While I agree that Mormonism isn’t a cult, it’s virtually impossible to leave. Our church in Salt Lake (ELCA) was about 25% former Mormon, almost all of whom were still carried on the LDS rolls. Keep that in mind when you hear/see figures on the growth of that particular faith.
Oh, and the Salt Lake valley (as is much of Utah) is a closed community religion-wise. By that I mean it’s very unlikely a ‘Gentile’ (non-Mormon) will be accepted. Business interests are the exception, but once business is concluded forget the relationship.
I could go on and on, but suffice it to say, My wife will never cast a vote for Romney because of his religion. I would, but would do so with much concern. Like you, I’m for Fred. But, time will tell.
To correct two things I’ve seen here:
1. A simple letter to the church requesting one’s name be removed from the church’s records is sufficient, by church policy, to make it happen. If a local leader doesn’t follow policy, send it to church HQ in Salt Lake.
2. Any church member entering into a polygamous marriage after 1890 has been, and will be, excommunicated from the church. Local leaders have no authority to do otherwise.
Another question:
Was the LDS church necessarily ‘racist’ previously when Blacks were not granted the priesthood?
First answer this: Was God necessarily ‘racist’ in Old Testament days when only those of the Tribe of Levi were permitted by God to hold the Priesthood, and when he (only) characterized the House of Israel (12 tribes) as His ‘chosen’ people?
My answer to the second question: No.
My answer to the first question: If the temporary practice in the LDS church was directed by God, then ‘No,’ in my view. If it was not of God, then it originated by man in a 19th century American culture and was consistent with that dominant culture for decades, but was then somewhat belatedly discontinued in law about 15 years after the Civil Rights Act was finally enacted, despite Democrat opposition.
Many Dems are more annoying than lifetime over-eaters who recently changed, and lost a few pounds, and became nutritionally ‘righteous.’