Monday, February 9, 2015

Music


We thought you, as parents, would like to know what music is appropriate for your missionary to listen to in the mission.  President Felix sent out an email this morning regarding music.  He referenced the Missionary Handbook. The following is from the Missionary Handbook - "Listen only to music that is consistent with the sacred spirit of your calling.  Music should invite the Spirit, help you focus on the work, and direct your thoughts and feelings to the Savior.  Do not listen to music that pulls your thoughts away from your work, merely entertains, has romantic lyrics or overtones, or dulls your spiritual sensitivity by its tempo, beat, loudness, lyrics, or intensity.  Listening to music must never interfere with your personal preparation or proselyting.  If you have any questions about music, discuss them with your 
mission president."

Happy P Day!
As we start this week, I wanted to share with you some thoughts about the music that you listen to in your apartments or in your cars while you travel to appointments. I understand that there is a variety of interpretations of what is acceptable in the mission. I hope that by learning the principle associated with appropriate music that you will be able to make the choices that will be uplifting to your spirit and help you focus on the missionary purpose of inviting others to come unto Christ. Besides what the Missionary Handbook has to say on page 25, I would like to share with you a quote from President Monson. "Our Heavenly Father has counseled us to seek after 'anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy.' Whatever you read, listen to, or watch makes an impression on you. Music can help you draw closer to your Heavenly Father. It can be used to educate, edify, inspire, and unite. However, music can, by its tempo, beat, intensity, and lyrics, dull your spiritual sensitivity. You cannot afford to fill your minds with unworthy music."

I ask that you be united as a companionship in the music that you listen to. If you are uncomfortable with the music that is being played, share with your companion how you feel. Select only music that will prepare you as a representative of the Lord Jesus Christ. We need to have His spirit with us as we serve Him.

Thank you for understanding the concerns that I have regarding listening to music. I love you all and pray that you will be able to make the adjustments in your choices of music that will only help you prepare to join together with the Holy spirit as you find and teach the souls of our brothers and sisters in the Great California Ventura Mission.

Love,
President Felix


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