Deseret News | Better duck — if you're a Mormon

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Doug Robinson: Better duck — if you're a Mormon

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Pearl of Great Price Section 19 | 6:06 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

I think it's really bold to complain about this so called bigotry against mormons when you openly call every other religion an "Abomination".

Merriam Websters Definition:
Abomination - 1. something abominable 2. worthy of or causing disgust or hatred

So, by definistion and from the scriptures of your prophet, you feel disgust and hatred against every other religion. And do you really wonder why people feel the way they do about your religion? Look inward before calling others bigots, it's not very "Christ like".

Non-Mormon Republican | 6:11 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

If you founded a religion that said the world was flat, it would be considered "crackpot." Mormonism and it's de-bunked history falls into that category. I don't care what you believe so long as it doesn't dramatically impact my life. I do care if the POTUS believes the world is flat.
Virtually *every* historical aspect of Mormonism has been proven false. DNA, court records, Egyptologists; all have shown early Mo claims to be false.
Believing in a lie doesn't make it true.
That aside, I worked with Romney during the Olympics. He's a liar, a charlatan, and so full of BS that he doesn't even know who *he* is, let alone *what* he is.
If he's as true to the LDS faith as he is true to his issues, no one has anything to worry about in terms of Mormons running the White House. He'll only be true to his pocketbook and that of his supporters.
Romney is a cad. That he's a whack-job Mormon ranks very secondary to why he should not be POTUS. Kinda like how he ranks next to most of the candidates. Second. A second-class citizen.

maybe the last one | 6:36 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

I'm an active life-long LDS male. However, I won't vote for Romney. I was already disappointed in his father, George, when he refused to endorse Barry Goldwater at the '64 GOP convention in SF.

My vote goes to RON PAUL, no matter what. He understands and is clear about what is ailing America.

As a final note: while he was a guest of Jay Leno on Monday, he defended Romney in a sort of way, by saying that his (Romney's) religion should not be made an issue! Ron Paul, a gentleman all the way!

Comments continue below

It's all about obedienc e | 7:02 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

Re: Pearl of Great whatever
Mormon don't see themselves as bold when they view all other religions as an abomination.
It's the way they are. It's the way they've been conditioned. It's pure cult behavior. Even if they may have any questions about Joseph Smith lying or telling the truth, they are told that this may be the devil speaking to them.
Try to forgive them. They are only doing what they are told to do.

Lewis | 7:06 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

BS'D
It's beneath contempt to play politics of identification with Mr Romney. In this country we do not have any kind of "relgious test" for serving in office. I find it unAmerican to attack anyone for his religious views, we are electing a Commander in Chief not a Pastor in Chief.Any evaluation of Mr Romney should include only his ability to lead this country nothing else

Anonymous | 7:17 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

People still want to sweep religious intolerance under the rug. Bashing on somebody because of their beliefs is bigotry, look it up in the dictionary for proof. Bigotry still isn't OK even if you believe it has been proven false. Discrimination based on race, religion or even sexual orientation is not alright. God loves all his children and wants all of them to return. He has restored his gospel back to this earth, and all the studies that support or dispute the claim of the LDS Church doesn't change the challenge that is given in Moroni about praying to receive an answer. Scientific studies are often challenged and disputed with different sets of controls and experiments. But no matter what the outcome of those secular experiments. If you follow the science you should at least try and replicate God's promise, it just might be more enlightening than you originally thought. I don't know all the answers but I do know science and I also know faith. Both can reside peacefully. Oh and yes I have received an answer on multiple occasions and if an experiment is replicable it at least holds as a theory if not a law.

Let's be brutally honest | 7:19 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

The LDS leaders, including Romney are the only suitable leaders for our nation. These are the only leaders due to there faith that get true divine revelation from god to lead his nation. Sorry to the rest but it's true...

White house vote | 7:46 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

I am totally for Mitt Romney. He's a great guy and honest. Our country cannot go wrong having him in the white house. My prayers are for Mitt and family!

Robert | 7:49 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

And if you claim to be the only true church on the whole earth then you are saying that all others are false.

Doesn't that make the LDS church ANTI-ALL OTHER RELIGIONS??

Isn't that speaking out against all other religions?

So who is calling who an anti-??

Brutally honest | 7:58 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

Not all< All other religionas are great & wonderful & teach many great principles. but unfortunatley, this nation needs to be lead by someone who is lead by God. Fotunatley, it's been a long time in the making but the means are here.

Yvonne | 8:14 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

While I don't agree with all the "mormon-bashing" and I suppose it is good that someone in society cares, as a Mormon myself I would rather not ruin my day dwelling on people who hate my religion.

If they hate my religion or hate me that is their problem, they can live with the hate and be bitter all they want to, it doesn't hurt me. I can't control what they think or how they feel about me or my religion so why try? Why even care what they think?

whobody | 8:21 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

I love Mitt's platform and I really respect the man. However, I won't vote for him because he is mormon....and I just don't like those people.

Good Grief | 8:40 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

I don't understand the emotion in about 90% of these comments--LDS or non-LDS. Aren't we talking about a nation with many problems that needs strong leadership? Shouldn't we be dwelling on problems these candidates have faced in their political lives and how they handled them and what was successful and what was not? Shouldn't we be considering the challenges and the experience, stamina, and character that will be needed to meet the challenges? I'd like more focus on the real needs for America's survival because I have a deep regard for America and place more value on a person's experience, abilities, understanding of the issues, and integrity than on religious preferences, gender, or ethnic background.

Skeptic | 8:42 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

To Non-Mormon Republican- So tell us more. Just how closely DID you work with Mitt Romney on the Olympics? You seem to know him very well. Aside from calling him all kinds of names, why don't you site specific examples so that we may also judge whether what he did or didn't do deserves that kind of slander. Till then I don't believe a word of what you say.

Aren't we missing the point? | 9:05 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

I've read most of the comments that have been posted, and must say that most of them seem to be about anger and frustration; from Mormons and Non-Mormons alike. I am a member of the Church of Jesus-Christ of Latter-Day Saints and this article shouldn't be about anger or frustration. Many of the comments are true, but the comments are all over the place. Pull it back guys. It seems to me that this article, and the comments generated, should be about righting a wrong, which to me is intolerance and ignorance. We should be fighting the fight to correct the wrong, whether it's towards Mormons, Jews, Blacks, female, male or gays. But, this is America and every one has a voice. And, this is just one persons voice who is a Mormon, who lives outside of Utah and has member and non-member friends and family.

Sit back & enjoy | 9:10 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

No matter what is said on this blog, you will still have nonmembers and LDS members bashing each other back and forth, right and left. Do what I do and just sit back and enjoy the immature groups of humans on here. Although, I am responding for some odd reason (MY GREAT HUMAN FLAW) so I suppose I fit in here with the rest of you. I never new there were so many members in my church that like to clobber others beliefs, even though, the otherside deserves it...LOL! I wished everyone could try to get along, but it will never happen, because humans will always enjoy bashing one another no matter what. A true human flaw that we all have... No one wins! However, you guys are simply entertaining to those of us who read this stuff.

I have one last thing to say...MITT'S the man! Vote Mitt Romney!

Kathy K. | 9:23 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

Anyone who truly knows and understands the LDS church with vote for Mitt. It is a small step for our country but an even greater step for humanity. Mitt will lead the church unto the world.

Joe | 9:27 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

Mormonism hits the very heart and soul of those that are faithful and the ability to separate one's beliefs from day to day decisions is not possible. It's not that people dislike Mormons, it is simply that they don't want a President who cannot objectively lead. Mitt proved that with his stance as Governor. The US was mislead by Bush. If we knew he was part of the christian right and a born again, people would not have voted for him. He was unable to separate his personal views and the ability to govern. Reason: he thinks he is right! Same thing! The people were duped once and they won't fall for it again!

Vote for Mitt | 9:48 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

It is true and I have prayed upon it. Mr. Romney will become the next President and lead a sting of event that will be wonderful to this world. Please don't bash my religion nor Brother Romney as it is the truth and our pre-mortal destiny.

NorthboundZax | 9:55 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

*Choking* Kathy K., with statements like that, there is little wonder there are so many people questioning whether Mitt will have undue influence from the church on his governance if elected.

Mormon 2000 | 9:56 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

Even if many Mormons "look down" at other religions, they don't print it, or broadcast it. Especially not during an election. That's bushleague.

Closet Molly Mormon | 9:57 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

All this discussion on Mitt Romney and his unfair treatment makes no sense to me, his lack of popularity has nothing to do with his religious beliefs. He has not been a good example, he has been a politician!!

People are tired of what he represents and the next President will not be Mitt Romney or any other Republican running for election.

It's time to read the other guys plateform and move on....Black, White, or Ornery Female, our next president will be elected for his/her position on change and correcting the mistakes of our current Christian leader.

Good Mormons aren't always Republicans!!

whobody | 10:24 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

Hey Kathy K.,

I had forgot why I don't like "those people". Thanks for the reminder.

Illinois Cougar | 10:24 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

The whole tone of this thread is just sick! I could care less what my neighbors and/or coworkers believe, as long as they obey the law, conduct themselves in a dignified manner and are respectful of our differences.

Why does this whole thread have to be us v. them? I am content with my faith and no amount of ignorant disrespectful bigotry is going to change it. If you dislike the LDS faith, fine. Politely mention it to your neighbors or the two kids in white shirts and ties. I am sure they will back off.

Unless you get sick pleasure from pointless conflict, challenging someone else's faith or culture is just wrong. I was raised in a place where a certain church had little or nothing to offer the community but, hate and discord through the weekly showing of a hateful little movie.

You hate mormons? That is fine. What do you have to gain by picking a fight? You hate living in Utah with Mormons? That is also fine. Why not relocate to the midwest or east coast? If I don't like something, and can't change it. I generally do what I can to distance myself.

Sound familiar | 10:29 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

Well gee, if you don't like the way things are here in America, you guys can just move to another country....We were here first..

Anonymous | 10:44 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

To many on this post that bash what you call "anti-mormon"; it is really not about religion but culture. In my experience it is the lttle subtle content against "non-mebers" that cause the issue. It is self-rightious and the only difference is you do say it with a wide smile and stand behind the BoM. Get out of outside of Utah a truly learn the world (outside of a missionary calling) and you will understand the world. The LDS faith is only a very very very samll part of the population outside of the greater Intermountain area and once you realize this the more enlightened you will become.

Frustrated Moron | 10:44 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

The shame here is that this column appeared in the Deseret Propoganda. No civl person within 100 miles of objectivy will ever see it.

Help!! | 10:48 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

Illinois Couger,

I tried to tell the two white kids in shirts and ties, but they wouldn't go away. Any suggestions?

LDS in AZ | 10:52 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

Thank you for your excellent article. You are right on point. I agree that there is a double standard-LDS people are not always treated with the same respect as other groups in spite of our "PC" age. I'm a convert of many years, have never lived in Utah, the only member in my family & know how it feels to be criticized for my faith, which is so sacred & personal to me. Although I treat others' beliefs with great respect, it's not always reciprocated. Personally in my heart I'm proud to be thought of as "peculiar." In the end one's personal relationship with God is much more important than the opinions of others. The criticism happening today makes me very sad because it is so often based on misinformation, disrespect & lack of tolerance. Although I feel Mitt is very qualified and would be an awesome president, sadly I wonder if our country is ready for him based on all the criticsm and scrutiny. I worry that it would interfere with everything he says & tries to accomplish. It wan't that way growing up in Mich-his dad George Romney was well respected as our Gov.

Look 2 the past 2 undrstnd prsnt | 10:57 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

Remember that the Mormons were never denied voting privileges, like women and blacks and jews. Remember also that the Mormons were driven out of Nauvoo largely because of the political power that they were accumulating. People fear the potential power that the church has. Many perceive us to have "blind faith" and therefore an incapacity to make informed decisions. I too am frustrated that people question our capacity to make good decisions for this country, but I kind of understand why. Give it some time, people will come around. At least no one is threatening to drive us out of our homes because of what we believe.

Illinois Cougar | 10:58 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

Ok, "Sound Familiar",

If you stick your finger into an electrical outlet and get shocked, do you keep sticking it in? Not if you have any brains. Every time I visit a certain disaffected family member , all they do is disparage the LDS neighbors, and complain about the horrible Mormons in general. The thing is that they are the only people affected by thier poor attitude. The neighbors don't seem to acknowledge a problem, and there doesn't seem to be less cars parked at the chapel on Sunday.

Mature people realize that each individual is responsible for thier own attitude. Contrary to current belief, no other individual, religion, or government can determine ones' happiness. It is your responsibility.

Lead, follow, or get out of the way!

Thanks | 11:01 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

Thanks Mormon 2000. Amen!!!

Marilyn from Washington | 11:08 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

Amen to Yvonne's 8:14 pm, 1/9 blog.

Sugar House Blues | 11:09 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

Maybe Mitt's just running in the wrong party. Democrats seem OK with Mormons -- they elected one Harry Reid as the Senate Majority Leader. Democrats seem to welcome women and people of color as their top candidates too.

LDS guy | 11:25 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

I am glad this guy is finally calling out the media for their bigotry. I do think the national Democratic party is more okay with Mormonism, and us Mormons should reconsider Obama. But one thing I am constantly saying on the Trib's comment board is that those bunch of "liberals" who claim to believe in tolerance and equality are really just a bunch of hypocritical anti-Mormon bigots.

LDS Eternal | 11:32 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

How is there so much hate for my LDS faith? If it is out there then challenge me and I will inform you of the TRUTH of Jesus Christ and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. This is ridiculous and Mitt will win as is it part of Our Fathers plan.

religions | 11:36 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

I am a bit confused by alot of the comments.

So many people complain that the members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints believe that it is the only true church on the earth today with all of the restored doctrine and truths.

My question is why would anyone belong to a church if they did not believe and profess that it contained all of the truth and was therefore "the true church".

If someone does not claim that his church is the true church, then he must be stating that it is not true or that it is false.

If you don't believe your church is the right or true church, then why would you want anything to do with it? It then must be the "not true church", right?

Just wondering..............

Louis R. in Moab | 11:41 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

I am sadenned by the Warren Jeffs affair and therefore could never vote for mormon, including the very handsome Mitt Romney.

simple truth | 11:47 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

I have LDS employees, and they are certanly hard-working and friendly. But I would never socialize with an LDS, would never invite an LDS into my home, and would never, ever vote for an LDS.

Why? Simple: I'm gay and I despise the LDS church as much as the LDS despises me, if not more.

Tolerance and Mormons | 11:49 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

I don't think we as Mormons have a chip on our shoulder and walk around waiting to be offended. But as Mr. Robinson pointed out, there are many instances that certainly puzzle us, and therefore his column is well timed. How open minded are we shallow, conservative small minded Mormons. Heck, there was more an outrage when conservative Dick Cheney visited BYU, than liberal Harry Reid. Why? Mostly because some didn't want us to appear to be shallow and small minded. If anything, we are too concerned about our tolerance that we sometimes can't even affirm our values. Maybe others can learn that same lesson.

Christian????? | 11:58 p.m. Jan. 9, 2008

All happy campers posting here --- brought to you through the courtesy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I love Christianity when it brings on this Utah twistï¿½ï¿½ï¿½ï¿½..

Pray More...attack less :) | 12:00 a.m. Jan. 10, 2008

Dear Heavenly Father...
Will there ever be a day, when all people will listen to you and follow your teaching, instead of fighting and bickering over silly things? Will America ever be truly united, as the founding fathers intended, or will it turn out to be the exact replica of the place it's people fled from? Did they not come here to have the freedom to worship you in the way they felt in their hearts?

Lisa | 12:09 a.m. Jan. 10, 2008

Now, granted, I haven't been to an LDS church or seen a conference in years, and probably never will again, but I'm sure I would have seen a headline somewhere if Gordon B. Hinckly announced that Mitt will be the President because it is "Our Father's Plan". Sorry but saying that makes you lose all credibility, and sound a bit like the fool.

To Christian ????? | 12:09 a.m. Jan. 10, 2008

Whoever claimed the LDS religion Christian? Certainty no one outside of their faith would make that claim just read through these comments to make that assumption. Very sad d.for Christianity indeed.

Morm | 12:10 a.m. Jan. 10, 2008

I think it's pretty cheap how people are posing as actual sincere Mormons and writing crazy over-the-top stuff. But, yeah, it must feel good to get revenge on the church which has so mistreated you.

what????????????? | 12:12 a.m. Jan. 10, 2008

Wasn't this article about bigotry in any form? We as Americans need to stand up and protect ALL peoples rights. Who cares what others believe. Believe what you personally feel,and don't waste time, energy or anger on what other people believe. We all have the right and the priveledge to believe as we see fit. We ALL have the responsibility to stand against bigotry in any form. I feel lucky to have friends that all believe differently. It makes my life interesting and full to discuss our varying beliefs. I would stand up for my or any of my friends beliefs against bigotry. The point is that bigotry is ugly in any form.

LDS Couger | 12:29 a.m. Jan. 10, 2008

Folks we are in dire times and indeed the constitution is hanging on a thread. Mitt is the real deal and will hold this country together and further the spread of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints throughout the corner of the corners of the world. This is a great embankment. Just my call and prediction but it will be a wonderful thing to see a person attain being a President and hopefully latter a Prophet in my lifetime Go Mitt Go.

csseattle | 12:44 a.m. Jan. 10, 2008

simple truth - do you even know what despise means? Look it up. Do you know anything of the character of God (besides love, which btw, doesn't justify sin)? Do some research and soul searching...it's not that complicated: God creates man and woman; God commands man and women to obey commandments including multiply and replenish earth with children; God chastises man for disobedience (including destroying wicked cities); God says it's OK for man to be with man and woman with woman? When? When did he ever condone your behavior? God despises sin (not the sinner)...God calls on man (His children) to repent and obey because he does actually love them and want them to be happy (and repent again when man sins again, which he inevitably does); someday, man's time is up and man stands before God to be judged...or, do you prefer: God is a shapeless being with no form, and full of love; doesn't speak to man anymore; allows any behavior without consequences? Maybe it's 'God doesn't exist', we are nothing more than organisms without purpose? Better figure it out, and be sure of it, otherwise it's going to be a long journey. love csseattle :)

none | 12:55 a.m. Jan. 10, 2008

Amen to this article. I hate double standards.

Kent | 1:54 a.m. Jan. 10, 2008

Mr. Robinson,

Because you have a pulpit, I want to ask you to do something I can't. Take any article about Mitt Romney that is centered on his faith instead of his position on issues (which is almost every article), and simply replace his name with Sen. Obama or Sen. Clinton's name... then replace "Mormon" with "Black" or "woman", then replace "Mitt's great grandfather was a polygamist" with "Obama's ancesters are Muslim" or "Clinton's ancestors owned slaves", then replace... you get the point. Can you imageine the outcry? Someone needs to put it in writing and show it back to the ignorant autors of intolerance and hate. You could place the articles in two columns side-by-side for impact. In a nation that prides itself on being tolerant of race, color, sexual orientation and yes... religion... "Mormons" still have a target squarely attached to their backs, and nobody in the "tolerant and enlightened" press seems to mind.

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