In an effort to create more meaningful relationships between the two faiths, Robert Millet, professor of ancient scripture, and Rev. Gregory Johnson, an evangelical pastor, have joined together by developing a presentation given to both evangelical and LDS students.

Standing Together, a group based in Salt Lake City, has a two-fold mission to unite evangelical church bodies in Utah and change the relationship paradigm between themselves and members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

This Christian group has been developed to exemplify the importance and worth of all individuals. They said they believe people of differing faiths should view each other as a whole.

Historically, the relationship between these conservative Christians and members of the LDS faith has been viewed as negative and aggressive. Standing Together tries to combat these feelings by building a healthier relationship between the two churches.

Millet has been working with Johnson to help students of both faiths be more aware that relationships are the most important factor for a successful exchange.

The two friends have known each other for seven years. Through their 18 presentations, they have reflected how it is possible to discuss differences in religions in a civil and humane manner.

Their two-hour presentation begins with a background of their individual religious upbringings. They talk about the challenges and benefits they have experienced in trying to build a strong friendship with others who have doctrinal differences.

The second section of the presentation involves Millet and Johnson asking each other doctrinal questions. The final portion of the presentation gives the students an opportunity to ask questions and make comments.

Millet said he thinks it has been "a very successful enterprise" that works toward the objective of having students know it is possible to have a relationship with "someone of a different faith, and it can be a kind, loving and God-inspired relationship."

Millet said he thinks being a part of the presentation has blessed his life.

"It's broadened and deepened the feelings of my heart," Millet said.

Standing Together has also made efforts to strengthen relationships by bringing the two faiths together in a more relaxed atmosphere. In March and April, BYU hosted four evangelical groups of university students for a day. The groups attended religion classes and activities as well as Millet and Johnson's presentation.

Millet and Johnson may have the opportunity to present another session May 20 when a fifth group of evangelical university students attends BYU for the day.

BYU students are also involved in the effort to build healthier relationships between the two churches. Christopher Lindsay, a senior from Provo majoring in American studies, expressed his feelings about the organization.

"It finds common ground," Lindsay said. "It helps us to realize the humanity of both groups,"

When Standing Together brought 40 of their members to Salt Lake sidewalks during General Conference weekend in April, their purpose was to bring kindness.

They wanted to fill the permit spots in order to block other protestors who did not promote Christian values as they thought they should be presented. Lindsay said he thought their actions demonstrated true sincerity and showed "they are just as troubled about these issues as we are."

Eric McHenry, ministry associate for the organization, said it's important that individuals start "viewing people through a lens of friendship."

McHenry went on to explain that after church members of both faiths have this perspective, a greater understanding can be found and a more respectful "dialogue" established. McHenry said he feels an important part of changing the attitude and perception the churches have of each other is to build "trust and value [in] each other."

An important part of changing the attitudes and perceptions the churches have of each other is to build "both trust and value [in] each other," he said.

McHenry said he enjoys his responsibilities in the organization and has a real desire to help others catch his vision of uniting the two communities.

"There are differences between us, but we appreciate the community we live in," McHenry said. "We view our LDS community as our friends and neighbors."



Copyright Brigham Young University 6 May 2004