The Original Intent
You may or may not know, but I am a Mormon, that is, a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. My faith is a huge part of who I am, and I initially wanted this blog to focus on my faith and how it affects my life. Then I found I had more to say about leadership, business and relationships. So I switched focus just a little.
Hybrid Blog
Well now I'd like to marry the two. I've had several friends ask me questions about my faith and various beliefs thereof. If I get asked these questions fairly regularly, even more of you probably have questions as well.
Those Crazy Mormons
So I want to start a weekend post series devoted to explaining Mormon doctrines, practices and culture
.
Here's what I envision:
I have been asked all sorts of questions about my faith, the doctrine, rumors, the culture, etc. I want I answer those questions.
I'd also love to answer any questions that YOU might have.
And if you're a Latter-day Saint and you HEAR a good, crazy (or amusing) question, send it to me and we'll take a look at 'er.
No White Shirt and Tie
I think it is important for me to say as well, I am not doing this to convert you. I was a missionary for my Church, but I am no longer wearing the white shirt and tie every day, I dont have my black name tag on, and I haven't rode a bike in over a year! So please don't feel like I am trying to convince you that I am right and you are wrong. I am simply sharing the beliefs that bring me great joy and happiness so that you can understand where I am coming from!
Ground Rules
Here are the ground rules:1. No Questions off limits. Ask whatever questions you are curious about. There are, of course, some things that we, as members, do not discuss (i.e. temple ceremonies), but if you ask the question, I will answer what I can.
2. Civility. The purpose of this series will be to foster understanding and dialog between all of us, because of this, I would ask that the conversations and comments remain civil and uplifting. Attacks, derogatory remarks, etc will not be tolerated in the comments (I don't think I have to worry about that with you guys, you rock!)
3. I reserve the right To answer or not answer the questions I choose. I also reserve the right to censor insulting, derogatory, and/or inflamatory comments.
With that being said, I hope these posts will be informative to you and begin a dialog between us that will leave to mutual respect and understanding.
If you are one who reads my blog during the week and do not wish to participate in this weekend series, that is certainly your choice, but please still visit during the week for the regularly scheduled leadership, business and relationship posts!
So tweet me or comment on the Ask A Mormon page with any questions you have about Mormons and we'll talk about it!!
Question: How do you think such dialog will benefit Christians of varying denominations?
Twitter: @Skropp2
Great idea, Mark! As you know, I am firmly planted in my faith but I always think it's a great idea to learn about how others believe. I think it will give those of us with little knowledge about LDS a better understanding of it but also maybe shut down some rumors or innuendos that are out there about Mormons. Looking forward to reading more and asking my own questions.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the reply Chris. I'm glad that you have a faith and that it's strong!! The country would be a lot better off if more people did, regardless of denomination.
ReplyDeleteAnd your absolutely right, the more we learn about one another's faith, the stronger our own becomes, the less misunderstandings and rumors there are and the more we can work together to strengthen each other, our families, communities and country!!
Thanks or taking the time to read this and to leave your questions! They're on my list!
I'll look forward to it! For the record, I respect and admire so much of what I've seen with Mormons over the years. By and large, they appear to be a very disciplined group of people with some great values...
ReplyDeleteMike, as a Mormon, I'm glad to hear you say that!! It's always good to hear of the good ambassadors of our faith :). Thanks for reading!
DeleteYou are an inspiration Mark. Keep up the good work!
ReplyDeleteI'm honored you would say so my friend. Not sure HOW I am, but thank you. :)
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