
My name is Christen Frei and I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I am not, however, what you might call a traditional Mormon. I am an only child, raised by a single mother. In high school, I did not like attending church, though I still loved the scriptures. I struggled to return to the Church in college and, as it turns out, a liberal arts women’s college was a great place to learn the gospel for someone who bucks at tradition. I majored in molecular biology, later received my Masters in biochemistry, and worked as a scientific researcher. I served a mission for the Church in Knoxville, TN. My husband and I were married in the Seattle, WA temple. However, since his faith crisis, my husband now attends the Episcopal church.
I am constantly amazed by the love God has for all of his children. I believe the doctrines of my faith are among the most beautiful in all the world. I believe the restored gospel of Jesus Christ can bring anyone closer to God—a relationship which brings confidence and peace. Unfortunately, we too often remain only on the surface of things. Faith, like science, needs to be explored. Otherwise, you take too much for granted and miss out on the amazing things right under your nose. I believe it is eternal truths that unite us and that they are best found when we work together.