From Deseret News archives:

Reader responses regarding "The Mormons" PBS series

Published: Thursday, May 3, 2007 12:10 a.m. MDT
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Were there times during the program that I was uncomfortable? Yes. Did the program cause me to wonder about some of the events of early church history? Of course. Did the program shake my faith or cause me to doubt my testimony? Absolutely not.

The bottom line: I think this documentary will, on balance, be good for the church. For those who may have a sincere interest in the church and its teachings, it will prompt additional investigation, especially from those who have relationships with active members. Church members should view this as an opportunity to capitalize on the increased exposure and provide answers to questions from their friends. However, for those people who already have a negative opinion of the church, this program will probably not change their minds, but will have a tendency to reinforce old stereotypes. — Mark G. Child, Fremont, CA

We watched the Monday night segment of the "Mormons" program and we were very disappointed with it. Far more emphasis was placed on the Mountain Meadow Massacre and polygamy than was placed on less controversial historical aspects of the church.

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While a wide range of view points was presented, only in a few instances were the view points of official spokesman presented. Overall we feel that the documentary was slanted towards sensationalism. We did not bother to watch the Tuesday night segment. — Lavelle & Audrey Clark in Richland, Washington, USA

The first part was upsetting with the negative things speculated about Joseph Smith and Brigham Young. I appreciated the second part and learning more about the church's more modern history, as I joined the church as a teenager in the 1970's in New Jersey and didn't move to Utah until 1990. On a scale of 1-10, I'd give the first part a 3 and the second part a 6. Certainly not a missionary piece, but it should pique the interest of many people outside Utah. — Kathy Doan, Midvale, UT

It was very well done. It was easy to identify what things were matters of opinion, and I saw or heard nothing that was not true. No one from either the LDS Church or the anti-Mormon camp should ever object to hearing the truth or from listening to sincerely expressed opinion. — David Coppin, Logan, Utah

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