DiscussMormonism.com

I was hoping to get some input as to what you all feel is important to include when informing non-members about Mormonism. In other words, so they will have a total picture of the LDS church. information that could be contained in a brief discussion and later elaborated on if needed. Thanks!

Ask them if they've seen the news on the FLDS in Texas. If they say yes, tell them that is one branch of Mormonism. That sould be all they need to hear.

Send them to MADB.

msnobody wrote:I was hoping to get some input as to what you all feel is important to include when informing non-members about Mormonism. In other words, so they will have a total picture of the LDS church. information that could be contained in a brief discussion and later elaborated on if needed. Thanks!

"Total Picture"? Can't be done in a brief discussion. There is too much to talk about. Besides.... there is still much of the picture that hasn't been published yet. Are you more concerned about teaching them Mormon doctrine or history?

It would depend on the audience. Obviously a religious nonMormon might be interested in the doctrinal stuff but a secular critic would be more interested in the more current issues, Like Mormonism and Prop 8 or perhaps other social issues within Mormonism. Know your audience.

Mike Reed wrote:

msnobody wrote:I was hoping to get some input as to what you all feel is important to include when informing non-members about Mormonism. In other words, so they will have a total picture of the LDS church. information that could be contained in a brief discussion and later elaborated on if needed. Thanks!

"Total Picture"? Can't be done in a brief discussion. There is too much to talk about. Besides.... there is still much of the picture that hasn't been published yet. Are you more concerned about teaching them Mormon doctrine or history?

Probably mostly doctrine and a little history. Enough to encourage a person to check further into it should they be considering visiting or joining. And, you're right it is a big ball of wax.

msnobody wrote:Probably mostly doctrine and a little history. Enough to encourage a person to check further into it should they be considering visiting or joining. And, you're right it is a big ball of wax.

I am assuming that they are currently being visited by the missionaries and/or attending church meetings? Oh... and what religion is your friend?

I think that one of the main issues that investigators need to be aware of is that Mormonism is a culture. It is not simply a Church you go to on Sunday. There is a tremendous commitment that goes along with being a member of the Church. Callings can take up as much time, or more, than a full-time job.

When you join the LDS Church, you are committing to a culture, a lifestyle...and they need to understand all that that lifestyle entails with their eyes wide open.

liz3564 wrote:I think that one of the main issues that investigators need to be aware of is that Mormonism is a culture. It is not simply a Church you go to on Sunday. There is a tremendous commitment that goes along with being a member of the Church. Callings can take up as much time, or more, than a full-time job.

When you join the LDS Church, you are committing to a culture, a lifestyle...and they need to understand all that that lifestyle entails with their eyes wide open.

Agreed. And I would try to be as balanced as possible, mentioning that some people find a great deal of fulfillment in that culture, and also that that same culture can bring some significant struggles. Breaking ties with a culture can be a very painful experience, so it would be in their best interest to consider very carefully their decision, and be sure Mormonism works for them.

I suggest having them prayerfully read the Book of Mormon. If it is a farce you have little to worry about.