While mentioning Mormonism only once during the speech, Romney said he wouldn't disavow his faith. He acknowledged that "some believe that such a confession of my faith will sink my candidacy," and he seemed willing to suffer the consequences. "If they are right, so be it."

He insisted that "Americans do not respect believers of convenience. Americans tire of those who would jettison their beliefs, even to gain the world."

Married to the same woman for 38 years and a grandfather of 10, Romney presents himself as a model of Christian family values. Still, evangelicals have said they remain skeptical for two reasons: a faith they consider a cult and a record as governor of Massachusetts that includes support for abortion and gay rights.

Romney cited his faith as "common creed of moral convictions," while acknowledging theological differences. "Whether it was the cause of abolition, or civil rights, or the right to life itself, no movement of conscience can succeed in America that cannot speak to the convictions of religious people."

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Contributing: Christopher Stern