An Open Letter to Europe Area Presidency

[_Drifting]

So, which are the obviously "true" claims of Mormonism?

Joseph Smith lived.
The Book of Mormon is a book.
Thomas Monson leads the church today.

You sure about that third one...?

[_badseed]

Defenders of the Church frequently point out that it is not their responsibility to present negative information about the Church. What else is that other than an admission that they are presenting "half-truths"?

Well stated!

Right. Personally though I don't even expect the Church to present the less that pretty parts of LDS doctrine and history— much less lead with them. Would it be a good thing if they were discussed? Sure.

But how about at least ending the fear mongering, the talks in Conference warning of the Internet and the letters from the hierarchy telling LDS to avoid information outside what the Church approves. You don't have to present it. Just don't discourage members from using any and all sources they need to and from making their own decisions about truth claims.

I've beat this quote to death but still find that it says it all pretty well:
"Thoughts and expressions compete in the marketplace of thought, and in that competition truth emerges triumphant. Only error fears freedom of expression."

-Elder Hugh B. Brown