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Our cover story on the state of the Mormon Church at the 200th anniversary of its founder's birth drew responses from adherents, former members and the public. One member "anxious about inaccuracies" was "pleasantly surprised at the great job of compactly presenting such a huge topic." Another insisted that "the Mormon Church has no need to 'confront' its past." Still another wondered how an article by "a current member of the church could offer a 'fair and balanced' portrayal." Many readers took exception to calling Mormonism a Christian denomination, and others criticized the church for its secret ceremonies and exclusivity. "The Mormon Church is a Masonic lodge dressed up for public view as a Christian church," a former member said. Others questioned Mormonism's history, pointing to the frequently altered Book of Mormon and founder Joseph Smith's reported discovery of gold plates. Charged one, "This obviously fairy-tale religion was founded by a boy magician and latter-day con man."
Joseph Smith's Dream
I want to commend NEWSWEEK on a job well done with "The Mormon Odyssey" (Oct. 17). As a Latter-day Saint growing up in the Deep South, I have heard my share of comments: some out of curiosity, many out of cruelty, most due to a lack of knowledge available to the public outside the realm of the church itself. It is so wonderful to see the media treating us with sincere interest and respect, and I feel elated to witness my faith rising out of obscurity into the mainstream of Christianity. And, make no mistake about it, the entire foundation of our tenets is centered upon the Gospel of Jesus Christ; we are as Christian as one can be!
Sara Thurgood
Hoover, Ala.
Your article on the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was insightful and well done. Rather than angle in on some oddity or controversial topic, you handled a faith held sacred by millions with respect and openness. It is correct that the church isn't shunning its past; no claims have ever been made that the church or its prophets are perfect. Joseph Smith wasn't, and neither is Gordon B. Hinckley. But their teachings speak for them, and they truly are making positive, society-changing contributions. It is nice to see that recognized.
Victoria Lung
Southfield, Mich.
Your cover story on the Mormon Church was the biggest fluff story I've seen. There is no mention of families torn apart when a family member leaves the church, no mention of nonpracticing Mormons being barred from their children's weddings in temples. There was no mention of the millions the church has spent to defeat gay-rights legislation...
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