[MarkBsnr]

All Catholic rites are not only open to the public, but published to the world for all to see.

Interesting: I started to search the web for references to LDS rites. I came across several that compared them to Masonic rites. Since I am not LDS nor have I ever been in an LDS ceremony, I cannot stand as expert, however, as a 32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason, I have been through the Masonic rites and have to say that the websites are right on. Do you or any other LDS member have commentary on the similarities and the extent of these purported drastic oaths taken?

[nowandlater]

Here you go.

http://www.jefflindsay.com/LDSFAQ/FQ_masons.shtml#det

I must add one comment. The LDS religion puts a huge emphasis on personal revelation. Everything must not be spoon fed to us and there is a huge premium to figure out things when we work with God by ourselves. It is my feeling that explaining everything to someone ruins that. There are many elements which are theological lessons which are more powerful if a person figures it out on his/her own.

[MHGinTN]

If Joseph did borrow from a very few elements from 19th century America (e.g., a modern minister representing the mingling of scripture with human teachings) or even from Masonry as part of that embodiment, we should not be shocked." Jeff Lindsey making excuses for Smith lifting Masonic rituals for use in Mormonism Temple ordinances.

Regarding Mormonism Apologists' incessant defense of Smith's frauds: "...truth is loved in such a way that those who love some other thing want it to be the truth, and, precisely because they do not wish to be deceived, are unwilling to be convinced that they are deceived." -- St. Augustine

[nowandlater]

http://www.fairlds.org/FAIR_Conferences/1999_Early_Christian_and_Jewish_Rituals_Related_to_Temple_Practices.html

[DelphiUser]

All Catholic rites are not only open to the public, but published to the world for all to see.

So, when is the last time you participated in slectign a new pope (just an example)

Interesting: I started to search the web for references to LDS rites. I came across several that compared them to Masonic rites

They are similar for the mnasons claim to have gotten their cerimonies from watching the priests while working on the temple in jerusalem, Jospeh smith Got his from God. The discrepancies would be where the masons either heard wrong, or where they lost somehting over the ages, but they would bear at least a superficial resemblance.

There is a little matter of the authority to administer the rites...