There seems to be a misconception among some as to what a donation to the temple fund, run by the three sisters who comprise the Temple Fund Committee, will actually gain for you.
I have heard speculation from some that entrance into Zion will guarantee them the dream home they have always wanted, a plot of ground commensurate with the amount of their donation, and “free everything” just because they are there. And if it does not, why should they consider giving all they have to live in reduced circumstances.
I hear very little about the humility and repentance and lack of self aggrandizement it will require, from the “chat” taking place “out there.”
On the other hand I do hear some self deprecation from those, primarily who have small means. Many wish they could donate more, and some because they can’t, feel they have little hope that someone making such a pittance (in their view) of a donation will ever get noticed by God or those they are sure will have power over their getting into Zion, because of those other’s huge donations. Somehow this sounds somewhat less like humility, and more like envy.
I have my doubts that the donations given for any of the above reasons and/or any others of similar ilk represent the state of heart (and mind) of one who is well prepared to live in such a community. It was never the idea of the Temple Fund Committee that they would receive and build a fund from the self serving or those dependent upon the admiration of their fellows. Their intent was that there are enough who earnestly seek the approbation of their God. Those who want nothing more than to serve and please Him regardless of any cost to themselves.
Therefore at the very first of this funding attempt a credo was put into writing as part of the GoFundMe effort to gather funds, which stated what they expected from any individual or group that contributed, and now remains the same regardless of how they choose to contribute.
Have you read it? I’m beginning to think many haven’t. I have therefore attached it in its entirety lest what these sisters expectations from their contributors are, is not well known.
This credo is in the person of Elaine Henderson because the GoFundMe account was established in her name but represented the views of the entire Temple Fund Committee and still does. The names of the committee are Karen Strong, Jan VanLeer, and Elaine Henderson.
Keith
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Hi
My name is Elaine Henderson. I am part of a loosely knit group of fellowships which believe and practice the Doctrine of Christ through baptism by immersion by one holding the authority and power from heaven, and receiving, because of this baptism, the Holy Ghost and baptism of Fire as promised by God the Father through His Son, Jesus Christ. I also believe many other things advocated by God through the scriptures such as helping the poor, and being kind to all people.
One of the very strong beliefs which I have is that of advancement in knowledge and the receipt of higher ordinances to better prepare me and all people with my same desire to meet our Lord and Savior when that time comes. I believe that every person should have opportunity for an increase in these things while in this mortal life, and I believe an acceptable temple in the eyes of God to be the great motivator in these things. I do not believe there is currently any place on this earth approved by my Heavenly Father which can afford me all those kinds of blessings which I desire.
Consequently:
I am setting up this fund to establish means by which gifts can be collected from all those who would desire to contribute. As these funds accumulate they will be transferred by GoFundMe to a personal account solely in my charge and keeping, where such funds will generate interest, and the amount of funds will accumulate until it is appropriate to begin the effort described herein.
This temple fund will be used exclusively for the purchase of land and the construction of the temple building on that land. These funds will be used for any and all needs related to that construction. Architectural drawings, permits, building contractors, etc. will all be needed.
In gifting to this fund all must understand there is no personal monetary or real property value to be accrued to yourself, or any other, or position or status to be obtained by your gift. Your gift must be made solely because you believe this is a worthy project, or that you are pleasing your God by doing so.
God bless you in your kindness and obedience to Him.
Elaine