Deseret News | Interfaith Alliance chief urges Mitt Romney to give a 'JFK speech'

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Interfaith Alliance chief urges Mitt Romney to give a 'JFK speech'

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Squeaky | 1:49 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

Hey - What?!

don't you talk to God when you pray to him? if you answered yes- what is so strange about that? Do you expect him to answer you? I personally do not at that moment that my prayer ends but I know that he does answer.

Ted | 1:54 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

I think Romney is whatever you want him to be. I'm not sure I know where he stands on most issues.

GoodGuyGary | 1:56 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

To be honest, I don't know nothing about the Baptists church either....

Comments continue below

God bless America! | 2:00 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

I have to wonder if just by commenting on a topic/press release by anyone who sends out a press release if we arenï¿½t influencing and adding credibility to it. I ask myself who is this Rev C Wilson Gaddy and what gives him any credibility? What has he done and what is his agenda? Has he successfully governed a state that was in extreme crisis as Massachusetts? Has he raised a good family and been faithful to his wife? Does he have anything to do besides prop himself into the judgement seat of all who run for political office of this country? The last time I checked there was and is no legitimate reason to question anything about Mitt Romney's character or personal life. To quote the ex-Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney, "I think people are more interested in a man's position on the issues than where he goes to church."

Susan | 2:01 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

What are the requirements to become President?
The United States Constitution outlines the requirements for President in Article 2.

Must be a natural born citizen of the united States.
Must be at least 35 years old.
Must have lived in the U.S. for at least 14 years.

But thanks to the Christian Right, we now have a new requirement: Must NOT be a Mormon!

God bless America! (cont) | 2:00 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

Given the current choice of presidential candidates based upon their applicable leadership, financial and governing experience I am voting for Mitt Romney hands down. I strongly encourage all to do personal research and look at the issues and vote based upon this and your conscience not what religion you belong to or believe in. God bless America!

MTB | 2:04 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

I hope Romney doesn't get to be President of the USA. He's too nice a guy. Presidents are accorded no respect. They are under a microscope every minute of their lives. Who would even want that darn job?

AZ | 2:16 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

YOU GO MITT.............

AS | 2:22 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

I think the part of the story that really made my eyes bug out of my head was when Rev. Gaddy said Romney needs to clarify that he will not function as a Mormon while in the white house. He obviously does not understand faithful members of the LDS religion. We never cease being Mormon, no matter where we may go. I wonder, have other presidents been asked to stop practicing religion as well? I guess we people of the United States are allowed freedom of religion, but that right apparently shouldn't extend into the presidency. I guess it would be impossible for Romney to be both a successful president and faithful Mormon at the same time (note sarcasm)!

i'm just saying | 2:28 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

it seems this will need to be addressed, or not. i think given that the evangelicals are going to maybe accept a mormon as a candidate whose "values" they share by and large [or else guilini or hillary], that maybe their leaders can explain why they've lied and misrepresented what lds folk believe. [maybe in one of their famous friday night movies. "why we've bourn false witness against our neighbor}
btw "well", i wouldn't think the priesthood ban on blacks to be as much baggage as the exclusion and lynchings that occured in the south [why are they southern baptist?]. after all, blacks have always been allowed in lds churches and allowed to be members, even 30 years before the emancipation.

Arlene | 2:47 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

I am LDS and will only vote for Romney if I am convinced he is the best candidate. I am not convinced yet. I have always been Republican but have voted for Democrats when I thought they were better suited for the job. I would vote for anyone, religious or non-religious, whom I thought would lead the country in the best way possible.

Really if you look at it... | 3:09 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

Really, if you look at all the candidates, Romney is the best person, as far as I am concerned. He is a republican, yet despite that drawback, he admits a problem with health care and tried to do something about it, in a creative way. He has executive experience, yet despite that drawback, he does not appear arrogant. He is allegedly against abortion, yet is willing to let people decide this issue. He has been married only once, notwithstanding the sexual practices of his ancestors. In fact, of the leading republican candidates, he is the only one to have had only one wife. Odd huh? But honestly, he has zero chance. The religious right controls the globalist party (aka republicans), and they don't like what he does on Sunday.

concerned | 3:23 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

I sometimes wonder why we have to get so upset at decisions or comments that people make. If we know what kind of people we are we should not be upset at the opinions of others. We know that Mitt Romney is a good man. We also know that as a Mormon we are Christian whether others know it or not. It's our actions and out conduct that show who we truly are not the name or the religion that we belong to. I believe that some people are pot stirrers because thats who they are and they don't know any other way. By their fruits ye shall know them. And I believe I know a good fruit from a bad one. I also believe that a child having a temper tantrum needs to be ignored.

Because we're Mormons | 3:29 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

We have to explain. For those of us outside in inter mountain west, we understand the damages done by the years and years of hate and lies. For many decades the Southern preacher's have pack the house telling "mormon ghost stories" and smiling as they pass the plate. We do not PUSH BACK. We do not enjoin law suits, or establish laws to prevent HATE CRIMES against our missionaries. Legally, we are all fair game to be victimized by anyone that can gather an audience. Bro. Romney certainly has the free agency to address this issue as his spirit directs.

Religious Bigotry | 4:08 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

Its amazing how much prejudice and bigotry is accepted when it comes to discussions about the Mormon faith. Just reading articles like these makes me think we are back in the 1960's. Lets see, this was when JFK had to answer questions about his faith, oh and yes this is also before the civil rights movement and blacks were still being rampantly discriminated against. Well, how nice, lets go back to the wonderful 60's again and discriminate against Mormons with our attitudes of bigotry. I can't believe this.

Just in case you don't agree, try re-reading this article, but instead of the word "Mormon, or LDS" substitute Jew, or Muslim, or Buddhist. Then tell me what you think. This guy's attitude is insulting.

Ramona | 4:09 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

Re: Rich
You spoke of polygamy and Adam as god, so if you don't believe that, does that mean Brigham Young is a false Prophet and if you do does that make Spencer W. Kimball a false prophet for having claimed it was fals doctrine? The response to Polygamy is "to whom it may concern." That's not very revelation sounding now is it?

For the most part Mormons will vote for Romney because they are bigoted towards mormons, while S. Baptists will vote against him because he is Mormon.

Why does religion matter? | 4:22 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

>>Since when is there a religous test those who wish to be our leaders? I'm not quizzed on what beliefs I have for a job application. Why should Presidentail canidates be quizzed on what their religious beliefs>>

i will tell you why this matters (and particularly to Republican candidates because Democratic candidates don't seem to have this problem; see Harry Reid): it matters because for the past 15 years the Republican party has moved one's "religion" from it being personal relationship with one's God, not subject to outside scrutiny, to a litmus test of sorts, of morality.

You get what you sow.

You spend 15 years harping and legislating on YOUR (collective "you," not anyone in here personally) personal definition of what you think is moral -- even if it wildly disagrees with mine -- and yes, if you push out a candidate that believes something different then me, I will confront you on it. (well, I won't because I think religion is a fairy tale)

The Mormons have aligned themselves with the Evangelicals - who think they are crazy.

You benefited politically by doing so, and this is the result. Enjoy.

K N Morse | 4:25 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

I sorta have to chuckle..maybe the question should be asked ï¿½what kind of Mormon is Mitt Romney?ï¿½ Many of the positions he is accused of being a flip-flopper on are issues where, prior to him ï¿½seeing the light,ï¿½ he was 180 degrees from recognized LDS positions.

It could very well be that, up until now, his religion has always been a matter of convenienceï¿½maybe now he will be forced to actually state what he believes. We might discover that he doesn't believe in much....

I was a member of IA | 4:36 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

I was a member of the Interfaith Alliance for years. It helps in the important issue of "separation of church and state". I believe the people are right that say that people "shouldn't have to explain themselves" when it comes to religion. But, unfortunately, the religious right(and other factors has made it so). Many people don't understand Mormonism and so if Mitt Romney is to have a chance he will have to clear up the confusion. There are many factors in the LDS religion that make this a fact. Perhaps even members of the religion should evaluate the things that make this so....in my experience many "lay people" in the LDS church don't always understand some of the questions. The polygamy example above is a major example. Many people I have known don't understand it and have "urban legends" on the subject.
This doesn't make it right, it is just what is.

another reason it matters | 4:46 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

No other faith, that I can think of, takes as fact (versus takes as faith) completely unprovable (or disproved!) historical and sociological positions.

So much of the Mormon faith is tied into suspect historical events for which there is completely overwhelming evidence -- in the mainstream world -- to the opposite.

That a presidential candidate would overlook such proof, to defend his religion concerns me.

You don't see such blind -- not "faith" -- but belief of such concepts in any other religion.

Most Christians believe the bible to be a mixture of fact and fiction, parable and historical - without a dogged investment.

Most Mormons believe some very *unbelievable* stuff, according to the rest of the population.

so if a Prez candidate buys all that? yeah, I am concerned. Not so much if its my neighbor - live and let live, I say - but with the most powerful position the world? LOL. No, i will take the candidates with their religious credentials not so "out there."

RE:Why religion... | 4:54 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

I disagree with your "fairy tale" representing the mormon church as aligned with the evangelicals. I am certain that we have not lowered our standard in order to gain acceptance in any "political club."

As for this article, are these evangelicals/preachers incapiable of understanding the principles of the articles of faith and providing their churches a brief glimpse of truth? I think not...that would be amount to recanting the mis information perpatrated on the congagation for years. Far better to have a mormon express the truth then dice it up with slickery and double talk.
Is a spirit that can barely count to 3 capable of understanding spiritual calculus?

Truthmonger | 4:55 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

Romney DID NOT save the olympics. They were going along fine with ot without him. All he was was a new face on top. And all that scandal nonesense was just garbage whipped up by a channel 4 reporter for his own glory.

I cannot vote some who take credit things he should not be taking credit for. And for NOT having the COURAGE of his CONVICTIONS. Just watch the debates he will not take a stand on anything unless he consults with his attorneys first.

That aside, he does not have to justify his religion and his religeous beliefs to any one.

Kris | 4:59 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

Can you say......."Missionary Oppertunity"?....

Very True | 5:09 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

I agree totally with the response to my post by "another reason it matters". Thank you. You said the other things I wanted to say!

Matt Y | 5:24 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

The reason Mitt needs to state his religion and his intentions is that many non-Mormons (& Mormons/) don't believe that he would not just only follow what "the church" believes. You only have to look at other posts on this site and others. The Mormon faithful tend to "eat their own young" as it were. Look what the TBM members said about H Reid on this site on other issues. The president of the USA needs to represent all people all races and all minorities and not just push what the LDS and their TBM members believe (or wish were true) beliefs. Face it people: there are some of us who are pro-choice, pro gay, pro gay / straight marriage etc. This is an awfully big country / world to compress into a little Utah community belief.

Defending Faith | 5:53 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

Dear "Another Reason it Matters",

Many scientists accept through popular thought or consensus that global warming is something that human beings have ultimate control over; however, a British court has ruled that there are eleven incorrect statements or assumptions made in Al Gore's "Inconvenient Truth" movie, much of which this theology is based. My point is, just because the popular belief leans heavily in one direction doesn't make it the correct theology, religion, etc.

Just because you cannot believe in things that you don't see or put to an honest test yourself doesn't mean that they are not true.

What evidence do you have to disprove the Mormon beliefs? In what ways would having a President of the U.S. who is a Mormon harm us any more than an atheist would? Mormons are some of the most patriotic, flag waving, constitution-loving people I know of and I take exception to your point that our beliefs are "way out there."

Your bigotry and hatred for someone who actually believes there is a higher power than man is what is way out there! Mormons have fought and died for this country just like Non-Mormons.

To another reason it matters | 5:56 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

I was raised in a family that was Catholic/Episcopal, and let me tell you, there's some doctrine there that defies "rational" belief also! Not to mention some interesting history! But their doctrines are believed by millions of people and treasured by them and I don't criticize them eithir because, a. I don't personally believe it, or, b. Because I think I could make a good case that it's not true. I respect their right to believe it. And most Americans have traditionally done so, too. Certainly we have had some excellent political leaders of both faiths.
All matters of faith require some sort of suspension of "rational" demand for proof. Are we to say that no one who has any sort of religious faith is safe enough to govern? Or that only those people whose faith is acceptable to you personally should be elected? What a waste of talent--world-wide!

Kennedy was a Catholic | 6:05 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

That's all that I know about the religion of any president, and I have been teaching high school US History for 15 years.

...and I don't even know if he was Greek Orthodox, Roman or any other type.

I think Dr. King would have made a great President.
A man's actions speak for his character, and I'll take Romney over anyone else in the running so far.

(I'm still waiting for Gore to enter the race, so that I can choose anyone BUT Gore).

Defending Faith | 6:07 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

Matt Y

If Mitt's intentions were to make government conform to the LDS beliefs then why isn't all of Massachusetts LDS by now? As for Pro-Choice, Pro Gay/Lesbian issues; Mormons are far from the only Americans who do not believe that gay and lesbian marriage should be legalized. If enough Americans wanted it, it would already be law. For some reason you think that a person of true belief cannot be objective about anything because in truth, you yourself cannot be objective about Mormonism.

The Gaddy Speech | 6:07 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

Why are we even listening to C. Welton Gaddy?

He's goofy looking.

Limey Lady | 6:17 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

As far as I know, Mitt Romney is an upright, upstanding, honoutable, Christian man. I have never read/heard anything about him that would convince me otherwise. As for his ancestry involvement in polygamy, what difference does that make? In the world today, if a bloke had seven girlfriends and slept with a different one each night of the week, people would call him a lucky old so-and-so. However, Heaven forbid a man should take responsibility for several ladies, marry them, give each of them of his time and money. Protect them and otherwise make their lives happy ~ he would be considered the lowest of the low.
I am definitely NOT in favour of polygamy, but I am able to see the advantages at that time in history. What I don't see, is why Mitt Romney should be held accountable for something his ancestors did.
Are all Germans vile because of Hiyler? Are all Jews responsible for the crucifixion of our Saviour? Is Chelsea Clinton a disgudting human being with no moral standards, simply because of who her father is?
Judge Mitt Romney on the way he conducts himself, the way he lives his life. His true charater will shine.

Mitt's his own worst enemy | 6:25 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

I'm a former Mormon - card-carrying Democrat, too. Mitt Romney is his own worst enemy. The guy's a waffler. He used to be fairly moderate (he even supported gay marriage). Well, suddenly, he's the poster boy for the religious right. No other serious Republican contender has reigned in that segment of the voters so he's exploiting it. I say, if you court those voters, you need to answer the tough questions about religion.

Walk the talk, Mr. Romney.

Lana | 6:53 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

The only reason he has to defend his faith is because of all the pastors outthere trying to brainwash their members against the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and that's the Church's name and you are very insensitive when you call them "Mormon". They got that nickname way back when people in other denominations were mocking them.

Alan Robinson | 6:54 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

Thats it, attack the Baptists because they attack the Mormons. Looking at all these comments its so hard to see who, if any are 'Christlike'. At the end of the day, if Mitt is elected President every Mormon on the face of the planet will tell everyone that they know that he is LDS. AND a lot of LDS will vote for him just because he IS LDS. So why does anyone say religion doesnt matter......... Gets me!!!

Paul | 7:03 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

I'm Faithful LDS, and been Republican all my life. I would love to see Mitt make the speech.

How cool would that be to speak to the entire nation at once about what we believe! I say give the speech!

Ann | 7:15 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

Why don't all you Evangelicals & Mormons pray for the candidate that would be best for this country?
He does answer prayer.

Ask Yourselves | 7:16 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

I read a lot of posts that say that religion should not be an issue. I've asked some of my friends about the mayoral race here in SLC. They don't want Becker because he's not LDS and he wouldn't represent their views or values.
When was the last time a non-LDS gorernor was in office here in Utah. I think it was Governor Dern? So that was one time. Is there a difference?

LC | 7:19 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

Romney won't answer questions because the answers will just raise more questions. LDS doctrine can't withstand good questions.

Anonymous | 7:29 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

I'm not as concerned about the mitt explaining how his religion plays a role in his life. What I want to hear is how it WON'T play a role in mine.
Here in Utah, of course, this is proven false daily, so my fears are well grounded. Here the church is the tail wagging the dog of state. Do we need that on a national level?
He's got a lot of assuaging to do to distance himself from what is already the ugly reality we live in here.

TexasMama | 7:57 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

By responding to this guy's comments, we lend credence to them. We're setting him up to rake in a fortune in speeches and appearances because he made the news with his on-air comments. Each response only raises his price. Enough already!!

fl lds | 7:58 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

Robert, I have heard the term "Mormon Issue" in describing Mitt from none other than William Bennett, on his conservative national radio program "Morning in America". Because the evangelicals can't stomach LDS doctrine (and thus those who espouse it), even many of the conservative pundits and talk show hosts (with the exception of Hugh Hewitt) cowardly distance themselves from Mitt.

Hewitt made the excellent point that if Romney were of any other faith than LDS, there would be NO STOPPING him.

My take:
Giuliani seems to me to be somewhat of a weasal. If not Mitt, then Fred Thompson... I loved it when he told Michael Moore to check himself into a mental institution. Unfortunately, much of the nation seems to be mesmerized by HRClinton, and she is willing to promise everything to everyone to buy their votes. If she is elected we should all do a collective upchuck at the same time across the country...

ED | 8:08 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

Confront being a Mormon. For pete sakes, the man is a Mormon. It's part of the package. Believe me, I am not a Mormon, but I like his politics. I will be voting for a platform and the courage the candidate has to defend and manage the country. By the way, Rudy is a Catholic and I like him too.

Rev Gaddy -- you're a bigot | 9:16 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

I'm a Mormon and really like Mike Huckabee. Does that mean I should demand that he "confront" the confusion I have about Baptists? I once knew a baptist that was a real jerk...so Mike needs to explain to me why he's not a jerk too? Ridiculous!! Rock on Mike! Mormons for Mike..!

re: Anonymous | 9:20 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

Why the constant whining about Utah? Feel free to leave. I just moved up from CA, and kids are getting killed in the IE constantly by little wanna-be gangsta's. Little 13 year old girls shot in their apartment, a 10 year old boy shot while shooting baskets, a father shot getting medicine for his children on Thanksgiving day.

Your "fears" are miniscule to what's really happening around the country. Take-off and come back when you are thankful for what you have.

Mitt Romney is the only candidate that has any type of moral compass, and our country has been without one for too long.

If that includes that he chooses to worship his creator in an LDS church and wear different underwear than me, I can look past it. Adult Whiners are just sort of pathetic.

Reed | 9:28 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

I agree with many comments already made such as
Evangelicals are the ones not happy with having a Mormon president. They are the ones who should "clear things up" with their followers

Also, Republicans have gone way overboard in their pandering to the Evangelical vote. In fact, that is Mitt's primary problem. He would be much more credible if he pointing out his differences (faith not included). He could be against abortion but for sex education and birth control (with parental involvment intact). He could forget this silly pledge not to raise taxes. That only reminds people of a "read my lips" broken promise. It says pandering is more important than possibly raising taxes to reduce the deficit or effectively deal with healthcare which is making our business uncompetitive. The most important thing is he could point out where Bush has gone wrong and promised not to be a Bush apologist during his presidency.
Mitt, you cant please everyone so stop trying. Your starting to look and sound as bad a Kerry did last election.

William | 9:30 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

I'm starting to get fed up with "The pressing need is for blah blah blah." The only reason for "the pressing need" is the Evangelicals making an issue of the man's faith just like they did with JFK's. I have never heard them clamor for an Evangelical or other Protestant to make such a statement.

Silver Fox | 9:40 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

This is for "notromney". Okay, so don't vote for him. I would like to be there when you have answer to the Lord about why you voted for someone who is for abortion, gay marriage etc. We will all be accountable for our actions on this earth including those we vote for.
I will pray for you!

Gaddy | 10:11 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

Hey, isn't he the "Teflon Don?"

I don't know if Mitt should be collaborating with his ilk.

Anonymous | 10:11 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

Come on everybody. Aren't we being defensive and silly? There are many people who have misunderstandings about the faith of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. What will it hurt to clear some of those misunderstandings up? If you thought Mormons had horns on their head, for example, wouldn't you want to know that the guy running for President of the US didn't?

Silver Fox | 10:12 p.m. Oct. 11, 2007

Will you pray for me. I voted for Gore 2000, and Bush 2004. I can't imagine how many live I would have saved if I had voted for the other.

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