Tracy Press

When Americans think president, do they think Mormon? That is the big political question for Republican front-runner Mitt Romney.

When the Republicans showed up at Morgan State University for a recent debate, the four top candidates, John McCain, Rudy Giuliani, Fred Thompson and Romney, were no-shows. This is bound to affect Romney since the debate centered on minorities, especially black issues. For example, President Bush won 16 percent of the black vote in Ohio in 2004, and would not have won the presidency without those votes.

Skipping the debate was a big mistake for Romney, who chose instead to visit IHOP restaurants to try to raise support for his campaign. I understand that candidates need to appeal to the people, but it is almost as though he, a Mormon, has snubbed his nose to the black community.

Romney takes a stance on the Iraq war that could be described like a pancake in a moving cement truck. Romney is a flip-floppy politician (though I think that is a redundant statement); one minute he supports the war, but the next he is unable to comment on it. Romney told an international television audience on Feb. 25 that he “unequivocally supports the war in Iraq.” He then said that Bush did not do a sufficient job in explaining himself before the first shots of the war were fired. After that, Romney said the U.S. attacks were based on faulty intelligence, the U.S. does not have sufficient troops to stabilize Iraq and that Abu Ghraib’s prisoner abuse was “unfortunate.” In 2006, after handing out the first medals that honored the service of the Massachusetts National Guardsmen, he said “We’re all concerned in America today with the high price of gasoline, but I think sometimes we forget about the high price of freedom.” A week later, though, he was reluctant to talk about the war, saying, “I wouldn’t presume as a governor to try and weigh in on a matter which is outside gubernatorial turf.” What is this guy’s stance on the war? I am hungry for an answer, not a pancake.

One fact about Romney mentioned early on in his campaign is that he is a Mormon. This puts Romney in an interesting situation, as he would be the first Mormon president. All but three of our nation’s 42 presidents have declared a religion, yet none of them have been Mormon. Being the first Mormon in the White House could present Romney with trouble associated with religious stereotypes, similar to what I noted with my comments on Hillary Clinton being a woman. Romney is a fairly strict Mormon; he does not drink or smoke, which the Mormon faith condemns, and he tithes, which is expected of Mormons.

There are two big things associated with Mormonism that will kill Romney’s presidential hopes if he does win the Republican Party nomination. First, one of the biggest stereotypes associated with Mormons is that they are polygamists. Though there is an extremist sect of Mormons who practice polygamy, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints no longer supports it. Another, possibly bigger problem for Romney is that Mormons do not follow the teachings of the Bible, but rather the Book of Mormon. This fact does not sit well with the Christian community.

This past week, Romney was confused with names, a la George W. Bush. Before the Greenwood, S.C., Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday, Romney confused Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama with the Muslim terrorist Osama bin Laden. When Romney’s presentation got to a part on a new audiotape released by bin Laden, he said, “Actually, just look at what Osama, uh, Barack Obama, said just yesterday, Barack Obama, calling on radicals … to come together in Iraq. ‘That is the battlefield. That is the central place,’ he said. ‘Come join us under one banner.’” A typo on a report is understandable, but to misspeak, and not only once but twice, using Obama’s full name? There is mudslinging in a political campaign, but no one deserves to be compared to bin Laden. Last time I checked, there was only one insane Muslim running around ordering extremists to blow up Americans.

Romney has a good chance of being nominated and even winning the fall 2008 election if he can pull his game together, though the country may not be ready for a Mormon president.

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written by SG , October 28, 2007

". . . Mormons do not follow the teachings of the Bible, but rather the Book of Mormon."


This statement is inaccurate. Mormons, who prefer to be called Latter-day Saints because "Mormon" is a nickname (the official name of the church is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) follow the teachings of both the Bible and the Book of Mormon. They hold both to be volumes of scripture and do not consider them to be complimentary rather than mutually exclusive.

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written by SG , October 28, 2007

Corrected copy

This statement is inaccurate. Mormons, who prefer to be called Latter-day Saints because "Mormon" is a nickname (the official name of the church is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) follow the teachings of both the Bible and the Book of Mormon. They hold both to be volumes of scripture and consider them to be complimentary rather than mutually exclusive.

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written by Dr. Ballard , October 28, 2007

Writing about stereotypes by continuing them in your article is bad journalism at best, an insight into personal intolerance at worst. Don't undermine journalistic goals with poor reporting.

Paragraph 3- For brevity I will avoid commenting on the implied bias at the end of this paragraph.

Paragraph 6- referencing 'an extremist sect of mormons who practice polygamy' and the LDS church? Were David Koresh's followers an extremist sect of "catholics" or "baptists"? The majority of individuals pertaining to "polygamist sects" were never members of the LDS church, and if they did at one time have membership were excommunicated upon expressing their beliefs/desires regarding polygamy (as has been church doctrine/discipline for over 100 years mind you).

Furthermore, consult your style guide on proper use of the term mormon (a nickname representing the LDS church- not properly applied to other denominations).

The worst error and perpetuation of a blatant stereotype: "Mormons do not follow the teachings of the bible, but rather the Book of Mormon". This is false. Mormons DO believe in the Bible. The Book of Mormon is "ANOTHER testament of Jesus Christ" - believed by LDS faithful to be additional scripture. It does not supplant the bible in importance. It does not rewrite it. It is not a new version. It is a separate book of scripture. Properly phrased, Mormons believe in the bible and additional scripture including the Book of Mormon.

Good luck with your future in journalism. Hopefully, you can learn to avoid such inaccuracies in the future in order to clarify facts not perpetuate fallicies.

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written by amy , October 28, 2007

John F. Kennedy, of Catholic Faith, was met with skepticisms too.

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written by Steven Rinehart , October 28, 2007

Go Romney!!!

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written by TracyT , October 28, 2007

The last "real" Mormon that ran for President had to denounce his multiple [sister/wives]. That was Joseph Smith.

So, now you know the rest of the story.

First, one of the biggest stereotypes associated with Mormons is that they are polygamists. Though there is an extremist sect of Mormons who practice polygamy, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints no longer supports it. Another, possibly bigger problem for Romney is that Mormons do not follow the teachings of the Bible, but rather the Book of Mormon. This fact does not sit well with the Christian community.

It is too bad that poligamy is still practiced in some places in various forms. To be fair, though, the author correctly points out that most Mormons have tried to distance themselves from this embarrasing history.

So the author is mostly correct. I don't know of anyone in California that does that, however I have heard Mormons themselves confess that it still takes place in some states. And marriage isn't even necessary to cirmcumvent the law.

Hmmmmmmmmmm.

No wonder this issue raises a few eyebrows!

And Joseph Smith was given tablets from an angel but never produced them to anyone else. Did he make up the story? Not according to Mormons, but I find the whole story difficult to believe. But then the Mormons find the Bible difficult to believe too, because Jesus made an appearance in South America and then told Joseph Smith that the Christian community has abandoned Jesus Christ, which is why he was supposed to start the church of Joseph Smith (er, the Church of the Latter Day Saints).

Btw, The opinions expressed in this post are not necessarily those of the Tracy Press (or maybe even the Church of the Latter Day Saints). Who knows? I really think that it all depends on what state/providence that you live in?

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written by TracyT , October 28, 2007

Mr. Ballard,

Firstly apologies for my scepticism...

But, I may ask, which takes precedence in the "Mormon" church, the Bible or the Book of "Mormon"?

Are you saying they are really equal in importance?
Then why the snippets, "seperate" book and "additional"???
.. Seems a contradiction...
.. Be careful or you'll get the "outer darkness" for that one?

Reporting should be accurate, right? That was your advice?

Anyway, all this rhetoric is difficult to find believable!

Excuse me, but are you giving doctoral or journalistic advice?

Have you even read the book?

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written by Dylan Andrews , October 28, 2007

I agree with Mr Ballard's comments and think that the intern author needs to check his facts. He also needs to ensure that when writing his opinion that he base his conclusions on fact and logic rather than representing stereotypes and opinion as fact. Paragraph 4 beginning with 'Romney takes a stance'....is a great example of where the author has doen this. I think it's great that the author is writing on politicial issues and wish him the best for his journalistic future but unless these writing habits cease and the writer becomes objective and researches his facts more he will be seen as unprofessional in the industry. I believe Mr Ballard was correct in giving the author both doctrinal and journalistic advice.

To clarify Tracy T's commnets, Members of the Church of Latter-Day Saints use both the Bible and Book of Mormon and neither takes precedence. We use them together just as other faiths have no precedence of the writings of Paul over the writings of Peter or John. We love and use both the Bible and believe that both are the writings of prophets of God. Not sure where the author is trying to get to with his comments of 'snippets', 'separate book' and 'additional' neither of these words suggest that 'Mormons' find prominence with the Book of Mormon. I'm sure that when the Corinthians received their 2nd letter from Paul they didn't see this 'additional' letter as being more important than Paul's 1st letter but rather valued it as more of God's teachings that helped them understand, clarify and gain more from the 1st letter they had received. TracyT's comments that Mormons find the Bible hard to believe are totally incorrect and if he/she had any education or understand on what the church believes would not write something so ignorant.

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written by Dylan Andrews , October 28, 2007

cont....
The Church is not in at any way associated with polygamy and has not been since the 1890s. Anyone that claims to be Mormon and practice polygamy (in some remote parts of Utah and Arizona) are not members of the Church and the Church's stance is to excommunicate anyone that practices or promotes it. Tracy T's comments that imply that the Church continues to do it on the side are totally incorrect.

To reply to the last comment above, the author apologises for his skeptisim but that continues to use more illogical and unrespectful skepticsm in his further comment such as 'be careful or you'll get the outer darkness for that', and 'reporting should be accurate, right? That was your advice' which he himself is guilty of being quite hypocritical. It's this sort of attitude and judgment of groups of people from journalists which leads to some of the misunderstanding, hate, and in some cases bigotry which the wonderful profession of journalism has been great at eradicating over the years.

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written by Jason Turner , October 29, 2007

Unfortunately with the "blog level quality" of young journalists that will soon be part of the industry, the eradication will soon be gone and ignorance, prejudice, and bigotry will be rampant once again. The signs are already here.

Tracy, please seek out information on your own rather than writing what people have told you, or "what you have heard". Seek out information from the source of the topic in question, not just it's enemies. Don't inject assumptions and controversy where there is none (unless your goal is to write for tabloids). Seek out why things may be the way they are before writing it. When you do that, you have a much better understanding of why it may seem the book of Mormon is allegedly central to the LDS religion. Then you may find it isn't but one of many scripture sources that are central to this religion that is supposed to expand their knowledge of the nature of God. That is, after all, the goal of all God centric religions, is it not?

That is the best advice I can give you on your future career success. Don't be prey to the idea that the Pulitzer is only awarded to the most controversially filthy articles. That is a myth that will keep you on the level of mediocrity for your entire career.

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written by some guy , October 29, 2007

So, why is it that Giuliani, McCain, and Thompson aren't listed in your article as snubbing the African-American community, or that their decisions won't have a negative impact on their elections?

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written by Dr. Ballard , October 29, 2007

TracyT,

I think your questions to me regarding scriptural prominence were answered by other well written responses. "Separate and Additional" in the same sense that the New Testament is a separate group of writings from the Old Testament and therefore contains additional witnesses to Christ's divinity and gospel. I didn't mean this to seem contradictory but rather complementary.

Sorry if my comments seemed like rhetoric. I just wanted to point out a few errors, not engage people as to whether the LDS Church's claims are true.

Just a few comments from your other post: I, like your friends in CA, readily admit that polygamy occurs in the U.S. However, those that practice it are not associated with the LDS church and are therefore not properly identified as Mormons.

As far as witnesses to the Book of Mormon- there were eight who signed an affadavit affirming that they were shown the plates by Joseph Smith, and examined and personally handled them. There are also three others that were shown them via a divine messenger. So that is 11 witnesses (many of whom ultimately left the church- but never would deny their sworn statements as to the plates existence). We all know however, that witnesses and miracles seldom convince anyone, right?

As to having read the book- are your referencing the Book of Mormon or the Bible? The answer to both would be yes, multiple times. It's a daily habit.

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written by mr bananas , October 29, 2007

Jose Smith had vision and that was to move his people to a place where they didn't have to buy salt.


m b

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written by danny , October 29, 2007

YES, YES, America is ready for THIS MORMON - Mitt Romney! not a Mormon like Harry Reid!

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written by MDE , October 29, 2007

Who the hell cares if he's a Mormon or a Satanist?? He has a proven track record of bad governance. He was a do-nothing as a one-term Massachusetts governor. He changed his stances constantly, was out of the office on nationwide campaigning constantly, and didn't run for a second term because he knew he'd lose and therefore lose any national cachet he had left.

The fact this guy has progressed even this far is testament to how effing stupid everyone is. Whew. Deep breath. Seriously though, I don't like Mitt Romney very much. I might even prefer Thompson to this clown.

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written by daveescaped , October 29, 2007

Tracy T - You said "The last "real" Mormon that ran for President had to denounce his multiple [sister/wives]. That was Joseph Smith."

Actually that would be false. The lst Mormon to run for president was Orrin Hatch in 2000. Before that it was George Romney (Mitt's Dad - a fact referenced in nearly every article on Mitt) in 1968. Point is you don't quite have your facts straight.

You also said "I have heard Mormons themselves confess that it still takes place in some states. And marriage isn't even necessary to cirmcumvent the law" This may be true but these people are not member of the LDS faith. Regardless of what friends may say.

Last you said (in reference to LDS beliefs) "I find the whole story difficult to believe". That probably explains why you are not LDS. You may be surprised to learn that the LDS find Catholicism, Evangelical Christianity, and many other faiths "hard to believe". That's why they are LDS.

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written by Wendy73 , October 29, 2007

I think we are seeing "spin" in this article. A little information contorted to say what the author wants the picture to look like. Not much truth here.

Joseph Smith did run for President of the United States.

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written by Janine , October 29, 2007

I think before you start to write an article you really need to get all of your facts straight.

I agree with previous posters that this writer is trying to convey all negative aspects about LDS members and being in office. But if you honestly think about it...are there really going to be many negative things about him being in office? Or is it just because he's "mormon" that things will go astray?

I think Dr. Ballard wrote his statement beautifully. Thank you for putting a better light on the situation.

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written by TracyT , October 29, 2007

It is just good to see that all the Mormon brothers are active in our community too (today).

But, Joseph Smith ran for president. Get your facts straight.

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written by TracyT , October 29, 2007

When Smith began his campaign for the presidency of the United States in 1844, Rigdon was selected as his vice-presidential running mate. In April 1844, William Law, the second counselor in the First Presidency, was excommunicated and his position was not filled. Consequently, after Smith's death, Rigdon was the only remaining member of the First Presidency. During this time, Rigdon's strong opposition to polygamy and other issues within the Church.[3] decreased his popularity within the church membership at large.

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written by TracyT , October 29, 2007

Shortly after 5:00 p.m. on June 27, 1844, a mob of about 200 men stormed the jail, and went to where Smith and his associates were imprisoned. Although they attempted to hold the door shut against the mob, the mob opened fire through the still-closed door, shooting Hyrum Smith in the face. As the mob burst through the doorway, Joseph Smith (who had earlier been given a six-shooter by a visitor) managed to fire three shots at the mob.[39] His brother Hyrum Smith died immediately from the shot in the face. Taylor was shot several times, but survived. One of the bullets hit his pocket watch, saving his life. Richards was unharmed. Smith ran to the open window, where he was shot multiple times simultaneously (both from within the room and from the outside), and fell from the window, dead. Upon falling to the ground, he was shot several more times. Mormons view his death as martyrdom.

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written by TracyT , October 29, 2007

So, Smith announced himself as a Presidential canidate.
He never made it to Presidency.

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written by TracyT , October 29, 2007

Anyway, have a nice day!

You too, good Doctor.

Be thou perfect!

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written by TracyT , October 29, 2007

MDE said it best!

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written by TracyT , October 29, 2007

I love IHOP's pancakes too.

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written by Mike.McLellan , October 30, 2007

Brian:
Welcome to the world of journalism. Thank you for the column. They say never to discuss religion or politics and you are brave enough to do both. Thank you. I look forward to your next columns.

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written by Fletch , October 30, 2007

Tracy, you write pretty well for a young person. I encourage you to keep writing but check your facts and forget your agenda. True journalism is about finding the truth in everything, even when you don't like what that truth portrays.

In the end, Romney will do very well in this election and could possibly even be elected president. There will be plenty of columns exactly like yours, full of agenda driven devices. You may think you know what Mormon's are all about but I promise you, if you look a bit deeper, you'll find some wonderful things.

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written by Jason Turner , October 30, 2007

TracyT, you still seem to parrot and do nothing more than read what you think is "just enough" then proclaim it all entirely as fact and proof and nothing but the truth. In fact, I have read what you copied and pasted above before.

For the sake of journalism, just don't do that.

"It is just good to see that all the Mormon brothers are active in our community too (today). "

Are you really that bigoted that you can completely invalidate anything anyone has said by way of both fact checking, and constructive criticism on your writing and research by saying everyone who doesn't immediately follow or believe what you said as written as completely true must be a "Mormon brother"?

I myself am agnostic, but I sure as heck have done my research to know and understand much more of where they are coming from on things it seems. Including history.

I still don't think bigotry is your true colors, but just don't fall prey to it like so many others already have. Including a few here.

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written by Orange Guy , October 30, 2007

I would NEVER vote for a Mormon.

There's this Mormon guy who lives next door to me, and two weeks ago I caught that guy trying to put some of his trash into my garbage can because his was too full.

Do we really want people like that running our country?

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written by I am rational , October 30, 2007

I have seen allot of hate speech and opinion that are full of irrationality. However let’s just ask what we are afraid of? Most of America doesn’t even get involved in the political process. But let’s say that Mitt being Mormon is a concern. What is the concern? That he doesn’t drink or smoke? Damn I have taught that to my kids, even though I occasionally do. If he is trying to live a life with higher standards and fails occasionally at least he is better off for trying to implement portions of those values. The point that Mormons are different compared to most Christians. This seems to put a box around the candidates to only be Christian. Polygamy, I have read about this in detail and they do believe that it is a higher law they profess they will someday live. When you read about other cultures and even biblical prophets quite a few of them practiced this. I my self can only handle one wife, but am a little envious of David, Jacob and Abraham and how God blessed them with multiple wives. Muslims believe that Allah rewards in this fashion, so what, we all have some weird fantasies. However does this have anything to do with how he serves our country? I say if he has strong convictions and wants to make America a better country, then great. I haven’t looked into every issue with this guy. Or for that matter any of the other candidates. I usually let the press due all their mud slinging and then I dig deeper to the real issues. But being Mormon or agnostic doesn’t shed any light on their personal character or ability to lead. That’s what we really need, is someone that can articulate their thoughts and have a clear and rational mind, and has the ability to act in the best interest of the public. Good luck to all of us in finding the true character of any of them.

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written by Dem1954 , October 30, 2007

I have enjoyed the comments by the Dr. and Rational Guy, but I laughed at Orange Guy's humor. I hope that is what it is. There seems to be freaks in every classification of religion and or political party. But having a neighbor that uses your half empty can after you set it out? I laugh at what bothers people. Frankly you have control issues and need to let go of your need to police your garbage cans once they have been set out. I bet if you got your head out of your ass, and spoke to any of your neighbors the Mormon guy would be the one you would trust with your family. I think that is exactly the type of person we need running this country. Moreover, less fantical self absorbed garbage policing persons like both Bush's and both Clintons. Can we get a man or woman that can go against the huge lobby machine, is it possible? Morals or not we are in trouble in this country and we need to get real with what we want this country to be. Thanks Orange Guy for motivating me.

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written by Orange Guy , October 31, 2007

But the "garbage can incident" isn't even the half of it!

The dude trespasses and steals from me!

Last Tuesday, he mowed his lawn and some of his grass clipping blew into my yard. His loss, I figured. If he wanted them so badly, he wouldn't have let them blow off his property. But that ain't how he saw it. That mofo came at least two feet into my yard and took back my new grass clippings. And I'm also pretty sure that he also stole some of the grass clippings that came from my own grass when I mowed it three weeks ago. I left those clippings there for a reason, and he stole them! Then the spiteful SOB simply threw them in his trash can.

WTF?

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written by TracyT , October 31, 2007

Mitch,

Your'e giving "Journalistic advice" or 'religios advice" on a message board?

What the ...???

I put that there because someone said that he didn't run for President. The next time you second guess someone else's intentions... think again??? No!!!

I don't care if Mormons want to get involved. Good thing. But politicians are used to criticism. It is part of the process.

Take off your 'rose colored sunglasses and Get a grip! Mormons are not exempt, because they are 'nice' guys.

And the article should be called "Is America ready for a MORON president"?

Enough already!

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written by TracyT , October 31, 2007

I'm going to IHOP, anyone want pancakes?

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written by TracyT , October 31, 2007

The funny thing I've noticed about these message boards is that some people don't even bother to read the articles. They just read the post and hit the reply button. Was that you? Did you even bother to read the article. Like pancakes?

I am very observant and the other thing that I noticed is that whenever someone writes an article about an issue all of a sudden people come from everywhere to comment. When that happens you see two groups of people. One group who has no vested interest and a second group who has a vested interest. In this case you have Mormons as the group who has a vested interest.

Can you tell me why people would post on a message board who have a vested interest and claiming not to be affiliated? Invariably, it happens on here. You will see it if you spend enough time here.

Lots of people in the closset, coming out pretending to be someone else. I just like to ask the questions? Poke the story with a stick and see what comes out. Figuratively speaking.

It is interesting to see how many people reply criticism of the delivery method(s), but didn't bother to read. I am not just interested in stirring the pot. I also like to make people think. I hope to have accomplished that, at least, in some small way. It helps me to think about things too (albeit it out loud in a public forum). But, we are all in the same boat, figuratively speaking.

So, don't let it bother you too much.

And I would want you to please have a nice day!

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written by Jason Turner , October 31, 2007

From all of the responses I have read, I wasn't lead to believe that there were any who didn't read your article seeing as how most of the full bodied comments included quotes from your article.

I know that the LDS church is very much misunderstood, and for good reason. Competing churches who want to collect that fat "tithing" check each month and continue to live tax free hate the fact that the LDS church is taking so many of their sources of income. So, to circumvent that, they have put out all kinds of prejudice, half truths, and in many cases give it's doctrine out of context and let the question mark fly high in the sky as some sort of proof to look no further. The LDS must be some sort of cult and is to not be tolerated nor it's members ever given proper consideration, or a fair election in this case because look at what they do!

It only takes looking slightly further into things to find out what is really going on and what they are really doing with a given ritual or doctrine that competing churches have thrown out there with no frame of reference except for what they have been told by their own church as heretical and wrong.

My main problem is that the Mormon issue is an issue. It just should not be. Period.

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written by I am rational , October 31, 2007

Jason,

That was nicely put. And Tracy T's it is stimulating to conversate through this medium with you. I agree we can write with more courage, than we act in life with. I admire people that actually stand up in life, hope we all can rise to that occasion.

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written by TracyT , October 31, 2007

Mitch,

Sure why not, we have had Mormon politicians before. I have a lot of respect for the Mormon people that I know.

But before you accuse me...

I went to this church before and people seemed like nice "brothers" and "sisters". Then I woke up and figured out that it was all a hoax. Smith is a fraud. And people are really gullible believing someone could start his own church (complete with Polygamy) then all of a sudden like a lightening bolt hit 'em - his head lit up like a light bulb.

Smith, another prophet?

Actually that light bulb was a chance to announce that he was running for the office of the President of America. However, 'polygamy is bad' and so he ultimately denounced it.

At least, that was my take. So you see, Mitch, I already did my research.

But, you should see how people from LDS church treat the "disfellowshipped"? Think they are just nice people? Invite them in next time. Then when you ultimatly say, "NO!!!" They will never talk to you again. They will SHUN you, because your'e going to the "outer darkness".

I already asked the doctor. Is the "outer darkness" that is mentioned in the Book of Mormon the same "hell" that is mentioned in the bible? I've read both books too and just didn't draw the same conclusions. See my earlier comments about Smith. Again, my own conclusions.

But hey, try it Mitch! Do your own research! Invite them in! And then ask them to leave. See what happens. I am just sharing my experience. But don't take my word for it. You too should draw your own conclusions. I already did my research.

... take a look at yourself!

Your turn Mitch!

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written by TracyT , October 31, 2007

Anyway, all the best to everyone (mitch too). No hatred. No bitterness. Just asking questions that nobody likes. But maybe that's my job to ask questions, which is why I like politics so much. I like to probe the issues and share my experiences.

May the best prophet win.

(Come on lighten up, no pun intended)

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written by TracyT , October 31, 2007

Nicely put???

Competing churches who want to collect that fat "tithing" check each month and continue to live tax free hate the fact that the LDS church is taking so many of their sources of income. So, to circumvent that, they have put out all kinds of prejudice, half truths, and in many cases give it's doctrine out of context and let the question mark fly high in the sky as some sort of proof to look no further. The LDS must be some sort of cult and is to not be tolerated nor it's members ever given proper consideration, or a fair election in this case because look at what they do!

Laughing Out Loud!

I didn't know that they were competing??? Is that like a football rivalry or neighborhood gangs???

And, who are you people? Do you plan this stuff while spending time at the LDS? Where did you come up with this stuff? I've never heard that before. Lol.

I know that the LDS church is very much misunderstood, and for good reason.

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written by TracyT , October 31, 2007

Dear Miss Understood,

The Mormon faith believes that we should 'be perfect' - so, therefore in solidarity with the Mormon belief of "Being perfect", I will try to refrain from responding to these accusations and attempt not bringing any more railing accusations against other churches like LDS, in response to your response Mitch.

The reason; because I somewhat agree with the Mormon philosophy of 'being perfect'. (or, at least, my take on it; which would be, that we should at least attempt to 'be perfect'). I don't think that we will ever be perfect.

I do think that we ALL fall short of actually being perfect though. And, that is the Socratic, point that we are ALL missing here.

But, we can at least try:
Gen. 17:1
Deut. 18:13
Math. 5:48

I am still surprised that nobody else mentioned the IHOP incident. That was so rude to shun those people. I don't think they will soon forget about that.

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written by my2sense , November 01, 2007

Mormons are NOT Christians!

They are evil!

They are ALL going to Hell!

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written by Oranges and Bananas , November 01, 2007

THIS IS SO FUNNY

Actually, Mormons are not going to the same hell that your'e thinking about cauze their concept of hell is called "the outer darkness". And, you wouldn't want to go there? It's a bad place only reserved for Momons who leave the church, or go to a Christian church.

Only really, really, really bad Mormons go there. I am not sure if that is the ones with multiple wife? We'll actually that is illegal, but it still goes on in some Mormon houses. Contrary to what the Mormons who posted above believe. Don't believe that they don't go to the LDS either, simply not true. LDS cant stop people from having affairs or having a woman, or two, on the side. But apparently they do have blinders on.

Looks like they only repeat what they hear from their preachers, back east. But, if you go back to visit them you will see that there are mormons who practice a form of polygamy. I say "a form of Polygamy" because they just don't get married. That gets them around the legalities.

The other interesting thing that wasn't mentioned is that when there is a split in the Mormon church all the Mormons say that the other church members "are not Mormons". So they can continue to say "Yes, there are people who practice Polygamy, but they are not Mormons". Funny thing is that those "Mormons", who are not supposed to be "Mormons", say the same thing about the "Mormons", who said that the "Mormons" are not "Mormons". Make sense yet? Na!

But, wow, do they got their head's up their butts?

They really are convinced that everyone else is wrong and they got a really good answer which each one of them has studied for, like a high school exam. But if you spend time there you will see their fathers still go to the casinos and have affairs too. When they get back home from their business trips then they just keep pretending to be "perfect" again.

But, anyway the truth is that nobody is perfect except Jesus! So who cares where they go, right my2sense?

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written by Brittany Spanos , November 02, 2007

What do you mean by that, who cares?

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written by Oranges and Bananas , November 03, 2007

It was more of a question...Just trying to see if my2sense makes any sense?

But, I think that he is gone now.

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written by my2sense , November 03, 2007

No, you're gone! Dummy!

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written by concerned , November 04, 2007

this is like the rise of the nazis....
i dont trust mormons, moreover as our PRESIDENT.

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written by Unsightly , November 04, 2007

Can someone explain to me, what means this?


LDS scripture, Doctrine & Covenants 132:1 "Verily, thus saith the Lord unto you my servant Joseph, that inasmuch as you have inquired of my hand to know and understand wherein I, the Lord, justified my servants Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as also Moses, David and Solomon, my servants, as touching the principle and doctrine of their having many wives and concubines".

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written by my2sense , November 06, 2007

Don't worry about it, Unsightly.

Even Mormons, who are known for having low standards in women and multiple wives, wouldn't go for you.

Try going for a mentally retarded blind man. He'd be your only choice for a male companion.

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written by flaming_cow_doppelganger , November 06, 2007

Oh snap!

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written by Unsightly , November 08, 2007

m2s,

Uh-hu! Yeah right!

I see. You just like to talk trash about Blind Mormons. Here is something that you can think about, right up your alley, I'm sure!

==========================================

Cause?

LDS scripture, Doctrine & Covenants 132:1 "Verily, thus saith the Lord unto you my servant Joseph, that inasmuch as you have inquired of my hand to know and understand wherein I, the Lord, justified my servants Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as also Moses, David and Solomon, my servants, as touching the principle and doctrine of their having many wives and concubines".

Effect?

The leader of a polygamous sect insisted a 14-year-old girl surrender her "mind, body and soul" to an older cousin, despite her objections to being married, a prosecutor said Thursday.


Warren Jeffs, leader of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, is charged with rape by accomplice in the case. As his trial opened, prosecutors said he told the girl she risked salvation if she refused to enter a religious union with her 19-year-old cousin.


The girl first had sex with her cousin months after their ceremonial marriage in a Nevada motel, Washington County prosecutor Brock Belnap said. When she later complained to Jeffs, he replied: "'Repent. Go home and give yourself mind, body and soul to your husband.' And she did," Belnap said.

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written by george searing , November 08, 2007

first of all I would like to clear up some of the errors on the responces to many mormons and wanting many wifes. They do believe that its justthe US government said it was abhorant and to stop it. to join the Unionthey had to agree to do so and that is why they no longer practice it .But they like Islam belive if they are to get to the hightest heaven they will have many wifes in the next life ,Romney strives for the celestial kingdom ,therefore he is looking forward to having extra women someday. Thats why he gives 10% of his income so he can have his many wives. To everyone who really knows about Mormonism they are very aware that ALL mormons listen and OBEY their Prophet, much more so then the catholic and the Pope. A quote I have heard often is "When the Prophet has spoken the thinking has been done" just lke the Mormon song says "Follow the Prophet". If a TBM {true believing Mormon}like Romney gets in the oval office this country willbe run by the LDS church leaders in this case a 95 yr old man who thinks he is the only voice of god. not mcuh different than the crazy Islamists . Joseph Smith was a convicted felon in 1825, for trying to con people out of thier money using a seer stone to find buried treasure{ hall of records NYS}. This is all true and I know form where I speak as i was once a mormon 25yrs before learning the real history and actions of this phoney religion.

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written by Banana Man , November 09, 2007

He got you there, Unsightly.

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written by Jason Turner , November 09, 2007

So frankly put the author of this article is anti-Mormon and thereby biased, and in being so, is an enemy to the real truth. Thus why all of the gutter snipes are also still posting of likewise anti-Mormon rhetoric heard and debunked many many times before.

If you really think you "know the truth" about the LDS church and it is part of any sort of "conspiracy" then you really have no clue.

For the non-catholics out there, did you too believe the stuff in The Da Vinci code? I am not going to even be here to see the snide answers because frankly you have no credibility.

Spew your hate as much as you want TracyT, you will always be a mediocre journalist attracting the self-same ignorant bigots along with you in the cesspool that this comment thread has become.

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written by ExLDS , November 11, 2007

The next JS; is it JT?

"heard and debunked many many times before."

Or, "hearing voices and talking to oneself"?

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written by TracyT , November 12, 2007

Hate? LOL!

Your screws must be loose. Just asking questions. Which you really didn't answer.

But, while we are asking questions...
... I didn't see you in the cult when I was growing up.

So, now that we all know that you don't have all the facts.

What church did you grow up in that you are an expert on?

Hypocrite.

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written by TracyT , November 12, 2007

I see ya there Jason!

Or should I just call you, Orange Guy / Banana Man?




Your'e too funny... All three of you.

LOL!




But I hope you and your multiple personalities, Have a good day!

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written by carri , February 05, 2008

You cannot follow the Book of Mormon and the Bible.... They oppose each other. Actually the BOM opposes itself in many areas.. If you were allowed to research the history of your church you would already know that!!! If most Americans knew what the Mormons really believe they would be mortified. They believe they are the ONLY true church on the face of the earth. Just ask one... They believe the Bible was corrupted and changed by the Catholics etc. Those are claims that ,ainstream Christian churches do not believe. Those are just a few examples... Just read their history you will be amazed.

Good luck

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written by carri , February 05, 2008

By the way, Mormons still believe in polygamy. It is still taught as their scripture in their Doctrine of Covenants. They could not recieve statehood until they denounced it. So they sent all of these polygs to mexico, canada etc. As a matter of fact Romneys dad was born into polygamy in Mexico. Anyways a Mormon mans polyg journey starts here on earth. They are sealed to a wife in the temple and when she dies and he re-marries again in the temple he is sealed to both. One in heaven and one on earth. Then when he gets to heaven he will have both and all of the kids from both of them. It is true b/c I am a Mormon. Been there done that!