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Election sparks spirited debate about Mormonism
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Not grateful | 12:35 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
The article says we are grateful for the new found attention, but I don't
know anyone who is grateful. We have to deal with curiosity seekers and
journalists that frequently commit such errors as stating that Joseph Smith
founded the state of Utah and the reference to magic underwear. We knew it was
coming and we are dealing with it, but I for one am not grateful. It feels more
like being the center of attention at a freak show where everyone looks but no
one talks. I realize this too will pass, but I prefer the old fashioned methods
of getting the word out. I realize the Church and it's members didn't
ask for this, but we have to do our best, as much as we are given the chance.
Patata Brava | 12:58 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
I don't live in Utah. One of my friends asked me what I thought about
Romney. I told him that as an American, I think that he is a very capable
administrator. As a Mormon, I'm terrified. Not that I don't think
that my church can stand up to scrutiny. But it has a hard time against hit
pieces. Anyone can tell a lie by creating cleverly crafted statements that,
although they appear to contain true statements, are in fact
inflamatory/deceitful. Yes, Mormons believe Jesus and Lucifer are brothers. It
sounds weird to a Nicean Christian with little exposure to LDS doctrine or
non-biblical Apostolic texts.
As a missionary in Argentina several people screamed profanities at me because they were still mad about a war fought over a decade before that America didn't even fight. Other times I was chased, had to dodge fists, had my glasses knocked off my face, and numerous people were convinced that I worked for the CIA. I am convinced that a Romney presidency would further cement the mental equation LDS=USA, and would be the cause of at least one missionary death. Imagine the world-wide animosity if Romney were as popular as George W. Bush.
As a missionary in Argentina several people screamed profanities at me because they were still mad about a war fought over a decade before that America didn't even fight. Other times I was chased, had to dodge fists, had my glasses knocked off my face, and numerous people were convinced that I worked for the CIA. I am convinced that a Romney presidency would further cement the mental equation LDS=USA, and would be the cause of at least one missionary death. Imagine the world-wide animosity if Romney were as popular as George W. Bush.
Illinois Cougar | 2:00 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
To those who really want to know, I will take all the time they require. Not
because I have any intention of "Selling" the gospel. That will
happen on its own, if it is to be. I genuinely enjoy discussing religion. Not
just mine, but those of other travelers that I come in contact with. Through
those discussions I have come to better understand my own faith.
To those who seek to belittle or mock my faith, I have no time for. Ill-mannered imbeciles, who take pleasure in tearing down that which others hold sacred generally take great pride in their bigotry. It is fruitless to provide them an avenue to bring further attention to themselves.
While there will always be moronic few who lack the social graces to be respectfull of others, most people genuinely want to understand what kind of people we are.
To those who seek to belittle or mock my faith, I have no time for. Ill-mannered imbeciles, who take pleasure in tearing down that which others hold sacred generally take great pride in their bigotry. It is fruitless to provide them an avenue to bring further attention to themselves.
While there will always be moronic few who lack the social graces to be respectfull of others, most people genuinely want to understand what kind of people we are.
Comments continue below
Good Publicity | 2:10 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
Irish author Brendan Behan once said, "There is no such thing as bad
publicity except your own obituary." Like it or not, the LDS church is in
the national spotlight. The attention will only grow stronger, the question is,
are we ready to provide the answers to the many inquiries?
Elder Ballard recently spoke at BYU-Hawaii's commencement, and encouraged members to speak up and participate in answering questions about the church.
"Perhaps now, more than ever, we have a major responsibility as Latter-day Saints to define ourselves, instead of letting others define us,"
"There are conversations going on about the church constantly. Those conversations will continue whether or not we choose to participate in them. But we cannot sit on the sidelines while others, including our critics, attempt to define what the church teaches."
I'm excited for the opportunity to share my beliefs with others who are willing to listen. Peter taught that we should "be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you the reason for the hope that is in you" (1 Peter 3:15). Members will be put on the spot, and that may not be a bad thing. Opposition keeps us sharp.
Elder Ballard recently spoke at BYU-Hawaii's commencement, and encouraged members to speak up and participate in answering questions about the church.
"Perhaps now, more than ever, we have a major responsibility as Latter-day Saints to define ourselves, instead of letting others define us,"
"There are conversations going on about the church constantly. Those conversations will continue whether or not we choose to participate in them. But we cannot sit on the sidelines while others, including our critics, attempt to define what the church teaches."
I'm excited for the opportunity to share my beliefs with others who are willing to listen. Peter taught that we should "be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you the reason for the hope that is in you" (1 Peter 3:15). Members will be put on the spot, and that may not be a bad thing. Opposition keeps us sharp.
Speaking of Persecution | 2:38 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
It is true that Mormons can be persecuted because of misperceptions on Church
history and Joseph Smith. Many of us have probably had something do us because
of some bigoted perception of what others have of "people/Mormons from
Utah" and can relate to the previous post. It is a common occurance for
people to leave the Church based on not wanting to defend it in the face of
bigotry.
But never forget that today is a drop in the bucket compared to the price paid in establishing the Church and those early people, many of whom lost their life, facing murderous mobs and the Boggs extermination order. In comparison, the Church is not persecuted much at all today.
But never forget that today is a drop in the bucket compared to the price paid in establishing the Church and those early people, many of whom lost their life, facing murderous mobs and the Boggs extermination order. In comparison, the Church is not persecuted much at all today.
Roy Roberts | 3:22 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
We see anti-Mormon articles in our local news papers almost every week, here in
Alabama. We have been told by our Bishop to not respond to these articles. I
wished that we could get get the real truth printed.I have been concerned about
this but what can I do?
angelino | 5:23 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
^^^
I'm concerned that what Patata has said could become a reality. While I think Mitt Romney would be a major step forward, as an excellent administrative President, I worry about the backlash that the LDS Church might suffer for every little imagined flaw in his administration.
I'm concerned that what Patata has said could become a reality. While I think Mitt Romney would be a major step forward, as an excellent administrative President, I worry about the backlash that the LDS Church might suffer for every little imagined flaw in his administration.
Southern gentleman. | 5:39 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
(Patata Brava | 12:58 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007)
Well, If Mr. Romney were President, at least I could believe 75 percent of every thing he tells me.
Well, If Mr. Romney were President, at least I could believe 75 percent of every thing he tells me.
Out of obscurity | 5:56 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
How else did we think the Church was going to come out of obscurity? This is
great attention. It is fantastic. So many have preconceived notions about this
amazing restored Church even right here among the most concentrated areas for
members. It shows we need to get out more often and socialize. We need to talk
more about who we are. We can do that as members. The doors are being flung
open for us to stand up and be counted. What an amazing thing. Many are
Mormon-phobic, and they can and do see us every day. Let's rise up, live
more as we know we should, talk more about the blessing of being members. I am
sure people hear a barb here or there meant to dissuade them and they wonder how
anyone could be taken in, so we are now being placed into situations where we
can tear down the walls. People around us have a right to know why we love this
religion, why we have become better people, why the rumors and lies about our
beliefs are off base. Only then will they open their minds and allow the Savior
to speak peace to their hearts.
Dr. Bill | 6:00 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
I have enjoyed the discussions raised with folks who ask, "Mormons really
can't be as bad as all that?" or, "That isn't really what
you believe, is it?" It amazes me to see who people actually listen to
about what others believe. I just responded to an accusation that Mormons belong
to a cult. It all depends on the definition.
Let's Move On | 6:13 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
He asked a simple question for more understanding and it was been taken out of
context. Huckabe has aploziged and Romney has accepted. If they are over it so
should we. Not Just Romney, but any LDS person who has ventured as far as
Romney has is going to cause a stir. So we need to be ready. I think a good
place to start is to center on our 11th Article of Faith and go from there.
Surprised | 6:13 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
Do you think Huckabee would be surprised to learn that he is Satan's
brother too? As children of God we all are brothers and sisters. Let's
realize that and treat each other that way, help each other be better people.
And ODonnell, where in the world does he think the Garden of Eden is? It had to
be somewhere. We love him more because he could use it more. I hear him rant
and I think "here is a man who needs a hug".
Nebraska | 6:33 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
I see nothing negative about all of the media attention. This will only speed
up the work providing opportunities for members to share the gospel by answering
questions raised by their friends.
People need to open their mouths and seize the opportunity when it presents itself, instead of cowering in the corner.
People need to open their mouths and seize the opportunity when it presents itself, instead of cowering in the corner.
Not so proud American | 6:40 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
Found it interesting on the way home a few days ago to hear Mike Huckabee play
the "victim" on an NPR radio interview-noting that he wondered why he
was being attacked for his faith more than any other of the candidates. That
he alone in a definitive one-sided manner was being called to answer questions
about his faith.
Sorry Governor Huckabee, but this is one of the most disingenuous statements I have ever heard in any political campaign. And frankly, something that I would not expect from a true follower of Jesus Christ.
We must realize how absolutely corrupting the political process is when an ordained Baptist minister stoops to such outright lies. To take potshots at what another holds sacred is uncivilized and this campaign has been full of such behavior.
Our Canadian friends may be right to question our political process. Where is the civility? The honesty? It all goes away in the quest for political power. Honestly, there seems to be no more "win-win" among our politicians. No more what is best for America and her citizens. Honesty and civility be damned.
Come on America, it is time to demand civility, honor, and honesty from our leaders!!
Sorry Governor Huckabee, but this is one of the most disingenuous statements I have ever heard in any political campaign. And frankly, something that I would not expect from a true follower of Jesus Christ.
We must realize how absolutely corrupting the political process is when an ordained Baptist minister stoops to such outright lies. To take potshots at what another holds sacred is uncivilized and this campaign has been full of such behavior.
Our Canadian friends may be right to question our political process. Where is the civility? The honesty? It all goes away in the quest for political power. Honestly, there seems to be no more "win-win" among our politicians. No more what is best for America and her citizens. Honesty and civility be damned.
Come on America, it is time to demand civility, honor, and honesty from our leaders!!
Mormons are Christian | 6:40 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
It seems to me that an emphasis on the similarities between the LDS faith and
Early Christianity should allay some of the animosity. I think it should be
fairly easy for Southern Baptists and Evangelicals to acknowledge that the LDS
faith believes in the (original) New Testament Jesus - which doesn't
include the "Creeds" - which are "nowhere to be found in the New
Testament".
Obsever | 7:06 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
My hope is that this political focus will help Utah Mormons see their culture in
a larger context. My observation is that being a Mormon in Utah brings out the
worst in Mormon culture, largely because members loose sight of how their world
fits in with the larger world. Mormonism is a beautiful life concept, which
when lived with humility and intelligence, is at its best. When lived in
isolation with the all-too-typical attidude of defensive ignorance, it turns
ugly and deserves to be seen as weird and abberant.
Lucille Ridd | 7:16 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
Yes, I am terrified for Mitt.
He and his family are such good people to have to contend with the "nuts of society"
I also am terrified for America.
If we don't elect a leader that is qualified, what will become of us?
He and his family are such good people to have to contend with the "nuts of society"
I also am terrified for America.
If we don't elect a leader that is qualified, what will become of us?
Conventional Satan? | 7:20 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
What do mainstream Christian churches teach about the creation, existence, and
role of Satan?
JB | 7:48 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
In marketing there is a saying, "All publicity is good publicity".
Terrell Owens and other athletes seem to have proven this time and again. This
article is quite insightful and would never have been written had not an earlier
trivialization of the topic occurred first.
I am a Mormon and I have mixed feelings about a member being President of the USA. I suppose Mitt can keep his church membership at arms length from his Presidential duties, but for good or for ill his presidency would be interwoven with our religion.
As for the recent outburst by the political pundit, I am glad that free speech is alive and well (at least for certain topics). I suspect most Mormon's would oppose hate speech and hate crime legislation as unnecessary incursions into constitutional protections such as freedom of speech. If so, then why is there this hue and cry for a guy like this to be censored and dismissed from his show? If you don't like the show, turn it off. Not many people watch these shows anyway and those that do probably aren't very interested in Joseph Smith.
I am a Mormon and I have mixed feelings about a member being President of the USA. I suppose Mitt can keep his church membership at arms length from his Presidential duties, but for good or for ill his presidency would be interwoven with our religion.
As for the recent outburst by the political pundit, I am glad that free speech is alive and well (at least for certain topics). I suspect most Mormon's would oppose hate speech and hate crime legislation as unnecessary incursions into constitutional protections such as freedom of speech. If so, then why is there this hue and cry for a guy like this to be censored and dismissed from his show? If you don't like the show, turn it off. Not many people watch these shows anyway and those that do probably aren't very interested in Joseph Smith.
Anonymous | 8:15 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
While debate about the LDS church is raging in the media, this is perhaps the
worst article I've seen on the subject. Why on earth does the author cite
"Mormonism for Dummies" when the authoritative source is within
walking distance?
It is poorly written articles, like this one, that provide wood for the fire later. Please, please, please, write something that's worth reading.
It is poorly written articles, like this one, that provide wood for the fire later. Please, please, please, write something that's worth reading.
Stand Strong. | 8:22 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
Patata -
Stand strong, good brother, the fight has only begun!
"Victory. Victory. Through him who has redeemed us."
Stand strong, good brother, the fight has only begun!
"Victory. Victory. Through him who has redeemed us."
Kris in AL | 8:27 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
We members of the LDS church in 2007 are getting only a slight "taste"
of what the early founders/members of the Church went through in Ohio, Missouri
and Illinois. While it may be unfomfortable for us to have to debate media
miss-statements and answer for "interesting" statements from Brigham
Young and other leaders of the "primitive" Church, there is always an
opportunity in adversity.
We also know that while the Church will find great success and acceptance in the future, we know that during that time or before, the Church will face extreme hostility.
Good luck to Mitt and all of us members as we again have to defend our Christian values and church.
We also know that while the Church will find great success and acceptance in the future, we know that during that time or before, the Church will face extreme hostility.
Good luck to Mitt and all of us members as we again have to defend our Christian values and church.
No Fear | 8:42 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
LDS have no need to fear in the exposure the church is currently receiving. The
Church will stand or fall on its own merits. If you are a firm believer, as
shared in many "testimonies," then you should know it will survive
any "trial by fire" and come out that much stronger. If you do not
believe, or have doubts, then my guess is it will be the individual that falls
and NOT the church. The church has been through much worse before yet continues
to move forward and grow. Whether you're a believer or not....it's
that fact can't be denied.
cjp | 8:51 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
This article states that "Satan rebelled � and Jesus
was chosen to be the savior".
To help clairify --- Jesus was not chosen after satan rebelled. According to LDS Scripture there was only one "Beloved Son which was my Beloved and Chosen from the beginning" and that was Jesus Christ.
To help clairify --- Jesus was not chosen after satan rebelled. According to LDS Scripture there was only one "Beloved Son which was my Beloved and Chosen from the beginning" and that was Jesus Christ.
Alan | 8:54 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
There is no reason at all for Mormons to be nervous about the increased
attention ... as long as Mormons remain humble, and keep their end of the
conversation civil. I'm only worried about the few LDS hotheads who are
too easily offended or eager for an intellectual or doctrinal war of words.
Time and time again, people have heard first from the critics of the church, and then have later found the criticism and attacks to be unfounded and vicious. That will continue. Already, people are seeing and hearing the ridiculous nature of the attacks, and curiosity is being raised about what the REAL story is.
People who fear attacks and scrutiny need to have more faith in their faith, and not be so concerned about image. Our image comes from who we are and the way we live our lives. Any misportrayal of that will be corrected sooner or later. For Mormons at large and the Romney family in particular, this is a chance to let the world know who Mormons are and who they aren't. I trust they'll do a fine job.
Time and time again, people have heard first from the critics of the church, and then have later found the criticism and attacks to be unfounded and vicious. That will continue. Already, people are seeing and hearing the ridiculous nature of the attacks, and curiosity is being raised about what the REAL story is.
People who fear attacks and scrutiny need to have more faith in their faith, and not be so concerned about image. Our image comes from who we are and the way we live our lives. Any misportrayal of that will be corrected sooner or later. For Mormons at large and the Romney family in particular, this is a chance to let the world know who Mormons are and who they aren't. I trust they'll do a fine job.
UtahRez | 9:01 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
I find it troubling when a person is accused of purposely trying to smear a
religion by merely asking a yes or no question; a question which, by the way,
was accurate. Kim Farah could have easily asnwered Huckabee's query, but
instead chose to be typically vague. The Mormon Church is its own worse enemy.
It wants to shed the suspicion of being a cult, yet time and time again, acts
like one by refusing to be upfront about what it actually teaches. The sad part
is that many of its members tend to defend it for doing so, instead of demanding
that their leaders take Article 13 seriously. That Jesus and Lucifer are
brothers is clearly taught in Mormonism. The Mormon Church knows this to be true
so why not proudly defend the teaching instead of "smearing" the
person who asked about it? As one LDS leader taught, if a faith cannot bear
investigation, its foundation must be very weak.
barb | 9:01 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
I would like to have Mike Huckabee or any other candidate describe exactly who
they believe Satan is and what he looks like and where he came from. I think
people would find their explanations even wackier that they percieve the Mormon
explanation. Actually the LDS view of Satan is the most rational one out there,
God created everything and everyone, we are all brothers and sisters in that
since.
nomomomo | 9:06 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
It took several years and a lot of study, but I finally figured out that the
Mormon church isn't true. One of the problems that the Mormon people are
just now facing is that, for the most part, they haven't been given the
whole story either. They have been exposed only to the faith promoting stories,
and told to avoid everything else. It is true that a lot of people get their
facts wrong when talking about Mormonism, unfortunately, it isn't just non
Mormons.
another comment | 9:17 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
I don't understand why everyone is saying they don't know about our
religion. We have missionaries all over the world. Anyone can call the
missionaries up in their area at any time and ask them about their religion if
they are curious. But people don't want to do that. They would rather
put us on trial.
I am "Mormon" but I don't know much about other religions. Why don't all the candidates tell about their religion as much as everyone is making a big deal about Romney's religion? We should place all candidates on stage and ask them about their religion. Then maybe this wouldn't be such a "mystery."
Why should I be surprised though? Our church is used to it. It happened in Christ's time and it happened when Joseph Smith restored the Church. Why, in this day and age, should it be any different? Some people just want to criticize, ridicule and make fun of but not really learn about our church. So let it be. For those critics, go ahead and criticize all you want, but The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will continue to go forth.
I am "Mormon" but I don't know much about other religions. Why don't all the candidates tell about their religion as much as everyone is making a big deal about Romney's religion? We should place all candidates on stage and ask them about their religion. Then maybe this wouldn't be such a "mystery."
Why should I be surprised though? Our church is used to it. It happened in Christ's time and it happened when Joseph Smith restored the Church. Why, in this day and age, should it be any different? Some people just want to criticize, ridicule and make fun of but not really learn about our church. So let it be. For those critics, go ahead and criticize all you want, but The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will continue to go forth.
arc | 9:17 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
You would think the writer of this story would get facts correct as well.
"before they relocated to Nauvoo, Ill., the site of their first temple". What happened to Kirtland?
Yes, Jesus and Satan are brothers, spiritual sons of Our Heavenly Father, on opposite sides of a war.
Anti-mormons love to take a few of our believes, and spin them to distort what we believe. Does Huckibee know this, or was he just repeating the distortions that he was told and believes?
"before they relocated to Nauvoo, Ill., the site of their first temple". What happened to Kirtland?
Yes, Jesus and Satan are brothers, spiritual sons of Our Heavenly Father, on opposite sides of a war.
Anti-mormons love to take a few of our believes, and spin them to distort what we believe. Does Huckibee know this, or was he just repeating the distortions that he was told and believes?
Hans | 9:18 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
While I don't like the fact that we are not very able to counter hit-jobs,
I think that the old manta "any publicity is good publicity." I think
that most people who are familiar with LDS will see the disparity between the
statements made by people (O'Donnell) and the way they see LDS act and will
ask what the difference is.
I'm not ashamed | 9:21 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
Yes, I was born here in Utah. I have a long history of the Church in my blood
lines. However, I am not ashamed of who I am or who my ancestors are. I served
a mission in Canada and caught flak as much for being "American" as I
did for being from the church. Yet, I stood there for verbal abuse and did my
best to explain the church to those who did not believe. Are we any better than
the early Christians who gave their life and time for the gospel. How many
times was Paul thown in prison for spreading the gospel? All the apostles were
killed for what they believed (except John.) It is noble for those who are
persecuted for righteousness. I did not stand any physical percution and do not
consider myself to be noble, yet I am not ashamed of my church, it's
leaders, or it's doctrine. May we all stand tall and testify of our belief
in our Heavenly Father, His Son who payed a price for all, and for his gospel.
Vegas | 9:23 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
Patata: You've raised an interesting issue regarding potential
anti-missionary or anti-LDS treatment under a Romney presidency. However, one
thing I think Mitt will have going for him, is there is no way he will show such
incompetence and surround himself with such incompetence as W. Bush. While it
is certainly possible a Romney presidency could spiral out-of-control
(especially internationally) like Bush, I think he is much more capable.
J Johnson | 9:27 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
What silly comments � get a grip or a backbone; no one said
it would be easy. I am of an opinion that most all publicity is good publicity
negative or positive; this is tremendous exposure/advertising for the church.
Those who have and want to keep their religious bias or bigotry will. The
honest in heart, the humble and sincere seekers of truth will want to ask
questions and will have their lives blessed as they hear �
learn � understand and accept the gospel of Jesus Christ.
wrong again | 9:31 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
Will thesse reporters ever get it right? The Mormons first temple was in
Kirkland, Ohio. And Also the story implies Joseph Smith was hanged by a lynch
mob. He was shot by a mob.
Even when they try to get it right they are wrong because they just do not do their basic home work of contacting the source, The LDS Church, and asking for some basic facts.
Where was the editor on this story?
Also, if you believe that HUCK just made an inocent fopa when he said what he said I got some ocean front property in Neveda for sale. He has a degree in Theology and was a babtist minister, he said what he said to stir the pot and win votes.
Huck reminds me of George W. Bush and that is exactly what we do not need in the white house again.
Even when they try to get it right they are wrong because they just do not do their basic home work of contacting the source, The LDS Church, and asking for some basic facts.
Where was the editor on this story?
Also, if you believe that HUCK just made an inocent fopa when he said what he said I got some ocean front property in Neveda for sale. He has a degree in Theology and was a babtist minister, he said what he said to stir the pot and win votes.
Huck reminds me of George W. Bush and that is exactly what we do not need in the white house again.
Ernie | 9:43 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
To Patata Brava; Romney isn't going to be elected President. There are far
too many hypocrites who call themselves Christians who would never vote for a
Mormon, even though everything Mormons do evolves around the Savior.
All they would have to do is look for the fruits of the Mormons. Fruits like taking care of the poor, helping out in disasters, looking out for the elderly, feeding the hungry etc. etc. I challenge you to find another mainstream Christian sect who spend more time, money and effort than the Mormon people do in helping others. When it comes to being Chritians, if emulating Christ is any part of the requirement, Mormons lead the pack. If the criteria for being a Christian rests totally on the decisions of a group of men who were influenced by the political pressures of their time at the Counciol of Nicea, then Mormons do not fit the Bill.
Mormons will always be under fire, because the advesary will always fight the truth. If you think about it, all the negative attacks on a religion that does so much good is a huge testimony builder.
All they would have to do is look for the fruits of the Mormons. Fruits like taking care of the poor, helping out in disasters, looking out for the elderly, feeding the hungry etc. etc. I challenge you to find another mainstream Christian sect who spend more time, money and effort than the Mormon people do in helping others. When it comes to being Chritians, if emulating Christ is any part of the requirement, Mormons lead the pack. If the criteria for being a Christian rests totally on the decisions of a group of men who were influenced by the political pressures of their time at the Counciol of Nicea, then Mormons do not fit the Bill.
Mormons will always be under fire, because the advesary will always fight the truth. If you think about it, all the negative attacks on a religion that does so much good is a huge testimony builder.
I believe | 9:44 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
These spirited debates about Mormonism are good and in the long run will help us
spread our message to all the world. There have been many untruths and lies
written and spoken about our religion (Mormonism). But I believe the average
responsible person can sort out rational truth from fabricated lies. The true
gospel of Jesus Christ rings true to the humble seeker of truth. Modern Nicean
Christians seem to have drawn a line in the sand of debate and stand opposed to
the message of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. I believe this message of
restored Christianity should be interesting to and welcomed by all those who
claim to be Christian. If Jesus Christ speaks, as he did during the
restoration, Christians should certainly be the first to listen.
elars | 9:53 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
As mormons we are always interested in sharing our beliefs with others. Our
beliefs really aren't that complicated so I say bring on the spotlight
wherever we can get it! We just need to take part in the debate and make sure
that the truth is getting out there. If we do that all the attention can only
be a positive thing.
No unhallowed hand... | 10:11 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
Although 'calumny may defame'...perhaps it is time to consider and
remember the promise.
jlb | 10:12 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
If you sincerely want to know what the Church of Jesus Christ teaches and
believes, go to Mormon.org. There, all of your questions will be answered
properly and sincerely.
Anonymous | 10:37 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
There is no such thing as bad publicity except your own obituary. Mormons are in
the spotlight, are we ready to seize the day? Have we been faithful students of
the gospel? Are we ready to provide the answers people ask?
SFC RET DENNIS | 10:40 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
As a 21 year Army Vet. I will defend anyone's right to free speech, even if
I don't agree. Iv been with the LDS Church for 45 years and loved to talk
with my troops about their fath, as this helped me be a better leader cause I
would help them based on their fath. The more people try to tear down this
Gospel the more it reinforces my fath. No other Church is so brutalized,
meaning, people trying to destroy the LDS Fath. The more it happens the more it
tells me that Lucifer is behind it. Look in the Bible & it talks about a
war in heaven and the Dragon being cast out with 1/3 of the host of heaven, the
Dragon being Lucifer, the Devil etc. Now we are all children of God, brothers
and sisters, so would it not make sense that Christ and Lucifer (Devil) are
brothers? Read First James 5 & 6, apply this and you will be able to
understand what Jesus is all about.
FIRSTEGG | 10:57 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
ERNIE--
I cannot vote for Romney just because he is a Mormon. I have to agree with his policies and trust him in order to do that. I met Mitt at an SLOC event; I was not impressed. I am a Mormon for McCain.
I cannot vote for Romney just because he is a Mormon. I have to agree with his policies and trust him in order to do that. I met Mitt at an SLOC event; I was not impressed. I am a Mormon for McCain.
Revelation? | 11:06 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
I've heard the story about the tablets..and no offense, j. smith seemed to
have a very vivid imagination that nobody can collaborate. I've heard that
there are no artifacts, etc. to support the great battle in New York State.
However, faith aside, people are free to think and believe whatever they wish.
It is not for me to judge, or be judged.
I have personally found many Mormons to be open minded, friendly and accepting, especially those from out-of-state. In Utah, my experience suggests few from Utah to be similar, and unfortunately many who are quite absorped with their Mormon faith to the point of arrogance, discrimination, and having it dominate their view of everything.
It is unfortunate that one's faith is so controversial. However, it is the Catholic faith that has really taken many more hits in the United States, or rather the Church of Rome.
I have personally found many Mormons to be open minded, friendly and accepting, especially those from out-of-state. In Utah, my experience suggests few from Utah to be similar, and unfortunately many who are quite absorped with their Mormon faith to the point of arrogance, discrimination, and having it dominate their view of everything.
It is unfortunate that one's faith is so controversial. However, it is the Catholic faith that has really taken many more hits in the United States, or rather the Church of Rome.
Dave Wipf | 11:07 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
Unfortunately, in just the span of a few years, we've taken elected office
which was to have no religious test and turned it into an almost exclusivley
religious contest.
As the article mentioned, we've got some important stuff to deal with, and we're supposed to be electing someone to look after it with us. I want to vote for the first one who tells me their religion is none of my business and it stays out of the office.
As the article mentioned, we've got some important stuff to deal with, and we're supposed to be electing someone to look after it with us. I want to vote for the first one who tells me their religion is none of my business and it stays out of the office.
Ace in the hole | 11:08 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
If it comes down to it you can always mention Scientology. I think they are a
little bit more out there with their beliefs then the LDS beliefe. But you do
come in a close second.
be faithful | 11:40 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
We have the truth, so let's not worry about what others say or might do,
too much. It can be scary sometimes, I understand that. But it is the truth.
Thank goodness for that.
Its a good opportunity to invite people to church and see that its doctrines and practices are true and good.
Its a good opportunity to invite people to church and see that its doctrines and practices are true and good.
no mo mo, as well. | 11:52 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
"It took several years and a lot of study, but I finally figured out that
the Mormon church isn't true."
True. After being raised LDS, and going on a mission, in my late 20s I had to finally acknowledge that I didn't get the whole story and received the sales tools simply to address the most obvious challenges to the faith.
I can hold a discussion as well as anyone on the truth of the LDS faith, and convince those who are uninformed, but i know in my heart it is built on a house of cards. I've done the reading, i've prayed, I've looked within my heart and in within my (mostly active) family.
it doesn't hold up to critical thinking. Faith is a good thing though, and comforting. Until knowledge gets in the way!
True. After being raised LDS, and going on a mission, in my late 20s I had to finally acknowledge that I didn't get the whole story and received the sales tools simply to address the most obvious challenges to the faith.
I can hold a discussion as well as anyone on the truth of the LDS faith, and convince those who are uninformed, but i know in my heart it is built on a house of cards. I've done the reading, i've prayed, I've looked within my heart and in within my (mostly active) family.
it doesn't hold up to critical thinking. Faith is a good thing though, and comforting. Until knowledge gets in the way!
More Questions Than Answers | 11:56 a.m. Dec. 16, 2007
How can one believe that if they live their life on earth in a certain way, they
can have planets..share God's power?? And, Satan is not Jesus's
brother. These concepts are quite unusual and contradict Christian teachings.
Plus, I don't quite understand why the temple is closed to certain selected
people. That is quite secretive.
Buckle Up | 12:24 p.m. Dec. 16, 2007
Nobody should be shocked about negative publicity against the church. Nobody
should fear it either. It always generates interest and people generally find
what they want to. The sad thing about this election is this: Out of all the
people running for president, Mitt Romney is the MOST qualified for the job, yet
he will not succeed. The voters are too fickle. ON the Democrat side, who is
really qualified? Clinton, Obama, and Edwards have very little experience.
Seriously. Look at their resumes. They are not presidential. On the
republican side, there are more qualified candidates. Rudy has his moral
problems. Huckabee? If conservative Christians are looking for the
conservative, this isn't your guy. Again, do the research. But in the
end, we generally get what we want, don't we? I shudder to think about it.
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