May 26, 2005

Should Mothers Stay Home?

By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families. Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children. In these sacred responsibilities, fathers and mothers are obligated to help one another as equal partners.
Interesting. Nowhere in this proclamation—whether it is scripture or not is for another post—does it state that mothers are to stay home or that they are not allowed to go out to work.

So why is it that such an idea is taught in the Church?

5 comments:

Kim Siever said...

What of families where the children attend school? Is it necessary for mothers to stay home to nurture if her children aren't even there?

Is being home necessary to nurture children?

Mary Siever said...

Yes, I agree with this. Being present and together is important for nurturing and there are different stages for being "stay at home".

Anonymous said...

Another reason "mothers stay at home" is taught in the church is because the proclamation is not the end all-be all of church teachings. Pres. Benson told mothers, in no uncertain terms, to come home (with the exception of those who were forced into the position of having to provide).

Now that times have changed, the counsel has changed in such a way so as to be more flexible in it's application. Nevertheless, Pres. Benson lowered the boom in such a way that we haven't been able to shake the general teaching of mothers staying home. And I think that's a good thing.

Jack

Anonymous said...

From our perspective, the council given by the Proclamation and by President Benson are guidelines to help parents understand the importance of their responsibilities. It is helpful to prayfully enlist the influence of the Sprit when making these kinds of decisions. "One correct answer" may not fit every situation.

Roger & Sue

Anonymous said...

i don't think it's fair that women should stay at home& be stay home mothers.who will take care of thier children if the husband divorces her?if she doesn't work or get education who is going to assist the kids with their homeworks?women should be given a chance to use their God given talents like every one else.