Honouring the journey: Walking together in love

By Vonda DenBoer, Canada East Mission Centre Co-President
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We have just emerged from a dialogue process that highlighted the importance of listening to one another without judgment. Joan Thompson illustrated this beautifully with the bell curve, showing that, on any one issue, most people find themselves in the middle. Those at the ends either encourage us to move forward or urge us to slow down—or even step back. She also noted that it is often more comfortable to be in the middle than at either end of the spectrum.

Where do you see yourself on that curve? My prayer is that we can continue to uphold the worth and giftedness of those we walk with on this shared journey as disciples of Christ, whether they stand in the middle or at either end.

A significant majority of members indicated support for the intent of the policy and a desire for change. Many expressed concerns, thoughts, and suggestions in the comment section. These comments will be invaluable as we consider the next steps. We recognize that the approval process takes time, and the final policy will likely be worded differently than what was originally proposed.

For me, what is most important is how we support one another. Each of us is on a unique journey, shaped by where we live, work, play, and fellowship. Each of us is worthy of love, acceptance, and belonging. Yet those on either end of the bell curve may not be feeling that way right now.

Brené Brown says it well: “We are inextricably connected to one another by a force greater than ourselves—a force grounded in love and compassion.” In our dialogue, we heard voices of pain, fear, sorrow, hope, frustration, and vision. How do we cope with this dissonance? How do we respect the differences we see and hear?

The way we reach out and support one another, even when we disagree, can set us apart as examples of Christ-like love and behaviour.

In the coming months, let us intentionally discern how to walk side by side—listening to, praying for, and engaging in meaningful dialogue with one another. Only then can we truly live out our mission: to be a light on the hilltop, promoting love, joy, hope, and peace.

This is the work we are called to do—together. Mission is what matters most.
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“The Spirit of the One you follow is the spirit of love and peace. That Spirit seeks to abide in the hearts of those who would embrace its call and live its message. The path will not always be easy, the choices will not always be clear, but the cause is sure and the Spirit will bear witness to the truth, and those who live the truth will know the hope and joy of discipleship in the community of Christ.”
— Doctrine & Covenants 161:7