How far can mercy reach when a decades-long double life finally unravels, shaking a ward’s trust and a family’s heart?

This week on Latter-day Lights, Scott and Alisha welcome back Martin Onken for Part Two of his story—the hope-filled conclusion to his twelve-year journey of repentance.

In part one, Martin opened up about a lonely, complicated childhood that left him hungry for love and belonging. Leaning on his relationship with God to seek out the acceptance he was lacking, he found purpose in the Church and eventually served as a bishop. In time, however, he began living a double life, entering a 30-year extramarital affair that ultimately came to light, and led to a heartbreaking disciplinary council and excommunication.

In part two, Martin shares hard-won practices that rebuilt his soul: Consistently showing up to support groups and recovery programs, listening to those who saw him past his wrongdoings, retaking missionary lessons, and reflecting on temple grounds. He shares what it was like to tell his children the truth, navigate the difficult decision to separate from his wife, find love again after heartbreak, and rebuild his trust with family, all the while patiently seeking permission to officially return to the Church.

Each of these steps nudged Martin closer to approval for rebaptism, and revealed that Heavenly Father was guiding the process all along.

By the end of this episode, you’ll feel steadier about walking your own path back to God no matter how far off you’ve strayed. Expect practical tools, compassionate perspectives, and a renewed witness that no one is too far gone for the Savior’s relentless mercy.

*** Please SHARE Martin's story and help us spread hope and light to others. ***

To WATCH this episode on YouTube, visit: https://youtu.be/7K4-ZboOnZQ

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To WATCH part one of Martin's story, visit: https://youtu.be/8IvvCcAoGWc

To READ Scott’s new book “Faith to Stay” for free, visit: https://www.faithtostay.com/

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