Mission

If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. James 1:5-6

“He denieth none that come unto him, … and all are alike unto God.” 2 Nephi 26:33

Mission Statement: Fostering Intimacy and Understanding in Latter-Day Saint Relationships

Inspired by the teachings of James 1:5-6 and 2 Nephi 26:33, the Improving Intimacy in Latter-day Saint Relationships Facebook group (IILDSR) aims to enhance wisdom and understanding around the often-taboo topics of sexual health, desire, and intimacy within the Latter-Day Saint (LDS) culture. Recognizing that intimacy encompasses spiritual, emotional, and physical connections, IILDSR seeks to achieve the following objectives:

  1. Encourage open discussions about sexual health, desire, and related intimacy topics, inviting all questions and fostering an environment of learning and growth.

  2. Bridge the communication gap between genders by creating a mixed-gender space. This inclusive approach aims to improve understanding and foster deeper connections by allowing everyone to learn from each other's perspectives and experiences.

  3. Provide a forum for exploring and sharing resources on improving intimacy (mental, emotional, and sexual), drawing from both LDS literature and the best clinically and medically accurate information available. The group welcomes diverse perspectives and opinions, recognizing that not all views may align with official Church teachings.

  4. Empower couples and individuals within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to discuss difficult, sensitive, and taboo subjects without shame. IILDSR offers communication tools and a supportive environment for exploring questions and topics, reducing shame by embracing the idea of seeking wisdom and learning from each other's experiences.

  5. Promote a non-judgmental, compassionate approach to discussing intimacy-related topics. Recognizing that everyone is on a unique journey, IILDSR encourages members to avoid condemning or making absolute statements as fact. Elder H. Burke Peterson's teachings on "unrighteous dominion" serve as a reminder to approach these conversations with care and empathy.

  6. Establish a reliable and trustworthy resource for Latter-day Saints seeking guidance and support on issues related to intimacy, sexual health, and desire.

Through these objectives, IILDSR aims to create a welcoming and nurturing community where members can deepen their understanding of intimacy, strengthen their relationships, and grow together in faith.

 Vision

Our natural affections are planted in us by the Spirit of God, for a wise purpose; and they are the very main-springs of life and happiness—they are the cement of all virtuous and heavenly society—they are the essence of charity, or love; …

There is not a more pure and holy principle in existence than the affection which glows in the bosom of a virtuous man for his companion;

…The fact is, God made man, male and female; he planted in their bosoms those affections which are calculated to promote their happiness and union. Parley P. Pratt, Writings of Parley Parker Pratt, 52–53

The restoration of the Church brought with it many great and marvelous changes, including a unique and beautiful perspective on marriage and intimacy. “Our natural affections are planted in us by the Spirit of God, for a wise purpose…” The IILDSR group seeks to build on this beautifully restored perspective by eliminating unhealthy cultural taboos that hinder divine connection, wisdom, and growth in intimacy.

  1. Foster a healthier culture in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints around sexuality and intimacy.

    Measurement for success:

    • Discussions around sexual health and sexual desire are explored, discussed, and celebrated with the same confidence, joy, and curiosity as other gospel topics.

    • Couples and individuals take their desires and intimacy questions to the Lord with the same confidence, joy, and curiosity as other gospel topics and other matters of prayer.

  2. Replace a history of fear and shame language and tone, with celebratory language around sexuality and intimacy.

    Measurement for success:

    • Teach abundantly the specific blessings of sexuality and intimacy, as oppose to emphasizing the dangers and ‘evil’ sexual urges.

    • Include specific examples in church publications (literature, official manuals, and For Strength of Youth), basic examples of healthy relationship skills and tools, include communication, consent, boundaries, and emotional regulation.

  3. Create an LDS culture that seeks (sexual health) wisdom from the best resources. Doctrine and Covenants 88:118

    “Seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom; yea, seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith”

    Measurement for success:

    • LDS literature, policy, manuals reference current mental health, science, and robust, comprehensive sex education.

    • Parents, leaders, and youth resources refer to sexual urges and desires as healthy and normal parts of development.

    • Encourage youth to seek the Lord’s guidance and educational resources during maturation as opposed to a message of “no” or “not until after marriage.”

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