On February 21 2014 08:58 SupplyBlockedTV wrote: Two young guys came knocking at my door...i live in belgium, so im not very familiar with mormons..but after some googling it appears they do these kind of things alot.
Problem is im the kind of guy that has a hard time to simply say "no". Especially since i live in a city that is pretty hostile, people keep to themselves here. So it was a change of scenery to see two well-dressed guys, a few years younger then me knocking at my door and being more polite then anyone i have spoken to in ages. They asked if they could return sunday to talk about their faith..they also said they have a book to give, but that its entirely free and that they just wanted to give some information together with the book (book of mormons????).
My first thought when they came knocking at my door was that they were out on my money, so i was suprised when they said they had no such intentions...people in this day and age dont go from door to door without getting something in return, you never see that.
Maybe you american TL'ers got more experience with them? I also dont know why these guys are in belgium, when the religion is based on some american dude? They did have an english accent, it was very noticable. What will they tell me? Are they going to try and convert me? I dont believe in religion...yea maybe there is something out there, but im sure as hell not going to waste my time worshipping something that "might be".
Whats the polite way to not offend them without promising them that you will go to their church or whatever?
I dont hate these guys, i admire what they are doing, they seem very polite and if more people in my city were like these guys it sure as hell would be a better place. Its just that im a busy man and i really have no time for what is more then likely religious bullshit. How do you usually deal with these guys in america?
on the side note: Having many wives does seem like a good idea haha!
Hi. Former mormon (from birth till I was about 22 years old - 25 now).
Essentially, you can ask them to not come back politely, and they'll understand. The only thing is that I can't guarantee someone won't be back in a year or so. Some of them do door-to-door, others may have recommendations pouring out their ears that they don't need to go door-to-door. It sounds like you got the latter, which means they'll be back - Not them in particular, but another pair will be back. I don't know when, but they will be.
So my answer is: Just tell them you're not interested. Don't try to challenge their beliefs because the more you ask about them, the more likely they're going to return. If you've already ask some questions, chances are they'll keep coming back. You just have to be direct with them and let them know you would appreciate it if they didn't come back simply because you're not interested, but if you are, you will give them or the local bishop a heads up.
Yeah, nice guys I bet though. I have a had several friends go on missions, and have been called all sorts of things. I understand that people get annoyed with them, but see it from their side: They're a million miles from home trying to accomplish a goal set forth for them for the next two years. They have little to no contact with their families, and they can't even give females hugs. I know you're annoyed, but the nicer you are to them, and the more direct you are about them not showing up again, the easier it will be for both parties.
If they keep showing up every week though, I think the best thing to do is to get stern with them. No one should put up with that shit, even if they are in a situation that may not seem too great.
Hey thanks for the advice. Yea i can imagine they are sacrificing alot to do this. And i can imagine alot of people being very rude to them...its probably requires alot of mental stamina to do what they do. Ill just be honest to them in a polite manner. Or maybe they'll want to play some starcraft and grab some beers. :D
Current Mormon and former Mormon Missionary here, I also have a younger brother who is currently doing a mission in Japan (we're from the United States), hopefully my perspective will be useful to you. I know that religion can be a sensitive, and somewhat inflammatory subject, so I'll try to be neutral.
Those two boys that came by your house are among a few thousand other Mormon missionaries that are on similar trips all over the world. They leave their homes for 18-24 months, and, at their own expense, travel to a (usually) far away place to help spread the word. Many of these missionaries travel to foreign countries, and speak new languages. Those that need to learn a new language receive 9-12 weeks of training and a small training center located in Provo, Utah USA, adjacent to the Mormon owned Brigham Young University. Throughout their Missions, these young men devote 100% of their time and attention to doing exactly what they did when they met you, going around and talking to people about religion. Obviously their main goal is to find people who are interested in joining the Mormon church, and helping them through the process, but they aren't going to fight with you about it. If you want to spend some time with them and just get some more information, maybe to clear up a few of the many, many, untrue rumors you'll find when you start to Google "Mormonism" (like the practice referenced in this thread about multiple wives. Something that Mormons haven't participated in for over 100 years) I'm sure they would be happy to chat about that. Even if you just wanted to talk about America, they'll do that too. You don't have to worry about them trying to hustle, brainwash, or pester you. If you tell them to stop coming by, they'll do it. Above all else, you will find them to be polite and well behaved. They honestly believe that they have something to share that can help you out. If you're not into it, they will respect your wishes and leave you alone.
Also, if you're looking for information about what being a Mormon is all about, you should check out the official Mormon website: www.mormon.org
^ I've met a lot of Mormons in my area and talked with a lot of them about their lives and missions and stuff like that. Although I can say I don't agree with their beliefs, you have to recognize the incredible level of organization The Church of The Latter Day Saints has. These missionaries have things like cars, bikes, and other vehicles that are managed by the organization; people are sent all over the world to spread their beliefs; they are specifically trained in this one place for only a few weeks in order to handle EVERYTHING in the place they're traveling to; etc., the list goes on.
It's such a united and concentrated effort and it's amazing.
I have some friends who were mormons and I didnt find out until they invited us to a chinese new year church party. I knew they were religious but I didn't know it was mormon that they believed in. And the whole party didn't mention a word of the mormon.
I believe the people in mormons are really nice, they often chat you up when they see you sitting alone etc. But I really don't believe in the religion at all, especially because of their origin.
I actually met alot of Mormons through another gaming community I used to be a part of and they were all really awesome people. I've had some discussions with them before and I find myself questioning the origins of their religion and the book of Mormons authenticity, but I feel there is plenty of good we can learn from them, they are probably the best religion in terms of focusing on good family values which is a legit building block for a happy and healthy society.
On February 21 2014 09:46 ninazerg wrote: First of all, all religions are scams. Like any scam, they pretend to ask for nothing, and promise you everything. The easiest way to avoid people is to pretend to not be home. They will knock on the door for awhile then walk away. If you accidentally open the door, simply invite them in for some coffee or soup or something. They will refuse at first because they are instructed not to enter people's houses, but be friendly and insist they do. Have them sit down in the living room and just start chatting with them about this and that, and be friendly. They will be very nervous and wonder what the hell you are doing. Then, simply say "Hey, how about we watch a movie together?" and they will say "No, we simply must get going." and you reply with "I'm going to be honest... I haven't many friends. I really enjoy your company and I promise I will come to church next sunday if you watch a movie with me." Once they finally agree, go to your DVD collection, and pick out "A Serbian Film" and pop it into your DVD player. Hand both of them a bowl of popcorn and tell them to enjoy your favorite film with you.
They will never return.
Is this how you treat guys who are chasing after you too? hahahahaha
Out of most religions, mormons are pretty cool. Very kind, family oriented people, at least the ones I've met. If you want more information, don't go to the mormon website.. there's a great episode of south park that explains it all, and has a great message at the end.
On February 21 2014 09:22 SupplyBlockedTV wrote: Ah damn..ok...then i definatly dont want to become mormom...might have considered it if i could have many wives! :D
Ah well, ill just listen to their story and at the end thank them for coming and say bye, i guess in the end its a good experience to see how these people are living and how they view the world.
I'd say this is the right approach. Even if you're sure you won't convert, that doesn't have to be the only relevant end-result of a conversation, right? Talk to them, be friendly if they are, and you'll learn more about the world and the people in it.
They come back sometimes in Canada. As everyone else has said, they're actually fairly nice to talk to. You don't have to believe their religion to get along with them.
(...) Mormons have a health code that eschews alcoholic beverages, tobacco, coffee, tea, and other addictive substances. (...) Mormons also have a strict law of chastity, requiring abstention from sexual relations outside of marriage and strict fidelity within marriage. (...) Mormons also oppose addictive behavior such as viewing pornography and gambling.
Does that sound fun to you?
And one more thing: if you really think that having more than one wife is cool, you should probably think again. The only way a man can be really happy with two women at the same time is when they don't know about each other.
On February 21 2014 09:46 ninazerg wrote: First of all, all religions are scams. Like any scam, they pretend to ask for nothing, and promise you everything. The easiest way to avoid people is to pretend to not be home. They will knock on the door for awhile then walk away. If you accidentally open the door, simply invite them in for some coffee or soup or something. They will refuse at first because they are instructed not to enter people's houses, but be friendly and insist they do. Have them sit down in the living room and just start chatting with them about this and that, and be friendly. They will be very nervous and wonder what the hell you are doing. Then, simply say "Hey, how about we watch a movie together?" and they will say "No, we simply must get going." and you reply with "I'm going to be honest... I haven't many friends. I really enjoy your company and I promise I will come to church next sunday if you watch a movie with me." Once they finally agree, go to your DVD collection, and pick out "A Serbian Film" and pop it into your DVD player. Hand both of them a bowl of popcorn and tell them to enjoy your favorite film with you.
They will never return.
Haha, awesome idea!
I would recommend „There will be blood“..
Even the happiest being in the world will feel bad after watching this movie (+its looong)…
On February 21 2014 08:58 SupplyBlockedTV wrote: Two young guys came knocking at my door...i live in belgium, so im not very familiar with mormons..but after some googling it appears they do these kind of things alot.
Problem is im the kind of guy that has a hard time to simply say "no". Especially since i live in a city that is pretty hostile, people keep to themselves here. So it was a change of scenery to see two well-dressed guys, a few years younger then me knocking at my door and being more polite then anyone i have spoken to in ages. They asked if they could return sunday to talk about their faith..they also said they have a book to give, but that its entirely free and that they just wanted to give some information together with the book (book of mormons????).
My first thought when they came knocking at my door was that they were out on my money, so i was suprised when they said they had no such intentions...people in this day and age dont go from door to door without getting something in return, you never see that.
Maybe you american TL'ers got more experience with them? I also dont know why these guys are in belgium, when the religion is based on some american dude? They did have an english accent, it was very noticable. What will they tell me? Are they going to try and convert me? I dont believe in religion...yea maybe there is something out there, but im sure as hell not going to waste my time worshipping something that "might be".
Whats the polite way to not offend them without promising them that you will go to their church or whatever?
I dont hate these guys, i admire what they are doing, they seem very polite and if more people in my city were like these guys it sure as hell would be a better place. Its just that im a busy man and i really have no time for what is more then likely religious bullshit. How do you usually deal with these guys in america?
on the side note: Having many wives does seem like a good idea haha!
Hi. Former mormon (from birth till I was about 22 years old - 25 now).
Essentially, you can ask them to not come back politely, and they'll understand. The only thing is that I can't guarantee someone won't be back in a year or so. Some of them do door-to-door, others may have recommendations pouring out their ears that they don't need to go door-to-door. It sounds like you got the latter, which means they'll be back - Not them in particular, but another pair will be back. I don't know when, but they will be.
So my answer is: Just tell them you're not interested. Don't try to challenge their beliefs because the more you ask about them, the more likely they're going to return. If you've already ask some questions, chances are they'll keep coming back. You just have to be direct with them and let them know you would appreciate it if they didn't come back simply because you're not interested, but if you are, you will give them or the local bishop a heads up.
Yeah, nice guys I bet though. I have a had several friends go on missions, and have been called all sorts of things. I understand that people get annoyed with them, but see it from their side: They're a million miles from home trying to accomplish a goal set forth for them for the next two years. They have little to no contact with their families, and they can't even give females hugs. I know you're annoyed, but the nicer you are to them, and the more direct you are about them not showing up again, the easier it will be for both parties.
If they keep showing up every week though, I think the best thing to do is to get stern with them. No one should put up with that shit, even if they are in a situation that may not seem too great.
Hey thanks for the advice. Yea i can imagine they are sacrificing alot to do this. And i can imagine alot of people being very rude to them...its probably requires alot of mental stamina to do what they do. Ill just be honest to them in a polite manner. Or maybe they'll want to play some starcraft and grab some beers. :D
Current Mormon and former Mormon Missionary here, I also have a younger brother who is currently doing a mission in Japan (we're from the United States), hopefully my perspective will be useful to you. I know that religion can be a sensitive, and somewhat inflammatory subject, so I'll try to be neutral.
Those two boys that came by your house are among a few thousand other Mormon missionaries that are on similar trips all over the world. They leave their homes for 18-24 months, and, at their own expense, travel to a (usually) far away place to help spread the word. Many of these missionaries travel to foreign countries, and speak new languages. Those that need to learn a new language receive 9-12 weeks of training and a small training center located in Provo, Utah USA, adjacent to the Mormon owned Brigham Young University. Throughout their Missions, these young men devote 100% of their time and attention to doing exactly what they did when they met you, going around and talking to people about religion. Obviously their main goal is to find people who are interested in joining the Mormon church, and helping them through the process, but they aren't going to fight with you about it. If you want to spend some time with them and just get some more information, maybe to clear up a few of the many, many, untrue rumors you'll find when you start to Google "Mormonism" (like the practice referenced in this thread about multiple wives. Something that Mormons haven't participated in for over 100 years) I'm sure they would be happy to chat about that. Even if you just wanted to talk about America, they'll do that too. You don't have to worry about them trying to hustle, brainwash, or pester you. If you tell them to stop coming by, they'll do it. Above all else, you will find them to be polite and well behaved. They honestly believe that they have something to share that can help you out. If you're not into it, they will respect your wishes and leave you alone.
Also, if you're looking for information about what being a Mormon is all about, you should check out the official Mormon website: www.mormon.org
Thanks!
I did watch this vice documentary about a mormon colony...but it was pretty grim, with this manson type guy in prison giving out orders (or edicts as they called it). Im pretty sure that this probably only applies to 0.00000001% of mormons, and its probably a very one sided view of mormonism. You know, after i saw the documentary i was also convinced that mormons wernt allowed to go on the internet! But you are living proof that this is simply not true. So sure, lets hear their story, i want to know what its actually about, and not the stuff the media feeds us.
Religion, even if i do not believe in it, but if it results in very polite and honest people, yea sure, why not? In the end if religion were to have a goal, it should still be to create a better world, and from what i see so far, mormonism does this a hell of a lot better then most other religions. I wouldnt mind my kids (if i had them) to be mormons if it would mean they would grow up to be polite young men with a mission in life who dont do drugs or drink alcohol. Respect to you guys.
On February 21 2014 08:58 SupplyBlockedTV wrote: Two young guys came knocking at my door...i live in belgium, so im not very familiar with mormons..but after some googling it appears they do these kind of things alot.
Problem is im the kind of guy that has a hard time to simply say "no". Especially since i live in a city that is pretty hostile, people keep to themselves here. So it was a change of scenery to see two well-dressed guys, a few years younger then me knocking at my door and being more polite then anyone i have spoken to in ages. They asked if they could return sunday to talk about their faith..they also said they have a book to give, but that its entirely free and that they just wanted to give some information together with the book (book of mormons????).
My first thought when they came knocking at my door was that they were out on my money, so i was suprised when they said they had no such intentions...people in this day and age dont go from door to door without getting something in return, you never see that.
Maybe you american TL'ers got more experience with them? I also dont know why these guys are in belgium, when the religion is based on some american dude? They did have an english accent, it was very noticable. What will they tell me? Are they going to try and convert me? I dont believe in religion...yea maybe there is something out there, but im sure as hell not going to waste my time worshipping something that "might be".
Whats the polite way to not offend them without promising them that you will go to their church or whatever?
I dont hate these guys, i admire what they are doing, they seem very polite and if more people in my city were like these guys it sure as hell would be a better place. Its just that im a busy man and i really have no time for what is more then likely religious bullshit. How do you usually deal with these guys in america?
on the side note: Having many wives does seem like a good idea haha!
Hi. Former mormon (from birth till I was about 22 years old - 25 now).
Essentially, you can ask them to not come back politely, and they'll understand. The only thing is that I can't guarantee someone won't be back in a year or so. Some of them do door-to-door, others may have recommendations pouring out their ears that they don't need to go door-to-door. It sounds like you got the latter, which means they'll be back - Not them in particular, but another pair will be back. I don't know when, but they will be.
So my answer is: Just tell them you're not interested. Don't try to challenge their beliefs because the more you ask about them, the more likely they're going to return. If you've already ask some questions, chances are they'll keep coming back. You just have to be direct with them and let them know you would appreciate it if they didn't come back simply because you're not interested, but if you are, you will give them or the local bishop a heads up.
Yeah, nice guys I bet though. I have a had several friends go on missions, and have been called all sorts of things. I understand that people get annoyed with them, but see it from their side: They're a million miles from home trying to accomplish a goal set forth for them for the next two years. They have little to no contact with their families, and they can't even give females hugs. I know you're annoyed, but the nicer you are to them, and the more direct you are about them not showing up again, the easier it will be for both parties.
If they keep showing up every week though, I think the best thing to do is to get stern with them. No one should put up with that shit, even if they are in a situation that may not seem too great.
Hey thanks for the advice. Yea i can imagine they are sacrificing alot to do this. And i can imagine alot of people being very rude to them...its probably requires alot of mental stamina to do what they do. Ill just be honest to them in a polite manner. Or maybe they'll want to play some starcraft and grab some beers. :D
Current Mormon and former Mormon Missionary here, I also have a younger brother who is currently doing a mission in Japan (we're from the United States), hopefully my perspective will be useful to you. I know that religion can be a sensitive, and somewhat inflammatory subject, so I'll try to be neutral.
Those two boys that came by your house are among a few thousand other Mormon missionaries that are on similar trips all over the world. They leave their homes for 18-24 months, and, at their own expense, travel to a (usually) far away place to help spread the word. Many of these missionaries travel to foreign countries, and speak new languages. Those that need to learn a new language receive 9-12 weeks of training and a small training center located in Provo, Utah USA, adjacent to the Mormon owned Brigham Young University. Throughout their Missions, these young men devote 100% of their time and attention to doing exactly what they did when they met you, going around and talking to people about religion. Obviously their main goal is to find people who are interested in joining the Mormon church, and helping them through the process, but they aren't going to fight with you about it. If you want to spend some time with them and just get some more information, maybe to clear up a few of the many, many, untrue rumors you'll find when you start to Google "Mormonism" (like the practice referenced in this thread about multiple wives. Something that Mormons haven't participated in for over 100 years) I'm sure they would be happy to chat about that. Even if you just wanted to talk about America, they'll do that too. You don't have to worry about them trying to hustle, brainwash, or pester you. If you tell them to stop coming by, they'll do it. Above all else, you will find them to be polite and well behaved. They honestly believe that they have something to share that can help you out. If you're not into it, they will respect your wishes and leave you alone.
Also, if you're looking for information about what being a Mormon is all about, you should check out the official Mormon website: www.mormon.org
Thanks!
I did watch this vice documentary about a mormon colony...but it was pretty grim, with this manson type guy in prison giving out orders (or edicts as they called it). Im pretty sure that this probably only applies to 0.00000001% of mormons, and its probably a very one sided view of mormonism. You know, after i saw the documentary i was also convinced that mormons wernt allowed to go on the internet! But you are living proof that this is simply not true. So sure, lets hear their story, i want to know what its actually about, and not the stuff the media feeds us.
Religion, even if i do not believe in it, but if it results in very polite and honest people, yea sure, why not? In the end if religion were to have a goal, it should still be to create a better world, and from what i see so far, mormonism does this a hell of a lot better then most other religions. I wouldnt mind my kids (if i had them) to be mormons if it would mean they would grow up to be polite young men with a mission in life who dont do drugs or drink alcohol. Respect to you guys.
On February 22 2014 00:05 farvacola wrote: Yeah Warren Jeffs represents a tiny minority of Mormons, though they are a scary lot.
Just to clarify, Warren Jeffs(the "manson" guy form that movie) is not a Mormon. Neither is the group depicted in that documentary. That is a group called "The Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints." I know the two names are similar, but that is about it. There are several other splinter groups that have left Mormonism and done their own thing. Most of those groups are very far removed from Mormonism, this group in particular. They are in no way affiliated with the Mormon church, and many of the things the believe are in direct contradiction to the beliefs of most Mormons. I can't stress this separation enough.
I really respect your open mind. Ultimately, you hit the nail on the head. More than anything else, I think Mormonism is about people trying to be the very best that they can be, and helping others along the way. The Mormon church is one of the largest humanitarian organizations in the world, and and every scale (local, national, global) we really do our best to help those in need. Its the right thing to do.
If you meet with those missionaries again, be sure to tell them the story about how you met a Mormon on an Starcraft Message Board. I'm sure they'll get a kick out of that.
On February 21 2014 08:58 SupplyBlockedTV wrote: Two young guys came knocking at my door...i live in belgium, so im not very familiar with mormons..but after some googling it appears they do these kind of things alot.
Problem is im the kind of guy that has a hard time to simply say "no". Especially since i live in a city that is pretty hostile, people keep to themselves here. So it was a change of scenery to see two well-dressed guys, a few years younger then me knocking at my door and being more polite then anyone i have spoken to in ages. They asked if they could return sunday to talk about their faith..they also said they have a book to give, but that its entirely free and that they just wanted to give some information together with the book (book of mormons????).
My first thought when they came knocking at my door was that they were out on my money, so i was suprised when they said they had no such intentions...people in this day and age dont go from door to door without getting something in return, you never see that.
Maybe you american TL'ers got more experience with them? I also dont know why these guys are in belgium, when the religion is based on some american dude? They did have an english accent, it was very noticable. What will they tell me? Are they going to try and convert me? I dont believe in religion...yea maybe there is something out there, but im sure as hell not going to waste my time worshipping something that "might be".
Whats the polite way to not offend them without promising them that you will go to their church or whatever?
I dont hate these guys, i admire what they are doing, they seem very polite and if more people in my city were like these guys it sure as hell would be a better place. Its just that im a busy man and i really have no time for what is more then likely religious bullshit. How do you usually deal with these guys in america?
on the side note: Having many wives does seem like a good idea haha!
Hi. Former mormon (from birth till I was about 22 years old - 25 now).
Essentially, you can ask them to not come back politely, and they'll understand. The only thing is that I can't guarantee someone won't be back in a year or so. Some of them do door-to-door, others may have recommendations pouring out their ears that they don't need to go door-to-door. It sounds like you got the latter, which means they'll be back - Not them in particular, but another pair will be back. I don't know when, but they will be.
So my answer is: Just tell them you're not interested. Don't try to challenge their beliefs because the more you ask about them, the more likely they're going to return. If you've already ask some questions, chances are they'll keep coming back. You just have to be direct with them and let them know you would appreciate it if they didn't come back simply because you're not interested, but if you are, you will give them or the local bishop a heads up.
Yeah, nice guys I bet though. I have a had several friends go on missions, and have been called all sorts of things. I understand that people get annoyed with them, but see it from their side: They're a million miles from home trying to accomplish a goal set forth for them for the next two years. They have little to no contact with their families, and they can't even give females hugs. I know you're annoyed, but the nicer you are to them, and the more direct you are about them not showing up again, the easier it will be for both parties.
If they keep showing up every week though, I think the best thing to do is to get stern with them. No one should put up with that shit, even if they are in a situation that may not seem too great.
Hey thanks for the advice. Yea i can imagine they are sacrificing alot to do this. And i can imagine alot of people being very rude to them...its probably requires alot of mental stamina to do what they do. Ill just be honest to them in a polite manner. Or maybe they'll want to play some starcraft and grab some beers. :D
Current Mormon and former Mormon Missionary here, I also have a younger brother who is currently doing a mission in Japan (we're from the United States), hopefully my perspective will be useful to you. I know that religion can be a sensitive, and somewhat inflammatory subject, so I'll try to be neutral.
Those two boys that came by your house are among a few thousand other Mormon missionaries that are on similar trips all over the world. They leave their homes for 18-24 months, and, at their own expense, travel to a (usually) far away place to help spread the word. Many of these missionaries travel to foreign countries, and speak new languages. Those that need to learn a new language receive 9-12 weeks of training and a small training center located in Provo, Utah USA, adjacent to the Mormon owned Brigham Young University. Throughout their Missions, these young men devote 100% of their time and attention to doing exactly what they did when they met you, going around and talking to people about religion. Obviously their main goal is to find people who are interested in joining the Mormon church, and helping them through the process, but they aren't going to fight with you about it. If you want to spend some time with them and just get some more information, maybe to clear up a few of the many, many, untrue rumors you'll find when you start to Google "Mormonism" (like the practice referenced in this thread about multiple wives. Something that Mormons haven't participated in for over 100 years) I'm sure they would be happy to chat about that. Even if you just wanted to talk about America, they'll do that too. You don't have to worry about them trying to hustle, brainwash, or pester you. If you tell them to stop coming by, they'll do it. Above all else, you will find them to be polite and well behaved. They honestly believe that they have something to share that can help you out. If you're not into it, they will respect your wishes and leave you alone.
Also, if you're looking for information about what being a Mormon is all about, you should check out the official Mormon website: www.mormon.org
Thanks!
I did watch this vice documentary about a mormon colony...but it was pretty grim, with this manson type guy in prison giving out orders (or edicts as they called it). Im pretty sure that this probably only applies to 0.00000001% of mormons, and its probably a very one sided view of mormonism. You know, after i saw the documentary i was also convinced that mormons wernt allowed to go on the internet! But you are living proof that this is simply not true. So sure, lets hear their story, i want to know what its actually about, and not the stuff the media feeds us.
Religion, even if i do not believe in it, but if it results in very polite and honest people, yea sure, why not? In the end if religion were to have a goal, it should still be to create a better world, and from what i see so far, mormonism does this a hell of a lot better then most other religions. I wouldnt mind my kids (if i had them) to be mormons if it would mean they would grow up to be polite young men with a mission in life who dont do drugs or drink alcohol. Respect to you guys.
On February 22 2014 00:05 farvacola wrote: Yeah Warren Jeffs represents a tiny minority of Mormons, though they are a scary lot.
Just to clarify, Warren Jeffs(the "manson" guy form that movie) is not a Mormon. Neither is the group depicted in that documentary. That is a group called "The Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints." I know the two names are similar, but that is about it. There are several other splinter groups that have left Mormonism and done their own thing. Most of those groups are very far removed from Mormonism, this group in particular. They are in no way affiliated with the Mormon church, and many of the things the believe are in direct contradiction to the beliefs of most Mormons. I can't stress this separation enough.
I really respect your open mind. Ultimately, you hit the nail on the head. More than anything else, I think Mormonism is about people trying to be the very best that they can be, and helping others along the way. The Mormon church is one of the largest humanitarian organizations in the world, and and every scale (local, national, global) we really do our best to help those in need. Its the right thing to do.
If you meet with those missionaries again, be sure to tell them the story about how you met a Mormon on an Starcraft Message Board. I'm sure they'll get a kick out of that.
Good luck.
Even then, it is a sect of Mormonism. Just a sect that modern day Mormons dont want to be associated with due to bad press.
Basically, Warren Jeff follows a more strict version of Mormonism. He follows what Mormonism was originally. He stays true to the original fundamentals of the Mormon church.
However, since originally, Mormonism was an extremely racist religion, that also encouraged its members to part-take in illegal activities (multiple wives is illegal in the US), so the Mormon church has since, started removing rules from the religion so that it can gain more followers who are willing to give their money to the church.
Originally, Mormonism preached that all people with Dark skin, were sinners. This was the mark of Cain, the punishment for Cain's having killed his brother. Up until 50 years ago, people with dark skin were LITERALLY not allowed in the Mormon religion, because they were "evil".
The multiple wives thing, was also a major part of Mormonism, as Joseph Smith wanted multiple wives, and it was a time in history when there was a great disparity between number of men+women so he figured, if they werent going to marry anyone else, he should be able to have as many as he wanted.
But basically, over the past 50 years, the Mormon church came under fire for these beliefs, and just sort of cut them out of the book. And stopped believing them (how long ago was the civil rights movement again ;] ) Because racism was no longer appreciated by the masses.
And if you want to know the origin of Mormonism: Joseph Smith, "found" golden plates, left behind by God (in Mormonism, they believe-or maybe used to believe- that North America, is actually where a lot of Christian activity originated, and not in the Middle East. Anyways, Jo Smith found these Golden Plates, that were basically an addendum to the Bible.
Then Jo Smith dictated what was on these plates, to his business partner. Spouting that he found these missing chapters of the Bible. Jo's partner never saw the plates, and they mysteriously disappeared after Jo Smith had his Book of Mormon written.
What isnt talked about is Jo Smith was a known fanatic, and was on the run due to being wanted for crimes, and needed help getting across the country, which is why he needed his Mormon army. (The story is EERILY similar to the origin of Islam.)
Bonus Fact: In Mormonism, every man can achieve God-hood. Basically our God is just one God of millions of Gods. If you are a good Mormon, you are eventually given your own universe to rule, as God.
Also magic underwear. (its a really weird rule about what kind of clothes you should wear under your clothes).
Source: Ive studied Mormonism, my uncle was a bishop in a Mormon church.
EPT
