Many media commentators critiquing the film New Moon are asking if there is a link between the Mormon faith of the author of the books that inspired the film, and the theme of chastity. Well, yes, Stephenie Meyer is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. But those who wish to know what she was thinking as she wrote her books need to ask her.
For those who would like to know The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ position on sexual morality, the Church’s website www.lds.org states that: “Chastity is sexual purity. Those who are chaste are morally clean in their thoughts, words, and actions. Chastity means not having any sexual relations before marriage. It also means complete fidelity to husband or wife during marriage.”
Many Latter-day Saint youth carry around with them in their wallet or purse a small booklet called “For the Strength of Youth.” It contains information and guiding principles with respect to making wise choices in relation to chastity as well as other parts of life such as entertainment, education and service to others.
Auckland Latter-day Saint teenager, Caitlin, says the For the Strength of Youth pamphlet helps her keep the law of chastity because it puts into perspective why we need to do so.
“The family proclamation is in the pamphlet,” she says, “which also gives reasons as to why the law of chastity is so important.”
She also believes that following the guidance in the pamphlet gives her a sense of unity and strength as millions of other teenagers all around the world are facing the same challenges and also have this book. “We are all striving to keep and uphold the standards inside,” she said.
According to Caitlin, “It makes complete sense to uphold the standards in the For the Strength of Youth pamphlet as they help us all to reach our full potential and it brings much happiness.”
