"I realize that so much of what I envy about Mormonism is its ability to extract itself from its surroundings and focus inwardly. The Church has faced and continues to face challenges from without, but it keeps its adherents firmly centered on substantive beliefs translated into concrete, impactful actions," Asma Uddin writes for faithcounts.com.

I remember learning in an American history class about George Washington, John Adams, and the first peaceful transfer of power in American government. It was a significant moment in world history and one that I haven’t thought about the importance of until recently. Because although plans are in the works for a peaceful transfer between presidents of the United States of America, the reaction I have been watching from Americans has been anything but peaceful. With emotions raging, I have watched individuals and a nation struggle to even consider “praying for the president-elect, for his new administration, and for elected leaders across the nation and the world,” as the First Presidency urged in their statement following the presidential election results.

Editor’s note: “This week from the Pulpit” highlights recent messages by General Authorities, General Officers, and leaders of the Church.

If you’re looking for summer vacation plans that are both fun and meaningful this year, look no further.

"Either I would build a bridge between the two cultures, finding a way to accept both parts of myself, or else I would remain forever lost between the two worlds."

We're coming up on a new year, and with that comes new resolutions and new challenges. Among one of the most common of those resolutions among Americans is the goal to drop a few pounds. And, if you're among them, then you should realize you're not alone.

Thanksgiving is a uniquely American holiday. Somewhere in the backs of our minds, we know it’s about long-ago celebration between the newly arrived pilgrims and the Native Americans, but in today’s culture that idea has taken a back burner to family, football, and of course, the food. Whether you like turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing, sweet potatoes, rolls or pumpkin pie, that’s what Thanksgiving is about, Charlie Brown. The Thanksgiving meal is one that stands out because it requires us to spend nearly all day in the kitchen. It is rare, in America, to spend an entire day in the kitchen. As a young college student studying in Russia, I was astounded to watch my host mother spend hours either shopping at the outdoor markets or stirring a cabbage soup on the stove. Slapping a bag of chicken nuggets on a tray and popping them in the oven was not an option — not part of the culture.

When it comes to American exceptionalism, Mitt Romney is going all in.