Paul’s story is one of commitment, reflection, and transformation. He was deeply rooted in his Mormon heritage and devoted himself wholeheartedly to the faith. He served a mission, earned advanced degrees during 16 years at BYU, and held significant church callings such as Young Men’s President and Elder’s Quorum President. Paul married a fellow returned missionary in the temple and had four children in the church. Despite doing everything “right”—praying fervently, reading the Book of Mormon over a dozen times, and living faithfully—Paul reached a turning point as he prepared to baptize his oldest child. He realized that after a lifetime of prayer, he still hadn’t received a confirmation of the church’s truthfulness. He wasn’t willing to put his children through the same journey of unanswered questions.
Paul’s story is not just about leaving Mormonism; it’s about a commitment to truth and protecting his family from a path he no longer believed in. His courage to reflect deeply on his faith and take action for the sake of his family is a story that resonates with many navigating similar journeys.
Hi, I’m Paul. I’m a father of four. A computer science professor. A Cub Scout leader. And a musician. And I was a Mormon.
Grew up in Oregon, oldest of four boys. 6th-generation mormon on every line. Served a mission. Studied 16 years at BYU and got my PhD. Served as young men’s president and elder’s quorum president. Married in the temple to a returned-missionary who taught at the MTC. Had four kids. Then we all left.
Prayed my whole life to know if it was true. Read the Book of Mormon over a dozen times. Did everything I could. Did everything right. Turned 35, was poised to baptize my oldest, and realized if I hadn’t got my answer yet, I never would. I wasn’t ready to put my kids through it all if it wasn’t true.
Paul
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