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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/kathyh1976/. There are stories of Mormon faith journeys contributed by hundreds of 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/kathyh1976/. There are stories of Mormon faith journeys contributed by hundreds of users like you. Come check them out and consider sharing your own story at wasmormon.org!
I am happy now. Yes, I reflect on things that I have issues with. I see a therapist and it has helped immensely. I refuse to let the people and the church bring me down because I know that is not what God wants. My purpose in life is to ascend to a higher state of consciousness, and to live the best life that I possibly can, and to love those who are struggling. That’s truly Christlike to me. - Kathy's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/kathyh1976/
I am happy now. Yes, I reflect on things that I have issues with. I see a therapist and it has helped immensely. I refuse to let the people and the church bring me down because I know that is not what God wants. My purpose in life is to ascend to a higher state of consciousness, and to live the best life that I possibly can, and to love those who are struggling. That’s truly Christlike to me. - Kathy's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/kathyh1976/
I wholeheartedly believe that not only does the church protect child predators, but I know that they have a large legal team that tries to cover up all kinds of accusations from church members who were honestly abused. At one time the church was asking people to call a hotline and they would be taken care of, people experiencing crises from sexual trauma from church authorities. They would take these people's stories and say they were recording them and if they did take any notes, they were confiscated and destroyed. The church members who called the hotline thinking that something was going to be done were sorely mistaken. Not only does the church cover it up, but they have influenced the state of Utah to almost make it a haven for sexual predators. In Utah, the church is the legislature too. In this state, there’s no separation of church and state. - Kathy's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/kathyh1976/
I wholeheartedly believe that not only does the church protect child predators, but I know that they have a large legal team that tries to cover up all kinds of accusations from church members who were honestly abused. At one time the church was asking people to call a hotline and they would be taken care of, people experiencing crises from sexual trauma from church authorities. They would take these people's stories and say they were recording them and if they did take any notes, they were confiscated and destroyed. The church members who called the hotline thinking that something was going to be done were sorely mistaken. Not only does the church cover it up, but they have influenced the state of Utah to almost make it a haven for sexual predators. In Utah, the church is the legislature too. In this state, there’s no separation of church and state. - Kathy's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/kathyh1976/
God is not exclusive. That’s another thing that Mormons are confused with, and it makes it really culty. A lot of other religions welcome people, they aren’t exclusive. The Mormon church is one of the most exclusive, churches or cults I have ever experienced. The way that Mormons expect perfection is extremely unhealthy. Most other religions accept the fact that we are all sinners and that we need God in our lives to help us. This is where the Mormon church is so toxic. - Kathy's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/kathyh1976/
God is not exclusive. That’s another thing that Mormons are confused with, and it makes it really culty. A lot of other religions welcome people, they aren’t exclusive. The Mormon church is one of the most exclusive, churches or cults I have ever experienced. The way that Mormons expect perfection is extremely unhealthy. Most other religions accept the fact that we are all sinners and that we need God in our lives to help us. This is where the Mormon church is so toxic. - Kathy's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/kathyh1976/
I’m not one who lost faith altogether. I love God and I have a personal relationship with him. I think a lot of Mormons get confused and think that religion and your relationship with God have to be one and the same, they must intertwine. I can’t think of anything further than the truth. God is everywhere. He’s not just in the temple and he isn’t just available if you’re perfect, everyone has access to him. God is not exclusive. - Kathy's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/kathyh1976/
I’m not one who lost faith altogether. I love God and I have a personal relationship with him. I think a lot of Mormons get confused and think that religion and your relationship with God have to be one and the same, they must intertwine. I can’t think of anything further than the truth. God is everywhere. He’s not just in the temple and he isn’t just available if you’re perfect, everyone has access to him. God is not exclusive. - Kathy's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/kathyh1976/
I consider myself Christian. I honestly don’t think that Mormons should consider themselves Christians. They should consider themselves Joseph Smithians. There’s far more Worship of Joseph Smith than there ever is of Jesus. And there’s far more reference to the Book of Mormon than there is to the Bible. - Kathy's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/kathyh1976/
I consider myself Christian. I honestly don’t think that Mormons should consider themselves Christians. They should consider themselves Joseph Smithians. There’s far more Worship of Joseph Smith than there ever is of Jesus. And there’s far more reference to the Book of Mormon than there is to the Bible. - Kathy's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/kathyh1976/
Numerous times people were rude and mean. Like, one time some woman got up in relief society and started to preach that if you are on any head meds it’s your fault, and it’s because you are not faithful enough. And if you become faithful and follow the church and pay your tithing, then you won’t have to take these meds. So these actions by church members came with the explanation that it’s not the church. It’s sometimes the people. Well, are the people not the church? Especially if these people are making up doctrine? It’s ridiculous and caused a lot of damage. - Kathy's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/kathyh1976/
Numerous times people were rude and mean. Like, one time some woman got up in relief society and started to preach that if you are on any head meds it’s your fault, and it’s because you are not faithful enough. And if you become faithful and follow the church and pay your tithing, then you won’t have to take these meds. So these actions by church members came with the explanation that it’s not the church. It’s sometimes the people. Well, are the people not the church? Especially if these people are making up doctrine? It’s ridiculous and caused a lot of damage. - Kathy's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/kathyh1976/
Being Mormon affected my daily life and it still does because not only do you have the church but you have the culture. It is almost all toxic. There’s so much shame and misogyny and struggles that you feel you’ll never be good enough. When I was eight, and I was going to be baptized, the only thing that I thought about was, I was so happy to have a second chance, because then I wasn’t gonna make any mistakes. Who in the hell thinks that when they’re eight years old? I feel like I had my childhood stolen from me. It was not one of love, but one of never feeling good enough. - Kathy's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/kathyh1976/
Being Mormon affected my daily life and it still does because not only do you have the church but you have the culture. It is almost all toxic. There’s so much shame and misogyny and struggles that you feel you’ll never be good enough. When I was eight, and I was going to be baptized, the only thing that I thought about was, I was so happy to have a second chance, because then I wasn’t gonna make any mistakes. Who in the hell thinks that when they’re eight years old? I feel like I had my childhood stolen from me. It was not one of love, but one of never feeling good enough. - Kathy's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/kathyh1976/
My mom ruled us with the idea that she didn’t want us to disappoint her and her status in the relief Society. Growing up and hitting puberty, I felt my body really wasn’t mine. It was something to be ashamed of. It was a battle of urges. And if I ever gave in to them, I was an abomination. It was something to be ashamed of. And God help you if you get pregnant. I’m sure my mom was overjoyed that I didn’t get pregnant. - Kathy's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/kathyh1976/
My mom ruled us with the idea that she didn’t want us to disappoint her and her status in the relief Society. Growing up and hitting puberty, I felt my body really wasn’t mine. It was something to be ashamed of. It was a battle of urges. And if I ever gave in to them, I was an abomination. It was something to be ashamed of. And God help you if you get pregnant. I’m sure my mom was overjoyed that I didn’t get pregnant. - Kathy's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/kathyh1976/
I grew up Mormon. My family wasn’t a super celestial family. My parents were married in the temple. We went to church pretty regularly. I enjoy traveling, learning, And experiencing a life well lived! I was a Mormon. - Kathy's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/kathyh1976/
I grew up Mormon. My family wasn’t a super celestial family. My parents were married in the temple. We went to church pretty regularly. I enjoy traveling, learning, And experiencing a life well lived! I was a Mormon. - Kathy's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/kathyh1976/
44. For had He not said unto Macaroni and others: Verily, verily, I say unto you, if ye love me, keep my commandments, and love one another, even as I have loved you. Love is all you need, all you need is love. 45. Verily, this record is true. Yea, ask of God if these things be not so, yea, ask in faith, already accepting truth. But behold, ask intently, if His answer cometh not as thou expectest, be not dismayed, for the ways of God are not thine ways. Yea, be eternally patient, for He may answer in a time that seemeth long. Thou mayest weary in thy waiting, yea, find your testimony in bearing it to numbly accept it. Testify of thine great spiritual witness when there was mere hope and faith. 46. Nevertheless, ye already know in your hearts that these words are true, for ye have received it line upon line, precept upon precept. It is scripture, thus it is true. Therefore, be not troubled, for this is so, because the Lord declares to your heard as you receive it, and thus it is. Amen. The Book of Marcaroni 22:44-46 | wasmormon.org
44. For had He not said unto Macaroni and others: Verily, verily, I say unto you, if ye love me, keep my commandments, and love one another, even as I have loved you. Love is all you need, all you need is love. 45. Verily, this record is true. Yea, ask of God if these things be not so, yea, ask in faith, already accepting truth. But behold, ask intently, if His answer cometh not as thou expectest, be not dismayed, for the ways of God are not thine ways. Yea, be eternally patient, for He may answer in a time that seemeth long. Thou mayest weary in thy waiting, yea, find your testimony in bearing it to numbly accept it. Testify of thine great spiritual witness when there was mere hope and faith. 46. Nevertheless, ye already know in your hearts that these words are true, for ye have received it line upon line, precept upon precept. It is scripture, thus it is true. Therefore, be not troubled, for this is so, because the Lord declares to your heard as you receive it, and thus it is. Amen. The Book of Marcaroni 22:44-46 | wasmormon.org
33. And as ye increase in service, and heeding the wise over those who focus on thier own authority over you, the darkness that hath infiltrated the churches of men shall be driven back, and humanity shall grow beyond the scourge of this organized religion and all others in time. 34. For behold, it is not fealty to organizations that shall save thee, but adherence to the principles of goodness and love. 35. And in the end, in even these last of last days, and even to the last hour, love shall overcome all things, for as it hath been spoken by the true prophets, yea, even by one of the greatest of these, 'Love is all ye need,' and 'Love is love.' 36. And it came to pass that the people marveled at the words of the Lord, and they did fall upon their knees and give thanks again, for His words were sharp, but they were filled with truth. The Book of Marcaroni 22:33-36 | wasmormon.org
33. And as ye increase in service, and heeding the wise over those who focus on thier own authority over you, the darkness that hath infiltrated the churches of men shall be driven back, and humanity shall grow beyond the scourge of this organized religion and all others in time. 34. For behold, it is not fealty to organizations that shall save thee, but adherence to the principles of goodness and love. 35. And in the end, in even these last of last days, and even to the last hour, love shall overcome all things, for as it hath been spoken by the true prophets, yea, even by one of the greatest of these, 'Love is all ye need,' and 'Love is love.' 36. And it came to pass that the people marveled at the words of the Lord, and they did fall upon their knees and give thanks again, for His words were sharp, but they were filled with truth. The Book of Marcaroni 22:33-36 | wasmormon.org
12. Yea, ye are here for a short time, and then ye shall return to the mother earth, from whence ye came. 13. And I say unto you, that the hope of any noble god is that ye find beauty in life, and that ye choose to love, yea choose goodness over greed and self-interest. 14. For behold, I and my Father are one, and we are also one with Mother Nature, and with every god of any pure religion upon the earth. 15. For anything that is good cometh from good, and it is men who quickly turn goodness into wickedness for their own gain... 17. Therefore, I say unto you, rise above the corporations that masquerade as churches. Reject the false prophets who seek to profit rather than to prophesy. 18. Serve the least of these, my brethren, and love thy neighbor as thyself, for in this, ye shall fulfill the law of God. The Book of Marcaroni 22:12-18 | wasmormon.org
12. Yea, ye are here for a short time, and then ye shall return to the mother earth, from whence ye came. 13. And I say unto you, that the hope of any noble god is that ye find beauty in life, and that ye choose to love, yea choose goodness over greed and self-interest. 14. For behold, I and my Father are one, and we are also one with Mother Nature, and with every god of any pure religion upon the earth. 15. For anything that is good cometh from good, and it is men who quickly turn goodness into wickedness for their own gain... 17. Therefore, I say unto you, rise above the corporations that masquerade as churches. Reject the false prophets who seek to profit rather than to prophesy. 18. Serve the least of these, my brethren, and love thy neighbor as thyself, for in this, ye shall fulfill the law of God. The Book of Marcaroni 22:12-18 | wasmormon.org
9. But there shall be some among them, yea, even those who reach the deepest understandings. Those who endure their own wrestle with God and experience a dark night of the soul, and these shall come to know great truths. Blessed are these truth seekers, they find the truth. 10. For they shall see that faith in organized religion is misplaced. They will understand great things and that these churches are but a tool to grow, and also control the masses. Some shall realize that the existence of any god, yea, even my own existence, is irrelevant to their mortal life. They will study science and true wonders of the world and still will live with empathy toward their fellow man. They shall have faith in goodness. 11. Verily, verily, I say unto you, some will even begin to understand the answers to the very existential questions that created religion and other myths of ancient days. Yea, these truth seekers begin to understand that the purpose of life is to do good, to enjoy the time upon the earth, for ye are all as ephemeral as the sunset and the crashing of the waves. The Book of Marcaroni 22:9-11 | wasmormon.org
9. But there shall be some among them, yea, even those who reach the deepest understandings. Those who endure their own wrestle with God and experience a dark night of the soul, and these shall come to know great truths. Blessed are these truth seekers, they find the truth. 10. For they shall see that faith in organized religion is misplaced. They will understand great things and that these churches are but a tool to grow, and also control the masses. Some shall realize that the existence of any god, yea, even my own existence, is irrelevant to their mortal life. They will study science and true wonders of the world and still will live with empathy toward their fellow man. They shall have faith in goodness. 11. Verily, verily, I say unto you, some will even begin to understand the answers to the very existential questions that created religion and other myths of ancient days. Yea, these truth seekers begin to understand that the purpose of life is to do good, to enjoy the time upon the earth, for ye are all as ephemeral as the sunset and the crashing of the waves. The Book of Marcaroni 22:9-11 | wasmormon.org
4. And behold, they shall sue any who stand in their way, challenge their authority, or have pre-established regulations in zones they wish to build in, for their hearts are filled with pride, and they seek not to serve, but to be served. They seek to be obeyed, not to obey. 5. They shall boast of their accomplishments, seeking world records and vainglorious celebrations of their leaders' birthdays and purchased awards, and in their pride, they shall say unto the people that they do great works. But this is merely propaganda and manipulative deceptions with the intent of exercising authority over the good people of the church. 6. Yea, they shall even claim that saying the name of our great prophet, even Mormon, is a major victory of Satan, and the people shall continue to be led astray by their words. Let this be a sign unto you in the last days, when you read these words, if it be wisdom that you receive them, that these leaders are not of me but vipers as the Pharisees. The Book of Marcaroni 22:4-6 | wasmormon.org
4. And behold, they shall sue any who stand in their way, challenge their authority, or have pre-established regulations in zones they wish to build in, for their hearts are filled with pride, and they seek not to serve, but to be served. They seek to be obeyed, not to obey. 5. They shall boast of their accomplishments, seeking world records and vainglorious celebrations of their leaders' birthdays and purchased awards, and in their pride, they shall say unto the people that they do great works. But this is merely propaganda and manipulative deceptions with the intent of exercising authority over the good people of the church. 6. Yea, they shall even claim that saying the name of our great prophet, even Mormon, is a major victory of Satan, and the people shall continue to be led astray by their words. Let this be a sign unto you in the last days, when you read these words, if it be wisdom that you receive them, that these leaders are not of me but vipers as the Pharisees. The Book of Marcaroni 22:4-6 | wasmormon.org
1. And it came to pass that the Lord continued to speak unto the people, saying: Behold, in the latter days, there shall arise a great and abominable church, which shall set its heart upon the riches of the earth. 2. Yea, they shall be deeply invested in the stock market and in the buying and accumulating of real estate, and they shall own much land in a place which shall be called Florida in the latter days. 3. And this church shall create vast media conglomerates, and they shall enrich themselves through books, yea, even through book deals, and they shall heap up wealth through great construction projects that span the lands; yea shopping malls and industrial endeavors. But in all this, they shall hide their wealth with shell corps and other obfuscations, and deal in other illegal tax-evasion practices across all the lands. They will hush these as rumors and proclaim boldly yet with hollow words, that they follow the laws of the land and treat the mites of widows with sacred respect. The Book of Marcaroni 22:1-3 | wasmormon.org
1. And it came to pass that the Lord continued to speak unto the people, saying: Behold, in the latter days, there shall arise a great and abominable church, which shall set its heart upon the riches of the earth. 2. Yea, they shall be deeply invested in the stock market and in the buying and accumulating of real estate, and they shall own much land in a place which shall be called Florida in the latter days. 3. And this church shall create vast media conglomerates, and they shall enrich themselves through books, yea, even through book deals, and they shall heap up wealth through great construction projects that span the lands; yea shopping malls and industrial endeavors. But in all this, they shall hide their wealth with shell corps and other obfuscations, and deal in other illegal tax-evasion practices across all the lands. They will hush these as rumors and proclaim boldly yet with hollow words, that they follow the laws of the land and treat the mites of widows with sacred respect. The Book of Marcaroni 22:1-3 | wasmormon.org
9. Yea, for in the latter days, there shall arise a great church, yea, a church that shall build fine temples of stone, and they shall heap up treasures in hedge funds, and their storehouses shall overflow with riches. 10. Some of the principles and ideas of the church did come from the truth that is me. But behold, this church is not of me. Yea, they draw near to me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. 11. For the leaders of this church shall be as wolves in sheep’s clothing, and they shall deceive the righteous and lead them astray. They shall teach the philosophies of business-men mingled with scripture, and they shall pervert my holy gospel for gain. 12. Yea, I say unto you, they shall enrich themselves upon the backs of the poor and the widows, and their wealth shall be stored up in vaults of steel and gold, hidden from the sight of the people. 13. And they shall turn my holy church into a corporation, where profits lead and prophets are silenced. The Book of Macaroni 21:9-13 | wasmormon.org
9. Yea, for in the latter days, there shall arise a great church, yea, a church that shall build fine temples of stone, and they shall heap up treasures in hedge funds, and their storehouses shall overflow with riches. 10. Some of the principles and ideas of the church did come from the truth that is me. But behold, this church is not of me. Yea, they draw near to me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. 11. For the leaders of this church shall be as wolves in sheep’s clothing, and they shall deceive the righteous and lead them astray. They shall teach the philosophies of business-men mingled with scripture, and they shall pervert my holy gospel for gain. 12. Yea, I say unto you, they shall enrich themselves upon the backs of the poor and the widows, and their wealth shall be stored up in vaults of steel and gold, hidden from the sight of the people. 13. And they shall turn my holy church into a corporation, where profits lead and prophets are silenced. The Book of Macaroni 21:9-13 | wasmormon.org
4. And behold, getting on with it, it came to pass, in the years of the reign of a Judge, the heavens opened, much to the astonishment of Macaroni and the people, and there descended from the clouds one who was as the Son of Man, bearded, clothed in white and light and majesty, and His glory did shine round about. He descended in a pillar of fire, yea a pillar exceedingly bright like unto the noonday sun. 5. And when He did set upon the earth, the people did fall to the ground in terror, for they knew it was Jesus Christ, the Lord of Heaven and Earth, who had risen and come to visit his lost sheep again. 6. And the Lord spake unto them, saying: Peace be unto you, my beloved. I have seen your thoughts, and I have heard your prayers, yea, the desires of your hearts are before me. 7. For behold, I say unto you, that thoughts and prayers alone do not suffice. For even as ye have prayed in my name, so also must ye act in righteousness in my name. The Book of Macaroni 21:4-7 | wasmormon.org
4. And behold, getting on with it, it came to pass, in the years of the reign of a Judge, the heavens opened, much to the astonishment of Macaroni and the people, and there descended from the clouds one who was as the Son of Man, bearded, clothed in white and light and majesty, and His glory did shine round about. He descended in a pillar of fire, yea a pillar exceedingly bright like unto the noonday sun. 5. And when He did set upon the earth, the people did fall to the ground in terror, for they knew it was Jesus Christ, the Lord of Heaven and Earth, who had risen and come to visit his lost sheep again. 6. And the Lord spake unto them, saying: Peace be unto you, my beloved. I have seen your thoughts, and I have heard your prayers, yea, the desires of your hearts are before me. 7. For behold, I say unto you, that thoughts and prayers alone do not suffice. For even as ye have prayed in my name, so also must ye act in righteousness in my name. The Book of Macaroni 21:4-7 | wasmormon.org
Your Logical Fallacy is: Begging the Question. You presented a circular argument in which the conclusion was included in the premise. This logically incoherent argument often arises in situations where people have an assumption that is very ingrained, and therefore taken in their minds as a given. Circular reasoning is bad mostly because it's not very good. The word of Zorbo the Great is flawless and perfect. We know this because it says so in The Great and Infallible Book of Zorbo's Best and Most Truest Things that are Definitely True and Should Not Ever Be Questioned. https://yourlogicalfallacyis.com/begging-the-question
Your Logical Fallacy is: Begging the Question. You presented a circular argument in which the conclusion was included in the premise. This logically incoherent argument often arises in situations where people have an assumption that is very ingrained, and therefore taken in their minds as a given. Circular reasoning is bad mostly because it's not very good. The word of Zorbo the Great is flawless and perfect. We know this because it says so in The Great and Infallible Book of Zorbo's Best and Most Truest Things that are Definitely True and Should Not Ever Be Questioned. https://yourlogicalfallacyis.com/begging-the-question
The catch is—it's a trap! This is flawed logic. The trap of Moroni's Promise lies in its circular reasoning and built-in assumptions. It suggests that if we read the Book of Mormon and pray with a sincere heart and real intent, we will receive confirmation from the Holy Ghost that it is true. However, if we do not receive this confirmation, the promise implies we either lack sincerity, genuine intent, or sufficient faith. This creates a no-win situation: if we believe, it confirms the Church's truth claims; if we don’t, the fault lies with our efforts or intent, not with the promise or the church. This circular logic traps individuals in a cycle where any outcome reinforces the belief system, making it difficult to evaluate the truth of the Church’s teachings. It is dangerous to base a belief on something so subjective and manipulative. | wasmormon.org
The catch is—it's a trap! This is flawed logic. The trap of Moroni's Promise lies in its circular reasoning and built-in assumptions. It suggests that if we read the Book of Mormon and pray with a sincere heart and real intent, we will receive confirmation from the Holy Ghost that it is true. However, if we do not receive this confirmation, the promise implies we either lack sincerity, genuine intent, or sufficient faith. This creates a no-win situation: if we believe, it confirms the Church's truth claims; if we don’t, the fault lies with our efforts or intent, not with the promise or the church. This circular logic traps individuals in a cycle where any outcome reinforces the belief system, making it difficult to evaluate the truth of the Church’s teachings. It is dangerous to base a belief on something so subjective and manipulative.
"I was born and raised Mormon. My entire life was centered around my faith. I attended church diligently. I was active in young men’s and the boys scouts. I earned every achievement I could. I served a two year mission in Colorado, came home and got married in the temple. I did everything right and felt I was on the path to salvation. I am an avid tabletop RPG player, a historian, and enjoyer of reading. I was a Mormon." - Stephanie's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/steffie7/
"I was born and raised Mormon. My entire life was centered around my faith. I attended church diligently. I was active in young men’s and the boys scouts. I earned every achievement I could. I served a two year mission in Colorado, came home and got married in the temple. I did everything right and felt I was on the path to salvation. I am an avid tabletop RPG player, a historian, and enjoyer of reading. I was a Mormon." - Stephanie's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/steffie7/
"Since I was seven years old, I carried a secret with me. I wasn’t a boy. At least not internally. I didn’t know anything about transgender people, all I knew was I was not a boy. Growing up and hearing how people like me were unhappy sinners, I kept it to myself." - Stephanie's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/steffie7/
"Since I was seven years old, I carried a secret with me. I wasn’t a boy. At least not internally. I didn’t know anything about transgender people, all I knew was I was not a boy. Growing up and hearing how people like me were unhappy sinners, I kept it to myself." - Stephanie's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/steffie7/
"Until I met a trans woman who was truly happy. More happy than anyone I ever met. I made friends with other people who are LGBTQ+ and they helped me see that they were just being their authentic selves. I finally came out as trans." - Stephanie's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/steffie7/
"Until I met a trans woman who was truly happy. More happy than anyone I ever met. I made friends with other people who are LGBTQ+ and they helped me see that they were just being their authentic selves. I finally came out as trans." - Stephanie's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/steffie7/
"After trying to balance reality with what I learned in the church, reality won and I haven’t gone back. I could not bear the pain of the severe gender dysphoria I dealt with, but coming out and transitioning has done more for my happiness than the church ever did. I just wanted to follow the decree, Men are that they might have joy. I didn’t feel joy before. I do now." - Stephanie's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/steffie7/
"After trying to balance reality with what I learned in the church, reality won and I haven’t gone back. I could not bear the pain of the severe gender dysphoria I dealt with, but coming out and transitioning has done more for my happiness than the church ever did. I just wanted to follow the decree, Men are that they might have joy. I didn’t feel joy before. I do now." - Stephanie's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/steffie7/
"I’m at peace. The constant depression I felt trying to confirm and be perfect by Mormon standards is gone and I can actually function day to day. I’ve never thought I’d be at peace and happy in life and it’s not perfect, I still have bad days, but I don’t feel like a broken vessel anymore." - Stephanie's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/steffie7/
"I’m at peace. The constant depression I felt trying to confirm and be perfect by Mormon standards is gone and I can actually function day to day. I’ve never thought I’d be at peace and happy in life and it’s not perfect, I still have bad days, but I don’t feel like a broken vessel anymore." - Stephanie's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/steffie7/
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/steffie7/. There are stories of Mormon faith journeys contributed by hundreds of 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/steffie7/. There are stories of Mormon faith journeys contributed by hundreds of users like you. Come check them out and consider sharing your own story at wasmormon.org!
"I was raised in the Church by convert parents and aspired to nothing less than a life of participation and activity in the Church. I served a mission, married in an LDS temple, even went to BYU. Growing up I was praised by the adults in my congregations and held up as a leader and a model. All expectations were that I would be up to my eyeballs in church callings and activities and raising kids to be good Mormons. I love books, history, art, and I am always learning. I was a Mormon." - Frank's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/frank/
"I was raised in the Church by convert parents and aspired to nothing less than a life of participation and activity in the Church. I served a mission, married in an LDS temple, even went to BYU. Growing up I was praised by the adults in my congregations and held up as a leader and a model. All expectations were that I would be up to my eyeballs in church callings and activities and raising kids to be good Mormons. I love books, history, art, and I am always learning. I was a Mormon." - Frank's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/frank/
"I thought that I could learn new things about the Church and about the gospel on the Internet. I started browsing the net looking for sites about Mormonism. I was exposed to those who ranted against the Church, and to apologists trying to defend it. I remember reading about the Book of Abraham, and the controversy surrounding the resurfacing of the original papyri. Translations of the original papyri proved them to be nothing more than commonplace Egyptian funerary texts, and what’s more, they were dated much later than Abraham–almost as late as Jesus’ time. This disturbed me." - Frank's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/frank/
"I thought that I could learn new things about the Church and about the gospel on the Internet. I started browsing the net looking for sites about Mormonism. I was exposed to those who ranted against the Church, and to apologists trying to defend it. I remember reading about the Book of Abraham, and the controversy surrounding the resurfacing of the original papyri. Translations of the original papyri proved them to be nothing more than commonplace Egyptian funerary texts, and what’s more, they were dated much later than Abraham–almost as late as Jesus’ time. This disturbed me." - Frank's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/frank/
"I sought out the apologist websites, looking for a reasoned explanation of this phenomenon. I was looking to be reassured in my faith. I didn’t want to question it. But the responses I found were so weak as to be laughable. They did not give me an adequate reason to not accept the facts that I had discovered. This was the beginning of the avalanche. After this I began allowing myself the possibility that all I had been raised with, that I treasured, and had given my life to until that time, was false." - Frank's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/frank/
"I sought out the apologist websites, looking for a reasoned explanation of this phenomenon. I was looking to be reassured in my faith. I didn’t want to question it. But the responses I found were so weak as to be laughable. They did not give me an adequate reason to not accept the facts that I had discovered. This was the beginning of the avalanche. After this I began allowing myself the possibility that all I had been raised with, that I treasured, and had given my life to until that time, was false." - Frank's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/frank/
"Mormonism really does a number on people. I discarded and re-examined most of my most fundamental beliefs. It is a big world out there. Mormonism is so small and insignificant. It is fascinating, all the ways that humanity has expressed its desire for meaning and for community." - Frank's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/frank/
"Mormonism really does a number on people. I discarded and re-examined most of my most fundamental beliefs. It is a big world out there. Mormonism is so small and insignificant. It is fascinating, all the ways that humanity has expressed its desire for meaning and for community." - Frank's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/frank/
"Do Mormons Believe in a Loving God? No, because the Mormon god is the LDS Church. Many exmormons feel anger, or bitterness. This is justified. We were lied to, exploited, and abused by an organization that claimed to represent God and goodness. Feel those feelings if you need to. But keep in mind that they did not represent God. Don't let their lies and abuses cut you off from the real goodness that is out there." - Frank's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/frank/
"Do Mormons Believe in a Loving God? No, because the Mormon god is the LDS Church. Many exmormons feel anger, or bitterness. This is justified. We were lied to, exploited, and abused by an organization that claimed to represent God and goodness. Feel those feelings if you need to. But keep in mind that they did not represent God. Don't let their lies and abuses cut you off from the real goodness that is out there." - Frank's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/frank/
"The one thing I clung to after Mormonism was a belief in Something. I don't accept that existence is meaningless or a random chance. There has to be a reason that there is Something instead of Nothing. Otherwise, for me, life is just an absurdity hanging over an abyss. Truth, Beauty, and Goodness are real. So, I started a 10-year search. My search passed through Taoism, Buddhism, Judaism, Universalism, and a variety of Christian options." - Frank's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/frank/
"The one thing I clung to after Mormonism was a belief in Something. I don't accept that existence is meaningless or a random chance. There has to be a reason that there is Something instead of Nothing. Otherwise, for me, life is just an absurdity hanging over an abyss. Truth, Beauty, and Goodness are real. So, I started a 10-year search. My search passed through Taoism, Buddhism, Judaism, Universalism, and a variety of Christian options." - Frank's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/frank/
"In my reading and exploring I felt that the fundamental question that a religion had to answer was the Problem of Suffering. Why is there evil and suffering in the world? I found only 2 satisfactory answers, in Buddhism (transcend suffering) or in Christianity (embrace suffering). Of those, I found the Christian answer to be more compelling." - Frank's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/frank/
"In my reading and exploring I felt that the fundamental question that a religion had to answer was the Problem of Suffering. Why is there evil and suffering in the world? I found only 2 satisfactory answers, in Buddhism (transcend suffering) or in Christianity (embrace suffering). Of those, I found the Christian answer to be more compelling." - Frank's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/frank/
"I also extensively studied Biblical scholarship. I learned to understand that the Bible is an anthology of writings, in various genres, and that it is not to be idolized. I also learned to think about it in new ways. And to see where and how it was supported by history. This led me to the crisis point: did I accept the resurrection of Jesus as a real event? This was a leap of faith, of course, but God's grace led me to belief, and eventually, to join the Body of Christ as configured in the Catholic Church." - Frank's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/frank/
"I also extensively studied Biblical scholarship. I learned to understand that the Bible is an anthology of writings, in various genres, and that it is not to be idolized. I also learned to think about it in new ways. And to see where and how it was supported by history. This led me to the crisis point: did I accept the resurrection of Jesus as a real event? This was a leap of faith, of course, but God's grace led me to belief, and eventually, to join the Body of Christ as configured in the Catholic Church." - Frank's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/frank/
"Find your own path. Take your time. There is a big world out there. I spent years exploring various faith traditions. I was not sure I would choose a new faith. For a long time, I figured on just doing my own thing, without an organization or a defined path. Eventually, I decided that spirituality requires community, and I found a tradition that made sense to me and that matched my needs. I don't think it is "the one true church" or that it gets to lay claim to me, my brain, my time, or my money. I have certain boundaries now, after Mormonism." - Frank's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/frank/
"Find your own path. Take your time. There is a big world out there. I spent years exploring various faith traditions. I was not sure I would choose a new faith. For a long time, I figured on just doing my own thing, without an organization or a defined path. Eventually, I decided that spirituality requires community, and I found a tradition that made sense to me and that matched my needs. I don't think it is "the one true church" or that it gets to lay claim to me, my brain, my time, or my money. I have certain boundaries now, after Mormonism." - Frank's "I was a Mormon" story. Read more at https://wasmormon.org/profile/frank/
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/frank/. There are stories of Mormon faith journeys contributed by hundreds of 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/frank/. There are stories of Mormon faith journeys contributed by hundreds of users like you. Come check them out and consider sharing your own story at wasmormon.org!
“The living allowances given the General Authorities, which are very modest” LDS Church President Gordon B. Hinckley. What does the LDS Church pay its most senior clergy? 2024 Estimate: $178,746 - The Widow's Mite: Employee & GA Compensation, Page 1. American workers made a median wage in 2024 of $59,228 per year - US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024 Study. 3x the average is not “very modest” | wasmormon.org
“The living allowances given the General Authorities, which are very modest” LDS Church President Gordon B. Hinckley. What does the LDS Church pay its most senior clergy? 2024 Estimate: $178,746 - The Widow's Mite: Employee & GA Compensation, Page 1. American workers made a median wage in 2024 of $59,228 per year - US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024 Study. 3x the average is not “very modest”.
“I wish to give the entire Church the assurance that tithing funds have not and will not be used to acquire this property. Nor will they be used in developing it for commercial purposes. Funds for this have come and will come from those commercial entities owned by the Church. These resources, together with the earnings of invested reserve funds, will accommodate this program.” - President Gordon B. Hinckley | General Conference April 2003 | wasmormon.org
“I wish to give the entire Church the assurance that tithing funds have not and will not be used to acquire this property. Nor will they be used in developing it for commercial purposes. Funds for this have come and will come from those commercial entities owned by the Church. These resources, together with the earnings of invested reserve funds, will accommodate this program.” - President Gordon B. Hinckley | General Conference April 2003
During my employment at Ensign Peak Advisors, senior leadership and other employees referred to and revered all funds as “tithing” money, regardless of whether they were referring to principal or earnings on that principal. Tithing donations from the Church’s members were commingled with earnings. Every penny was referred to as the “widow’s mite.” - David Nielsen, former Senior Portfolio Manager, Ensign Peak Advisors, Whistleblower | wasmormon.org
During my employment at Ensign Peak Advisors, senior leadership and other employees referred to and revered all funds as “tithing” money, regardless of whether they were referring to principal or earnings on that principal. Tithing donations from the Church’s members were commingled with earnings. Every penny was referred to as the “widow’s mite.” - David Nielsen, former Senior Portfolio Manager, Ensign Peak Advisors, Whistleblower
“When the priests left their labor to impart the word of God unto the people, the people also left their labors to hear the word of God. And when the priest had imparted unto them the word of God they all returned again diligently unto their labors; and the priest, not esteeming himself above his hearers, for the preacher was no better than the hearer, neither was the teacher any better than the learner; and thus they were all equal, and they did all labor, every man according to his strength.” - Alma 1 | The Book of Mormon | wasmormon.org
“When the priests left their labor to impart the word of God unto the people, the people also left their labors to hear the word of God. And when the priest had imparted unto them the word of God they all returned again diligently unto their labors; and the priest, not esteeming himself above his hearers, for the preacher was no better than the hearer, neither was the teacher any better than the learner; and thus they were all equal, and they did all labor, every man according to his strength.” - Alma 1 | The Book of Mormon
“[Nehor declared] unto the people that every priest and teacher ought to become popular; and they ought not to labor with their hands, but that they ought to be supported by the people... Alma said unto him: Behold, this is the first time that priestcraft has been introduced among this people... were priestcraft to be enforced among this people it would prove their entire destruction. Therefore thou art condemned to die.” - Alma 1 | The Book of Mormon | wasmormon.org
“[Nehor declared] unto the people that every priest and teacher ought to become popular; and they ought not to labor with their hands, but that they ought to be supported by the people... Alma said unto him: Behold, this is the first time that priestcraft has been introduced among this people... were priestcraft to be enforced among this people it would prove their entire destruction. Therefore thou art condemned to die.” - Alma 1 | The Book of Mormon
“He commandeth that there shall be no priestcrafts; for, behold, priestcrafts are that men preach and set themselves up for a light unto the world, that they may get gain and praise of the world; but they seek not the welfare of Zion. Behold, the Lord hath forbidden this thing; wherefore, the Lord God hath given a commandment that all men should have charity. But the laborer in Zion shall labor for Zion; for if they labor for money they shall perish.” - 2 Nephi 26 | The Book of Mormon | wasmormon.org
“He commandeth that there shall be no priestcrafts; for, behold, priestcrafts are that men preach and set themselves up for a light unto the world, that they may get gain and praise of the world; but they seek not the welfare of Zion. Behold, the Lord hath forbidden this thing; wherefore, the Lord God hath given a commandment that all men should have charity. But the laborer in Zion shall labor for Zion; for if they labor for money they shall perish.” - 2 Nephi 26 | The Book of Mormon
Do General Authorities get paid? "General Authorities are given a living allowance which enables them to focus all of their time on serving in the Church. The living allowance is uniform for all General Authorities. None of the funds for this living allowance come from the tithing of Church members, but instead from proceeds of the Church's financial investments." - LDS Church Website FAQ | faq.churchofjesuschrist.org | wasmormon.org
Do General Authorities get paid? "General Authorities are given a living allowance which enables them to focus all of their time on serving in the Church. The living allowance is uniform for all General Authorities. None of the funds for this living allowance come from the tithing of Church members, but instead from proceeds of the Church's financial investments." - LDS Church Website FAQ | faq.churchofjesuschrist.org
"In the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints there is no paid ministry, no professional clergy, as is common in other churches." - Boyd K. Packer, Follow the Brethren, September 1979 Liahona
"In the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints there is no paid ministry, no professional clergy, as is common in other churches." - Boyd K. Packer, Follow the Brethren, September 1979 Liahona