He learned years ago how the divide impacts the state economically, by working with companies that considered locating in the Beehive State and were concerned about "stereotypes about Mormons and alcohol." An active Latter-day Saint, he began observing LDS attitudes and behaviors, including those in his own South Jordan neighborhood. He came to the table knowing there was a problem.

For many, it was "a chance to take out some frustration. They found this dialogue to be so cathartic — just a chance to be heard, to look across the table and tell me as a Latter-day Saint how they've experienced the divide was very healing for them . . . I was apologetic but wanted them to know it's not indicative of all LDS members, that many of us are trying to heal the divide, to reach out, to be more inclusive and better neighbors."

The LDS belief that theirs is "the one, true church" was among the most troubling issues the group discussed. Spence said he didn't realize the claim "was that offensive. I asked . . . why there is so much acrimony behind that." The reply: " 'Well, if you're right, then by linear thinking, we're all wrong. If you're superior, then we're somehow inferior.' That was a real eye opener for me about how offensive that is. I'm not sure how to bridge that one . . . I can't back down from that. It's one of our core beliefs."

Still, the dialogue was "very respectful," Spence said. The meetings have been "one of the greatest experiences of my lifetime, bar none."

Michael Rhys, a 52-year-old native Utahn and a junior high school English teacher, was first attracted by the public forums on the divide. "I went expecting to hear a lot of nastiness and name calling but was impressed with how people conducted themselves." He joined a small group discussion, knowing even though he was well-versed in LDS theology as a former Latter-day Saint, he might be considered suspicious as a pagan minister.

Even so, he said he hasn't found his chosen faith to be a disadvantage in Utah. "I think that's because I'm a white male and fit into the mainstream power structure. I do know a lot of pagan people in Utah that have had quite a difficult time."

He said local tension "comes from stereotypes. People get an idea that Mormons are a certain way and Mormons get the idea that others are a certain way. The discussions reminded me of something I've learned before — that stereotypes, by definition, are false beliefs. When you're dealing with people one on one, the person becomes important rather than their faith or race or economic standing."