I was thinking about what things I would focus on this coming year and what things I probably would not.  So it is in that vein that I compile this list.

  1. Gay Marriage – In my mind, it is now inevitable. So in spite of all the protestations over the past few years, just sit back and let it happen.  As long as religious organizations are not forced to perform marriages they are not comfortable with, it will be OK.
  2. Mormon Feminism – Emboldened by their perception of success at their first “pants-in,” the community will probably try some other things this year to gain further attention. Maybe a “Pants-in” at General Conference? And while I think some progress has been made in the Church in the recent years, at the individual local level, more work is probably necessary. But largely, the rank and file membership does not see gender equality as a large issue.
  3. Mormon Moments – For the moment, it is over. A recent Pew survey showed that most Americans still know little to nothing about the Church in spite of the ads, the websites and an almost Mormon President.  If you read other reports that show the Church growing by leaps and bounds over the next 50 years, it makes you wonder if people will know any more about the Church, even if they are members….
  4. Anti-Mormons – Yes, it used to be a big thing and I am sure that in some small Christian circles, there are still the Sunday evening services with “The Truth about the Mormons” presentation.  Heck, they may even still show “The Godmakers.” But for the most part, the Anti-Mormon starts of the 70’s and 80’s have died off or faded away.  There is so much material on the Internet, it is not necessary to have them anymore, I guess. Most of the materials come courtesy of ex-members and disenchanted members expressing their relief at finally “learning the truth” and getting out. Does it have an impact on new converts and some current members? Sure it does. But for many faithful members, this is part of the last days, so it is expected.

So that is my list.  I will still worry about gun violence and the obsession some have with guns. I will still worry about how Mormons can be faithful members and republican at the same time.  I am thrilled at the new curriculum for the youth. It was way past time to shelf those awful YM and YW manuals.  I am excited at the changes in the missionary age and look forward to seeing more Sister Missionaries out in the field. And I look forward to studying the Doctrine and Covenants, which is my favorite book of scripture.

Hope you all have a great New Year. I’ll be hitting a huge milestone I am not so happy about. Only because of my disbelief that it is really happening.