Because of a certain person who shall go nameless — let’s call him M. Romney or Mitt R. — the question of Mormon differences from historical Christianity has been very much in the air. Not too long ago, for instance, we published an article (part of a broader discussion on the topic) in which Warren Cole Smith explained why he, as an evangelical, could not vote for a Mormon. This became a very controversial piece, eliciting no fewer than three responses in the Washington Post. I have staked out the opposite position: as an evangelical, I’m very comfortable voting for a Mormon. But Warren and I agree on a more fundamentally theologically question: we both believe there are clear and important theological differences between Mormonism and historical Christianity. Those differences worry Warren when he assesses a presidential candidate, while I don’t believe those differences would lead a Mormon to make different policy decisions than a Christian.

President Gordon B. Hinckley, the 15th president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is fondly remembered for his quick wit and sense of humor. He also had a special way with words that inspired thousands of members around the world. Here are some of his most inspiring quotes to help lift you up when you're feeling down.

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.

In 2013, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland bravely shared over the pulpit about a time when he struggled with depression. Many throughout the Church remember his inspired talk, "Like a Broken Vessel," and the hope it brought to those who similarly battle depression, whether for a time or on a daily basis.

Check out this beautiful music video of "O Holy Night" sung by GENTRI. About the video, GENTRI posted to Facebook. "We live in a world where we are sometimes prone to judgment. Perception becomes our reality. In our haste, we can jump to false conclusions and lose opportunities to lift and lighten the loads of others. As we allow the light of Christ to work miracles within our own heart, we then are empowered to work wonders in the lives of others. May His perfect example of love and compassion for all guide us in our own charity towards those around us this Christmas season and always.

"It's easy to say you value and cherish your relationships and that they are important to your happiness and a meaningful life. You’d certainly pass a written test on the topic. But being true to the relationships and people in your life is not easy."

"It's said that the Brethren are wonderful," Elder Gong said, "but they're even more wonderful when you see them in places where they are not otherwise seen. I think if there's anything I've felt, it's been that: The kindness, the authenticity, the great faith and testimony that you see in private that goes perhaps even beyond that which you see in public."

Dear Angela, In the next month I'll be leaving my singles ward for a family ward. I'm turning 31 and officially "aging out" of my current congregation. I'm writing because I really feel like a failure. I had more than a decade to get married and "graduate" properly from my singles ward and with only a few dates and lots of awkward social activities, it just didn't happen for me. I'm developing a really negative attitude about religion in general and I know that it stems from being single in a church full of married people but knowing that doesn't change my feelings. How can I keep going to church when I feel so bad about all of this relationship stuff and it seems to be exacerbated when I'm there?

"Last week I had the opportunity to show my grandson Eric an old C-141 airplane that is on display at the Leonardo museum in Salt Lake City.

I've had the opportunity to work with youth inside and outside the LDS church in a number of different capacities throughout my life. During those times, I've often been approached by other leaders/counselors who have said things like “there’s something different about LDS youth” or “your youth are just so good.” While I absolutely do not claim that LDS youth have a monopoly on goodness, I think there is something to my friends’ observations. What is it that makes LDS youth stand out? In the end, I believe it stems from a firm knowledge of God’s plan for them and a strong conviction to live the principles of the restored gospel. Although the basis for most of this learning starts in the home, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has a number of programs that support parents and help LDS youth put those principles into practice.