DD has a very good friend who has invited her to go to Church with her. DD would like to go and see what their religion is about, and broaden her "knowledge" of different religions.

I have done some reasearch into the religion, but, wanted to know if anyone out there has first hand knowledge or life experiences they could share.

PLEASE, let's not turn this into a religion bashing thread, this is very important to me. If you like, please PM me in private or email me at allinaugust@gmail.com

Thank you.

P.S. What is the typical time frame between starting to go to the Mormon church and getting baptised there/becoming a member??

__________________
Doing the right thing isn't always the same as doing the easy thing.

AIA-
I'll share my limited knowledge on the LDS. They do believe in the Bible first off! They also use the Book of Mormon(which is a very interesting read, and is NOT contridictory to the Bible-it's more of a supplement) and the Doctrine and Covenants(which to my understanding is "prophecies" or enlightenment given to the current Prophet of the Church). I believe, and someone correct me if I'm wrong, that in order to be baptized into the LDS church a person has to take and participate in a membership class. That class provides history of the church and the tenets that the church believes in. If memory serve correct that class can last anywhere from 8 weeks to who knows when.

Like all religions--I've known complete and utter off the wall Mormons, and I've known really great people who just happen to be Mormons! One of DS's friends is Mormon--I was shocked when I found out that his parents not only allowed him to read Harry Potter, but encouraged it--whereas the goofy neighbor down the block who was/is a member of a "Charismatic" church truly believed that Harry Potter was the devil!(she was a complete and utter whack job--wouldn't let her kids watch cartoons--at all! Would go on these 8 day cleansing fasts, was extremely biased in regards to her children--Boys 1 and 3 were treated pretty well, but boy 2 was always in trouble. I had those boys at my house and they were all fine children. She was just nuts, IMHO).
By and large the Mormon Church advocates strong families, strong community outreach and work, and strong Christian beliefes (please don't anyone go there--Mormons are just as much Christian as a Baptist or Lutheran or whatever).

I forget how old your DD is....if she's over say 10-11 y/o and you know/trust the family of her friend, I would not have any problem allowing her to go and visit the church. If she begins to go regularly, then you will probably want to really investigate and research all aspects of the LDS faith.
I'm old, my memory is shoddy, and it's been a long time since I really investigated the LDS religion

__________________
Mental that one, I'm telling you. ---Ron Weasley, "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets"

Here is a googled explanation. How Mormonism Differs from Traditional Christianity -- Beliefnet.com

My brother is LDS and I have several good friends that are LDS. I'm more Calvary Chapel mentality. While my friends and I disagree on theology, we don't let it stand in the way of our friendship. We just agree to disagree. If I were you, I would google the different beliefs of LDS (Mormon) versus other religions and make your decision.

__________________
Prayer is the burden of a sigh,
The falling of a tear,
The upward glancing of an eye
When none but God is near."

with a family who is LDS. First off.. when I went it was for 3 hours, so she needs to be prepared for that. There was an hour of regular "church" type time.. no different than any other church ceremony than I have been to. They do have a communion, but I just passed it. The rest was all just listening. No one ever tried to "convert" me, or make me do anything I didn't want to do.

After that there was Sunday school (I can't imagine it was different than any other.. we mainly listened to stories and talked.. but I never went to any other SS so I can't tell you.)

Then everyone split up. This was 20+ years ago, but the girls went to a class to learn things that would help them be productive women at home and in society, and the boys went to a class to prepare for their mission.

She should just dress nicely and be prepared to sit and listen. I don't think she (or you) should have anything to be nervous about. That's great that she wants to go.

I believe baptism is at the age of 13. The family is also not allowed to do anything else on Sundays but go to church and have family time. There are no playdates/eating out/or such allowed, so I think she should expect to come right home afterward. There is always prayer at a meal, so make sure she knows not to start eating if she is with them until they are ready. They fold their arms in front of their chest. I'm sure they would not expect her to do anything she doesn't do ordinarily.

Anyway, this is what I experienced, but as I said, it was when I was younger. One other thing to add I guess.. all the members addressed each other as "Sister Smith" "Brother Smith" instead of Mr./Mrs. the kids used these phrases as well to the adults, and my friend's mom was not really comfortable with me calling her "Mrs." (I wouldn't use sister since I am not LDS) but preferred I use her first name. Of course I would recommend your DD use "Mrs" unless asked not to.

I don't believe non LDS are allowed to go to baptisms, and they are not allowed to witness weddings, which are a very very small affair with immediate family (but there is a reception afterward).

Let us know how it turns out. HTH

My good friend who is LDS invited me to her 8 yr old DD's baptism this Sunday and I am Baptist.

Baptisms are usually done at 8. Anyone can go as they are usually hel in the meeting house. Weddings are in the temple and only those who have what is called a Temple Recommend can attend. You get one by having an interview with the bishop of the ward (local church group). He will ask if you have been morally chaste, not associated with anti Mormons etc and give you a recommend to get into the temple to watch a wedding or to do baptisms for the dead and other ordinances of the religion.

Mormonism is full of nice people who want you to join their religion as their founder Joseph Smith was told that all other religions were an abomination to Him. That is why they send out young men two by two to convert people all over the world. There is lots of information on the internet about Mormonism. There are crazies in the religion as well but there are in every religion as we can see right here on MC.

OP, it will be interesting to go to a baptism at the church. You might be considered "a golden contact" and find the missionaries at your door for the seven discussions to join the church.

The women wear dresses mostly covering their shoulders so they are very modest as the Prophet has said a lot about what is modest today and what is not. Women's shoulders are not to be shown and women should be "garment ready" in all their clothing choices. Piercings are to be kept to two per person, I believe and none for the men. The men have to wear white shirts and a tie to pass the sacrament in church. There is a lot of emphasis in Mormonism on outward appearance to conform. I have many mormon friends and have studied the religion for years. I believe they are trying their best to be Christians as they can.

As for the time frame.....if they start the discussions with your daughter, they cannot baptize her without your permission. The seven or so discussions are held over a couple of weeks and then she will be asked to read parts of the book of Mormon and pray for a "burning in her bosom" to know if it is true. If she feels anything....a tingle in her hair, a warm feeling anything, that will be translated into the Holy Spirit confirming to her that the Book of Mormon is true and Joseph Smith is a true prophet and Tommy Monson is a living prophet and that revelation is continuing today from God.

It is a very complicated religion and none of the real meat of the religion will not be told to her until after her baptism. Google
Book of Abraham
Salamander Letter
Mark Hoffman
Mark of Cain and Mormonism, Black people and the priesthood
How many wives did Joseph Smith actually have and when did he have them and what did his wife say?
just to name a few and get some of the meat of the religion not talked about until after you are already in.

Sorry this is so long, but if you have any more questions, pm me.

__________________
GO NAVY WRESTLING!!BEAT ARMY!!!
RJB 3/18/60 - 5/22/04
We miss you, sweet brother
God Bless the USA!!!!! Praying for my Youngster son at United States Naval Academy, class of 2014!!

http://mylifeundertheabaya.blogspot.com/

I roomed with an LDS girl at a predominantly LDS community college in southeastern AZ.

I can say that on the surface, they are very morally upright folks with excellent family values and an incredibly strong sense of community. They tithe 10% to their church... They firmly believe in their doctrine. However... this is only the surface.

I'd go with her.

Now I'm seriously concerned. With the research I have done, and what I am reading here, I am very concerned. I have seen the "two by two" boys/men around town, and wondered what they were.

Cuthie, I sent you a PM.....USNAMOM, you got one too. Thanks....

Anyone else with info./opinions???

Thanks for keeping this a neutral discussion. This is an issue very important to me.

__________________
Doing the right thing isn't always the same as doing the easy thing.

Thank you. Do you know why they don't disclose the "meat" of the religion until after baptism??? I have my own ideas....... I PM'd you.

__________________
Doing the right thing isn't always the same as doing the easy thing.

Check this out... Famous Mormons in the Media

AA, I am at work so I can't log in to see my pms....send it to me at this username as well.

They say "milk before meat" when they talk about their religion and what they tell prospective investigators. People don't know about the ban on the Black people not being able to hold the priesthood until 1978 and why until after they join. They do not tell how many wives Joseph Smith and BY had and when they had those wives until after they join because they know that people would question the religion and perhaps not join, KWIM?

They don't talk about polygamy during the missionary discussions, nor do they talk about baptism for the dead, nor do they talk about the different levels of heaven or how a man can marry as many women as he wants to in the temple but a woman can only marry once. They don't tell investigators about the different levels of heaven and who gets to go to which level and they won't tell you who can become a God of their own world then either. These are the things that are referred to the meat of the "gospel" and would scare someone off the religion, KWIM?

The discussions are about love, our heavenly Father and how Joseph, a young illiterate man was visited by an angel, Moroni who told him where to find the golden plates and he translated them through the Holy Spirit and that families can be together forever if you are sealed in the temple.

They don't tell you that to be sealed in the temple, to do all the things you are supposed to do in the temple to ensure your return to Heavenly Father, have the ability to become a God and have your many wives and spirit babies of your own world you will need to have a temple recommend which means you have to tithe 10% of your income.

There are lots of questions to ask before joining the church....the investigator will be asked if they feel a burning in their bosom....or any feeling after reading the BOM, they will interpret it as a sign from God that the church is true. The fallacy of this is I feel good when I see an A T T commercial, does that mean that A T T is true?

I am not saying that Mormon are not good people...my two best friends are Mormon. I love them. I just know a lot about the church. It isn't for me.

Thank you. I have read many of these things on line, some are new to me as well. What if a person is married to a "non" Mormon??? Hmmmmm........

Why the secrecy about the religion??? I just don't understand that. How would they know if you are titheing?? I have read that they keep tabs on who gives what, and there is no anonymous collection plate.

What if you are baptised a Mormon, then finds out the "meat" of it, and decides it is not for them???

__________________
Doing the right thing isn't always the same as doing the easy thing.

AIA- could you forward me your PMs. I am very interested in your questions and their answers. Thanx.

__________________
Calling a illegal alien an "undocumented immigrant" is like calling a drug dealer an "unlicensed pharmacist."

Well, first, they don't call it secret, they call if sacred. The temple is so sacred you don't talk about it. Your "garments" are sacred and you don't show "gentiles" them or let them show.

Once a year, you go to the bishop and he asks you if you pay an honest tithe. There is controversy whether that is 10% of your net or gross income, but if you answer anything but yes, you don't get a recommend therefore dont go to the temple and only through temple marraige will you get to the highest level of heaven to become a God....."As man is, God once was, as God is, Man may become."

If you want to leave mormonism, you have to write a letter to your bishop who can send it on to Salt Lake and after thirty days or so, they let you know that you have been taken off the roles of the church which they also state makes you not be able to tithe any more or recieve the blessings of tithing. (??).

I have taken the discussions a few times and read the book of Mormon numerous times as well as attended the services lots of times over my 50 years.

I don't think I would let my child go to services alone. I would be worried that they would be "love bombed" in and want to be baptized before you know it and without her knowing what is what.

If someone joins the church and knows all the things out there about it but still believes, then I say "Great". But a child cannot know the details and will join because of friends etc.

You might ask how come so many people supposedly join, and then don't leave when they find out the truth....once you are baptized, you are then given a job in church, a volunteer job which you are supposedly "called" by God to do. You are kept busy so you don't ask questions or you are told "We don't have an answer to that question, put it on a "shelf" in your mind. " In other words, do not think about it. Next thing you know, you have a couple of kids, you are too busy to really ask questions and everything you read or are told that doesn't follow the church's party line is "anti" and is of Satan. My friend is told that "Satan is working very hard to lead the very elect away from the true church in these latter days"

I believe, and I could be wrong, but to be a member in good standing of the the LDS church, you must provide a yearly statement of income and what you contributed to the church. Also, again I could be wrong, but they have collection envelopes that you use--they are anonymous in that every person and/or family is assigned a number, and when you put your envelope in the collection know one but the treasurer/bookkeeper knows your number. But they do record who gives what. Also, it has almost like a deposit slip so that you can indicate you want $5 to the building fund, $25 for tithing, etc.

The LDS do not necessarily recognize any marriage that has taken place outside of the temple--be it to Mormons or a Mormon and a Catholic. Also, there's the whole married for eternity thing....

There are some rituals and ceremonies that are "secret" for lack of a better word. I don't understand that aspect of it.
Having been born and raised in the RLDS (Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints) now called the Community of Christ Church--I'm pretty well versed in the INITIAL history of Joseph Smith. Our differences with the LDS began when Joseph died, and Brigham Young took his followers to Utah.(Brigham did practice polygamy--our belief is that Joseph Smith MIGHT have.) After that Joseph Smith's son took up his father's teachings and "Reorganized" the church(absolutely no Polygamy has been or ever will be sanctioned or practiced by our church). Our basic tenets are vastly different from the LDS. All of churches and our one "Tempel"(in Independence, MO) is always open to the public, we have no secrets, our tithing is not mandatory, we allow WOMEN in the priesthood, and to the best of my knowledge we do not care what color your skin is when it comes to priesthood. We have two colleges: Park College in Missouri and Graceland College in Lamoni, IA. Basically, we are way more "laid back" and open than the LDS--but still share history and some tenets. Yes, our Book of Mormon and Doctrine in Covenants is different than the LDS as well.
Sorry, didn't mean to go off on a tangent! For years, our church has always been confused w/ Mormons, and I wanted to nip that in the bud!

__________________
Mental that one, I'm telling you. ---Ron Weasley, "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets"

I don't know much, but have heard a lot. A friend of mine had to sit in the back of the church for services because she was a "bad Morman" (her words). I can't remember why she was "bad".

Also, we moved to a new town when DS was in third grade. A boy in his class called him every day. At age 8, the boy told DS about his wonderful church and tried to convince DS to go to church with him. He invited him to services, missonary speakers, dinners, you name it. After a while, the boy gave up on DS and quit calling.

I wondered about this. What do they consider 'associating' with non-Mormons. Can they be friends and visit socially with non-Mormons?

Would someone elaborate, please?

__________________
Prayer is the burden of a sigh,
The falling of a tear,
The upward glancing of an eye
When none but God is near."

You can be disfellowshiped or excommunicated from the church for infractions such as adultery, looking at pornography, masterbation (sp)etc.. It means that you can still go to church are expected to continue to pay tithing but you can't pray out loud in church or serve in any leadership capacity while you are waiting to be reinstated. The letter my friend got for going to her bishop and confessing having sex with her ex husband stated that she would not get the blessings of tithing. She had to continue to wear her garments for her protection but she couldn't go to the temple, but she could keep paying that money!

When we were first married our neighors would invite us to services to Relief Society ( a womens organization), all baptisms, all kinds of activities that were fun. We had meals broght into our home, cookies on our doorstep, cards in the mail, gifts for our kidsand this went on for months. One day, I got a call saying that the entire ward (local church) is fasting and praying for me and my husband to reach the "right" decision and know that Book of Mormon is true and Joseph Smith was a true Prophet of God and be ready to be baptized. Talk about pressure!!!! We, didn't get any burning answer like they wanted and we were summarily dropped from that social circle. They went on to the next new couple down the street. Coincidence?

They can associate with non mormons but not those opposed to the church. The unspoken rule is that it is best to associate with those people who are prospective converts or who already are members because then you don't have to worry about hearing anti mormon stuff or you already have things in common. Plus, a non member might lead you down the slippery slope to becoming an apostate, which would include having a cup of coffee, seeing an R rated movie or wearing sleeveless dresses and tops.

What does that mean?

__________________
Calling a illegal alien an "undocumented immigrant" is like calling a drug dealer an "unlicensed pharmacist."

Garments are what people who have been through the temple wear under their clothes at all times to remind them of their covenents to God and to protect them from evil. There are "stories" of people who have been in car accidents and been burned all over their bodies with the exception of where their garments are.
Some mormons I know who don't take their garments off ever, not even when having sex. Or at least that is what they said. Here is an article about them that is respectful of their beliefs because there are articles on the internet that are not respectful and even though I don't believe in them, I know that they do.

What are LDS Garments or Mormon Underwear?

My friends never are without their garments....would not be out without having them on....they do not use underwear and she thinks underwear is uncomfortable and wierd. She wears her bra over her garment top and bought maternity garments. She is training her little granddaughters to only wear clothing that will allow them to wear garments later....she only buys them shirts with sleeves and long shorts.

I'd be glad to give you my PMS....hehehhhehe, couldn't resist.

__________________
Doing the right thing isn't always the same as doing the easy thing.

I don't understand...what exactly are the garments? Are they like undershirts? Long underwear? Is it another outfit? What do they look like?
I don't mean the question as disrespect, I'm just trying to visualize what the garments look like.

__________________
@@@
l/ l/ l/
Dont go through life,
GROW through life

Real eyes...realize...real lies.

I found this by typing in "mormon garments" in a google search



mormon garments - Google Image Search

__________________
Doing the right thing isn't always the same as doing the easy thing.

Garments are only worn by endowed members....members who are married in the temple or are going on a mission. At one time they were one piece like long underwear and over time they have become two piece with short sleeves and a bit longer shorts for both men and women. They are to be worn next to the skin and they have markings on them to remind people of their temple covenants to God.

__________________
GO NAVY WRESTLING!!BEAT ARMY!!!
RJB 3/18/60 - 5/22/04
We miss you, sweet brother
God Bless the USA!!!!! Praying for my Youngster son at United States Naval Academy, class of 2014!!

http://mylifeundertheabaya.blogspot.com/

I wonder if Donny and Marie wear these things

Once they are married they will be required to wear them at all times, except when swimming or sports. But I guess celebs have different rules....Marie wore outfits that were not garment friendly during her stent at the Dance program and Donny didn't wear a shirt on some of his magazine spreads. Both have been divorced and work on Sundays. Steve Young plays football on Sundays and in the religion you are not supposed to even cook on Sundays. LOL

But if they don't work, they won't be able to tithe as much....(aren't I a cynic?) LOL!!!

__________________
GO NAVY WRESTLING!!BEAT ARMY!!!
RJB 3/18/60 - 5/22/04
We miss you, sweet brother
God Bless the USA!!!!! Praying for my Youngster son at United States Naval Academy, class of 2014!!

http://mylifeundertheabaya.blogspot.com/

Is it still true with the mormons, i could be wrong, that they do not drink tea or coffee, I heard this, again I could be wrong. Omg I could not live without my hot tea lol. Peace Catherine

My best friend is Mormon, in fact my daughter is named after her. She showed me the edge of her garment, it's kind of gauzy (for lack of a better term) - she does not drink coffee, she drinks chicory. Her mom is Mormon, her dad is not. She said when her dad dies they will "turn him into a Mormon" to save him. She would not go into details about how they could do that.

She absolutely thites (10% minimum) - at times, to the detriment of her own comfort.

She never, ever pushed her religion on me and only spoke about it if I asked questions. It's not something I'm interested in, but I respect their devoutness.

__________________
Mary

Ahhh, I see.

Interestingly enough, I think my best friends family converted to Mormonism. This must have been around my jr - high school years. I say "I think" because I remember they started going to Temple on certain days and they would all call each other Sister_____ and Brother______. My best friend's sister later attended BYU. I never really thought about it much. They never talked about it with me and all the time I was around them they never ever tried to convert me or anything.

Another neighbor/friend and I were talking and she told me about her friend that is Mormon. My friend is impressed because the lady has a large family, is very very organized. She said her friend has also never tried to convert her (my friend is Catholic)

__________________
@@@
l/ l/ l/
Dont go through life,
GROW through life

Real eyes...realize...real lies.

I am curious if AIA has come up with a decision as far as her daugher? Ar e you going to go with her? or put a kabash on the whole idea?

We are still on the fence with her, and she is as well, now. Her concern now is that her friend will not be able to be her friend after this if she does not go. We don't want to send the wrong message to the church by letting DD go and "learn" about it. I certainly don't want this to jeopardize DD's friendship. Personally, I have read enough about the religion to know that it is not something I would persure or be a part of, and I would discourage DD from it, as well.

So, to answer your ???? we have not decided yet.....tomorrow is Sunday, so we'll see what this brings.

__________________
Doing the right thing isn't always the same as doing the easy thing.

AiA, I guess to me, the most important thing wouldn't be their *practices* so much as whether you belive the heart of their theology to be *true*. Do you believe that 1) God created the world, 2) God sent his son Christ to save the world, and 3) God then revealed more to Joseph Smith? Whether you believe "3" to be true or not should, IMHO, determine whether or not you want your daughter to head down this road.

I don't think it should be about underwear or secrets or any of those 'works' so much as the 'faith'. If you have 'faith' that #3 is true you'll *want* her to follow the tenants of the religion. If you *don't* have faith that the words of Joseph Smith are inspired by God, then you *won't* want her to make them the 'true north' of her religious future.

I would let her go because it is important to let your children know what all is out there and to be open minded but if you feel at any time that she is being "rushed" or pressured into hearing the discussions, I would then be reasearching everything I could about the religion.

The activities she could be involved with while being friends with this girl won't be harmful to her except there will be lots and lots of talk about marraige and family for women at an early age, how terrible premarital sex is (which isn't a bad thing), the goal of being married in the temple so you can have a forever marraige and how sad it is when someone has a wedding solomnized in the chapel or church because they will only have a marraige until death, there will be talk about how wonderful the gospel is and how lucky the Mormons are that they have the fullness of the gospel, talk about what women's roles are in the world (have children and be wives). As long as you are her mother and also talk to her about what your values are, I don't see why she couldn't go to church events with this girl to see. I wouldn't want to make her curious enough about this girl to make her the prize and now you have another problem.

__________________
GO NAVY WRESTLING!!BEAT ARMY!!!
RJB 3/18/60 - 5/22/04
We miss you, sweet brother
God Bless the USA!!!!! Praying for my Youngster son at United States Naval Academy, class of 2014!!

http://mylifeundertheabaya.blogspot.com/

you are all really surprising me. I spent every summer with a family of 8 kids from the time I was 9-15 or so. (My parents divorced and mom worked full time. She needed someone to watch me... they were family friends.)

I sat in church every week and listened. I went to Sunday school. I was not invited to weddings or baptisms. They were amazing people that treated me like family. Was I uncomfortable at times.. sure.. 'cause we don't go to church, and I wasn't sure what I believed, and I didn't know a lot of people. But I was never, ever, put in any kind of posistion that I was asked to join, or told in anyway that I was not going to heaven. I also never heard anything about marrying early. Their oldest was 21 when I went to her reception. "Young" by today's standards maybe, but this was some time ago, and she certainly was an adult.

Honestly, some of my best friends went to a mainstream Christian church in when I was in High School. I went to a few social functions with them and the youth minister would not leave me alone, calling me and inviting me to lunch. He was way more pushy in my opinion, and made me very uncomfortable.

There are annoying, over the top, "crazy" people in every religion.. and many that are not religious.

Let her go.. sit with her if you would like.. talk about it when you get home. What is your religion? Would you let her go with a Jewish friend to Temple?

Good luck. I'm sorry you are stressed out about this. I'm sure if we could research our other friends beliefs on the internet we wouldn't hang out with anyone..

I think that the church has changed in the last few years re: marrying early. There have been several conference talks about that very subject about how wrong it is to put off being married and having children because you are waiting to finish college or get your house. I personally have either seen it while watching conference or read it in the church copy of the transcript of a conference talk.

I have a friend who doesn't understand why my kids are not married and are all in their twenties.....she says that the older they are the more of a chance they will have to have premarital sex.

__________________
GO NAVY WRESTLING!!BEAT ARMY!!!
RJB 3/18/60 - 5/22/04
We miss you, sweet brother
God Bless the USA!!!!! Praying for my Youngster son at United States Naval Academy, class of 2014!!

http://mylifeundertheabaya.blogspot.com/

I believe someone "stands in" for the deceased during the conversion. Every so often the Anti-Defamation League has to take action regarding the after death "conversion" to Mormanism of Jews who died in the Haulocaust. The "official" stance of the Mormon church is that it's not okay to do this but it keeps happening just the same.

Thanks for the info - very interesting. Quite frankly I think when you die all earthly dealings are a moot point. But if it makes the family feel better...

__________________
Mary

This is baptism for the dead. When someone dies, they believe the dead are in sort of a spirit world and have another opportunity to hear the true gospel. If they choose to accept the gospel, someone on earth will have to have the baptism for them. Therefore, if a relative or someone goes to the temple and performs a baptism for the dead, taking on the dead persons name and being baptized for them here on earth. To continue, to get to the highest level of heaven one must also be married, so they also do marraige and endowments for the dead as well to seal those people on earth so they can be sealed in heaven.

__________________
GO NAVY WRESTLING!!BEAT ARMY!!!
RJB 3/18/60 - 5/22/04
We miss you, sweet brother
God Bless the USA!!!!! Praying for my Youngster son at United States Naval Academy, class of 2014!!

http://mylifeundertheabaya.blogspot.com/

I was raised Mormon. Mormonism was my life. .. my church became my family.
I grew up with very very strong morals.... no drinking/smoking.... no messing around with boys,.. I didn't even curse. I grew up very very sheltered.
When I got out on my own....I made some choices that did not coincide with the Mormon beliefs.
I still believed in my church.... and still had my beliefs... but I was young and stupid. well... they didn't take that well. I got a certified letter sent to my home telling me that there was to be a "court" held against me and I was to go and plead my case. Well.... I didn't show up. They excommunicated me and it caused me so much emotional greif and pain. I just didn't understand. To mormons.... God/church... pretty much the same thing... so when I wasn't good enough for the church... I wasn't good enough for God. Let me tell you... I have been thru some serious therapy due to the Mormon church. but yes..... they are good people. I still have family in the church.... but they are very elitist. If your not Mormon... your not going to heaven.
I personally wouldn't let my child attend.
good luck. you can pm me... i will tell you anything you need to know...
to any mormons out there...... I am not bashing... I am just telling my own experience.

Yes, I would let her go to Temple (we are not Jewish, btw). We are not researching the religion to see if her friend is "good enough" for her to hang out with, not at all. We are doing the research since we have heard some odd things about the Mormon religion, and before we let DD go to the church and see for herself, we want to be sure of what kind of church this is, etc. I apologize if it came across in a judgemental way, it was not meant that way at all.


DD and DH did go this morning, and they have asked DH to come to weekly meetings to prepare for Baptism.

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Doing the right thing isn't always the same as doing the easy thing.

I would not let my child visit this church. It is a false religion and it's teachings are not based on the truths of the Bible.

*sigh* and this discussion was going along so well.
I have to ask: What specific truths are you referring to? And where did you learn about what the Mormon church teaches and believes?

I may not agree w/ everything the Mormon church teaches, but who am I to say they are a false religion and their teachings are not based on the Bible.

We were attending a church quite regularly, until one service when the Sunday School teacher went off on a tangent about the Cult of Mormons(and because my upbringing the faith with which I was raised and my Mom and Dad preach to this date). I got up and left--walked out, after telling the entire class that they had alienated me, and I would not be back. Well, one of the pastors and his wife came to call at our house later that week. The pastor's wife had the audacity to tell me that she didn't need to read the Book of Mormon because people she trusted had read it and told her all she needed to know. I tell this story to illustrate this point: A lot of people have a pre-conceived notion of what the LDS Church is, and no amount of research is going to change that! They cannot or will not look at the religion w/ an unjaded eye.

Personally? I don't know what is "true" religion. I don't believe the Bible is infalliable simply because Man hastouched it too many times. I would HIGHLY recommend that, if you can, read The Book of Mormon for what it is--a historical account of events. See what it has to say that is directly contradictory to the Bible. Then come back and we'll discuss....

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Mental that one, I'm telling you. ---Ron Weasley, "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets"

The Mormons view of God, Salvation and Jesus are contrary to the teachings of the Bible. Any teaching that is contrary to the Bible is false teaching. The Bible warns us of false teachers.


I am not debating this issue just sharing my belief as you have yours. God gave each of us a free will and I choose to believe in Him and His Word.

Marilyn,
I am curious about your post. I have read the Book of Mormon numerous times and from my understanding it doesn't seem like a historical book of events. I was taught that it was just as the bible was except it was the most correct book in the world and there had not been any changes to it as there had been to the Bible. I was taught that the BOM was translated from Reformed Egyptian to written english by Joseph Smith by way of a urim and thurim (like special glasses) or a hat and was seen by witnesses with spiritual eyes.

A historical book such as the bible has places that nowadays we can see. The bible speaks of the Nile river, Jerusalem, etc. with archeologists findings that prove things that have happened in the bible. As a historical book, are there such proofs for the book of Mormon?

I don't want to argue but I am curious as to what the church is teaching as archeological proofs. There is no doubt that there are many people who believe in Joseph Smith and the prophets that have followed. They live good lives trying to be good people just like the rest of us. There are good and bad in all religions and many roads lead to God.

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[quote=marilynk;3032746 The pastor's wife had the audacity to tell me that she didn't need to read the Book of Mormon because people she trusted had read it and told her all she needed to know. QUOTE]

Wow! That is just like playing *gossip* when you were a kid. Words get misconstrued and opinions are formed with no real basis. How on earth would you know that you could "trust" someone else? Myself, I need to find out things for myself and form my own opinion.

As odd as this may sound--the Book of Mormon I have read is different then the Book of Mormon that the LDS use. Many believe that the BoM is a "tale" of the Native American Indians of Central and South American. That's the theory I tend to believe....

I am not arguing with anyone--but it royally pains me to see someone (anyone) who calls a religion a "false" religion, simply because that religion doesn't conform to the "norm". The LDS are not your typical religion--I'll give you that. And yes, some of their secretive/sacred practices bother me--but I would never, ever presume to say that they are a "false" religion.

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Mental that one, I'm telling you. ---Ron Weasley, "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets"

There was an article I was reading yesterday about a book that has come out that talks about the "Massacre at Mountain Meadows". You may be familiar with it???

I think that Iluv2Save was implying that her belief (opinion) is that the Mormon religion is a false religion. That is how I took it, anyway (her post, not saying the religion is false - wanted to clarify that). I have a family member who has VERY strong beliefs - if you are not a Christian you're going clear to Hell. There is NO OTHER religion, no two ways about it. I just respect that he has strong opinions, and am saddened at his narrow mindedness. Getting OT so I'll stop......

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Doing the right thing isn't always the same as doing the easy thing.

I didn't know there were different BOM for the RLDS and the LDS/Utah. I would love to read one of the ones that you read. How different are they and why are they different, do you know? Was the book changed when JS died and BY took over? You can answer me in pm if you want. I have always been told that the BOM is the most correct book and has never been changed. I have a copy from 1932 and one from 1970s and a recent one and there are changes in each one.....I have been told that the changes are for clarity not for meaning. Such as changing "white" to "pure" in a sentence meaning those who accept the gospel will become white in 1932 to pure now. Those words change the entire meaning of the passage, KWIM?
Thanks, Marilyn for understanding my questions. I do not and hope I do not sound like I am putting any religion down but I am curious.

usnamom

AIA--as you know I have pretty strong opinions as well!

I am not a fan of the LDS church. But, I think that far too many people have made their decision about the LDS based on hearsay, rumors, and suppositions. While they (LDS) may not be the typical Christian religion, I do believe that they are Christian in so far as they do believe in God and try to live in a manner that reflects a Christ like attitude.

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Mental that one, I'm telling you. ---Ron Weasley, "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets"

Yes, this is why I wanted to get some "first hand "knowledge about the Mormon faith. I have had people say the religion is a cult, and a friend told me that if you pray about it, you will come to know the truth about God. Well, I do believe that those of Mormon faith (or any faith for that matter) believe that they DO know the truth about God. It all goes back to religion is a very personal thing, and for each person to decide what their personal truth is, including Aetheists. Drives me nuts when people condemn others for not believing in their God. I get it Marilyn, we're on the same page.

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Doing the right thing isn't always the same as doing the easy thing.

I reread my post, and wanted to clarify that when I said "that is how I see it" I was referring to Luv2Save's post, not that I see the Mormon religion as false.

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Doing the right thing isn't always the same as doing the easy thing.

I understood you

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Mental that one, I'm telling you. ---Ron Weasley, "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets"

I don't think Donny has ever been divorced. Marie has had two divorces however.

DANG, I missed all the fun. I am a member of the LDS faith, but I missed all the hoopla, did you all get your questions answered, if not you can PM me if you want, and I'll answer to the best that I can. I can only say that I grew up LDS, my DH didn't, he joined when he was 21 (not for me, we didn't date until a two years later). He now serves in the bishopric, and I've served in various callings. His family is not LDS, and I've had several discussions with his mom who has us on her "prayer list" because we are going to Hell because we are Mormon. I have 11 siblings, only about 8 are still going to church, one has been excommunicated for adultry. I have a best friend who is not LDS, I don't push it on her, we actually hardly ever talk about religion. I urge my son to play with nice kids, which means not playing with some we go to church with, and none of his best friends are LDS. His last b-day party, one child was LDS out of 10 who were there. We can cook on Sundays, I love to bake, so I do it on Sundays, but primarily Sundays are family days, or used for visiting the those who may need it. We don't drink Coffee and use Tobacco, no premarital sex, I don't personally watch R rated movies because they dont bring a peaceful spirit into my home, buy most of my brothers and sisters and parents all do. Here is the best way to tell our beliefs... 13 Articles of Faith - Mormon Beliefs - ReligionFacts Let me knwo if you have more Q's...