[youainti]

Happy to give it a go.

There is a lot of emphasis on the importance of family, including raising kids. This is because we believe that before living on this earth, our spirits lived in the presence of God, our Heavenly Father. This world is a place for us to learn and grow, and someday we hope to be able to return to Heaven. In this context, raising kids is both a part of personal development and a way to help others experience this life [0].

When it comes to how many children to have, the decision is left up to the couple [1]. Some of the factors that affect each family include cultural and personal preferences. I've know people who feel that a large family is a requirement for salvation. Others feel that they need a smaller family. In all cases the couple is expected to seek guidance from God. In my parent's case, they just kept having kids until they felt like their entire family was finally here (with a total of 8 kids). My wife and I have had some very personal experiences about when to have our children.

Hope that helps.

[0] https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/the-fam...

[1] https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/general-han...

[blackhawkC17]

Thanks for the detailed reply. I don't agree with the ideology, but can understand it.