Do you know people who are struggling to hold on to the iron rod, others who may be caught in the mists of darkness, or worse yet, are completely lost as they wander on the strange roads of pornography or sexual addiction?

Those who struggle, those who minister to them, and spouses and family members often look long and hard for help, answers, and hope. The greatest hope comes through centering our lives on the Savior. Translating that hope into a healthy, functional path, however, can be challenging.

The LDS Marriage Network, a project of the Family Leader Foundation, was developed to foster healthy relationships and positive well-being among couples and families within the LDS community. Pornography and sexual addiction can threaten and destroy healthy relationships and well-being.

In response to this threat, the LDS Marriage Network, in collaboration with Meridian Magazine, has developed “A More Excellent Hope,” a conference geared toward those who struggle, their spouses, priesthood leaders, practitioners, and professionals. It will be held March 10, 2007, in Provo, Utah.

The conference is grounded in the doctrine, principles, and application of a Christ-centered life and features some of the premier scholars and practitioners in the field from both inside and outside the LDS community.

Conference presenters include Mark D. Chamberlain, Ph.D., Mark Laaser, Ph.D., Mark Butler, Ph.D., LMFT, Philip & Colleen Harrison, Kevin B. Skinner, LMFT, Geoff Steurer, LMFT, Dan Gray, LCSW, Laura M. Brotherson, CFLE, and Paul Birch. They will present on topics ranging from compulsion to agency, relationships and grace in recovery, the impact of “accountability partners” and men's workshops, Christ-centered healing, essential spiritual tools for recovery, parenting practices that protect children from pornography, and healthy intimacy in marriage.

In addition to the keynote and breakout sessions, this conference will host a town hall meeting with selected priesthood leaders, researchers, practitioners, and other educators. This open discussion forum will provide participants with an opportunity to dialogue in a frank and candid manner.

Conference partners and sponsors include Beautifully Modest, an online clothing store with bridal and formal collections (http://www.beautifullymodest.com ), Meridian Magazine (http://www.meridianmagazine.com ), The Family Leader Foundation, Strengthening Marriage.com, Growth Climate, and Family Dynamics International.

Presenters will begin from a doctrinal foundation, articulate related principles, and provide Spirit-led application that flows from the doctrine. Participants will gain insight into the phases of addiction, learn about successful recovery approaches, and become part of a growing network of supportive individuals, ministers, and professionals.

There is “a more excellent hope” (Ether 12:32), a hope that through Him ALL mankind may be saved, even those who struggle with the debilitating challenges of pornography and sexual addiction. Those who minister to or are spouses of those who struggle will leave this conference refreshed and encouraged. The ultimate hope of this conference is that those who wish to help and those who are lost in strange paths will find effective resources and tools as well as increased knowledge and motivation to return to the iron rod and come out of the mists of darkness for good.