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LDS have big image problem

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JanSan | 2:53 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

This has been an interesting discussion - without a whole lot of hate speech in it which was a surprise to me. I am concerned with the 'image' of the church in so far as it is hard to teach people about the church when there is so much confusion about our beliefs. I remember as a missionary I came across many who knew that the BofM was about the pioneers journey to valley. To those living in Utah that don't like the presence of the church there - sorry - that's like going to Rome and being upset with the Catholic presence there. Learn the history of Utah. We have been told that we will be a 'peculiar people' more so as time goes on. This does not mean that we love others less! But that we still remain strong within ourselves. Remember the saying ' I never said it would be easy - only that it would be worth it - I don't think that we need to be more popular .. but more understanding of others and helping them to understand us better.

Seth | 2:58 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

It is not a loud 'minority' that he have an image problem with, it is almost 2 to 1 that have a negative image. That is not a loud 'minority' but a vast Majority, and those numbers are pre-debocles that the church has faced recently. Please get over yourselves people and stop thinking there is nothing wrong.

Texas Mormon | 3:29 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

I wonder how our unfavorability rating of 49& compares to Christianity in general? I would guess that Christianity in general is not very popular. The only difference I see between our popularity and that of other Christians is that our Christian brothers don't consider us Christians.

Comments continue below

jenny | 3:32 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

If I had never moved to Utah I think I might still be involved in the religion but coming to Utah I have seen the Church in reality and it is no different than any other religion. They just all interpret the Bible differently and use different tactics to entice you into their fold. I feel most religions use Christ as a way to make millions for a few while the faithful believe blindly in human men. So sad that religion has become so divisive and in many ways harmful. No man can measure anothers inner spirit or thought yet we have man telling us whether we are worthy or not in the eyes of God, how sad

Enter Name | 3:40 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

"As Mormons, we think we're effectively communicating our message, but we're not . . . ." Buy my book and I'll show you how for the low price of $29.95.

Mark | 3:42 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

I'm not really concerned what people think of me. I'm only concerned what God thinks!

Read 1st Nephi ch. 14 | 4:00 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

It predicts bad polling numbers for the church becuase......read it folks. It is in the Book of Mormon. Has to do with the opposition directed toward the real Jesus Christ by mulititdes out there today, directed by you know who....gird up your loins and endure to the end folks. Polls never identified true Saints.

ron | 4:03 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

hmmm a book huh. me thinks i will receive counsel from the prophet, as he is doing constantly. it is even free. thanks for the offer.

Canadiandy | 4:12 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

Dear "New to Utah"

The state you now live in is beautiful, and safe, and clean in great part because of those Mormons you seem to be complaining about.

And the 4 copies of the Book of Mormon and 5 loaves of bread were left on your doorstep because those Mormons are trying to be kind. (Hint, if you don't like this, eat the bread and throw out the books).

And the vibrant economy of Utah is due in great part to the work ethic of those same Mormons (it was Brigham Young who selected the motto "Industry" and early on brought the railroad).

Having spent a couple years in Utah I appreciate the culture shock. But if you want to look at things cynically, feel free to move back to Seattle where things are so much brighter. The highway in has two lanes in both directions. My advice, look for the good, and you'll never leave what I think is the greatest State in your nation.

"I pity the immigrant who wishes he'd stayed at home." (Bob Dylan)

Who Cares What They Think | 4:28 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

Who cares what this man's poles say? The reason why we seem "holier-than-thou" is because we are, well, Holier than them.

Doug | 4:49 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

As a member of the Church, I don't feel a need to apologize for the beliefs or practices of the Church or our leaders. Because I like others do believe that the Lord directs His Church. Having said that, I realize we have many areas to improve.
Occassionally, we as members may not always live up to our beliefs and may invite some of that criticism. But we don't profess to be perfect, only that we strive for perfection. I realize, however, that there are many of other faiths who are just as devout in their faith and we allow them that same privilege. And I do believe that some of them are even more true to living their faith than we are. We should be careful when judging others, and would hope the same from others who might judge us.

Your neighbor | 4:57 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

After living in Utah for ~30 years, I can shed some light on why so many have an unfavorable view. When I moved here as a young, single, graduate school gradutate, no one would rent to me because I wasn't a member of "the church". I didn't even know what church they were referring to but too often heard "we don't rent to your type". After marrying and buying a home, we've had LDS neighbors refuse to even respond to our hello or acknowledge our presence in the yard because we are not members. Plenty of LDS neighbors have refused to let their kids play with ours because we aren't members. At a motel in Boulder, UT, the owner went thru our trash to check for beer cans (I don't drink) and the next time we were at the local store, the clerk said what was found & that we were being "watched". We aren't criminals. We aren't evil. We don't have despicable values. Yet sometimes we are treated that way. In our church, we are taught to love and respect others. I wish the LDS would do the same.

re: Canadiandy | 4:59 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

"the vibrant economy of Utah"

Vibrant compared to what? Botswana?

Tired of it all | 5:11 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

I have lived in this state for most of my life. I am soon to leave the church as I do not believe its teachings and have not for years. My husband is a wonderful man, kind to everyone he meets, always willing to help a neighbor in need. He is not mormon, neither is my 18 year old son. Over the course of the last 18 years we have been approached by members of the church we have respectfully turned down their requests to discuss the mormon church and many times have had mormon 'friends' who were friends only until they realized we were not going to be converted. This has happened enough times to make me very leary when a member wants to be a so called friend. I always thought I was a pretty decent human being and I do have other friends who are accepting of just who we are. Why can't mormons just leave it at that, always pushing. My son is a great kid, he has an outstanding set of moral values yet he has been discriminated against for not being mormon. Too many two faced discriminating self righteous jerks, there is your problem.

kenny | 5:13 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

Latter Day Saints dont need to be popular or mainstream.We need to be ourselves and invite others to join us.Mormons in Utah need to invite non members into their lives.Utah is still a closed society to non members.Its a problem the saints need to address.I have watched my non member friend join the church this year due to some of my efforts but more so the entire ward.California #2 said it right.Go back and read that message.We bring our non members to the feast and allow the Lord to do the rest.Its amasing how that works but it does and will continue to do so.50 years in the church tells me we should do less "marketing the church" and more "Teaching of its truths and principles."

inferno714 | 5:20 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

To No Problem At All at 1:45 pm: You said that the Catholic Church makes up 98 percent of the U.S. population. The truth is, less than a quarter of Americans are Catholic. Most Americans are Protestant Christians. Okay?

kenny | 5:21 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

People can gain a positive attitude about the church by going to temple square in SLC and listening to the missionaries as well as hearing the truths taught in their Gatemalan dirt floor home by humble missionaries. I've done both and they both serve the Lord well.People who have a good attitude about the church are those who have had positive expirences with its members.You want to change the image, then go out and just do it.The Lord did not set up his kingdom to fail.You know that and so do I.

simple thinker | 5:24 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

As a convert, its very easy to understand why the Church has a bad image. Work. No poll will ever discover it. The L.D.S Church asks a lot of its members and these things are the most known about us. We have an image that we "Can't do" this or that. These lifestyle restrictions are un-likely to change and as a result the image will not change either.

Doug | 5:29 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

I believe the clear answer lies in Luke 6:22- 28, what Mormon's need to do is become more comfortable with the fact that the world will "hate them" and at the same time be more loving of those who hate them.

22 Blessed are ye, when men shall ahate you, and when they shall bseparate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of manï¿½s sake.
23 Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets.
24 But woe unto you that are rich! for ye have received your consolation.
25 Woe unto you that are full! for ye shall hunger. Woe unto you that laugh now! for ye shall mourn and weep.
26 Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets.
27 ï¿½ But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,
28 Bless them that curse you, and apray for them which despitefully use you.

Celese | 5:30 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

We do not need to be popular nor do we need to bridge gaps. Heavenly Father has spoken and the Prophet has dispenced his word. We are not afraid nor do we fear a backlash. We will stand up for the right and we have standards!

Some of you could have used the Church long ago before you became what you are today. I am sad for some of the comments and the hate you feel in your heart. I will pray for you and welcome you investigate the Church.

And despite what some of you think we are not going away or declining. The Church is only stronger and will grow. This is Gods plan.

I no longer care | 5:43 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

as a returned missionary and member living in the east, I have adopted the attitude that I could care less what people think of Mormons anymore. It does not affect me 1 bit if they dont believe, or think Im a fool. I no longer try to explain it, or care if they understand. You know what? - life is easier!!! To heck with those that hate us. I feel the same.

Just My Perspective | 5:44 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

The book's called "How Americans View Mormonism: Seven Steps to Improve Our Image."

Not having read the book yet, I'm just curious: Are steps 1, 2, 3, and 4, at very least, "Live the Gospel"? At least in some form?

In my experience living outside of Utah the past decade or so, a surprising number of people who disrespect the Church do so because they've had a bad experience with a member who was unkind, gossipy, selfish, mean-spirited, or even abusive. That's clearly NOT living the Gospel we preach.

We're all human--I'm the first to acknowledge that--but let's admit it: The human people we deal with outside the Church just flat-out don't respect hypocrisy. If we sing "I'm Trying To Be Like Jesus," we might want to REMEMBER that thought, especially when it counts.

I haven't read any of these comments yet, but I'm guessing many posters agree--on both sides of the aisle. Instead of feeling hurt by the criticism, maybe we need to listen and respond in a Christlike way.

Actually BEING more Christ-like would solve the bulk of our problems--public-image or not.

chris | 5:51 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

I agree we have an image problem; but it goes deep and is complex. D&C 6:7 says to seek wisdom and not riches-----how many Americans follow this creed? I think Joseph Smith was a prophet for this one verse alone---who would have thought up such a verse in commerce driven USA? We are a nation that does not read and only one fourth have a college degree. We need to do more and be better people and better examples and be better teachers and be better listeners----in short to do what Jesus said, "Be a light on a hill." We could also talk of anti-literature out there as well. We could talk of media being cynical and anti-religion---against all religion. There is good people out there of all religions and parties and some day we will all be on the same page.

Utah Co. NoMo | 5:51 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

The only religious group with a lower, and almost equal public opinion in the US are muslims. Hard times indeed for the LDS Church. Something is broken in the LDS culture and needs to change.

Seattle Guy | 5:55 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

To Anonymous that said:

"Mormons break away from the bible which is against what it says in the Book of Revelation that "You must not add to or take away from this book".

Try reading Det:4:2 By your logic everything from there on the 'false'. I love you anti-Mormons, you say that we don't know the Bible. Ha! 'Arizona' I right on the money with ehat they said to. Also, the Bible refers to several other scriptures that we don't even have. Now, you tell me who has not followed the Bible, or even read it......

Follow Leader's Counsel | 6:01 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

The Church is aware of our image problem and it has recently issued a letter to be read from the pulpit that urges members of the Church to visit Mormon.org and to use it when speaking to friends and family about the gospel and Church.

The problem with many members of the Church is our self-inflated view of our own knowledge of the gospel and as a result we tend to mislead those who we come into contact with. We must avoid the "go it alone" attitude that is becoming prevalent in the modern age of the internet. There are numerous official Church websites and literature we can use when speaking to non-members and we should do so.

One final point I think we fail to take into consideration is the misunderstanding may not be as real as this poll would lead us to believe since its possible that those polled were lying because they had an agenda against the Church. We are talking about an average of 100 people per state. That's not a lot of people and its easy that half of them have something against the Church.

Why are you seen unfavorably? | 6:02 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

It's not your church, it's YOU. Come back and read these comments in a week.

NO, we don't want to hear MORE of your gospel. We want to hear LESS. We're exposed to it, day in and day out, in offensive and intrusive ways.

Keep your religion to yourself, quit shunning your non-LDS neighbors (you know you do), and start wearing clothes that are not see-through.

re: re: old friend 10:35 am | 6:07 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

I agree with you that love for others should be unconditional. When we keep the comandments we are filled with love for everyone. however, i dont believe in being a friend to everyone, only to people of good will. if someone wants our friendship they have to do thier part too and become people of good will.

Seattle Guy | 6:17 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

Re to "Humanitarian" that said
On LDS charitable contribution: Lets go with the LDS church's own figuresï¿½don't pat the church on the back for being "charitable." ï¿½How much money does God need?ï¿½giving that it's laughableï¿½making the church richer and increasing it's membership. One could make the case that it's not a religion, it's a corporation. Some corporations give more to charity than LDS Inc."

First the fat that you use Inc. when talking about the church shows how smart you are. The City Creek Project is separate the tithing funds. The money for it comes from church owned businesses (that they do pay taxes on). Those businesses create jobs for thousands of people and provide resources for needy as well. The humanitarian projects come from both. So, you can say "Inc" all you want, but you have no idea what your saying. Oh, what does your church do? Other than persecute. You say that the LDS Church is below other in donations. What's your source? Says who? How much money does God need? None. God gave the Biblical commandment to teach the people. It's not about the money. It's about sacrifice. So, your ï¿½knowledgeï¿½ is well.... Laughable!

No Sale | 6:25 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

The LDS Church has transformed itself into a political party. It is the job of political opponents to diminish the stature of the other party. The LDS Party must be and will be relentlessly mocked for its ridiculous beliefs.

You asked for culture war, you got it.

Glory in all of us | 6:29 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

The mere fact that we cannot effectively, as individuals, socially interact with non-members is alarming.

We, in turn, need a statement or counsel on how to do this? (something wrong there entirely).

I've seen this a long time coming, most of my adult life and it is a sad commentary on LDS culture.

The culture is broken folks, we have been off path for a while and at this late state we realize where we are.

socalmon | 6:33 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

Fifty percent coincides exactly with our scripture, which states that the name of Joseph Smith will be spoken of both "good and bad". That's 50%. And it ain't gonna change.

To: To: Provo Girl 2:45 pm | 6:36 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

It shouldn't be a surprise there are many who leave the church. In Christ's parable of the ten virgins only fifty percent were prepared to enter the marriage party. Also, Brigham Young said we would be lucky if fifty percent of the members would be saved. He also said he knew that some in the church were hypocrits. And I believe ther are alot of people in the church who are members of secret combinations pretending to be very good members.

re:no sale | 6:36 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

No...please. We were just kidding, please don't do anything to us. Like we care what you or anyone else say, think, or do to us!! Ha Ha, lookout everyone, the WAR is on...run for your lives! That seriously made my night. Thank you Mr "No Sale".

READ | 6:46 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

as members of the church we CAN do better. Its US the MEMBERS that create opinions about the church. if we all did as the leaders of our, the LDS, church taught, the image of the church would be much better... because all they teach is kindness, love and care towards others while respectfully living our beliefs.

this is hard to do and many of us fall short... but the teachings or gospel of the church dont need to change at all, its our application of what we our taught that needs to change.

Cynthia | 6:49 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

The image problem will be solved with the opening of a multi-billion dollar mall, spectacular project through the grace Heavenly Father. We my be 'peculiar' but good with our money and run a clean shop. Many upon many more will soften to the Church after this masterpiece is complete. In the mean time I hope all you mean spirited poeple just settle down a bit a get to know you LDS nieghbour. When the mall opens your all gonna be are best friends.

John | 6:50 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

I honestly cannot believe some of the comments here. This was not a 'popularity' poll. He was trying to gauge how the world at large views Mormonism. To say that it doesn't matter because the scriptures say we will be hated is quite the pygmalion effect if I ever heard it.

The world will view Mormonism by the way it views Mormons. Unfortunately, too many people do not like their Mormon neighbors. Of course we should be concerned about that.

How are you going to feel when someone on the other side says "well truth be known I was curious in the Mormon religion but my Mormon neighbors wouldn't talk to me so I figured I couldn't join" or "all they did was criticize my own belief system every time I talked to them" or "they wouldn't let their kids play with my kids."

I have had way too many business colleagues find out I am Mormon after knowing me for years and they are shocked to find out how I've treated them compared to all the other Mormons out there. It's embarassing to constantly be apologizing for the actions of my fellow saints.

Easterner | 6:57 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

Earlier I posted twice. In fact the first 2 pages of these postings were cordial. One poster even made mention of how civil everyone was being. But the last several postings have turned into accusations and assaults. Please tell me this is not the way most Mormons talk about others or each other. If it is, Utah must be a very hard place to live if one is not LDS. Sad that you claim to be Christ's Church, yet I see little of His humility coming through these posts. Sad

To Celese 5:30 pm | 6:58 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

What exactly do you mean when you say that you have standards? That the rest of us don't? I'm not LDS but I don't smoke, drink, or do anything illegal. I have a job, attend mass twice a month, and try my hardest to be a good person. That doesn't count as morals?

I live in Draper and I love my neighbors. The LDS have been very friendly to me, my wife, and daughter. We have attended the local trunk or treat and other activities at the church building there. But honestly there are some that are not kind. And they stick out. It's sad but true: all it takes is one or two of you "with standards" to completely diminish the work of all the good "saints."

Please do yourself, your ward, and your church a favor and think about what you have written. Lots of people have morals that aren't mormon.

Re Socal mom 6:33 pm | 7:01 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

Um, your point is flawed. When people are polled and asked if they liked the church, their answer is not based on Joseph Smith. Most people living today answering this poll have never met Joseph Smith.

They are thinking about their neighbors that are Mormon. I live in Costa Mesa and really try to live my life in such a way that others will want what I want. Their salvation depends on my actions! How dare you be so callous about how we are viewed. Don't blame the negative view on Joseph Smith.

re to provo girl 6:36 pm | 7:03 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

"And I believe ther are alot of people in the church who are members of secret combinations pretending to be very good members."

They are the Republicans in your ward. Trying to hard to be good, but so full of hatred toward anyone different from themselves. The ultimate class war within the church.

Rick | 7:20 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

I'd be interested to see the stats on which Mormons were Americans interacting with. I currently live in Utah, I was raised here. I've spent 10 plus years living outside of Utah. I'm not LDS, but i was raised LDS. There is a DISTINCT difference in the members IN/OUT of Utah. Which is sad and quite telling. As READ @6:46 p.m said "Its US the MEMBERS that create opinions about the church." I couldn't agree more. The attitudes and actions of LDS members outside of this state are significantly closer to what the LDS religion preaches/teaches. Your neighbor @ 4:57's story is sad. And true. Any clue as to how many people can relate to/repeat this same story? My experiences are that this 'image' problem is due to the members themselves. They believe they are God's chosen, no problem, just don't act like that is make's you better than anyone else that lives by your same set of standards. Which a large majority of Americans do.

Look into the mirror, honestly ask, what am I doing for the image of 'The Church'?

Ernest T. Bass | 7:32 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

The fact that most mormons are republican and a lot of republicans are bigots doesn't help much.

Anonymous | 7:36 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

"They are the Republicans in your ward. Trying to hard to be good, but so full of hatred toward anyone different from themselves. The ultimate class war"

You're right. There are Reblicans who are members of it. But also Democrats.

Crazy 8 | 7:40 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

I'm a Crazy 8 (I was baptized at 8 and been a member ever since, served a mission, BYU grad, a temple worker and very very active in the church.
I think the problem is we are not told the truth about who we are. I've given myself permission to ask the hard questions of myself and the church and the answers would not be pleasing to many of you. I've decided that there is no 'one and only' and the church has many, many, many flaws. That being said, it has a lot of strengths. World humanitarian efforts, and an understanding of the Old Testament and 'the end of times' that no one else has. But it's hard to accept polygamy, denying priesthood to blacks, believing wifes-tales as scripture, and other distorted historical 'facts' that the church teaches.
That is what I think others are seeing and therefore creates a negative impression of the church. Too many mixed white-washed messages, hypocrisy, and the pride associated with 'the one and only' mentality, it's downright sickening. So much judgment in the church. I'm about ready to call it quits.

re: Why are you seem unfavorably | 7:43 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

wooooa I have been a member most all my life - I don't understand you comment about Mormon's wearing see - through clothes... course alot of what you said did not make sence but this was really off the wall..

Deaf Guy | 7:44 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

come on to Hearing poeple. I am Deaf Guy and been strong memeber under LDS. as I digged deep teach of true Church of what Jesus would want us to know the Truth before his coming are fulfill like Noah time. as I know some members of LDS dont know how to DEAL with me (they hide from me as Dont know how to talk with me as they are LDS.) Human Being cant being Perfect!!! but LDS are True to me!!!!!

Deaf Guy

Thinkin' Man | 7:46 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

Every time I have encountered a person who has animosity of some degree toward the CJCLDS, I have found it to be rooted in a factual misunderstanding. I think the arguments written here by readers illustrate that very well.

If I want to learn about the Democratic Party's views, I won't turn to Rush Limbaugh. Similarly, if I want to learn about Catholic beliefs, I won't turn to an evangelical preacher. If I want to know someone's beliefs, I ask THEM.

So we may disagree--we can still be civil and friendly, right?

Mormon in Missouri | 7:47 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

I live in the mission field and although there are alot of misconceptions out there, I for one am proud to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ and my non-member friends and associates are aware as well. I am very well received by those who do not share my beliefs. I for one believe that the things that set us apart from the world are the same factors that will help us continue to be the fastest growing Church in America and throughout the world.

STANDINGUPFORRIGHT | 7:47 p.m. Nov. 23, 2008

Ok. I do believe this person has to much time on his hands to do polls.
Some of you still feel that the church has lost members, and friends. I can tell you this, because members stood up for what we believe in more people are writing letters calling and thanking us for the help we gave to the prop 8. When you all want to say we are not friendly you have not meet to many members.I know that no matter what we do good or not there will be those who want to put the church down but that is up to you we will stand up and stand strong and stand in holy place around the world.My door has always been open to others and I would give to those who need help no matter what they believe in.Don't judge us all as unfriendly come join us and we will be what we are to everyone friendly and open hearted. May you ask God if we are not from his true church and just ask a missionary to come to you and answer any thing you need to know we won't hurt you.

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