Bridging the Religious Divide: Open letter to the community

Many pointed to fear, as well as the desire to protect what is held dear, as contributing factors. Participants observed that "We are afraid of one another across the divide" and "people act hatefully out of fear." Another noted, "People establish a safe distance. We pay a price for that." One LDS man said he felt the religious divide began in the 1800s when Mormons were the target of "ethnic cleansing." "That kind of memory can take centuries to fade," he noted. Another reflected that "as I came to understand LDS history, I better understood the need for refuge and a fear of outsiders."

Others discussed how the desire to pass on one's values to one's children contributed to the divide. "There are parallel concerns on both sides," said one person. "People want their children to marry within their community to preserve their culture," noted another.

Lack of contact between members of different communities was also noted. "People live in their own circles," said one person. Another noted that people tend to "circle the wagons" and "keep a comfortable distance." An LDS participant observed, "We have so many activities for kids. Church is their social life. If you are not a member, you could feel rejected socially."

Throughout the conversations, certain issues frequently emerged as points of tension. Some of the most common were:

The claim that the LDS Church is the "one true church." A core belief and point of doctrine for most Mormons is that the LDS Church has restored Christianity to its original authenticity. One commonly used phrase to express this concept is that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the "one true Church." This phrase denotes to many non-Mormons that Mormons consider all other beliefs to be inferior, which many non-Mormons find to be an offensive notion.

Proselytizing. Seeking to share their faith with others is an important aspect of practicing the LDS faith for most Mormons. Some non-Mormons are put off by proselytizing, however, especially if they feel expressions of friendship by Mormons are contingent upon an interest in converting them.

Stereotyping Mormons. A stereotype of Mormons is that they are "obedient," "followers" who are "all the same." Members of the LDS faith are deeply offended by this stereotype and people's unwillingness to recognize their individuality and intelligence.

"Is there a place where you can hold your beliefs and I won't be offended? Is there a way we can both be here?"

"Mormon bashing." Many LDS feel they are the target of disparaging remarks (and at times actions) that deprecate LDS belief and culture. Moreover, they feel troubled that many people outside the faith do not speak out against such remarks and actions.