The Townsend Faith Blog

I was going to make the title, "The Things That I Believe" but I decided that everything I will be posting, will be the things that I know. For example, I know that I am married to Andrew Townsend, and I know that I love it! I know that I have amazing family members, a great job, and amazing opportunities to grow! And, I know that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is the only true church on earth (and in space) today. I was baptized when I was 8 years old. I had no idea what was going on because the only time I went to church was when my grandma Susan would take me, and that was only when we were in town visiting. I remember not liking primary, all of the kids were weird and different, and the teachers were just as odd. I didn't really start to be involved until I was 12, which is the age to go to Young Womens. At school, my friend Esther Erickson told me all about how great church was and how fun the activities were on Wednesdays. She invited me to come wi...

On 14 Feb 2010 I was asked to speak on any topic of my choice. I chose to speak about the Atonement, and it seems appropriate to start this blog with this topic. We sometimes overlook the power of words. The ancient chant "sticks and stones can break my bones, but words can drive me into depression" comes to mind. In the Bible we read about the Lord creating the world in seven days, merely by the phrasing of words. "Let there be light". The priesthood operates on the principles of language; one does not just place his hands on another's head and expect them to be healed, or to receive the Holy Ghost. Words are spoken, and the powers of heaven are invoked. By this same token, words spoken over the pulpit in righteousness have the power to move hearts, and heal the broken-hearted. God willing my words will bring one of you closer to our Savior. I served 10 1/2 months in Arkansas, the rest of my two-year mission was served in Tennessee. There were at th...