A new convert once asked if it was okay to continue some of the religious practices she had enjoyed in her previous religion. They didn’t conflict in any way with our own doctrines or practices; they were simply a comfort and a tradition, particularly those related to holidays. She was assured that if those things helped her to feel closer to God, they were okay to do. We tend to do things in a simple way, and it can be a challenge for new converts to adapt quickly to that.

Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley MormonPresident Hinckley, the previous president of the church, said, “Let me say that we appreciate the truth in all churches and the good which they do. We say to the people, in effect, you bring with you all the good that you have, and then let us see if we can add to it.” (meeting, Nairobi, Kenya, 17 Feb. 1998).

You came to your new religion with a great deal of truth and goodness already tucked away inside of you. You were already making some good choices and had probably developed some routines, traditions, and habits that made it easier for you to do the right things. You’re not asked to dispose of everything you did in the past to take on a new way of life completely. Some things will change, but those things that are in harmony with the gospel are yours to keep. They will help you make your transition easier. If a lit candle makes it easier to pray, light it. In time, you may find you no longer need it, but while you do, no one is going to consider you weak or incorrect. If you previously put your hands together or in the air as you prayed, feel free to do that. Folding our arms is how we pray in church, but at home, do it the way that makes it easiest for you to feel the spirit. There is time in the future to feel at home with your arms folded.

Some things Mormons do are traditional or cultural. Others are doctrinal. Over time you’ll learn which are which. Many people in the church today are happiest with a combination of traditions. Some converts from the Jewish faith continue to celebrate Jewish holidays, often inviting their new church friends to join them and to learn about their Old Testament past. Jesus himself celebrated the Passover and had Seder dinners. There is no reason you can’t have them now if you had them in the past.

As you learn what parts of your old life are appropriate for your new life, you can combine them to make the gospel personal and just right for you.

About Terrie Lynn Bittner
The late Terrie Lynn Bittner—beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend—was the author of two homeschooling books and numerous articles, including several that appeared in Latter-day Saint magazines. She became a member of the Church at the age of 17 and began sharing her faith online in 1992.

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