I enjoyed Tim Townsend’s article, The Mormon Index, that appeared on the front page of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch on January 22. Tim discussed how some economists look at the numbers of people using the Mormon welfare program to gauge the economy.

It’s an obscure index, one that was lost on me though I am a Latter-day Saint (LDS or Mormon). My view of the welfare system of the Church is as an insider who has been benefited by it. I don’t think too many LDS, with the exception of a few LDS economists, were aware of “The Mormon Index” until reading Tim’s article.

The Church’s welfare program is supported by a facility that typically includes a food storehouse, a cannery, an employment resource center, and a family counseling center. The Bridgeton facility in St. Louis Missouri is a central focus in Tim’s article.

My family has been benefited by the facility. In the past, when we’ve needed to stretch…

A unique opportunity to learn a bit about the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is coming to a movie theater near you. Emma Smith: My Story  tells the story of Emma Smith who was wife to Joseph Smith, founder and prophet of the church.

Photo credit: Candlelight Media Group

The movie starts tonight and shows through May 21st at : Regal St. Louis Mills, 5555 St. Louis Blvd., Hazelwood, MO 63042. Showing at 12 pm, 2,00 4:00, 7:25 & 9:25 pm.

The movie is likely to have highlights of the church history in Missouri.

If you see the film, I would be grateful if you would share your thoughts by commenting to this post.

For more information, please see the website: click emmasmithmovie.com

Learn how the church has partnered with the effort: click here