LDS/Mormons Do you think this AP article is fair and accurate?

Question

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071205/ap_on_el_pr/romney_mormons;_ylt=AtFYIiPKvWZtCDE6KIu77cOs0NUE

After Romney's speech tomorrow, the press will be pointing out the differences between traditional Christianity and Mormonism. Are you concerned that talk of "Heavenly Mothers" and of God being a man exalted to Godhood will detract or attract people to Mormonism?

Answer 1

I think the story is the most fair story I've ever read, in any subject. I'm truely amazed. It gives a lot of jumping off points, without jumping off. I think if someone is truly interested in a particular aspect of our religion, they will have an excellent way to start the conversation without seeming too eager and giving the wrong impression. (That they want to meet the missionaries and take the discussions.) I'm not sure if any aspect of the article will cause anything more than conversation. To those who are already against the church, then it will undoubtedly add fuel to the fire due to their perspective. To those who don't really know anything about the church, hopefully it will give them a way to ask about it - whether it's on here, their neighbors, the missionaries, etc. I just hope they ask someone who has actual knowledge and not someone who's only source of information is the anti-Mormon literature their preacher gives them, or some anti-Mormon website.

Answer 2

I don't think the LDS Church will ever get a fair shake in the media unless it's an LDS journalist writing the article.

And frankly, right now, it's even worse because there is a Republican candidate for President who is a Mormon. Brother Mitt will attract every crackpot journalist in the country who thinks Mormons are the devil just to give the Republicans yet another black eye in the press, because they think it'll make their fair-haired girl, Shrillary Clinton, that much more electable.

Merry Christmas, everybody!

Answer 3

I don't know where the exact quote comes from but "Any publicity is good publicity.", right? I remmebr talking to a man at church who was a misison president when "The Godmakers" video came out. A lot of his missionaries were concerned about it. He told them to not bring it up first, but if it came up, to answer any questions about it. He said that baptisms actually increased by a significant amount for about 6 months after it came out.

It really is hard to start teaching people the "gospel doctrines" before they understand the "gospel principles." However, it can and has been done. I don't think Romney's speech or the reports about it will hinder many people, but it will help quite a few.

Answer 4

What would bother me is if they talk about things that make absolutely no difference to us LDS, but seem to really stick in the craws of non-LDS Christians. Like "heavenly Mothers". We don't really TEACH that. Sometimes, we speculate on it, but that's it! And as for exaltation, well, yes, I find that to be a refreshing change from "traditional" Christainity, which teaches that man will be God's little puppet/cheerleader and nothing else (BOOOOORING!). If we have nothing to do, nothing to learn, no where to go, where is the joy in that? Where is the happiness? God is not happy being a puppet-master. He doesn't want mindless automatons constantly bowing down kissing His feet, He wants us to be as happy and filled with joy as He is. He is our FATHER. Like ANY father, He wants us excel, to become ALL we can be. And, just as our becoming adults who contribute to society does not make our fathers any less our fathers, or any less men, or any less than what they are, our exaltation does not mean that our Heavenly Father becomes less of what He is. In fact, our success in the eternities actually makes Him GREATER than He is now. So, IF (notice, I said IF) we become as God is now, that makes our Heavenly Father MORE of what He is, gives Him greater glory, than if He keeps us as His puppets, doing nothing but dancing and singing for all eternity, and Him just sitting there, digging it. Seems that would get REALLY old REALLY fast.

Of course, tho, if that's all you want from eternity, I'm sure that you will be accomodated. But, I don't know that I could worship, or even respect, such a shallow god.

Sorry, I'll get off my soap box now.

Answer 5

I think the Article was really good actually.

I am not too worried about Romney's speech. I am sure that he will do a great job in conveying LDS Beliefs. I am more worried about biased Journalists and others taking what he said out of context.

Answer 6

It doesn't matter what Mitt says. Some people are always going to believe stupid lies about us. Mo matter how many times they are told that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is a Christian religion, and not a cult, people will believe otherwise.

The article wasn't bad. It had various details but the only way people can understand about Mormonism is to really talk to someone that understands and they must listen with their heart.

I KNOW what I believe and that it is true. No anti-Mormon ignoramus is going to tell me differently.

Answer 7

The article seemed fair.
I don't know if will detract or attract people to Mormonism.
Like they say in the business and entertainment world any publicity is good.

Answer 8

I don't think its going to make much difference in the way most people view Mormons. It may very well help a few who are wondering if he is trustworthy to find he is and that he has good moral values, something that is badly needed in our highest office.

Answer 9

There will always be those who seek to criticize - and I don't just mean criticize Mormonism -- those who seek after contention and hatred will find things to criticize and hate.

There will also be some who have their interest piqued regarding the Church and they will seek out answers.

Thanks for sharing - Merry Christmas.

Answer 10

Well, it is a neutral article. Meaning it is not for or against us, which is refreshing to see on the web. lol They just state the facts. The true facts. I agree with the Senator. Any publicity is good. :)