Is the Church for Everyone?

I've heard people express that the LDS Church is not for everyone.  Certain people thrive in the Church, it is said, while others will struggle.  Many feel that those of a gay orientation would probably fair better in a different church, for example.  This can be a surprisingly touchy subject because of the doctrine that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the "only true and living church on the face of the whole earth with which [the Lord is] well pleased." (Doc & Cov 1:30)



According to Church doctrine, ordinances are required for the highest forms of salvation, and only within the Church can you find a priesthood that is authorized to perform these ordinances.  This seems to indicate that for salvation to be available to everyone, the Church should be accessible to everyone.  And, personally, I feel that part of the growth and development of the Church is precisely that -- to become accessible to all.  I love the fact that the church has come so far with acceptance of sexual orientation.  The mormonsandgays.org website is a great start to such inclusiveness.  I'm not saying that the church must be inclusive of everyone, but rather be available to everyone.  This all stems from that missionary call to preach the gospel in every nation, to every people, and I think that includes people of all orientations.  According to President Hinckley, the invitation is to bring all the good you have, and let the Church add to it.

So is the Church for everyone?  I think it is meant to be available to everyone.  We're not there yet, but it eventually should be.

Also please note that I do not believe that all good people will necessarily want to become members, nor do I believe that all members are good people, but rather that everyone's life can be enriched and blessed if they are willing to change their lives to live in accordance with the doctrines and ordinances of the Church.