I don't really know why, but my parents have been inactive for quite a few years now. When my mother found out that DH and I were getting married in the Temple, she decided she would get her recommend back so she could go (not the best reason for wanting to get it back, but I figured it was a start, right?) My mom had surgery last Friday, so my dad and I went down to the cafe in the hospital to have breakfast and I casually asked him why he doesn't go to church. He said, "Because it didn't do any good for me. I'm still a heathen." All of my life, I have never had a Father's Blessing, and have always wanted one. I don't necessarily want one for no reason at all, but If I ever need one, it would be nice for him to be able to give me one. When I received my Patriarchal Blessing at the age of 18, both my parents came even though they weren't active. I had never, ever spoken to my Patriarch about the situation with the Father's Blessing. I was almost completely shocked when the Patriarch said this in my blessing: "In time, your father will lay his hands upon your head and give you a blessing. Your dear father will lean in that direction, for it is in his heart to do so." I have told my dad about this because I KNOW he has forgotten, and of course I have misplaced my blessing and so I can't prove to him yet that it says that. I guess I'm just wondering what to do? My dad doesn't like to talk about serious stuff, and when I try he just gives me some jokster answer. Now, I know that I need to have faith in my blessing, but it's so hard when I see how my dad's life is going at the moment. My blessing also says that I was a teacher in the preexistence and taught the importance of faith, so I guess I need to remember that too. (If I could only find my blessing so I can read it again!) I think if I can get my dad to go, then my mom will go too. She doesn't like to do things by herself.
Sorry for the long post. I just don't even know where to begin, and I feel like it is my responsibility to get them reactivated. (I have even thought of writing the missionary who baptized us because he lives pretty close.)

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Well, I hope I can help because I was feeling a lot of similarities while reading your blessing!! Mostly with the jokester dad and feeling like you can't speak seriously to him! But also because a few of my brothers and sisters have become inactive over the years and my mom's patriarchal blessing says that she'll live to see them all come back together in the gospel.

It's a really difficult situation and I think you're right about having faith. Something you may or may not have thought about is the timing. We've learned that the blessings mentioned in our blessings COULD be for after this earthly life. If it doesn't put a time frame on it, it may not be while you're here, but that doesn't mean that it won't happen. Continue to love them and be an example to them. Don't let an opportunity go by where you can testify to them. The hard thing about that is remembering not to become too intense and step on toes, so to speak.

I'm sure it's tough for you, but follow the spirit and you'll know what to do.

Oh, and if you really think you're not going to find your blessing, you CAN talk to a patriarch and he can tell you about writing to get a copy from the church records in salt lake city.

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I am so sorry you having to go thru this. I think JoanOfArc gave you some great advice. I know what you are feeling tho. My dad only went thru the temple so he could see me get married. I don't even thinks he wears his garmets anymore. And he told my sister that he really doesn't believe in the Church, he just goes to make my mom happy.

I would definatley talk to a Patriach about getting a copy of your PB. It may be just what you need. Good luck hun. hug

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You'll have to excuse me..it's early (7:30am) and I apperently cant type this early!! That "bug" hug is supossed to be

Great news! DH called after he got to work this morning and he found my blessing!!! I didn't even ask him where because I was so excited! Unfortunately I don't even have time to read it because today is going to be such a crazy day! I guess I will have to wait until I go to bed tonight. Thanks for the great advice! I had forgotten that things in our blessing may not happen in this life.

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I can relate as well. My mom is active, but often skips meetings and doesn't go to the temple unless its for a wedding. My Dh has recently gone completely inactive and says he doesn't believe anymore. Its hard, but you just got to have faith, keep praying, and hope for the best. I also just remind myself that there is no point in excessive worrying/stressing about it, because ultimately, its their choice and nothing we can do can force them to come back. If they do come back, it will be because the Spirit touches them, not because of constant prodding from us. Not that we can't be an example and testify, but that we shouldn't dwell too much on it, because its in the Lord's hands, and in His time.

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OOOPS, I put my Dh is inactive, but I meant my Dad. Sorry!

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Neither of my parents have ever been active in my life time so I know how you feel. My dad is "almost" anti, he doesn't care for any kind of religion and just lives his life how he wants to!

I'm glad you found your p-blessing and hopefully you'll find some time to read it, I'm sure you will find some comfort in it!

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I just wanted to add that I think if you pointed out subtley to your dad every so often how going to church is good for YOU, maybe he will start to see what he is missing!?! That is what he said his problem was, and that is what got ME active! I couldn't stand the constant badgering from family. As soon as they left me alone and I got to know a friend who occasionaly mentioned blessings she had through church, I felt left out and was like "hey, I want in on all this blessing stuff! Sign me up!" LOL. Good luck!

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I'm so glad you found your blessing! And I wish I had some advice about your dad beyond, "Hang in there!"

Marianne