John Evans is in no hurry to get married. The 25-year-old returned LDS missionary lives with his parents in east Salt Lake City. He works full time, pursuing classes at night for a degree in English (with minors in Spanish and business) at the University of Utah. With law school looming, he is building up his savings before courting seriously.
Evans goes on some dates, but they tend to be expensive — dinner and a movie, maybe — so he prefers developing friendships first. Sometimes he finds it easier just to hang out with the guys at his LDS fraternity. Sure, his dad got married at age 24, but what’s a couple of years’ difference?
“My dating pace is right for me,” Evans says. “I don’t feel stressed.”
That kind of modern nonchalance is what may be worrying LDS President Thomas S. Monson and other Mormon leaders, who addressed the issue head-on at last weekend’s General Conference.
“Brethren, there is a point at which it’s time to think seriously about marriage and to seek a companion with whom you want to spend eternity,” Monson said at Saturday night’s all-male priesthood meeting. “If you choose wisely and if you are committed to the success of your marriage, there is nothing in this life which will bring you greater happiness.”