Church's facets explored

What's the best idea in Mormonism?

Its concept that the glory of God is intelligence; that God is an exalted man; its belief in continuous revelation; personal agency; and a belief in equality among members were all mentioned as top ideas during a panel discussion at the Sunstone Symposium Friday.

Members of a panel were invited to share their opinions, in a context of overlooking the obvious concept of the church's belief that it is "the one and only true church."

Alan Eastman, a chemist, said, "We're encouraged to learn about the world as much as we can" is his best idea in Mormonism. However, he expressed concern about an almost anti-science slant that exists in the church today, compared to decades ago when Utah led the nation per capita in the creation of scientists.

Richard Sherlock, a professor of philosophy at Utah State University, said there was no best idea — that's a paradox. Continuous revelation for both the church and individuals comes closest, though.

John Dewey Remy, a student, writer and the youngest panel member, espoused the concept of human divinity as the best idea in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, as did some other panelists.

Paul Montclair, executive director for the Foundation of Interreligious Diplomacy, said, "God does not have a body but is a body," as he outlined man's potential to attain Godhood as the church's best idea.

Vickie Eastman, executive recruiter, believes that God being part of a couple is the church's best concept. She also said this, in reality, means that Mormonism has a concept of feminine power far beyond that of any other faith.

The "sociality" of the church — that we're all children of God and can become like him — was the choice for James McLachlan, a professor of philosophy and religion at Western Carolina University.

Becky Linford, organizer of Sunstone's symposium in Washington, D.C., said agency is what she loves most in the church, though it is a myth that this gift is "free."

Attorney Bill Hansen said that charity, in conjunction with spousal love — both co-equal to loving God with all your heart — is the faith's best idea.

"The more you know about something, the more you will love it," he said.

Sidni Jones, a second-grade teacher, said teaching correct principles and letting members govern themselves is No. 1, while Keith Hamilton, an attorney, believes the church's divine establishment and purposes are its best ideas.

Yvette Arts, a consultant for instructional design at BYU, said the power of righteous desire is her pick.

Jordan Kimball, a Sunstone board member, said "a community of believers who are equally valued" is Mormonism's best idea.

Kim McCall, a Sunstone board member, offered the most unusual response — the belief that Missouri is the center place of Zion.

Sunstone wraps up today at the Sheraton with concurrent sessions on various Mormon-related subjects beginning at 8:45 a.m.

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E-mail: lynn@desnews.com