Listen to Joanna’s Narrating Ordain Women podcast here:
I’m a homeschooling mother of 4 amazing children. I married the love of my life for time and all eternity 13 years ago. Six years ago he left the church and it made me question every aspect of my entire life, including faith… and it was the greatest trial and the greatest blessing that my Father in Heaven has ever given me. I am currently in the Relief Society Presidency in my ward and am honored to be able to serve as He would have me serve.
I don’t want to change who I am or who women are. I want to engage and uplift the church. I love being a woman and honor that. But I believe black church members had a right to ask their leaders why men couldn’t have the priesthood anymore (when they once could), and I feel like I can ask about my level of participation in ordinances. I want the priesthood from how it is taught in the temple, and the way Joseph Smith taught it to be and gave it to women. I want to be called a priestess (out in public) just like the scriptures teach me that I am. I want my children to see that I was made in my Heavenly Mother’s image. I want to know what a priestess means in our modern world and I want to get that guidance from The Lord’s mouthpiece. It is a beautiful message and I have both patience and faith that my questions and prayers will be answered.