In the last few years there have been public displays of dissatisfaction with the church and it’s leaders. Some people are upset about the church’s stance on gays. Some people are upset about women not holding the priesthood. Some people want to breastfeed in sacrament meeting. Some don’t think the Elders’ Quorum should be a moving company. I’m not interested in debating these specifics right now, but I am interested in discussing what we should do when we are dissatisfied with our church experience.

The Apostles ask us to direct our concerns to our local leaders, who are in a better position to address our concerns. Often, if a person is passionate about their dissatisfaction, this doesn’t seem like enough, takes too long or doesn’t go to the heart of the problem which is perceived as coming from the highest authorities. On the other side if we take our concerns public does that really facilitate change? Why is the church so against public demonstrations and protesting?