I come from a large family. I am the oldest of 6 children in my immediate family and the 2nd of about 34 grandchildren on my father's side of the family. If we go back to my great grandfather then we can count over 140 great grandchildren, of which I am the third grandson.
My family has a long tradition of membership and service in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I am one of the beneficiaries of their faith and diligence. I have had the wonderful blessing of growing up in a family that is active in the church. I have heard my parents' and grandparents' testimonies and I know that they live what they believe.
But I still needed to know for myself that what they taught me was true. I had to know for myself if Joseph Smith was a prophet of God. I had to know if the Book of Mormon was a true record. I had to decide whether I would follow the words of the living Prophet and Apostles. So I prayed and I studied and I tried to live what I had been taught.
There was not one single moment where I knew everything. Rather I came to know the truth as I continued to pray and act in faith. I now know that this church has the fulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
I know that Joseph Smith was indeed a Prophet of God. By the gift and power of God he translated the Book of Mormon from the ancient record written on golden plates. I know that the priesthood power and authority of God is present upon the earth today. There are inspired prophets of God leading this church. They speak the words of God and act in His name.
I know that Jesus is the Christ, the Only Begotten of the Father. I know that he came to provide a way for us to return to live with our Heavenly Father. Through Christ's suffering, death, and resurrection we are offered this greatest of all gifts.
If you would like to learn more about Jesus Christ and the restoration of His gospel then feel free to ask your friends who are "Mormons." Alternatively you can contact me or you can request a visit from the missionaries here.
