Latter-day Saint Martial Arts Annual Report 2014 | Seite 3

2

LDSMAA Mission Statement.
The mission of the LDSMAA (Latter-Day Saint Martial Arts Association) is to connect
individuals who are Mormon, and have a common interest in martial arts. There are many
members of the LDS Church who share common interest in other things such as sports, fields
of employment, parenting and service. Even with all these activities, there aren't many ways
for members to connect who participate in martial arts as they are fewer and far between.
Membership in the LDS Church is not required to become a member of the LDSMAA,
upholding the same standards and values is required.
This is a way for those individuals to connect and interact, share stories about their martial
arts studies, testimony building experiences and missionary experiences.
Martial arts is an art form, an outer expression of an inner passion. Without passion, life is
dull. Express yourself while following the gospel!
You are not only learning how to defend yourself, you are learning how to master the body.
"The natural man is an enemy to God". Martial arts is a great way of becoming a master over
the natural man. By becoming a master over the natural man, you have the opportunity to
more easily keep the commandments and do the will of God.
Like a weapon is a tool to your body, your body is a tool to your spirit. If you swing a bō staff
around without first learning how to control it, you are liable to receive physical pain. The same
is true with your body, if you go through life without learning how to "bridle your passions", you
are liable to spiritually get hurt.
May we come together as martial artists and hear of each others experiences and successes!