Elder Ballard had something to say on "thankimonies" (which certainly should be included in a list like this, it's the most prevalent of the offenses!)
April 2004 "We often hear members, and especially children, bear their testimonies, listing things for which they are thankful: their love of family, the Church, their teachers, their friends. ...This is a good beginning, but testimonies need to be so much more. They need to be anchored very early to the first principles of the gospel."
Basically, it's okay to be thankful, but rattling off a list of gratitudes isn't what a testimony is about.
Thanks for that quote, I can't believe I missed it! I just added a section about a thank-a-mony.
Did you read the whole article. That very quotes was in there. Just sayin.
More from the same talk by Ballard:
My experience throughout the Church leads me to worry that too many of our members’ testimonies linger on “I am thankful” and “I love,” and too few are able to say with humble but sincere clarity, “I know.” As a result, our meetings sometimes lack the testimony-rich, spiritual underpinnings that stir the soul and have meaningful, positive impact on the lives of all those who hear them.
i am sure that the sister was approached kindly, and in private at a later time, to advise her, thus sparing her embarrasment.
Exactly, most of the time it is best to approach after the meeting and kindly talk in private.
I believe the instruction from the handbook is concise and allows for people, to be people.
There have been testimonies that frustrated me in the past, but, when I try to see my fellow ward members with the Saviors eye. I love them and their testimony, even if it doesn't fall into what I would say or do at the pulpit.
"After the sacrament, the bishopric member who is conducting the meeting bears a brief testimony. He then invites members to bear heartfelt testimonies and to relate faith-promoting experiences. The bishopric encourages members to keep their testimonies brief so more people may have the opportunity to participate."
https://www.lds.org/handbook/handbook-2-administering-the-church/meetings-in-the-church?lang=eng#18.2.3
Thank you for sharing what the handbook says. My testimony is strengthened when I hear "faith promoting experiences" that members share. It also strengthens my bond with that person as a member of my ward family. If someone is going to stand and tell me that they have a testimony of prayer, I want to know what it is that made them know that prayers are heard. Testimonies should be brief but I gain the most from testimonies that explained.
Larry:
And there is nothing wrong with silence during a testimony meeting. THe time when no testimonies are not being vocalized, can still be a very edifying experience. WHen I hear someone say that they stand up "so that the time is not wasted", I wish they would realize it is not wasted.
Thank you!!! Often, it takes that quiet time for an introvert to get the courage to stand.
@Larry, I agree with you. It also bothers me to hear somebody say so and so dared me or made me give my testimony, or kept nudging me. I don't mind the silence. Sometimes there is a sweet kind of sacredness in the admonition to "...be still and know that I am God."
Is it meant that 45 people should get up and say the same thing? That would be the 45 minutes at one minute a piece. Are expressions of love for those that hold you up and help you to build your testimony inappropriate? How inspiring would a testimony be if all that was said was, "I believe that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ live. I believe that Joseph Smith is a true prophet of God. I believe that the Book of Mormon is a true book." I understand that these are absolutely true and the bedrock of everyone's testimony. I also believe that a testimony given at the pulpit needs to be fairly brief so that others have the opportunity to bear theirs. I also know that a lesson or a travel log is not appropriate. How many testimony meetings have you been in that wasn't at least half spent with everyone wondering who would get up next. Unless a string of kids gets up. And it seems that the Church frowns on that and for the most part has been stopped. I do not have an argument with any council that our dear Prophets, Seers, and Revelators have given us. I just think that there maybe should be just a bit of diversity in testimonies given at the pulpit on fast Sunday.
Hi. I believe that the author also wants to point out that there is a fine line between the examples and a real testimony. As you can see with the last statements per number, he states that, for the story-mony, if the stories experienced were totally faith-promoting and that the story does not overcome the gospel, it is still good. 🙂
I think I understand what you are saying. I think that we hear but we don't always understand how to apply the council given. It seems to me the biggest issue is focus. Sometimes we get so into our story or travel log that we forget to testify. We are side tracked. I think we can share a bit of our story of why we have a testimony of a principle, keeping it brief and gospel centered. I don't think the church discourages children from bearing testimony. I think they are wanting children to be able to stand up on their own with out help when they do bear their testimony. Is it really the kids testimony if a parent has to whisper in their ear. Maybe, maybe not. It is cute and heart warming when a child gets up, but sometimes they won't talk etc. even after a parent comes to help etc. I can see why they have asked parents to teach children at home and let them practice there. Then if they feel the spirit they can testify in a sacrament meeting. They then have the understanding and skills and it is truly their testimonies.
Actually, Elder Ballard implies that children shouldn't bear testimonies in FT mtg: "Young children should practice sharing their testimonies in Primary and with their parents in family home evening gatherings until they understand the important meaning of a testimony." October 2015
I agree with what has been shared by you Vernon Reid and Kara, aside from the fact that it is spelled "counsel" not "council," in this particular example. I believe there ought to be variety testimony sharing. Can someone bear their personal testimony by sharing a story of something that happened during the week? Absolutely! After all we are counselled to liken the Scriptures (the journals of prophets) to ourselves. Why not help others see the Gospel in action? Can someone exhort others while bearing testimony? Certainly! While this may seem preachy or sermon-y, what principle can lead us to Christ if it isn't followed by a call to action? When we endeavor to prescribe rules of how to do the tiniest of things in the Church I think we are following a dangerous path to becoming more like the Pharisees and less like the disciples of Christ. I think if anything, this article should help us to analyze what makes up our testimony. What is at its core? Of course it is Christ and His restored gospel If people would only bear testimony, without examples, stories, personal anecdotes etc., I would not be attending Church. Am I there to be entertained? President Oaks says that I'm not, but I have to say that I most certainly am. Am I guilty of enjoying the occasional sharing of a past transgression? Absolutely, especially when it helps me to see my brothers and sisters as real people. When it comes to Church, my mind and soul need nourishment and stimulation, not the drudgery of seemingly empty words void of examples and application.
Thank you so much Keith. I totally agree 100% with you.
It seems that most have their own pet-peeve. Maybe a little bit of tolerance would make for a stronger presence of the Holy Ghost during Fast and Testimony meeting.
I agree Vernon about tolerance to bring about the strength of the Holy Ghost in our lives. Many times in our mission we find times we could be intolerant, but find we are blessed more if we just show love inside and out.
It ALWAYS happens. After they give their 15min talks about how they grew up with so and so then they talk about how different things were way back then, then finish with a testimony. Nothing that testifies any experiences that uplift our spirits or spiritually learn from. I often get bored n get sleep faster. This should be reminded to all stakes they letters or emails through out the world to stop all these talks during testimony Sundays. Seriously. It will never stop!
There are certain people who when they get up to walk the pulpit on fast Sunday, I grab the baby and a diaper and exit the chapel. One of the would read her poetry even though she's been asked not to. Another guy used to give a sermon. The same sermon every month.
When my first grand baby was born , her mother and her parents and brother came to the blessing. They are not members and it was their first time attending our church. I inwardly cringed when a teenage girl stood to bear her testimony, and true to form she talked a long time about her cat. After the meeting the only comment the family made was the mother's comment about how touched she was by this young girl . I felt ashamed of myself for my uncharitable judgement and I have tried my best not to judge, though I do struggle with some.
I had the same experience happen, on my mission someone talked about cows. And how their prize cow was sick and they went on for a couple minutes, and ended with testifying that the day they were going to put the cow down they fasted and prayed and the cow stood up. I was so judgmental that I was thinking our investigator will never come to church again.
After church we asked what he thought and he said "That cow story!" I replied "I know..." and he then said "This is real! The this is actually real!" I was humbled and learned not to judge others.
What about the "name dropping/people I know mony"? Recently moving to Utah I was shocked one Sunday to hear a former member of a stake presidency get up and just go on about who he knew in the audience and how he knew so and so's grandpa etc. etc... the spirit was gone!
This is not an appropriate post. No person's testimony should be judged like this. Ever.
Allison, I am merely pointing out what the Prophets and Apostles have said in hopes of teaching correct doctrine so we can change behavior. I am not judging others.
I agree. I have to admit I cringe when someone gives a long-winded travelogue during testimony meeting however it's not for me to judge what they have felt prompted to say.
I believe this is totally appropriate. Yesterday I was about to go up when a brother got up before me and I knew it was a lost cause. He gets up every month and says the exact same thing (very little of it a "testimony") and speaks for at least 10 minutes. We are all late to Sunday School because of this. His family now stays home from F&T meeting because they are so embarrassed. I'm thinking of sending him an anonymous note, loving of course, but clear. (Our Bishop has spoken to him with no success). I am very close with this family so I feel I could say something.
In full, Savannah's testimony was about two and a half minutes long. Significantly shorter than the average testimony. She wrote it out so where could be direct, effective, and concise. She was not negative or offensive. And she shared the truth of the Gospel based on her experiences. Savannah's testimony was one if the brightest testimonies I've heard in a long time.
I appreciate this post, however I wonder if the people who read this aren't really the ones who would benefit from it. At the risk of being judgmental or critical our F& T meetings became "cry-i mony" meetings . The sister who always ran up to the pulpit first, grabbed tissues and started to cry about her hard life, with a "I know the church is true" at the end. Next came the same 3 sisters month after month, whose husbands also were also less active, crying about their lives and sermonizing for 15 minutes. Same people every month - I feel sad that more don't share their testimonies. When someone different does, though, I know they share from their heart. This is a touchy and tender topic, but I appreciate the openness. Hopefully this post will help bring testimony meetings to a place where more lives are touched and changed.
Interesting the differences in Religious practice. Last month I attended a Universal Unitarian church in Salt Lake where the youth of various ages were standing at the pulpit and sharing their "testimonies" of sort. Very impressed by their heartfelt expressions. Some of ideas and beliefs they shared were quite different from one another. Regardless, it didn't seem to bother the Reverend or the congregants. In fact it seemed they valued the diversity they expressed.
I just think this article is walking on thin ice here! The worst thing that could happen after reading this is for anyone to judge anyone and label their testimony into one of these groups! Everyone who goes up is trying their best and we need to listen to everyone's testimony with the spirit of love and understanding! Many of us have weaknesses when it comes to speaking publicly. Many are new in the church or young. Many are old and have a hard time putting their feelings to words! I think we need to pray before we give a testimony and use our faith to speak what Heavenly Father guides us to say. As a congregation, we need to listen with compassion and love. No judging of ourselves or putting testimonies into groups like this. This could seriously hurt someones feelings, and as a result of feeling judged , they may never want to try to bear their testimony again.
Actually, in Utah, about once every six months, we would get letters from the Presidency reminding us what testimonies are SUPPOSED to be. Those meetings were always great! People actually TESTIFIED, and the Spirit abounded. You didn't get a lot of these other things mixed in. Clearly, people do know HOW to do this, the problem is that they always forget the point. It's perfectly okay to remind them!
Let's not put everyone into one basket. Not everyone gets a note from the First Presidency. So obviously the First Presidency is sensitive to other areas being not the same as Utah members. Actually, I can tell you they are not the same. There is a different culture in Utah than other places.
I agree with Valerie.
Valerie Larson, my feelings exactly! Your comment brought tears. God bless you, dear sister.
You are beautiful!
@valerie larson, Thank you for conveying my thoughts. If a testimony touches ONE heart, it has accomplished something great. I pray the week before that I be given something special to share and follow the Spirit. One week all I could hear over and over were these lyrics: "We are family. All my brothers and my sisters and me." I knew I had to share the lyrics but felt like an absolute idiot. I stated I did not know why but that I HAD to share the words; did so and then gave what most would consider my testimony. We have a Marshallese group of members I dearly love and I took two teenage sisters "ministering" that afternoon with strict instructions to have them at the Church at 5 p.m. for an event they were having. I went in with them for a few minutes and sat down with our Marshallese missionary. He casually mentioned that someone had asked if I was prejudiced (the Marshallese were new to our area). I said "Well, now I know why I was supposed to sing 'We are family...'" He looked startled and then began to grin. The rest of the congregation was not privy to this and it concerns me not at all what they may have thought. What MATTERS MOST is following the Spirit with exactness. I am grateful that frequently when it requires me to do something odd Heavenly Father allows me to know at some point the "why" - not that I need to know.
@valerie larson, It's been my experience that as people get older, they can better express themselves as the years of experience give them vocabulary to describe their feelings.
The Apostles have Propehts have every right to instruct us in how to act. These quotes come from those who hold the keys to act in the name of Christ. I know it is uncomfortable sometimes for Christ to say "this is how it is" but that is what He has done with testimony meeting.
Just this last fall I sat in a meeting where an apostle presided and where we as local leaders where told by the Utah Area Presidency that we needed to restore testimony meetings and ensure they are NOT open mic events but that they are full testimonies in compliance with what the prophets and apostles have taught.
I am not suggesting that it is our job to judge another person or shun anyone. But it is our job to know what a testimony is, and it is the job of local leaders to be clear what is appropriate and what is not in testimony meeting. This meeting is not ours, it is Christ's, let's do what He asked us to do with it.
While I respect and strive to follow the guidelines for testimonies given to us by prophets and apostles, I will say that one of the experiences that led to my husband converting to the Gospel is a woman who shared her testimony in the form of a travelogue. From that day moving forward ! I make the assumption that people who share their testimonies are moved to do so for whatever reason ... perhaps someone needs to hear them ... like my husband did years ago.
Why does your article now make me feel ashamed of any testimony I have offered on fast Sunday? Because you are shaming church members who are just trying!! STOP IT. Apostles and prophets can tell us this stuff at General Conference but ZIP IT with the shame articles.
Good!
Agree with you Susan. People are so judgemental here yet its the ppl that don't get up to share their testimonies. What happen to I KNOW THAT THE CHURCH IS TRUE!!!!! WOW!
Testimonies come in many sizes and shapes. Even the most simple expression of love for family should be recognized and appreciated. Not criticized. Everyone is on a journey towards testimony. Is it not important for even the smallest of "testimonies" to be shared so it can grow? These quotes can sometimes foster harsh criticism from members of wards. This is exactly why many do not get up and share. I personally feel a vulnerability when I express my inner most personal feelings about my testimony. We should be looking for the good in everyone's "testimonies". Not picking them apart. Let the Bishop take care of problems that occur from time to time.
There is nothing wrong with giving stories that apply to a person's testimony. Sharing a conversion story is a testimony and is extremely useful to all those hear them. Imagine if the only words we had from Joseph Smith's first vision were the words, "I know God lives". How useful would that be to someone who doesn't have experiences of their own to draw back on? 10 witnesses getting up in a court room and testifying by only saying, "I know the defendant is innocent" or "I know the defendant is guilty" does not hold the same influence as just 1 witness explaining in detail how they came to know those things. Anyone can say they know something or that they believe something but unless you give me good reasons for why you believe it or how you know it, I have little reason to think you necessarily know what you are talking about.
Now if you start talking about something totally unrelated to the gospel, then I could see that as not being the best choice but people are trying. There is no reason to criticize them for trying to improve. To even get up in public is difficult for most people. We should give encouragement and lead by example and be slow to criticize.
THANKS JOSHUA POE, I REALLY LIKE YOUR COMMENT... and I will read no more discussions from here on....
there is " that is not a testimony, this is not a testimony... i thought a testimony was to be what you believe in, how the love of Christ has changed you, what or how you will do better to improve because of the love of our Father. I am beginning to see that there is so much judging in this restored gospels congregation that it is discouraging at times. things seem to be getting so socially correct that a follower can't breathe. I am a convert and I hope I never will lose the joy of bearing my feelings......as I recall there is something that is written in our scriptures that says we need to do this often. the moment one gets tired of hearing a testimony from ANY one is perhaps the moment one should get on their knees and pray for an answer to why it bothers you so much....
We absolutely agree with you. I would also like to ask if Jesus was physically sitting there would he tell us to not share our story on how we have drawn closer to him or turned some trial into an opportunity to strengthen our personal testimony? We are told to listen to the spirit & follow it. Sometimes the spirit asks us to share a particular situation which has strengthened our testimonies. Christ wants to hear and would never lose patience with others regarding this. We shouldn't either. Isn't our ultimate goal is to be Christ like? Personally we would rather hear a heart felt personalized testimony than a memorized testimony said by rote. We believe Christ would too.
Thanks for sharing, I always keep my testimony short and clear testifying only about the gospel, the prophet Joseph smith , the Book of Mormon and today's prophet, but I know what you mean about the other testimonies I'm hearing a lot at church and is sad and boring I can imaging what happen with the investigators, i hope they read and understand what really is a testimony.
Yeah this is true.
"I'd like to bear my sanctimony..."
Thank goodness we don't get too much of that anymore: random members (especially old men) telling everyone they're doing things wrong.
I thought that the church had counseled parents and children that Primary was the place to practice testimony-bearing, not Sacrament meeting. And yet we have (usually the same) children getting up week after week, to be seen and not to testify.
Sometimes people share stories to cover long gab cos no one wants to share their testimony especially when it's a small congregation. I guess if we can't do that than meeting gets off within 20 minutes
I support our leaders on this. It is very difficult in a small branch where if four to six people give testimony only then our meeting is over in half an hour.
What about when the BOSS is a sycophant, and the worst at 'unrighteous dominion' that you have ever come across. Who loves to talk about himself, and the wonderful things he does. Who has a large list of people whom he will never ask to give a talk. Who, after being told to repent by an apostle, reports to the ward members how he had a wonderful meeting with him, but not tell the truth. Who personally picks people for almost every calling in the Ward instead of allowing the leaders to have input. Who lets his adult son off, without any discipline, after he got his girlfriend pregnant. Who bewails the fact that the members won't come to him and repent of the many sins that he insists that they have. Who is totally and unabashedly supported by his Stake President because... Etc, Etc.
I agree about not wanting to hear long, drawn out speeches, that have nothing to do with spiritual things. But to my mind, if it is something that has lifted that person's testimony or spirit, or something that they have learned that has given them enlightenment, then that is a testimony. It is just as important to not have to listen to multiple testimonies of exactly the same thing because the congregation was told to restrict their testimony to specific topics. It's like telling the Holy Ghost that he is not wanted there, or that he cannot impress certain things upon the congregation.
I have to agree with you. I'm so confused on this article and the judgment. It's hard for someone to get in front of their peers and pour their heart out to our savior. Our testimonies are for our Lord and savior not the congregation. What we say should only matter to him. He is the one who we will habe to answer too. I'm just gonna post these from my kjv bible. 2 Timothy 1:8; Luke 8:39 and my all time favorite book Psalms 66:16.
I'm so confused on how people can agree that people should change who they are I read the whole article. I'm distraught. It takes a whole lot for people to bear their testimony. I have and I was shaking. So rattling off is just a form of comfortability. Quoting a scripture and speaking on that scripture is not sermonizing its quoting a scripture and stating how that scripture affected your life. Listing what you are thankful for in a testimony. When we pray we are testifying to our Lord and savior. My kids list what they are thankful for and then ask for their blessing. Saying a testimony is speaking to him in front of others. It's only meant for one person's ears our heavenly father's. I'm so confused on this article and the judgment.
Love the awesome quotes by GA's thank you.
I am here to tell you that I believe Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost (Spirit) are three separate beings. I have never met Heavenly Father or Jesus Christ but I love their teachings and the light I see on the earth of them. But, I have a personal testimony of the Holy Spirit who comforted me when I really needed it the most and I felt his presence go through my physical body. I cannot deny this happened, twice, when it was crucial for me. As is the tradition and the way we members of the L.D.S. have been taught, I would like to leave these words with you in the name of Jesus Christ, our Saviour, Amen ----(Now from the words of "earthly" Susan Rogers Holladay, not part of my testimony of the truthfulness of things, but common sense. At the pulpit, people don't want to know how much you love your husband (should be "bedroom talk," right?) and they don't want to know how grateful you are for all your family and possessions...but they want to know how you feel about Jesus Christ who saved you from the grave (sacramental bread) and how your sins might be washed away if you repent (sacramental water) so your heartfelt experiences with the spirit of the Holy Ghost (Spirit) would really be loved, loved by me who could identify with such.
Thanks for the leg work.
I am so happy to know what testimony is. I also am happy for knowing the kind of testimony to avoid. I testify that I know that my Father in Heaven lives and His son Jesus Christ also the Holy Spirit. I always feel their presence in my life when I keep their commandments. Being obedient to the commandments will strengthen my testimony.I testify and know that They love me so much even when I am not obeying the commandment and I am so grateful of it. I testify that tjis gospel is true and wonderful in the name of Jesus Christ . Amen.
I have perused this article that teaches the proper way of sharing a personal testimony every first sunday of the month.There is no question about that as it is the teaching of the Prophet to whom i followed since God works through him.What had been stated in the article is generally for the good of all the members throughout the world to be guided properly and the sources is not from him alone but it came from the owner of the Church.So as convert i will just apply the guidelines and be responsive from the prompting of the Holy Ghost whenever i shared a testimony. It is spiritual in nature and there are times that some of the guidelines might be forgotten.So it is normal if there is slight inconsistency since i am not asking for the approval of fellow members ,but the approval of the owner of the Church.When i felt good after sharing a testimony then i knew the Lord's approved what i said even if others disapproved.
Good article, but a quote from the handbook of instructions would be fitting, I think.
Handbook 2
18.2.3
Fast and Testimony Meeting
Usually on the first Sunday of each month, sacrament meeting is a fast and testimony meeting. General conference and stake conference may necessitate holding fast and testimony meeting on a different Sunday.
Under the bishop’s direction, in this meeting children may be named and blessed and confirmations may be performed before the administration of the sacrament.
After the sacrament, the bishopric member who is conducting the meeting bears a brief testimony. He then invites members to bear heartfelt testimonies and to relate faith-promoting experiences. The bishopric encourages members to keep their testimonies brief so more people may have the opportunity to participate.
It may be best to have young children learn to share their testimonies in settings such as family home evening or when giving talks in Primary until they are old enough to do so in a fast and testimony meeting without assistance from a parent, sibling, or other person.
We have someone who gets up and complains that something she needs (gloves, boots, etc.) has gone missing and how much she needs them. I am actually surprised that things disappear in our stake with 4 wards meeting at different times. Do people really not know whether something is theirs or not? Are children not taught to leave other people's belongings alone? We have lots of things left in cloak rooms that go into the lost & found and are regularly put out for people to find. This being said, I don't think that personal possessions are supposed to be so important that they take up time during the testimonials. I think if someone takes something they must have a need for it. What happens to them because they took it is between them and Our Father. It is more important to pray to him to help find it, than to complain to people who know nothing about it and say it is a testimonial. I Believe that there is a God, that He is good and loving. That His Son is Jesus Christ who also loves us and died for us to provide Atonement. I Believe that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is the True resurrected Church that Joseph Smith was a Prophet and the BOM is a true writing commissioned by God. I know President Monson was a true disciple and prophet and miss him dearly. I support President Nelson as the new prophet and leader of The Church and I say this in the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen
Why are you inviting people to judge others? Isn't the Christlike attribute to love? Maybe I got something from the travelogue where the Spirit testified to me that God loved me, or maybe in the 20 minute testimony there was a moment that I received a really specific answer to prayer when he mentioned the death of his cat... Stop criticizing others for being an instrument for God in ways that you don't understand.
I quoted Apostles and Prophets who were delivering words of Christ. I am not judging others. If the words of Christ offend you it might be time to reevaluate what offends you.
It seems to me that those who took offense to this article may be the very guilty ones who share such non-testimonies on Fast and Testimony Sundays. So let me ask a serious question prompted by one comment by an RM. Do you or would invite friends to church on the first Sunday especially if you could just invite them on another Sunday? I'm glad the "cow story" worked but maybe it really was "the spirit" at work not the story itself. To Valerie Larson I would say that the comments in this article are 90% Apostle quotes so saying this article is "walking on thin ice" is discounting the Apostles' counsel, plain and simple. The author of this article or rather the poster of the Apostles' counsel is just trying to help ALL of us get better at doing what the Apostles have asked us to do - so why complain? Why not just try to do better. I know I can do better. But no matter that apostles have ALREADY told us not to do these types of testimonies it still gets done. How obedient are we when we cannot even follow these simple instructions or at least try to? So many were concerned about judging but aren't we to do just that? Moroni 7:15 reads, "For behold my brethren, it is given unto you to judge, that ye may know good from evil..." or in this case right from wrong so that you "may know with a perfect knowledge, as the daylight is from the dark night." Be willing to be chasten "lovingly" as someone put it and let us all try and do better at sharing a testimony. What do you have to lose?
I dread fast and testimony Sundays. I have changed the name to Confession meeting, that should be added to the list of testimonies that should be avoided. The confession-mony!
I use to share my testimony, but haven't for a few years. I get emotional and cry when I do. After the last time, I heard a member make the comment that they hate it when people cry and blubber. They even avoid coming on Fast Sunday because of it. I haven't got up since then. So I guess you can file me under cryamony.
I am not even sure why this is opened for discussion. The prophets and apostles have given us the command to give our testimony the right way. Each conference after their talks they bear testimony. We should not only follow their command to us but their example. But truth is we as a church struggle with obedience. We pick and choose what we want to follow. Don't believe me? For over 40 years we have been commanded to have a year's supply of food. How many have it? We have been told to get out of debt? How many have done this? President Nelson challenged (commanded) us to read the Book of Mormon before the year end. Did you do it? So do we really take the words of the prophets and apostles seriously? Some individuals really do, some try, but others just pick and choose. So maybe the discussion should be how can we better follow the prophets and apostles.
Has it become a commandment or we should avoid. I believe if it was a commandment, it would say we shall not, or we shall. Those are the words of command. The words avoid are more "we should," but not command.
I think if everyone fell in or around a three minute time limit that most testimony meeting issues would be cured. Twelve step meetings give a similar time allotment. End of day though if Jesus were sitting in the audience I don't think he'd be condemning people for ETT (elapsed testimony time).
Testimonies are very fragile. They are based upon things in which there is no tangible evidence -- they are derived from feelings and emotions. Here is why church leaders want members to bear their testimonies often -- a testimony IS TRULY gained in the bearing of it. Why is that so? Because the more we tell ourselves that something is true (even if you don't believe it at first, or are not sure of its truthfulness), and share that information with others, the more likely we are, over time, to actually believe it. This is called the Illusory Effect. Look it up. Feelings and emotions are NOT evidence of anything other than feelings and emotions, and it makes sense that the only way to gain "truth" of intangibles is to oft repeat the information. This same effect takes place in other areas, too, such as with politics.
To bad it has come to criticism of what people must say during a testimony meeting
Woof - And here here we sit most who read this article are on one of 2 sides of the isle. Personal revelation, if sought by the bearer will dictate what to say, If not sought, any honest attempt to share their interpretation of a testimony is not only fine but wonderful. Everyone else can pretty much shut their yapper about it.
If I were God for a day,and anyone came forward, humbly and struggled through their best efforts to testify of me, (even if if may have been perceived wrong by the members). That effort would be met with every blessing I could heap upon them. I want them back - to testify again. It's amazing that God allows us as mere fallible mortals to help manage the work here, yet, he does.
Of course the idea of a testimony meeting is to truly testify, But the delivery, and the interpretation of the delivery is a very personal thing. What I might hear to be a thank-a-mony, someone else might be receiving it as "just what they needed to hear" in strengthening theirs. So everyone including me - can climb off the high horse of testimony meetings and let the spirit work with what might be happening in spite of our judgements.
Great points!
To clarify, though, Savannah (the 12-year old he mentioned, for those who don't know) was testifying of Heavenly Father's great and endless love. Not sure what could be a more important, powerful, or spiritual topic to testify about.
I remember once at a meeting - a dear sister went up to the front - introduced herself and humbly and tearfully announced that she would like to bear her testimony.
She never actually spoke a single word for the next minute. But just silently wept - After another short while - she just closed after having said no spoken words since her introduction- And closed by saying , “In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen. Then she returned to her seat.
It was one of the most touching testimonies that I’d ever witnessed. Interesting that she never actually said a single word between her introduction and closing of remarks. She spoke no words - but shared so so much more than so so many who eloquently spoke or speak
Thank you. More people would be able to share their testimonies, if "those members," would cut their speeches of 5~20 minutes down to 2 minutes, or less. We always run out of time, and are lucky to have time for more than 4 people to speak. Recently , I was told that when the First Presidency and Quorum of the 12 have a testimony meeting, it takes 22 minutes for all 15 to speak. It will have to start with the bishopric. When it's their turn to conduct on testimony meeting, they give a 5-10 minute talk. Then "those members" follow suit giving a speech on the same prompt the bishopric spoke about. Wouldn't we have wonderful meetings, basking in the Spirit, if everyone bore pure testimony? If a member of the bishopric would bear his testimony in 30 seconds, what a great example that would be? When I was younger, I didn'the hink I had a testimony because I wasn't a good story teller, didn't have a riveting experience to share, and was not sure if I could cry on cue. So I was an adult when I shared my testimony. Which is a pity, because I had a burning testimony of the Book of Mormon. Apparently , we've had a few generations of bad examples that influence us today. Let'stand not damage the rising generation. This is a serious problem . We've had to have 2 official First Presidency letters in the past 15 years. And President Ballard gave another talk about it this conference weekend.
Interesting article. One random thought that occurred to me is that it would be nice to focus on what a testimony is, rather than on what it is not. My guess is that there are probably infinite examples of what it is not. I find a nice, succinct, illustrative story that reinforces someone’s knowledge of a core gospel principle to be a very uplifting testimony. If I get stuck in the mindset of categorizing such a testimony as a travelogue or a storytelling or sermonizing stemwinder then maybe I am missing the kernel by focusing on the shell. At any rate, that is my widow’s mite.
I like it, I will write about what type of testimonies are powerful.
You missed one: the “Thank-imony”. Where the person thanks everyone under the sun. “I would be ungrateful if I didn’t publicly thank...” Gratitude is important, but a testimony is not the place.
Maybe you won’t believe I read every single comment by my response but I don’t really mind how people bear their testimonies or what they say but when they start going to 15 minutes I don’t feel the spirit anymore and I want to scream and run away
I know that the Gospel is true. When the missionaries were teaching my wife & I there were a lot of things I was comfortable with. Some of the things the missionaries said were things I had known my entire life but had never heard put into words. While I enjoyed the lessons the missionaries brought I did not want to give up coffee in the morning. I did not want to stop having a beer or two after work. Nice people I thought, but . . . I did not want to change my lifestyle.
When I got an answer it was not a thundering & impressive event. It was a still small voice and peace within my heart. Once I got that answer I knew what I needed to do. Anything I have done to follow the Gospel has been returned to me ten fold, a hundred fold over. Not at the moment but over a period of time. Not in worldly goods nor payments. Quite frankly, I cannot afford to stop being a tithe payer.
If my wife and I were not already married (we were newlyweds) neither of us would have been likely candidates for membership. Together we had hitched our star to our future and that made it possible for us to listen and learn what could improve that future. It is my firm testimony that our marriage could not have been as good without the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Having the opportunity to listen to a Prophet of God is a rare privilege in our mortal world. We had already pledged ourselves to each other. We pledged ourselves to our redeemer through Baptism on Valentines day in 1979. We then had the priceless chance to pledge ourselves as a team with our Lord on Valentines Day in 1980. I feel the need to repeat. Everything we have done to follow the Gospel has been returned to us ten fold, a hundred fold over with the additional bonus of fellowship with the Saints in these, the Latter Days.
I'm a life-long member and have had over 70 years of testimony meetings. I was much too fearful to bear testimony myself until a missionary gave me a small card with D&C 60:2 on it: "But with some I am not well pleased, for they will not open their mouths..." I threw my panic attacks to the wind and simply prayed from then on to say only what the Spirit directed me to say. Problem solved. Interestingly, I've been inspired to bear witness in varied ways...but never in a l-o-n-g "testimony". Why all this fuss over a right and wrong way, when we can take the Holy Spirit as a guide? I love you all, and please keep sharing your testimonies without fear of judgment.
People just need to love each other, if we judge others, we forget to love them. Let the Holy
Spirit guide you and if people keep it short then more people can give their testimonies. That’s what they are saying, if you want to give a talk then ask the Bishop if you can.
All monies are described. Why not share I sample for members to read not just descriptions of your monies!
Thank you!
I came to realize (a hard lesson) that i was very judgmental about the "testimonies" that were being given in my home ward. I would cringe when the same people would tell the same "testimony" each month. Then, during a phase of time, i was doing a lot of traveling and attending various other wards on Fast Sunday. I was spellbound by the testimonies of strangers, and looked so forward to attending. Then it hit me....i was being very judgemental of the people in my ward. I already knew about sister so-and-so's issues, so i didn't give her testimony any credence. I knew about brother so-and-so's problems with the word of wisdom, so i didn't let myself feel the spirit of what he was saying. I agree that there are many things that are not appropriate to be shared in Testimony Meeting, but, for anyone who does bear there testimony, there is a great blessing for the bearer and the hearer, and we should not judge.
My wife wasn't able to go to church yesterday (Fast Sunday) and when the rest of us got home, she asked how church was and I responded simply --- "we had a couple of really good talks."
Its not my intent to be critical -- we did have two testimonies that each last about ten minutes and so, in our little branch, no more than 4 or 5 people total had time to share their testimonies.
I think it was President Kimball who suggested that if testimonies were borne correctly, there should be sufficient time for anyone in the unit who wished to do so could share their testimony. And maybe that is too simplistic, but its a start.
My father taught me to always be considerate of other people's time --- don't be late, because you are infringing on time that other people had planned for other things, don't run over in your talk, because it infringes on another person's time, etc.
This is such a tricky topic. I have never gotten up to bare my testimony in this branch -- there usually isn't much time available and I know that several people in the branch do not like me and would probably feel less than impressed if I were to do so. I do share my testimony when I give a lesson, or when I am asked to speak in church.
Testimonies come from the heart, growing up in the gospel they shared all sorts, from sickness, trials, eternal marriage, Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost, and we love each and every testimony, we are here to love, support and uplift.
It does not take long for a sincere testimony to be given. Rare indeed for me to feel I need to talk very long in a fast and testimony meeting. In a quorum meeting I have occasionally shared the circumstances which led the neatest lady I know & I to join the church. Other parts of us learning to live by what the Lord has had us taught may come out.
I once had a missionary companion go up and tell the congregation that there were specifically six people in the congregation who had been recently praying for an answer. Then he proceeded to tell them, "Here is your answer....did I not speak peace to your mind concerning the matter? And there is your answer."
As a former Bishop I know Testimony Meeting can be a challenge. For the long winded people I would assign them a Sacrament talk on the last Sunday and at that time teach them what a testimony really is and how the Holy Ghost bears witness of the truth, but does not with travelogues or those who say how thankful they are. The thankfuls are for prayers. This should be taught from the pulpit, Ward Council, Relief Society, and all Priesthood Quorums, and in youth programs. The Bishop can be first to set the example for a few Sundays. This can alll be done in the spirit of love.
You are correct Grady, the best way to set the tone if the example of the Bishopric, but because it would be outside my purview to counsel bishoprics on what to do, I just shared it with everyday members on what they can do.
I’m so scared I’ll do one of those that as a result I don’t do anything. Do you think this was the goal?
A testimony is a personal experience of something that you have experienced. That should be left up to the person who wanted to share.
Testimony meeting is not an open mic, it is for testifying of Christ. The apostles, speaking on behalf of Jesus Christ 100% have the right to tell you what is appropriate in HIS Church.
Just last night the Utah area Presidency reiterated this in a training, testimony meetings are not for stories, life events, or other things not centered on Christ, "they are NOT an open mic" for whatever the person wants to talk about.
A great article I enjoyed reading the comments I have heard some of the don'ts but have not heard too many of them in our branch. I believe articles like this are read by members and help us give uplifting testimonies that give positive results helping others strengthen their belief.