Can Mormons Have Tattoos? | Interview with Al Fox
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- Опубліковано 7 тра 2018
- Mormons are discouraged from getting tattoos. But what if you join the Church when you already have tattoos? And what if you get a tattoo while you're a member of the Church? Will God look at you differently if you have tattoos?
Al Fox has been nicknamed 'The Tattooed Mormon.' She was tattooed before she joined the LDS Church and is tattooed to this day. Why? Because, Al says, the atonement covers everything. She doesn't even notice her tattoos anymore and, according to a blessing she received, God doesn't notice her tattoos anymore either.
Al also talks about the rampant judging that happens among Mormons when they see others with tattoos. Upon moving to Utah, Al felt very judged for her appearance, to the point of covering up her tattoos with sleeves. She quickly decided that she shouldn't feel insecure, despite the rudeness of others. They would have to learn the lesson that she wished they already knew.
Do you feel insecure about the way you look around certain groups? What do you do to combat the judging of others? Let us know in the comments below!
Don't forget to subscribe to Al's channel and check out her new books!
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I have 70% of my body tattooed and I have a testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ
way to go
Bless you Nick. And bless your testimony.
But isn’t tattooing a breaking of the commandment of leviticus 19:28?
@@Dino23968 your acting like he can’t repent and be forgiven.
Just makin’ a point
I was in the temple and at the veil there was a person that had tattoos on his hands (probably on his arms too) and on his face. He was working at the veil as a worker. I was so impressed by him. It is a good example of how your past sins don’t have to get in the way of your salvation.
Gary Cooper I don’t feel getting tattoo is a sin.
Doug Hartill the leaders of the church would disagree.
Name one time a prophet has said getting a tattoo is a sin. I see you are judge mental and introducing apostasy to the conversation
Gary Cooper FYI, If you actually look it up on the Church website, they do not call it a sin, it is referred to as a "mistake." And they make it very clear that sins do not equal mistakes. So please correct your thinking and truly follow the prophet and they actually teach, not the judgmental culture that is rampant.
Martin Iniguez literally the term sin is not used a single time. Regret doesn't equal sin. Sin equals sin.
I am gay, have tattoos and am a temple ordinance worker. I struggled for years to reconcile everything and didn't feel comfortable at church. I was inactive and less active for years and when I returned to attending, I used to wear arm sleeves to cover my tattoos at church. My bishop knew how much it bothered me that I felt I was being judged constantly but after a heart to heart talk he asked me to stop covering my tattoos and to come as I am, for that is how Heavenly Father loves me.
In the temple I used to wear this sleeve that covered my wrist and it apparently looked like a bandage. When I was doing initiatories a sister asked me how I hurt my hand. I realized I couldn't lie, especially in the temple so I looked at her and whispered that I was covering tattoos. Her face lit up and she gave me a big hug and she said I was her new favorite temple worker. She said it helped her knowing that I was an ordinance worker because it helped her feel like she has a place there too.
After reading comments here and watching this, I just might not wear my sleeve that covers the tattoo on my wrist. I am not ashamed nor do I regret any of the tattoos I have gotten for they are a part of me and have deep personal meaning. I am only saddened when I am judged by members. I know my body is a temple. That is why I have been selective with how I adorn it when I chose to get my tattoos.
cancerfree2003.
I would think that being gay (lesbian?) would have been more of a concern to your bishop, than your tattoos.
Can you share how THAT went?
Come ON, cancer. Answer!
Gone Fishin" idk I’m bisexual and Mormon.
Most people are actually pretty welcoming. I actually get more hate from lgbt circles for being religious.
@@brookebennett6006 How do you see the churches stance on gay marriage? I'm not gay and I don't support it according to gods laws but I dont feel we should restrict other people from participating in something you're born with. Do you think it's right for the church to keep fighting for keeping gay marriage illegal?
Colton Kerbs I don’t think the church should make the comment on it being legal or not legal, but I see it as them doing what it takes to protect their standards.
I think it’d be wrong for a gay person to sue a church for not wanting to officiate their wedding, and I think that’s what the church is trying to avoid by speaking on the legality.
I’m personally all for it being made legal as long as it wasn’t used as a political tool to get rid of “homophobic” churches.
And I don’t believe that the standard of upholding heterosexual marriages is homophobia, only the disrespect and mistreatment of gay individuals is.
Al!!! Embrace the name. Without you having that name I would have never even continued with my investigating the church!!! I was “curious” and wanted to learn more but thought I was unworthy because of all my tattoos. A friend said look up the “Tattooed Mormon”. I did. I watched your speech at I think it was Virginia University. That was it. That was the confirmation I needed as silly as that sounds!!! I instantly bought your book, you sent me an autographed copy. My missionary came up to you a few weeks ago and you sent me a video. You’re amazing and even tho you’re younger I look up to you!!!
I feel tats on ass are to informal
So, when I got baptized I felt a little uncomfortable because of my tattoos then I went to the temple and I saw a temple worker with tattoos in his hands. I literally felt so good to know that I could progress no matter what 😊
Karol Stefany Paredes Piñeiros You think you can progress just because the next person can ??😂
Karol.
When you see a temple worker that is gay and you feel really good about that, THEN you know you are Eternally Progressing no matter what!
Skate... hahahahahhaa oh yeah kiddo (there now) 😂... hahahaha .... and.... hahahahahahah 😂😉
Jajajaja este pelao le gustó mi comentario jajajaja ayayay que cosas se ve por aquí. 😂😂😂😂
Karol.
If you don't like responses, don't make comments.
I converted in December. I have four tattoos. I did have a small nose piercing as well.
Someone I met prior to converting, gave me a copy of your book. I never read it but just seeing the pic of your tattoos opened my mind to learning more and investigating the church.
I'm active LDS, a returned missionary, sealed in the temple to my wife and have 2 kids. I've always wanted tattoos. Thought that desire would go away as I matured. It never did. So, I got tattoos. And yes, I still consider myself temple worthy and hold a recommend. My tattoos are religious and meaningful to me and a way I like to show my faith and dedication to others and also as reminders to myself. I know that it's discouraged by the apostles, but it's not something that would keep me from returning into the presence of God. I think it's crazy how much attention and criticism this woman has received for her tattoos. Lots of my active buddies have tattoos. And are more real about the gospel than many other Mormons I see at church.
On top of that, one of my tattoo artists in Utah is a mormon. He's a convert and provides for his family that way.
I want a tattoo too too. It would be on my bicep. MOM and when I raise my arm it now says WOW. A twofer. 😜
THANK YOU!
I came to this video out of curiosity to see if anyone else felt like me. I too, am active, a returned missionary, and am sealed in the temple to my wife, but yet to have kids. I have always wanted a tattoo as well and still haven't gotten one. But I plan to pretty soon! Thanks for your post
This helped me feel more at ease, thanks. I just recently came back from my mission and I have wanted tattoos since before I became a member. I plan on getting some soon too.
Thank you so very much for sharing this with all of us. I’m 22 years old, active lds member (born and raised), returned missionary and always thought that my desire for having tattoos will go away when became an adult but it never did! So I got one (after my mission) and sometimes I have this weird feeling cuz I love my tattoo but at the same time I remember that having them is supposed to be “wrong”. I mean how is it possible that having something on your skin will make you less worthy? Sometimes I get very confused about this topic... And I’d love to hear a general authority talk about this in 2021 I’m able to enter the temple, so what is the problem? 🥺🤷🏻♀️
I forgot to say that I’m also a bisexual woman and I know that since I was 14 years old. Try to change my mind, because everybody around me said it was wrong to be gay, but I couldn’t change my feelings, so I accept them. Got older and learnt more about what actually the gospel is about and I realized that my Heavenly Father created me this way and that He loves me so very much.
My plans aren’t marring a woman cuz my patriarchal blessing says I’ll find my male partner and get sealed in the Temple if I follow the Gospel’s commandments. But yeah, I belong to the LGBT 🏳️🌈 community... 🤷🏻♀️😊
It's interesting insights about tattoos...I got mine years ago...but I went about with a direction. Old School Motorcycle Theme....I decided back then to do it right for me..no hurry..and no budget restrictions..I went every Wednesday for about 3.5 hours to 5 hours each week for 4 to 5 months..I had ideas the tattoo artist would take it and make them original to me..I spent on average 285...to 440 each Wednesday..I understand about getting one I know not everyone can commit like I did..but be absolutely sure about what you want.and set it up to build upon..as of today full sleeves both arms and hands..have fun on your tattoo adventure...little by little..
What a feel-wonderful video! The wisdom and inspiration expressed made my heart squeeze with love and gratitude. Thank you, and blessings on you!♡♡♡
Loved this enough that I'm gonna listen a second time!
Al is so beautiful. Thanks for your thoughts!!! ❤️👌👍
Being a tattooed member of the church, and living in Utah, has never been something I've had to worry about. I hear a lot of people that live here say that they get strange looks and/or mean things said to them about having tattoos. But I've honestly never had a single negative experience being a tattooed member of the church. Maybe I'm the rare case. The only funny looks I've gotten have been from little kids during sacrament meeting. In those circumstances I look right at them, and smile. That always seems to make them realize that I might look different, but I'm an alright dude. Haha.
I'm a convert, joining while still active duty with the Army. I'm more "turned off" by any negative reaction to tattoos and piercings than I would be by the fruits of the spirit. We got to hear Al talk just last Saturday in Rexburg and she told a story of barely moving to Utah and someone making an overt comment to her about her appearance. That is far uglier than any outward markings, head shaved, beards, etc. Her spirit and what she says is louder than any outward appearance.
Hi Chris. Retired army Hudson Ward Florida
I experienced more racism and discrimination from byu professors than anywhere else. It hurt my self esteem for a long time
@@divagirl10I hope this isn’t true. That’s awful if it is and they should lose their jobs. Remember though, this would be from man and not from Heavenly Father or our loving Savior.
Great show. Love Al Fox!
Al, I love your story. I read your book, 'Tattooed Mormon', and it made such an impression on me. I see you as a sort of 'Elias' to prepare the way for certain members of the church to get over their holier than thou attitudes about tattoos and any other stigma that is attached to new members of the church. We as a church invite all to come unto Christ, and that includes people with tattoos. I really think you were able to break down many barriers that have hindered many from accepting new members who have lived differently than what a typical member of the church is used to. I honestly believe that the majority of church members are very charitable and welcoming to all who come unto Christ, but as it always is, the majority gets judged by the few. And I honestly believe those that act like knuckleheads usually aren't doing it out of malice, but of ignorance. You are a breath of fresh air and I was so happy to see you in this video and hear your testimony. You are a beautifull person and a true disciple of Christ!
It's really hard for some members to not judge when people are different. It's nice to see you were able to separate the church's teachings from the flaws of some of its members. I watched your short conversion video too. Good stuff.
My grandpa had tatoos, and he was my hero in the gospel.
Love love love you Al!!!
Awesome message! Thank you.
Simply the best !
Awesome video! Keep it up!
The great thing about Sis Al...she just glows!! The Light of Christ & the power of her testimony is so strong that YES!!! I no longer see her tats...to the point I'm shocked when I do notice them 😨
She's such an inspiration to old & young...
I.JUST.LOVE.HER!!!
I see them...and I don’t judge her at all or EVEN CARE! it has nothing to do with her being a convert....I just don’t care.
We all love each other just like Jesus Christ told us to.
Yes we can. I guess I am the tattoo’d Biker Mormon. I have a rock solid testimony. I was 65 yrs old when I realized I did. Now we are preparing to Baptize my wife of 30 years and eventually we will be sealed for eternity in the Temple. It’s never too late to return to where we should have remained. God bless us all in these times of plague. In Jesus Christ’s name Amen
That’s so cool man 🙌
Thank you SO MUCH for making the point that judging others is not an LDS thing, it definitely is a human thing. I’ve lived in Utah my whole life and people blame the “Mormon culture” and say that Mormons judge everyone so much, but honestly I see nonmembers judge WAY more than members. People just assume that Mormons are so judgmental because people in Utah are judgmental. Drives me crazy!
I am blessed with your inspieing message dear sister. God bless you more and all of the brothers with you there.❤️🙏
Thanks Al!
I would love to do a joint podcast or a video with y’all. About how similar perceptions are made with members in the military along with being tattooed. Just stumbled upon your channel in 2020 and I absolutely love it
I actually got to meet Al when she told her story at the Palmyra YSA conference in 2018. Her story is so amazing, and she's such an sweet and friendly person.
“It’s a title they use to associate you with something irrelevant” AMEN SIS
I'm a tattooed member. Thanks for the video
Al you are the most wonderful person I have ever met. I love your wonderful spirit.
"Judging isnt a mormon thing, its a human thing" I really appreciated this statement, thank you!
I subscribed, found this channel following Al Fox Carraway
I love your story! Your the best!
OH MY GOSH! Utah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
When I was in high school in the early nineties, we had a missionary in our branch with tattoos on his arm and it was the first time I saw an active member with tattoos. It was an eye opening experience. This elder was so awesome and I was fortunate to learn about him and the kind of person he is. After I found out what character this elder was made of , I totally looked passed the tattoos and I learned the atonement is real and this elder was in the best place he was supposed to be : on a full time mission serving Jesus Christ .
Well said loved it
Kept the church at arms length from age 15 to age 25. I lived in Utah until age 24, Got a tattoo at a tattoo in Orem Utah when I was 19 I was treated differently because of it by people in the church I thought were my friends, and that pushed me even further away. I moved to North Dakota when I was 24 with my husband. I was isolated, because I was living in an oil boom town where EVERYONE worked, if you didn’t work you just didn’t….see or hang out with people unless you had family there, and the only family I had there (my husband and 2 brothers & their wives) all worked 16+ hour days. My brothers wife invited me to church when I was pregnant at age 25. I was desperate for human interaction, but I was so worried people would avoid me because of my tattoo. It’s on my leg, I would hide it with long dresses, and high boots. Until I started noticing other people there with tattoos they didn’t cover up, and I did notice a lot of the rough neck guys showing up in their FR clothing right off the rigs, and nobody cared that they weren’t put together all the way, they were just happy they came. From there I’ve moved to Colorado, and I’ve had no issues with having a tattoo here either. I believe if I ever were to move back to Utah I’d be able to handle how others react to my tattoo better. The experience I had with my ward in North Dakota led me back to the church. Shout out to my North Dakota peeps. ❤️❤️
People call me "the blue mormon girl" cause my hair is blue hahaha And I'm SO ok with this! All members got used to see my blue hair in the chappel and they miss me and my blue hair if I dont go on sundays. I have tattoos too, it have a history and I will not cover all my body just because I have them. Im a new person, Im a member, I love the Gospel and Im being treated with love all the time. And I think is really cool to be the Blue Mormon or the Blue Fox (cause I have a fox tattooed). Luv u guys and Al!
As long as youre not a 3rd wave feminist and dont believe in the Liberal dogma that the Left spews then youre fine.
@@miguelpanty downvoted
@@lizzicusmotion587 thanks racist.
@@miguelpanty she more than likely is a far left feminist. Blue hair (or other crazy colors) on women is a pretty good predictor of their craziness and politics. Just like when you see a dude with a mullet, driving a pick up truck with a confederate flag and a gun rack, you have a good guess that he isn't going to tell you his made up pronouns or that he is demiqueer or other nonsense. Same with tatted up women with blue hair and multiple facial piercings; she is screaming that she isn't a traditional woman and isn't voting republican generally.
Thank you... I need to watch this...
Love this.
yes al!! love her
I grew up Mormon and have tattoos. Have lived in utah for over 20 years I totally get what you're saying. Agree that if everyone sins were sitting out there like tattoos then people would already be judging. So much love ❤️
You got tattoos for what reason??
I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and to be honest - I love the art of tattoos. I think there is some great artistry in them. What I want to do is ask people about them. But I don't know how to approach people about them or if they even want to talk about them. What is the social protocol about them?
Al - thanks for being you. I've been following you for a while and I love the testimony you bring.
I think your great Al , I watch your channel & if I was a Mormon , I would wanna be a Mormon like you😘🙏🏽😘🙏🏽🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦
I'm not mormon, but she is a very SMART woman. We can learn a lot from her. Ty!!
Do you know how many Mormons I know that have tattoo's? A ton!! My husband is one of them. He is also a convert to the church.
thanks for sharing that!
@@MammaOVlogs no problem!
My husband too! I think part of it is because when you live in Utah it’s kind of like a bubble because they have such a closed mindset that they are actually doing more bad then good when they turn away or exclude people like that
But isn’t tattooing a breaking of the commandment of leviticus 19:28?
I was raised in Provo. If I had seen you in my singles ward, I totally would have asked you out. The tats would have reeled me in. I've always understood not everybody has always been a member. Converts are usually very grounded in the gospel.
Yes we are... Because we know the life in the darkness before went came in to the light.... And we don't want to go back..
And what of those who simply want them and aren’t converts?
Well said
@@Beau-wp9yi do what ever you want!! who cares what some old guy in Salt Lake says amiright?? Drink, eat, and be merry!! For tomorrow we die.............
Here in brazil we need so much a chanel like this. Please caption in portuguese. Congrats and tks
She's SO CHARISMATIC! Bring her back!
I had tattoos before I joined the church and many didn't know I had tattoos till I rolled up my sleeves and then the looks began...well here it is 20 years later and I am in the middle of getting new tattoo (working on an upper arm half sleeve.)
Yay! Al! She's so bubbly that the guys couldn't get a word in edgewise. LOL Loved it! ;) I really wanted a tattoo for my lost embryo babies (four of 'em) but now since deciding to join the church I'll honor their lives another way instead. :) Baptism day for hubby and me will be May 12th! So excited!!!
Rosie The Budgeter YAY! May 12th!!! That's awesome news!
Rosie The Budgeter YAYYYY!!!!
Yay, indeed!!! :)
Rosie The Budgeter Hahahahaha idiot 😂
I think we all may have something that makes us feel the same way. If it is not tattoos, it's something else that makes life hard for us and we feel we can't get out of the house and makes us turn to Christ to make us stronger and keep us going. Some of us have things that are not so visible but just as hard and people judge us not knowing us. It happens all the time inside and outside the church. Christ is the one that heals us of whatever challenge/pain we go through in this life.
Love this video!
Amazing. Loved it. she says, "I never felt uncomfortable or insecure about myself or my looks until I moved to Utah." I felt the same way as I wasn't tattooed but was still I looked down upon for my multiracial looks or build even among professors. I also went back at 29, with no kids and not married. The first day I stood up and said im from Seattle, I got all these dirty looks. It really hurt my self-esteem for a long time
That's sad that you felt looked down upon for various reasons, including being from Seattle. When I was single, I thought Washington girls were the coolest, and then I married one!
I am a tattooed Mormon and not ashamed of it. I would embrace it because there is a huge problem with members who do not accept or judge you for having tattoos. Any idea that a tattoo is a sin is incorrect. I am an active Mormon, returned missionary and will continue to get more tattoos. Why am I considered to be a “sinner” in today’s judgmental Mormon society?
5zazen that is mighty judgmental of you. Why would you concern yourself in the appearance of others? Why would they lose credibility in your eyes? Are you that superficial and cannot look upon the person on the inside? This is a problem with the saints. Did Jesus shy away from the lepers who had visible scars? Be more like Jesus.
You know, stepping outside on a sunny day is worse for your skin than getting a tattoo. And just because something is a pointless activity to you, does not mean that it's pointless to everyone else. For example, wearing those silly Holy underwear is a pointless activity to myself and all other intelligent beings, but that does not mean that it's a pointless activity to you and all other lost souls of the LDS church. For you guys it means something very sacred. It's one more thing that you have control over and thus makes you feel closer to God even though God's word says nothing about them. As Mormons, you guys thrive on following rules and following "prophets" and doing good deeds because they make you feel good. You have become reliant on the words of your so-called prophets instead of the Word of GOD. It will be a great day when you realize that Christ and Christ alone, is sufficient for your salvation.
Doug Hartill You do you, and remember that God loves you no matter what. ❤️
@@tarantulaguy4916 Jesus Christ is the head of the Church of Latter-Day Saints. You say that the Word of GOD, which I assume the Bible is enough? There was so much taught, that it was not even written in the Bible, even John the Apostle says so. John 20:30. When you are given the gift of the Holy Ghost, which can be given through His authorized priesthood holder, you will personally receive revelation to lead to a much better life.
I follow the Prophets because I know he leads us to return to the Glory of Jesus Christ. Without the Prophets on earth today, the plan of salvation would fail.
@@RobbieIsbell Jesus said "I am the way, the truth and the life, no one comes to the father except through me" I guess he forgot to mention your prophets.
You do look very temple worthy, and beautiful. My best wishes for you Al! Come to Mexico!
Good job
Im a member and i have had tattoos for a long time. At first people gave me hard time and it was like oh your the brother with tattoos and it was irritating but they stopped after a while
This is a wonderful message and I'm glad you're sharing this with the world.
I spent a few years after my mission living in Provo, so I'm not surprised. If you were my age and living there in the early 90's, I'd have asked you on a date.😉
However, there's a lot of "active" RM tattoo apologists in this comment section that are just being silly. I won't shun you for comming to church and I'd be happy to stand across from you in temple, but don't try to convince people that we're being judgemental for disapproving of tattoos after really knowing better. Yes, I realize you don't require my approval; I'm nobody.
Our leaders have counselled against this practice. The Strength of Youth guide instructs our young men and women to avoid it. What happens when you're called to be a YM/YW's leader or a bishop and you're instructing the youth from the guide? How's that going to work?
Al, comes from a totally different scenario than "I got tattooed becuase I've wanted one and I'm an RM, married in the temple w/kids, and I consider myself worthy to enter the temple". You go on and justify all you want, I truly get it. We're all guilty of the same behavior.
My main concern with this group here making comments is that your behavoir will influence those considering tattoos. Our prophets are called to lead us at the head of Christ's church, although they are men and they've never been perfect. The appologists are ignorantly leading people to oppose the counsel of these men and I'd argue that's a whole heck of a lot worse than getting a silly tattoo.
Things to consider, folks.
Praise God
On my mission I had someone we were teaching that could not get past his feelings that he could not get baptized because of his tattoos he had all over his arms, they were really cool tattoos and this guy had a serious heart of gold. My companion had been teaching him for over 6 months and the rest of the family got baptized just not him. We tried really hard to work with him and at first we didn’t realize how much this was bothering him. We just thought he had other things holding him back. In a lesson with him it finally came out that he felt like he couldn’t get baptized due to his tattoos. I had a tattoo I had gotten in my early 20’s during a period of rebellion I did not think it would help by me showing so I didn’t say anything. My companion told me to show him. I didn’t think it was going to help so I said no. But at the end of our lesson I told him about my past and showed him my tattoo, and he committed right there to getting baptized. I knew from there on my past, though I had mistakes, was going to allow me to connect with people other missionaries may not be able to. I didn’t broadcast I was any different. In fact I never showed my tattoo again my whole mission. When I got home from my mission I went to YSA and I did not think that I was going to find my wife in the ward I was in. In fact, on a rafting trip we were talking in the car on the way back about things we would want to seek in a partner and what kinds of pasts could they deal with it. A lot of the comments from the girls side completely made me feel isolated because everything that they had issues I had issues in my late teens and early 20’s but I had overcame them. My now wife was sitting in that van and noticed how I was reacting though I wasn’t saying anything. She really showed Christlike love to me and understood I was not the same I was when I was younger. And accepted me for who I was not for what I had done. She ended up asking me out on our first date and the rest is history now. 9 years later, 2 kids, 3 states, and a multitude of callings. Our choices don’t have to define us and we don’t have to care if others try to define us by our mistakes, whether in the church or not.
I ran into her once and called her that because I was star struck and couldn’t remember her name and I’ve felt so bad since then 😟 I’m do sorry Al
Tatoos should not be a sin. Sorry but who cares , if you wear that kind of accesories. I believe that it's important what our heart looks like and not what we look like at the outside. God loves us all, tatoos or no tatoos. Al, you are beautiful and amazing!
Anniloves21 amen! The prophets only discourage it, they do not say it is a sin. As a returned missionary, active member my whole life, I plan to continue getting tattoos. It does not stop me from any of the blessings of the covenant.
Bingo! Even on the Church website, they make a point of not calling it a sin... Because it isn't.
Right! They also say not to wear big jewelry or anything that makes you stand out. That's it.
YEAH GET FUC JOSEPH SMITH ON YOUR FACE OR ARM THEN
The church doesnt call tatoos a sin ,but if you look in the "For the Strength of Youth" hand book, you'll find that it says it's not the tattoo it's the image a tattoo. You should be trying to look like a respectable son/daughter of God. Especially since the church teaches that your body is a temple.
The thing with her is, she got the tattoos before she became a member of the church. She has the sweetest spirit
I guess I'm a tattooed Mormon too, just not practically famous for it. I wouldn't be complaining about that title at least people listen to you and you can get your story out and spread your light but I do agree that it is irrelevant and with your perspective at the same time.. Your inspiring and thankfully my ward is so accepting. ❤ I wish you all the best.
What made you want tattoos?? What goes through your mind when you decide to do thar?
I have tattoos myself personally, and I a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and have been since I was 12 years old.
"The world is never changing, it might even get worse".... yes.... hello 2020!
Amen and amen
I'm mormon and I want more tattoos...
why???
15:54 kwaku looks like the guy from the end of monsters inc when mike wazowski is practicing comedy
I believe eternity includes this very moment, as well as all of the past and all of the future.
One of my good friends was inactive for a number of years and while inactive he tattoos. He came back activity. He at least in my area has not had any issues with the local membership. He also does not care what other think too. Thankfully.
When I was younger I was told that tattoos were bad, and there was this brother who had them, he was in the bishop brick. I was confused because I was very young but I learned soon after that, that it was his battle scar, and his process of finding the truth, then I got my own battle scars not physical and outward, but inward. The truth I learned is that there will be trials, and it is not fair to judge someone's character off of things they believe and do even when we think it is wrong, I also learned what faith and long suffering means, I was told by my family that they didn't believe I loved them because of stupid reasons and stuff, so I stopped being able to feel my family or my heavenly father's love, but I knew they did love me. I made terrible mistakes because I felt alone and unloved, but I never doubted that they loved me, but it didn't mean that I could feel it. I read the scriptures so many times alone in my room, praying for God to fix me and to make me whole, I didn't believe I deserved God's love because I was unclean and kept falling. That state lasted for 4 years of my child development between 10-14, and I found a light. I never lost my faith, even though I went through bitter hell. I'll quote Alma 36
Yea, I say unto you, my son, that there could be nothing so exquisite and so bitter as were my pains. Yea, and again I say unto you, my son, that on the other hand, there can be nothing so exquisite and sweet as was my joy.
I really don't think that the lord is going to judge people for having tattoos. Depending upon how you were brought up or your culture heritage, tattoos may be fine. I feel that it's much more important for a person to worry about what comes from within or comes out your mouth - for looks on the outside can be deceiving but inwardly most always shows your true colors, so ones heart maybe tattooed with judgement and condemnation. I know that some people get them because of tradition such as what the Polynesian people choose to do and to them that can show a right of passage, pride in family and history and I don't judge them for that. I was in the Navy and I never got a tattoo just because I would probably get tired of it or I'm not the type of guy who would want a mermaid on my arm. I do know that some people who do get them when young in life wish that they didn't make that choice latter in life. We all make choices, some good and some bad. Those bad choices can be branded into our minds like a tattoo and only through Christ's Grace can we be made pure again.
The thing about tattoos is that sometimes it's a cultural thing. I think that's a decision that no one can make for you. I live in NZ and there are lots of Māori or Pasifika who are tattooed, and tbh there are sooooo many worse things to be!
When my friend's baby son was born he dipped the baby's foot in ink and put it on his arm, then had the imprint of his son's foot tattooed onto his arm. I agree its a cultural thing.
Agreed half of my family has tats as a part of our culture. We decided to stop though, because we decided to put God before our cultural heritage.
As a Pasifika it is definitely cultural to me as well!
@@uinise5307 For sure and even in the church for many folks it's still an important cultural thing. I think the moral of the story is that as long as you are not judging people and accepting them you also just need to respect people's agency in all things including if they decide this is important to them. One of my friends is half Samoan and after his mission he went to for Samoa for the first time and got some tattoos done traditionally to connect him to his dad's family
@@sophroniel so when prophets say not to vandalize your temple (body) with graphiti, you are free to ingore the admonition? What other words from prophets can you ignore simply because, "it's tot's hot to get tattoos right now"?
Thank you for this message . Follow the prophet and if you are not following the prophet , start today . And if you have a tattoo, don’t worry about it. Don’t get another tattoo and you’ll be happy .
al is awesome
I see this type of situation a lot from some members. The Church was never meant just for those that lived a clean life (those that were raised in the Church). It is mostly there for those that are sinners or those that had different lives before they excepted the truth, repented and joined the Church through baptism. God loves the sinner and excepts them into the fold, even with their blemishes, tattoos and all. If God can look past one’s tattoos that show, He can look past the sins that were hidden.
I don't judge those with tattoos, I just know someone who got really sick from theirs, heavy metal poisoning. That is something not a lot of people talk about, the possible negative health effects that can happen.
Alyssa Bauer : I knew a woman that 100% lost her health after a large tattoo.
I wonder how those tats are going to look when gravity takes effect ...which it will as sure as the morning sun rises in the East🤦🏾♀️
Yay!! What a positive massage!
The Gospel and it's teachings are the same all around world, while the members are a different Story... Members with tattoos should not be seen differently or judged based on it, it's easy fall into that category of being judgmental it's human nature, though at the end of the day as everyone is a child of god and his love is unconditional no matter who you are or what you look like. ❤ From New Zealand!!
I think Al Fox is fantastic! I just don't understand why she doesn't get her tattoos removed. Even if she doesn't, I still think she's fantastic!
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tattoo_removal
Debbie Bunny Hey! We think she's fantastic too :) Probably the reason why she doesn't get them removed is because there is no reason to. She doesn't notice them anymore and they weren't ever sins in the first place-- she got them before she heard the counsel against getting tattoos.
I will never have a tattoo. I will follow the prophet about this thing. But you having tattoos will never bother me at all. Doesn't matter to me when you got it before or after baptism. You are an amazing daughter of our Heavenly Father. Your tattoos are not a mark of whatever negative remarks self-righteous people say it is. Now that you have them, they are ornamentations to your already beautiful character.
I don’t think she realizes what a huge impact she has one those of us that stayed home because we were scared to go to church because of our tattoos I love the church but I also wanted tattoos I grew up knowing it was wrong but guess what I like anyone else that commits sins can be forgiven and still be with god someday
I don't think I've been judged at church for my tattoos... I have several, but the one on my ring finger is the most visible. It represents the permanence of our marriage.
As much as you dislike the title "Tattooed Mormon".... In which I get... But it stands as a firm testimony in the Plan of Salvation. And that alone has helped thousands. Even those dealing with repentance on other sins. We all have scars. Some show some don't. But what a testiment u show.
Brooklyn.
Too bad ALL our sins are not showing on our bodies (like tattoos), including those of LDS apostles and prophets. Maybe then they wouldn't be so judgemental of others and so quick to condemn!
It's in Important Emonial Empathy to People even to those who have Tattoos
I was doing temple Work at NZ Temple in 1997. The Brother whom was Baptising me, for and in behalf of my Ancestors, had tattoos a plenty. Quite an interesting man he is! Dutch, too. Wouldn't have bothered me if he had no tattoos at all.
As a result of my daughter passing; I got got a tattoo in memory of her. Don't worry; unless I have my shirt off, no one would know about my tattoo. Does this make me a bad member of the church and do I need to turn in my temple recommend?
The Jack 0 : It was NOT a dumb decision.
The Jack 0 : You do not need to turn in your recommend. Read the comments. There are temple veil workers who have tats.
In our house we absolutely LOVE this girl!!! Her story is soooo brave and faithful. Emphasis on brave.
God looks at our heart not what we have on our bodies
Wow Al! You're so strong! ♥
I want a tattoo between my eyes, (backwards... can only be read in the mirror) that says, "You Are Here."
To this day I’m still shocked by the reaction of some Utah members towards her. If someone like her had walked into my ward I would have thought it was fantastic!… admittedly, that means I would have had a reaction, because it’s true, most Utah Latter Day Saints DONT have tattoos, but for me, it would have been a positive reaction! The church is for all god’s children!
try showing up to sacrament meeting in a patched out leather jacket & vest, tattoos yes, arms and head in central IL close to Nauvoo. then we can have a chat about looks you get.
There are alot of born again christians who got tattoos before they were saved and many of these chhristians have ministries and are pastors
That's the thing I tell people. You can do anything you want to do!
When I was Elders Quorum President I had long hair.i wasn't told to cut it when the Stake President called me. When I did cut my hair, just because I needed a change, the former EQ's wife came up to me and said "now you look like an Elders Quorum President"! Wrong thing to say ! I told her in no uncertain terms in a condescending whisper "I am still the same person that I was before my haircut"!
I do think this is regional. I am a convert and I live in the South. I have a single tattoo on my arm and not once has anyone, not even a child mentioned it in any negative way. I have even had a few comments that were people saying it "attractive" or "nice ink". I even had one elderly sister tell me it was "lovely". I had my ink before I joined, but like they guy said, if we had to wear our mistakes forever, we would be "tattoo'd head to toe".
I have read the book “not just the tattoos morman” 39 times
I love Al . It is hard to believe that for every conversation, people were rude. Brief or dry maybe but outrightly rude? everyone? I also believe because of the it was an emotionally charged phase , things may have been perceived differently. It's much easier to to take offence when we are emotional and even have expectations. I'm glad that at the end she mentioned that when she just started to worry about herself her perspective changed and she flourished. This would have made it a less emotional situation. Next I am sure there was some judgement for sure but it may not have only been a cultural thing but a historical thing. for example how often did they see someone that looks that different. I am sure some were confused and even shocked. Like if we were to see a lion in my country since we don't have them and have never seen them. Also, should you? I don't think we should have an opinion on that. the rest of the conversation I defiantly agree with . Must you ? now that is a definite no but should you? it depends on whatever makes you comfortable. if they don't bother you or the overall look you want to have then don't. If you feel you want to look differently and don't care for them anymore then do. It's up to you.
Do they know how many polynesian members have traditional tattoos?