Today at church I was informed that Peter's name has officially be removed from the church and that I am now considered the 'head of the household', as far as church matters are concerned. I already knew that his name would be officially removed by the beginning of the month because I was there when he turned in his letter/request to have his name removed, and there when he/we read the letter from the first presidency saying it would become official in 30 days.
At this point I don't have any real strong feelings about all this... It's been a process. I worry about him not having the gift of the Holy Ghost to guide him and direct him all the time and worry about him being misguided off the path even more quickly now. I miss having the Priesthood in my home, but when I really felt the impact of it leaving was when Peter took off his garments for the last time, showered, then put on an undershirt and boxer-briefs. I may have shed a few tears.
My mom's been through something similar, many years ago when her first marriage failed due to her husband cheating on her and leaving the church. She's warned me all along that once their name is removed they really change... for the worst. I'm trying to be optimistic, but maybe that's just my Zoloft doing it's job. (tee hee). Or maybe it's just that I made my little tutu and hair clip businesses legal last week and I feel happy about that... or just happy that I have something that makes me feel happy and inspired. (Seriously, i LOVE it!) Whatever it is, all I can do is do my best and pray for all the help, guidance and peace possible, because we're going to need it.
I know this news is going to really be painful for those nearest and dearest to digest, but just be grateful that you're not in my shoes. As Peter's parents, you did your part to teach him right from wrong. As siblings you can pray for him and love him and let him know that he is still loved. Who knows where things will go from here? I just hope that no matter what we all remain family and friends. We'll get through all this somehow.
