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This is a spotlight on a profile shared at wasmormon.org. These are just the highlights, so please find Anja's full story at https://wasmormon.org/profile/veronika-tait/. There are over a hundred more stories of Mormon faith journeys contributed by users like you. Come check them out and consider sharing your own story at wasmormon.org!
This is a spotlight on a profile shared at wasmormon.org. These are just the highlights, so please find Anja's full story at https://wasmormon.org/profile/veronika-tait/. There are over a hundred more stories of Mormon faith journeys contributed by users like you. Come check them out and consider sharing your own story at wasmormon.org!
"So what am I now? A Jaded exmo? A Godless commie? You could probably say atheist or agnostic. But those have a lot of negative connotations here in Utah. The label I’m most comfortable with is Secular Humanist. Humanists believe we can be moral and find fulfillment without a belief in God. I wholeheartedly endorse their 10 commitments which they use as an alternative to the ten commandments. The beauty of letting go of dogmatic and unquestionable beliefs is that I can be flexible and simply follow the evidence. I can practice intellectual humility." - Veronika's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/veronika-tait/
"So what am I now? A Jaded exmo? A Godless commie? You could probably say atheist or agnostic. But those have a lot of negative connotations here in Utah. The label I’m most comfortable with is Secular Humanist. Humanists believe we can be moral and find fulfillment without a belief in God. I wholeheartedly endorse their 10 commitments which they use as an alternative to the ten commandments. The beauty of letting go of dogmatic and unquestionable beliefs is that I can be flexible and simply follow the evidence. I can practice intellectual humility." - Veronika's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/veronika-tait/
"I knew it was true because I had felt the spirit. But even if it wasn’t and there ended up being nothing after this life, living the gospel would lead to a happy and fulfilling life. I assumed that if I were ever to leave the church, I would immediately become a sex worker strung out on drugs who neglected her many children from multiple partners. I would worship Satan and live a short and miserable life." - Veronika's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/veronika-tait/
"I knew it was true because I had felt the spirit. But even if it wasn’t and there ended up being nothing after this life, living the gospel would lead to a happy and fulfilling life. I assumed that if I were ever to leave the church, I would immediately become a sex worker strung out on drugs who neglected her many children from multiple partners. I would worship Satan and live a short and miserable life." - Veronika's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/veronika-tait/
"I am a mother, wife, psychology professor, and writer. I was raised LDS and grew up in South Jordan, UT. I was the first to walk away from the church in my immediate family at the age of 29. I was a Mormon." - Veronika's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/veronika-tait/
"I am a mother, wife, psychology professor, and writer. I was raised LDS and grew up in South Jordan, UT. I was the first to walk away from the church in my immediate family at the age of 29. I was a Mormon." - Veronika's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/veronika-tait/
"The rewriting and refilming of Elder Ronald Poelman's October 1984 Conference address, originally a rare and inspiring defense of free agency, so that it became yet another cry for obedience. His text was not edited — his ideas were turned inside out." - L. Jackson Newell, Dialogue, Volume 19 Number 1. 1986 | wasmormon.org
"The rewriting and refilming of Elder Ronald Poelman's October 1984 Conference address, originally a rare and inspiring defense of free agency, so that it became yet another cry for obedience. His text was not edited — his ideas were turned inside out." - L. Jackson Newell, Dialogue, Volume 19 Number 1. 1986
“Soul mates” are fiction and an illusion; and while every young man and young woman will seek... it is certain that almost any good man and any good woman can have happiness and a successful marriage if both are willing to pay the price. - LDS Church President, Spencer W. Kimball 1976 BYU Devotional, Marriage and Divorce | wasmormon.org
“Soul mates” are fiction and an illusion; and while every young man and young woman will seek... it is certain that almost any good man and any good woman can have happiness and a successful marriage if both are willing to pay the price. - LDS Church President, Spencer W. Kimball 1976 BYU Devotional, Marriage and Divorce
“We recommend that people marry those who are of the same racial background generally, and of somewhat the same economic and social and educational background, and above all, the same religious background, without question.” - LDS Church President, Spencer W. Kimball 1976 BYU Devotional, Marriage and Divorce | wasmormon.org
“We recommend that people marry those who are of the same racial background generally, and of somewhat the same economic and social and educational background, and above all, the same religious background, without question.” - LDS Church President, Spencer W. Kimball 1976 BYU Devotional, Marriage and Divorce
“In diminishing faith, ATC (activism towards the church) effectively gaslights our dear brothers and sisters who engage in it – not in the sense that it manipulates them to question their own sanity, but in that it narrows minds, enlarges beams and blind spots, and invites judgmentalism all at once. Whereas discipleship says, "Lord is it I?" or "Help thou mine unbelief," ATC rarely seeks to humbly understand others' perspectives or experience or to meekly introspect. Because it has all the information it requires, there is no need for questions.”- Brother Ahmad S. Corbitt, Activism vs Disipleship, 2022, as First Counselor in Young Men General Presidency. Now Elder Ahmad S. Corbitt, LDS General Authority Seventy | wasmormon.org
“In diminishing faith, ATC (activism towards the church) effectively gaslights our dear brothers and sisters who engage in it – not in the sense that it manipulates them to question their own sanity, but in that it narrows minds, enlarges beams and blind spots, and invites judgmentalism all at once. Whereas discipleship says, "Lord is it I?" or "Help thou mine unbelief," ATC rarely seeks to humbly understand others' perspectives or experience or to meekly introspect. Because it has all the information it requires, there is no need for questions.”- Brother Ahmad S. Corbitt, Activism vs Disipleship, 2022, as First Counselor in Young Men General Presidency. Now Elder Ahmad S. Corbitt, LDS General Authority Seventy
“ATC (activism towards the church) focuses precisely on [church leader's] human weakness rather than their strengths and mantles. In doing so, it subtly gives permission and justification for murmuring, backbiting and evil speaking of the Lord's anointed, all deceptively cloaked as principled. Let us also be aware that ATC takes advantage of some of our newer or converting brothers and sisters who may not be used to this principle. Those who, contrary to President Nelson's counsel, "rehearse their doubts with other doubters" will be especially vulnerable to not sustaining their leaders and to ATC.”- Brother Ahmad S. Corbitt, Activism vs Disipleship, 2022, as First Counselor in Young Men General Presidency. Now Elder Ahmad S. Corbitt, LDS General Authority Seventy | wasmormon.org
“ATC (activism towards the church) focuses precisely on [church leader's] human weakness rather than their strengths and mantles. In doing so, it subtly gives permission and justification for murmuring, backbiting and evil speaking of the Lord's anointed, all deceptively cloaked as principled. Let us also be aware that ATC takes advantage of some of our newer or converting brothers and sisters who may not be used to this principle. Those who, contrary to President Nelson's counsel, "rehearse their doubts with other doubters" will be especially vulnerable to not sustaining their leaders and to ATC.”- Brother Ahmad S. Corbitt, Activism vs Disipleship, 2022, as First Counselor in Young Men General Presidency. Now Elder Ahmad S. Corbitt, LDS General Authority Seventy
“All subsequent aspects of the doctrine of Christ flow from and are powered by faith in Christ... Activism rightly recognizes the popular truism that power corrupts. Activists tend to naturally suspect the powerful... But this distrust is the very opposite of the faith the Lord requires of His covenant people in Himself, His prophets and apostles, and those they direct... Thus, any activism or advocacy that could weaken one's own or another's confidence, faith or prayer in or on behalf of church leaders or diminish one's ability to give heed to the words of the prophets and apostles is obviously not of God. In my observation, such lack of faith inevitably leads to letting go of the Church entirely and losing the testimony of Jesus. Hence ATC (activism towards the church) often indirectly undermines faith in Jesus Christ.”- Brother Ahmad S. Corbitt, Activism vs Disipleship, 2022, as First Counselor in Young Men General Presidency. Now Elder Ahmad S. Corbitt, LDS General Authority Seventy | wasmormon.org
“All subsequent aspects of the doctrine of Christ flow from and are powered by faith in Christ... Activism rightly recognizes the popular truism that power corrupts. Activists tend to naturally suspect the powerful... But this distrust is the very opposite of the faith the Lord requires of His covenant people in Himself, His prophets and apostles, and those they direct... Thus, any activism or advocacy that could weaken one's own or another's confidence, faith or prayer in or on behalf of church leaders or diminish one's ability to give heed to the words of the prophets and apostles is obviously not of God. In my observation, such lack of faith inevitably leads to letting go of the Church entirely and losing the testimony of Jesus. Hence ATC (activism towards the church) often indirectly undermines faith in Jesus Christ.”- Brother Ahmad S. Corbitt, Activism vs Disipleship, 2022, as First Counselor in Young Men General Presidency. Now Elder Ahmad S. Corbitt, LDS General Authority Seventy
“Please do not misunderstand. I am not at all saying ATC's (activism towards the church) causes are not important or good or often pursued in good faith. I tend to agree with many of ATC's underlying causes as I'm sure you do. A light bulb must be changed to avoid darkness and restore light. My simple point is a hammer is not the right tool for that job. All needed and appropriate changes in the Kingdom of God are God's work to bring to pass. All needed and appropriate changes in the Kingdom of God are God's work to bring to pass.”- Brother Ahmad S. Corbitt, Activism vs Disipleship, 2022, as First Counselor in Young Men General Presidency. Now Elder Ahmad S. Corbitt, LDS General Authority Seventy | wasmormon.org
“Please do not misunderstand. I am not at all saying ATC's (activism towards the church) causes are not important or good or often pursued in good faith. I tend to agree with many of ATC's underlying causes as I'm sure you do. A light bulb must be changed to avoid darkness and restore light. My simple point is a hammer is not the right tool for that job. All needed and appropriate changes in the Kingdom of God are God's work to bring to pass. All needed and appropriate changes in the Kingdom of God are God's work to bring to pass.”- Brother Ahmad S. Corbitt, Activism vs Disipleship, 2022, as First Counselor in Young Men General Presidency. Now Elder Ahmad S. Corbitt, LDS General Authority Seventy
“Activism toward the Lord's church is not of God. One obvious [reason] is it almost invariably fosters contention. Jesus taught with great emphasis and clarity, "Behold, this is not my doctrine, to stir up the hearts of men with anger, one against another; but this is my doctrine, that such things should be done away." He famously taught contention "is of the devil." Given this prohibition one can hardly justify a contentious approach toward the Lord's own church. Yet ATC not only foments such contention but justifies it as noble.”- Brother Ahmad S. Corbitt, Activism vs Disipleship, 2022, as First Counselor in Young Men General Presidency. Now Elder Ahmad S. Corbitt, LDS General Authority Seventy | wasmormon.org
“Activism toward the Lord's church is not of God. One obvious [reason] is it almost invariably fosters contention. Jesus taught with great emphasis and clarity, "Behold, this is not my doctrine, to stir up the hearts of men with anger, one against another; but this is my doctrine, that such things should be done away." He famously taught contention "is of the devil." Given this prohibition one can hardly justify a contentious approach toward the Lord's own church. Yet ATC not only foments such contention but justifies it as noble.”- Brother Ahmad S. Corbitt, Activism vs Disipleship, 2022, as First Counselor in Young Men General Presidency. Now Elder Ahmad S. Corbitt, LDS General Authority Seventy
“It is a three-step maneuver that is genius in its simplicity and effectiveness: (1) focus the rising generation and the valiant generally away from the doctrine of Christ and onto real or imagined unfairness or injustice in the Lord's church and the imperfections of its leaders; (2) use this shift in focus to stir up feelings of disillusionment, annoyance, resentment, anger and hatred toward church policies, declarations, proclamations, principles, doctrines and eventually leaders; and (3) manipulate these negative impulses to instigate the use of worldly or secular activism or advocacy rather than the doctrine of Christ to effect change in the Kingdom of God.”“I would like to address an especially effective tactic Satan is using to blind and mislead the young, those transitioning from other religious traditions and cultures, and even long-time and life-time members of the Lord's restored church. In my humble view, it is one of the great mists of darkness of our time. I speak of our enemy's effort to transform disciples of Jesus Christ into activists towards or against the Lord's church and its leaders”- Brother Ahmad S. Corbitt, Activism vs Disipleship, 2022, as First Counselor in Young Men General Presidency. Now Elder Ahmad S. Corbitt, LDS General Authority Seventy | wasmormon.org
“It is a three-step maneuver that is genius in its simplicity and effectiveness: (1) focus the rising generation and the valiant generally away from the doctrine of Christ and onto real or imagined unfairness or injustice in the Lord's church and the imperfections of its leaders; (2) use this shift in focus to stir up feelings of disillusionment, annoyance, resentment, anger and hatred toward church policies, declarations, proclamations, principles, doctrines and eventually leaders; and (3) manipulate these negative impulses to instigate the use of worldly or secular activism or advocacy rather than the doctrine of Christ to effect change in the Kingdom of God.”“I would like to address an especially effective tactic Satan is using to blind and mislead the young, those transitioning from other religious traditions and cultures, and even long-time and life-time members of the Lord's restored church. In my humble view, it is one of the great mists of darkness of our time. I speak of our enemy's effort to transform disciples of Jesus Christ into activists towards or against the Lord's church and its leaders”- Brother Ahmad S. Corbitt, Activism vs Disipleship, 2022, as First Counselor in Young Men General Presidency. Now Elder Ahmad S. Corbitt, LDS General Authority Seventy
“ATC (activism towards the church) looks backward with an eye of judgment and condemns or looks sideways with an eye of scorn and finds fault. Because it "watch(es) for iniquity," ATC sits on the trash heap of disappointing history recycling others' real or imagined sins and shortcomings... I have personally seen examples where ATC has impeded needed progress in the Church by doing more harm than good, a result that often occurs when the wrong tool is used for a particular job... By nature, ATC will always drive its followers to find other issues.”- Brother Ahmad S. Corbitt, Activism vs Disipleship, 2022, as First Counselor in Young Men General Presidency. Now Elder Ahmad S. Corbitt, LDS General Authority Seventy | wasmormon.org
“ATC (activism towards the church) looks backward with an eye of judgment and condemns or looks sideways with an eye of scorn and finds fault. Because it "watch(es) for iniquity," ATC sits on the trash heap of disappointing history recycling others' real or imagined sins and shortcomings... I have personally seen examples where ATC has impeded needed progress in the Church by doing more harm than good, a result that often occurs when the wrong tool is used for a particular job... By nature, ATC will always drive its followers to find other issues.”- Brother Ahmad S. Corbitt, Activism vs Disipleship, 2022, as First Counselor in Young Men General Presidency. Now Elder Ahmad S. Corbitt, LDS General Authority Seventy
“Because ATC (activism towards the church) rejects Church leaders and their counsel, usually openly, it must somehow preserve a sense of religious sincerity or authenticity to effectively influence others. Thus, it produces catchphrases such as: "I don't follow the Brethren, I follow Jesus Christ" or even "I am holding the Brethren accountable to do what's right." But these dangerous claims are as counter to Jesus's own teachings as they are confused.”- Brother Ahmad S. Corbitt, Activism vs Disipleship, 2022, as First Counselor in Young Men General Presidency. Now Elder Ahmad S. Corbitt, LDS General Authority Seventy | wasmormon.org
“Because ATC (activism towards the church) rejects Church leaders and their counsel, usually openly, it must somehow preserve a sense of religious sincerity or authenticity to effectively influence others. Thus, it produces catchphrases such as: "I don't follow the Brethren, I follow Jesus Christ" or even "I am holding the Brethren accountable to do what's right." But these dangerous claims are as counter to Jesus's own teachings as they are confused.”- Brother Ahmad S. Corbitt, Activism vs Disipleship, 2022, as First Counselor in Young Men General Presidency. Now Elder Ahmad S. Corbitt, LDS General Authority Seventy
“Activism or advocacy directed toward or against The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a secular, worldly device misapplied in a spiritual, otherworldly context... When activism or advocacy is directed at the Kingdom of God on earth or its leaders, especially prophets and apostles, it is the wrong tool for the wrong job in the wrong place.”- Brother Ahmad S. Corbitt, Activism vs Disipleship, 2022, as First Counselor in Young Men General Presidency. Now Elder Ahmad S. Corbitt, LDS General Authority Seventy | wasmormon.org
“Activism or advocacy directed toward or against The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a secular, worldly device misapplied in a spiritual, otherworldly context... When activism or advocacy is directed at the Kingdom of God on earth or its leaders, especially prophets and apostles, it is the wrong tool for the wrong job in the wrong place.”- Brother Ahmad S. Corbitt, Activism vs Disipleship, 2022, as First Counselor in Young Men General Presidency. Now Elder Ahmad S. Corbitt, LDS General Authority Seventy
“I would like to address an especially effective tactic Satan is using to blind and mislead the young, those transitioning from other religious traditions and cultures, and even long-time and life-time members of the Lord's restored church. In my humble view, it is one of the great mists of darkness of our time. I speak of our enemy's effort to transform disciples of Jesus Christ into activists towards or against the Lord's church and its leaders”- Brother Ahmad S. Corbitt, Activism vs Disipleship, 2022, as First Counselor in Young Men General Presidency. Now Elder Ahmad S. Corbitt, LDS General Authority Seventy | wasmormon.org
“I would like to address an especially effective tactic Satan is using to blind and mislead the young, those transitioning from other religious traditions and cultures, and even long-time and life-time members of the Lord's restored church. In my humble view, it is one of the great mists of darkness of our time. I speak of our enemy's effort to transform disciples of Jesus Christ into activists towards or against the Lord's church and its leaders”- Brother Ahmad S. Corbitt, Activism vs Disipleship, 2022, as First Counselor in Young Men General Presidency. Now Elder Ahmad S. Corbitt, LDS General Authority Seventy
“When it comes to fighting injustices on an institutional level, it is very difficult, if not impossible, to be able to successfully address injustices within the parameters of the same institution that put the injustices in place. No advancement of Black people in America, for example, came by way of just doing what white people told us to do.” - James C. Jones, a Black Latter-day Saint Student at Union Theological Seminary in New York | wasmormon.org
“When it comes to fighting injustices on an institutional level, it is very difficult, if not impossible, to be able to successfully address injustices within the parameters of the same institution that put the injustices in place. No advancement of Black people in America, for example, came by way of just doing what white people told us to do.” - James C. Jones, a Black Latter-day Saint Student at Union Theological Seminary in New York
"The amount of any funds reimbursed to you should be kept strictly confidential and should not be discussed with missionaries, other mission presidents, friends, or family members." - Leaked 2006 Mission President's Handbook, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints | wasmormon.org
"The amount of any funds reimbursed to you should be kept strictly confidential and should not be discussed with missionaries, other mission presidents, friends, or family members." - Leaked 2006 Mission President's Handbook, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
"If you have any questions about tax matters, contact the Church Tax Division, which has tax rulings and research that support the validity of not reporting as income the funds you receive as mission president. Because most tax advisers are not aware of this information, their advice may be incorrect." - Leaked 2006 Mission President's Handbook, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints | wasmormon.org
"If you have any questions about tax matters, contact the Church Tax Division, which has tax rulings and research that support the validity of not reporting as income the funds you receive as mission president. Because most tax advisers are not aware of this information, their advice may be incorrect." - Leaked 2006 Mission President's Handbook, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
"Because you are engaged in volunteer religious service, no employer-employee relationship exists between you and the Church. As a result, any funds reimbursed to you from the Church are not considered income for tax purposes; they are not reported to the government, and taxes are not withheld with regard to these funds." - Leaked 2006 Mission President's Handbook, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints | wasmormon.org
"Because you are engaged in volunteer religious service, no employer-employee relationship exists between you and the Church. As a result, any funds reimbursed to you from the Church are not considered income for tax purposes; they are not reported to the government, and taxes are not withheld with regard to these funds." - Leaked 2006 Mission President's Handbook, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
"To avoid raising unnecessary tax questions, please do not share information on funds you receive from the Church with those who help you with financial or tax matters. Any exceptions should be discussed with the Church Tax Division. Never represent in any way that you are paid for your service." - Leaked 2006 Mission President's Handbook, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints | wasmormon.org
"To avoid raising unnecessary tax questions, please do not share information on funds you receive from the Church with those who help you with financial or tax matters. Any exceptions should be discussed with the Church Tax Division. Never represent in any way that you are paid for your service." - Leaked 2006 Mission President's Handbook, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
"While you are serving as mission president, the Church reimburses the necessary living expenses for you, your wife, and your dependent children... Living expenses include food, clothing, household supplies, family activities, dry cleaning, personal long-distance calls to family, and modest gifts. (Also medical expenses, dental, vision, children serving missions, children's school expenses: elementary and secondary tuition, college tuition, fees, books, materials, and extracurricular activities.)" - Leaked 2006 Mission President's Handbook, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints | wasmormon.org
"While you are serving as mission president, the Church reimburses the necessary living expenses for you, your wife, and your dependent children... Living expenses include food, clothing, household supplies, family activities, dry cleaning, personal long-distance calls to family, and modest gifts. (Also medical expenses, dental, vision, children serving missions, children's school expenses: elementary and secondary tuition, college tuition, fees, books, materials, and extracurricular activities.)" - Leaked 2006 Mission President's Handbook, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
“I answered that the Church is not wealthy but that we follow the ancient biblical principle of tithing, which principle is reemphasized in our modern scripture. I explained also that our Church has no paid ministry” - Thomas S. Monson, LDS Church President, General Conference 2004 Received $97,201 "living allowance" paychecks in 2004 | wasmormon.org
“I answered that the Church is not wealthy but that we follow the ancient biblical principle of tithing, which principle is reemphasized in our modern scripture. I explained also that our Church has no paid ministry” - Thomas S. Monson, LDS Church President, General Conference 2004 Received $97,201 "living allowance" paychecks in 2004
"I am a gay man married to another gay man who was also Mormon. I have five adult children, fourteen grandchildren, and I finally found how to love myself for who I am. I was a Mormon." - Kevin's I was a Mormon profile spotlight from wasmormon.org - https://wasmormon.org/profile/kevinrex4/
"I am a gay man married to another gay man who was also Mormon. I have five adult children, fourteen grandchildren, and I finally found how to love myself for who I am. I was a Mormon." - Kevin's I was a Mormon profile spotlight from wasmormon.org - https://wasmormon.org/profile/kevinrex4/
"As 2013 approached, I saw the Ordain Women movement take some positions, like wearing purple to Sacrament meeting, and I decided I would. Heck, I love colors, and so why not? Well, it didn't go over well, and suffice it to say, coupled with a few other events in January, 2013, I realized how many other things were wrong in Mormonism besides just their stance against gay marriage." - Kevin's I was a Mormon profile spotlight from wasmormon.org - https://wasmormon.org/profile/kevinrex4/
"As 2013 approached, I saw the Ordain Women movement take some positions, like wearing purple to Sacrament meeting, and I decided I would. Heck, I love colors, and so why not? Well, it didn't go over well, and suffice it to say, coupled with a few other events in January, 2013, I realized how many other things were wrong in Mormonism besides just their stance against gay marriage." - Kevin's I was a Mormon profile spotlight from wasmormon.org - https://wasmormon.org/profile/kevinrex4/
"I went through hell to get where I'm at in accepting myself for who I am, and I encourage any LGBTQIA Mormons to pull their own handcart on their own journey, even if it takes them to places far away from Utah, like, say, Palm Springs, California!" - Kevin's I was a Mormon profile spotlight from wasmormon.org - https://wasmormon.org/profile/kevinrex4/
"I went through hell to get where I'm at in accepting myself for who I am, and I encourage any LGBTQIA Mormons to pull their own handcart on their own journey, even if it takes them to places far away from Utah, like, say, Palm Springs, California!" - Kevin's I was a Mormon profile spotlight from wasmormon.org - https://wasmormon.org/profile/kevinrex4/
"Doctrinally, I think the statement from the introduction to the Book of Abraham was the most significant to me. "By his own hand upon papyrus," I'd read so many times before as a believing Mormon, and I thought how very special Abraham and this Pearl of Great Price was, only to find out that it wasn't Abraham's hand upon the papyrus, at all. I was devastated, again and again, by so many hidden history, that I couldn't deny that there was something wrong with the religion, something horribly wrong." - Kevin's I was a Mormon profile spotlight from wasmormon.org - https://wasmormon.org/profile/kevinrex4/
"Doctrinally, I think the statement from the introduction to the Book of Abraham was the most significant to me. "By his own hand upon papyrus," I'd read so many times before as a believing Mormon, and I thought how very special Abraham and this Pearl of Great Price was, only to find out that it wasn't Abraham's hand upon the papyrus, at all. I was devastated, again and again, by so many hidden history, that I couldn't deny that there was something wrong with the religion, something horribly wrong." - Kevin's I was a Mormon profile spotlight from wasmormon.org - https://wasmormon.org/profile/kevinrex4/
"It is almost beyond comprehension what gay Mormons have to endure, as the Brethren have not been very prophetic in understanding what it means to be gay. Just look at the many mistaken "doctrines" surrounding homosexuality from the era of my youth (1970's). I lament further the outright transphobia that occurs right now in Mormonism, when transgender people aren't even acknowledged as real." - Kevin's I was a Mormon profile spotlight from wasmormon.org - https://wasmormon.org/profile/kevinrex4/
"It is almost beyond comprehension what gay Mormons have to endure, as the Brethren have not been very prophetic in understanding what it means to be gay. Just look at the many mistaken "doctrines" surrounding homosexuality from the era of my youth (1970's). I lament further the outright transphobia that occurs right now in Mormonism, when transgender people aren't even acknowledged as real." - Kevin's I was a Mormon profile spotlight from wasmormon.org - https://wasmormon.org/profile/kevinrex4/
"And so, after coming out gay, I then resigned from the LDS Church officially, and started pulling my own damnable handcart, on my very own journey. I went through hell to come out of the gay closet whilst being a Mormon, and it took years of cognitive therapy to learn how to be happy. I'm at peace with myself and my being gay, and with both the good things I learned while being raised Mormon, as well as the bad things. Learning how to understand nuance versus the black-and-white thinking of a religion like Mormonism is very valuable to my happiness." - Kevin's I was a Mormon profile spotlight from wasmormon.org - https://wasmormon.org/profile/kevinrex4/
"And so, after coming out gay, I then resigned from the LDS Church officially, and started pulling my own damnable handcart, on my very own journey. I went through hell to come out of the gay closet whilst being a Mormon, and it took years of cognitive therapy to learn how to be happy. I'm at peace with myself and my being gay, and with both the good things I learned while being raised Mormon, as well as the bad things. Learning how to understand nuance versus the black-and-white thinking of a religion like Mormonism is very valuable to my happiness." - Kevin's I was a Mormon profile spotlight from wasmormon.org - https://wasmormon.org/profile/kevinrex4/
"Handcart pioneers, and regular, covered wagon pioneers, and even later railroad pioneers, and close associations with Joseph Smith by progenitors, all form my ancestry, culture, and experiences in Mormonism. Like so many of those pioneers, though, there comes a time when I had to pioneer for myself, creating my own experiences and journey." - Kevin's I was a Mormon profile spotlight from wasmormon.org - https://wasmormon.org/profile/kevinrex4/
"Handcart pioneers, and regular, covered wagon pioneers, and even later railroad pioneers, and close associations with Joseph Smith by progenitors, all form my ancestry, culture, and experiences in Mormonism. Like so many of those pioneers, though, there comes a time when I had to pioneer for myself, creating my own experiences and journey." - Kevin's I was a Mormon profile spotlight from wasmormon.org - https://wasmormon.org/profile/kevinrex4/
"In November, 2012, I was living in Washington state and a ballot measure was before us. Like happened in California with Prop 8, the Mormon church started a campaign to stop legalization of same-sex marriage. I researched what had gone on with Prop 8, and then read more and more about the issue. I then voted FOR gay marriage in that November 2012 election, and felt, for the first time ever, that my 49 years in the gay closet might finally come to an end. I had to come out not only to my then-wife, but to myself, and that was the most difficult of all, being true to myself." - Kevin's I was a Mormon profile spotlight from wasmormon.org - https://wasmormon.org/profile/kevinrex4/
"In November, 2012, I was living in Washington state and a ballot measure was before us. Like happened in California with Prop 8, the Mormon church started a campaign to stop legalization of same-sex marriage. I researched what had gone on with Prop 8, and then read more and more about the issue. I then voted FOR gay marriage in that November 2012 election, and felt, for the first time ever, that my 49 years in the gay closet might finally come to an end. I had to come out not only to my then-wife, but to myself, and that was the most difficult of all, being true to myself." - Kevin's I was a Mormon profile spotlight from wasmormon.org - https://wasmormon.org/profile/kevinrex4/
"I devoted all of my time, talents, and everything with which I had been blessed to the LDS church. I left because not only was I gay, and gay and Mormon don't go well together, but because Mormonism isn't true in the sense of how it was portrayed and taught to me." - Kevin's I was a Mormon profile spotlight from wasmormon.org - https://wasmormon.org/profile/kevinrex4/
"I devoted all of my time, talents, and everything with which I had been blessed to the LDS church. I left because not only was I gay, and gay and Mormon don't go well together, but because Mormonism isn't true in the sense of how it was portrayed and taught to me." - Kevin's I was a Mormon profile spotlight from wasmormon.org - https://wasmormon.org/profile/kevinrex4/
This is a spotlight on a profile shared at wasmormon.org. These are just the highlights, so please find the full story at https://wasmormon.org/profile/kevinrex4/. There are over a hundred more stories of Mormon faith journeys contributed by users like you. Come check them out and consider sharing your own story at wasmormon.org!
This is a spotlight on a profile shared at wasmormon.org. These are just the highlights, so please find the full story at https://wasmormon.org/profile/kevinrex4/. There are over a hundred more stories of Mormon faith journeys contributed by users like you. Come check them out and consider sharing your own story at wasmormon.org!
"My Love, I am writing this letter to explain in detail how I came to the conclusion that the Church is not all it claims to be. I long for your understanding and support. You are my whole world." - Letter for my wife | wasmormon.org
"My Love,I am writing this letter to explain in detail how I came to the conclusion that the Church is not all it claims to be. I long for your understanding and support. You are my whole world." - Letter for my wife
"I joined the LDS Church as a fourteen year old, in the 1970s. Served a mission to South Korea, for which I still have many fond memories from that formative experience. Returned from the mission to marry a beautiful woman (also a young adult convert) that I had met in the MTC. Graduated from BYU, enjoyed raising six children with my sweetheart and working my ass off as a EQP, YMP, Bishop, High Counselor, Stake Presidency Counselor, Primary Teacher, and Primary Chorister (amongst others). Met many lovely people along the way, and still retain a few beautiful friends that have chosen to love me, despite the events that followed. I was a Mormon." - Shane's I was a Mormon profile spotlight from wasmormon.org - https://wasmormon.org/profile/shanecor23/
"I joined the LDS Church as a fourteen year old, in the 1970s. Served a mission to South Korea, for which I still have many fond memories from that formative experience. Returned from the mission to marry a beautiful woman (also a young adult convert) that I had met in the MTC. Graduated from BYU, enjoyed raising six children with my sweetheart and working my ass off as a EQP, YMP, Bishop, High Counselor, Stake Presidency Counselor, Primary Teacher, and Primary Chorister (amongst others). Met many lovely people along the way, and still retain a few beautiful friends that have chosen to love me, despite the events that followed. I was a Mormon." - Shane's I was a Mormon profile spotlight from wasmormon.org - https://wasmormon.org/profile/shanecor23/
"As I found the permission to take care of myself, I became a much better advocate and support for my wife, and we eventually discovered the disease Frontotemporal Degeneration (behavioral variant), a terminal illness that destroys the patient’s personality and body over an extended period. My life-partner helped me find a measure of health and happiness that helped me take care of my spouse to the end. It became a different kind of love story; and our story simply could not have occurred within the confines of the Church. Yet, there were a few active LDS friends and family members that continued to be part of our story. I have learned deep lessons about love; and these experiences could not have come to fruition within the rigid boundaries of Mormonism. The Church could not accept or provide a meaningful path for me." - Shane's I was a Mormon profile spotlight from wasmormon.org - https://wasmormon.org/profile/shanecor23/
"As I found the permission to take care of myself, I became a much better advocate and support for my wife, and we eventually discovered the disease Frontotemporal Degeneration (behavioral variant), a terminal illness that destroys the patient’s personality and body over an extended period. My life-partner helped me find a measure of health and happiness that helped me take care of my spouse to the end. It became a different kind of love story; and our story simply could not have occurred within the confines of the Church. Yet, there were a few active LDS friends and family members that continued to be part of our story. I have learned deep lessons about love; and these experiences could not have come to fruition within the rigid boundaries of Mormonism. The Church could not accept or provide a meaningful path for me." - Shane's I was a Mormon profile spotlight from wasmormon.org - https://wasmormon.org/profile/shanecor23/
"I am extremely well read in LDS doctrine, orthodoxy, and official Church history. And I am now, from thousands of hours of study, well versed in the alternative versions of LDS history and the evolution of LDS doctrine. The current LDS narratives are highly currated and filtered to promote faith and adherence. For me, it is impossible to reconcile what is propped up with what actually transpired. But I understand most of it in terms of the deep needs of the tribe. Every human group requires “hero stories” to create a binding adhesion and identity; the Brighamite branch of Mormonism has done this very well. But there are deep problems with the narratives, and I see the Church being somewhat forced to open itself to a more revealing narrative, over time." - Shane's I was a Mormon profile spotlight from wasmormon.org - https://wasmormon.org/profile/shanecor23/
"I am extremely well read in LDS doctrine, orthodoxy, and official Church history. And I am now, from thousands of hours of study, well versed in the alternative versions of LDS history and the evolution of LDS doctrine. The current LDS narratives are highly currated and filtered to promote faith and adherence. For me, it is impossible to reconcile what is propped up with what actually transpired. But I understand most of it in terms of the deep needs of the tribe. Every human group requires “hero stories” to create a binding adhesion and identity; the Brighamite branch of Mormonism has done this very well. But there are deep problems with the narratives, and I see the Church being somewhat forced to open itself to a more revealing narrative, over time." - Shane's I was a Mormon profile spotlight from wasmormon.org - https://wasmormon.org/profile/shanecor23/