Hi, I'm Serene.
I enjoy singing, dancing, yoga, time in nature, and all things beauty. I am a wife. I am a friend. I was a mormon.
About me
I've always searched for something more, spiritually speaking, and have explored various religions throughout the years. I was a convert to the church after I'd read "Joseph Smith and the Magic World View". It seemed to have such depth and mysticism that naturally I needed to explore it on a deeper level by visiting the church.
I viewed the church as a potential path to purification and perfection and this is basically how I found myself taking a dip in the baptismal font.
On my shelf
On the Mormon Spectrum
Why I left More answers about 'Why I left' the mormon church
There where SO MANY REASONS!
..The practice of "worthiness" interviewing. One flawed human questioning another's spiritual worthiness felt off.
I watched my first and last General Conference and couldn't imagine how anyone received anything of an inspirational nature from those empty and shallow talks. So many of which where profoundly lacking in emotional intelligence.
Fast and Testimony with people repeating,"I know the church is true." If you know, truly know of the truth of something you need not repeat it like a mantra.
The most intense negative reaction I had came with learning of the invasive interviewing of children. The excommunication of Sam Young was disturbing to me. Instead of the church speaking out in clear opposition to the abhorrent practice of grown men asking children about the relationship they have with their own bodies, they ex'd a man for trying to protect children.
Questions about Mormons My Answers to Questions about Mormonism
Does the church encourage leader worship? See more answers about 'Does the church encourage leader worship?'
I believe so. I joined never having sat through a General Conference. When I was first exposed to it, I was terribly disappointed by how trite, shallow, and sometimes insensitive, and clearly uninspired the speakers where. It hadn't been explained to me that these men where actually considered to have a more direct line to a higher power. Bearing witness to their speeches I knew that was an absolute lie.
Are Mormons Christian? See more answers about 'Are Mormons Christian?'
Yes, they are. Most are very Christ centered in their beliefs.
Can you describe the type of faith you had prior to your loss of faith? See more answers about 'Can you describe the type of faith you had prior to your loss of faith?'
I had more a curiosity than faith. I never cared if the Book of Mormon was true. I only cared if the experience was an enriching,charitable, and community building experience.These people spoke of building heaven on earth and I wanted in.
I felt I was being pressured to accept things I found unconscionable, for example the treatment of gay people.
Just no.
Do Mormons Believe in a Loving God? See more answers about 'Do Mormons Believe in a Loving God?'
They claim to. As with most religions though, they don't.
Do you believe the Book of Mormon is true? See more answers about 'Do you believe the Book of Mormon is true?'
As in an accurate representation of events? I don't think so. I thought the book was intended to be symbolic.
How have you navigated communication and relationships with believing family and friends? Any tips to keeping those people in your life? See more answers about 'How have you navigated communication and relationships with believing family and friends? Any tips to keeping those people in your life?'
I assured believing friends I supported their journey, (and I do), and that I hoped they could offer me the same. I just helped a friend with her Relief Society Lesson.
People who believe the church deep in their heart certainly don't need me to validate the accuracy of their beliefs.
How long was your struggle? See more answers about 'How long was your struggle?'
I knew wanted to leave after one year in, but it took me three years to submit my resignation.
Is the Mormon church a cult? See more answers about 'Is the Mormon church a cult?'
It truly depends on the member. I'd say the ones who are culty are not representative of the majority!
Is the church honest with you? See more answers about 'Is the church honest with you?'
Absolutely not.
How/why did/do you stay in the pew? See more answers about 'How/why did/do you stay in the pew?'
I was hopeful that things could evolve for the better, that apologies would be made, that no one in need would be denied assistance.
Were you asked inappropriate questions in "worthiness" interviews by your Mormon Bishop? See more answers about 'Were you asked inappropriate questions in "worthiness" interviews by your Mormon Bishop?'
I was not. I was fortunate to have respectful bishops.
What did the Mormon religion bring to your life? See more answers about 'What did the Mormon religion bring to your life?'
Although I left, I'm thankful for my time as a member. Some of the other members where very kind and insightful. I loved learning about personal revelation.
What do you feel or know about tithing? See more answers about 'What do you feel or know about tithing?'
I feel giving to people in need..not to an organization, is an honorable practice. It need not always be money. Maybe it's clothing, time, assistance, etc.
Why are you sharing your story? See more answers about 'Why are you sharing your story?'
I've really been needing to talk it out. I hope any potential converts or dissatisfied converts will inquire even more thoroughly that I did. I appreciate the chance to share my experience.