Losing one's faith and thereby the support of their community does cause a deep grief for us. The term is Disenfranchised Grief, which means society doesn't recognize it, affirm it, validate our feelings. But yes, as Leah said, it is like someone has died. Especially if it causes separation in families.
How can you make this a “better church” if there is so much deception? And you can’t talk about this? I am missing something here! This is not the true Jesus that died for you on that cross and said the only salvation is through me.
This is amazing!! I claim no religion and don’t attend church but this is so inspiring and excites my soul! I feel truth here and love here and integrity in this situation! In this day and time it makes me hopeful for humanity!! Power on folks... blessings to all involved!!🙏
Around 27:40 you all touch on a question I've always had about the LDS church... About being summoned to talk to leadership etc. Thanks so much for helping me understand that. I come from a Protestant non-Mormon background. I have close friends with family members in the LDS church and we want to understand them better.
My heart goes out to this brother and sister. I wish them luck on their new path. I hope that they will continue to look to Christ for comfort and help. He is the way, the truth and the life. Follow him and all will work out.
As someone who left the lds church 5 years ago I can tell you this. These folks, as great as they are for leaving are still brainwashed. You can hear it in there comments. They don't want to say anything bad about there leaders. They are still under the influence of them. The way that talk. "I am so glad he listened" Man..I have been there. I hope as time passes they will realize how they have been manipulated and be able to break that chain. God bless brother and sister.
does a black cat give black kittens? the codys really think those men really love them? they really think any of the mormon church leaders are cut from a different bolt cloth? in briggys utah it was fast and testimony and blood atonement meeting. what has changed in 100 years? they don't practice the blood atonement. they still believe in it. just like polygamy. they don't practice it they still believe in it. she says they're really good men. in briggys utah they would blood atone him and put her in a harem as fast as you could snap your fingers. i don't know of a single mormon in the whole mormon church that loves anyone. if there is they run out of the churchl like their hair is on fire.
TheTuesday11 -Yeah, then you can make up your own religion, completely contradict the Bible so that when you finally get a chance to meet Christ, you won't know who he is.
Please remember to like all of the videos you enjoy watching. These videos deserve an 100/1 ration if not more. You can tell some disillusioned Mormons are coming here and disliking these videos... they’re great!!!
Thank you for sharing your experience! It’s difficult to go through things like these! Wish the church would be honest and transparent! We are not lazy learners! We want to know the truth!!
Thank you for your courage and willingness to go so public. I’m in the same place but have been waiting for the right words to communicate to my kids that have been raised in the church. It’s life changing, unchartered territory.
The best parallel I can think of is if your mother tells you she never wants to see or talk to you ever again. The fact that she's "not true", that is, in the wrong, doesn't help much emotionally.
@@garthof_izar2688 I have seen all their videos and I empathized their pain of having learned something that would change their whole world. I am sorry for that. I understand their grief and mourning. Just that I thought they were convinced after 16 months of researching and studying. If my Mother was a narcisist and I learned that all my life she had been taking my energy away and lying to me making me feel bad about myself, it would be really painful. But if I decide to stay around her even if I don't see her frequently. Sooner or later, she will do something to make me feel worse. I know she won't change so I should just cut all my interaction with her. I will hurt because she gave me life but It would be healthier.
@@Bareybienesraices You hit it with the narcissist mother/church example...Anyone who decides to not have contact with their parent(s) but still interacts with their siblings, the issue will keep coming up. Most of us ex-mormoms have Mormon family members.
Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) involves a pattern of self-centered, arrogant thinking and behavior, a lack of empathy and consideration for other people, and an excessive need for admiration. Others often describe people with NPD as cocky, manipulative, selfish, patronizing, and demanding.
Church: "You and your trying to make people feel better! That goes against church policy. We had them feeling bad so they'd come and toe the line! You're ruining our plan!"
Not so puzzling, your family is sealed in the temple together for eternity, then what does excommunication mean for this family structure?. Certainly as this couple go thru this unacceptable process they will grieve.
@@irenepearse6289 I agree with you 100 percent. It is no wonder the daughter was so terribly upset. Her spirit knows truth and is grieving her parents sad choice. I have a brother in law who is a scriptorian and can answer EVERY question someone would have about Gospel doctrine. He has saved countless members from taking this path. This Gospel is a remarkable gift and it would be wise to doubt your doubts before you doubt your faith.
Even though excommunication officially severs ties to the church, deep emotional ties remain for a long time and perhaps the rest of the member's life. You believed all that was taught to you for years and years, as truth. Why would a church that supposedly represents the Lord, lie and deceive its members? So of course, you believe it all, out of innocence and trust. When you find out otherwise, it is akin to the deep emotional death of a beloved one. . With time, and staying close to the Lord, the pain does go away. God bless to all that are going through this.
It is like someone dies when you find out the truth! I went through all the steps of the grief proccess! Plus I can't believe they are STILL excommunicating people when there are people voluntarily leaving in droves. You'd think they want to hang on to ppl at this point.
@Eternally Righteous The leadership of the Mormon church have converted millions to a church based on what they knew were lies. That can be proven even on their LDS website in the footnotes of the church Essays. And you are right. Starting any message with the abuse of juvenile language was and is in poor taste. My apology. When you first find out just how horrifically and knowingly you were lied to by the very leaders you trusted for decades of your life changes you. It hurts for the longest time and you question everything and everyone. I will however be forever grateful I did finally get out with what's left of my life. 💔💔💔💖
@Eternally Righteous There are so many lies I'm not sure where to begin. For starters their wasn't one story of the first vision there were 9 different versions of that first vision. Why wasn't a convert told about all 9 while being taught by the missionaries. Why did the missionaries mention that Joseph Smith translated the book of Mormon by looking at a stone in the bottom of his hat. Why were we shown pictures of him translating the book of Mormon in a way that NEVER even happened. Looking through the bottom of a hat that was used to find treasures for those who hired him for such was NEVER mentioned in the translation of the book of Mormon. Why were we not told that a virginal innocent young woman was to be sacrificed to the bed of both his and his wife's and Emma by an Angel with a sword? Why were we not told that Joseph Smith not only practiced polygamy "ALOT" but that he married many women who were already married. Why were not told that Joseph Smith married to sister's and lied to Emma about it. Why were we not told that the Witnesses to the book of Mormon saw it with their "Spiritual" eyes. Not their "Physical" eyes. Spiritual eyes? Seriously? I can be here for the longest time discussing the many lies. All of which can be found buried deep the LDS website. Not necessarily in the Essays themselves but hidden in the footnotes of those Essays. Footnotes? Is that even being transparent and as honest as they could and should be? Many people over the decades have been humiliated, shamed and excommunicated for exposing the very truths that are finally being addressed in the footnotes of those Essays. Has the church sought out those they shamed and excommunicated and apologized to those who's lives they destroyed by doing so? 💔💔
This is so hard to comprehend. Disciplinary counsel? What about this is Not cultish? You don’t get any disciplinary anything if you come and go in any Christian church….and to be afraid? What? Excommunicated? Bring that on. Fear the Lord only and that all is in love. Fear NO man. Who do these “authorities” think they are? You precious people …..so sorry. 🙏🏼
Once people wake up that the Church Authorities do not have the peoples greatest interest at heart then make a choice to leave. I was in it for 30 years. And had my awakening. Once you wake up you cannot continue blindlessly in the Gospel. You are confronted with a choice. Excommunication or have your name taken off the records. I chose the later due to the stress of it all. People have to understand they ( the Church leaders) are in control. You are not. It is a church of obedient to the rules.
Cults can't brook dissent. Normal churches accept it. This kind of behavior by the leaders simply amplifies the world's view of them as a cult. It's certainly the kind of thing that repels potential joiners and raises doubts among some members. The church seems schizophrenic in a way. On one hand, they say they'd like to win people over and gain more members from all over. On the other, their actions seem to show they want to boil it down to a core of true, totally obedient believers who obey without question. They can't have it both ways.
The Church is not a cult. I have just been watching two different TV series about cults, and we don't fit any of the criteria. Our Church leaders have admitted that they are not infallible, but most members want them to be, so they don't have to think for themselves. The Lord does not expect blind faith or blind obedience. I don't understand how these people can succumb to Satan's lies and temptations, and then be so proud about it. Ephesians 4:1 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, 2 With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; 3 Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; 5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. 7 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. Matthew 7:1-5 7:1-5 Judge not unrighteously, that ye be not not judged without charity or mercy, for with what judgement ye judge, I, the Lord, will judge ye likewise. Because all are sinners, let no man or woman judge unrighteously, but seek first to cleanse thyself from sin by repentance that ye may judge righteously. Be not a hypocrite, judging thy brother or sister for the mote in their eye, which ye cannot see because of the beam which is in thine own eye, but clear first thine own eye through repentance that ye may more humbly remove the mote from thy brother or sister's eye. 1 Corinthians 5: 9 I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators: 10 Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world. 11 But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. 12 For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within? 13 But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person. Romans 1: 18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; 19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. 20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: 21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. 22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, 23 And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. 24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: 25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. 26 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: 27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. 28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; 29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, 30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31 Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: 32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them. Isaiah 1: 16 ¶ Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil; 17 Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow. 18 Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. 19 If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: 20 But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it.
@@1sirteddles- If you're interested in a different perspective, that might help with the cult/non-cult question, Recovering Agency, by Luna Lindsey could help.
You said that right, “in a system” What makes anyone in more authority over anyone other than GOD. Wouldn’t you want to be released from the church knowing it’s not true? What exactly does excommunication mean? I’d want my name off their books learning the falsehoods. Blessings to you as you find truth. You’re an amazing family.
Love the comment section. So many haters of Mormonism. Truth is, this happens with all religions in some form or another. People leave all religions, and many stay and are happy.
Not Mormon, but I have been in leadership of a High Demand church and have been through a similar process for simply asking hard questions about my church's doctrine. In my brief experience of being involved in disciplinary meetings on both sides, I can tell you - nothing gets the attention of top leadership faster than issues with church finances and doctrine. Everything else, upper echelons seem content to leave to local leadership - but don't mess with that collection plate or any portion of doctrine. They circle those wagons F A S T! The meetings I sat in on the counselling side, our Branch Coordinator arrived at the meeting, would debrief me and my husband - and then he would tell us, _before_ the meeting how things were going to play out. He already knew, because all State & Branch coordinators receive a "How To" book with specific rules and questions for certain types of church disciplinary meetings. My guess, your Stake President arrived at that meeting already knowing what SLC's stance would be.
So part of my faith crisis was going to LDS addiction recovery for friends and family. I was told by trying to control another person's addiction is switching sides. The leadership of the church very much have switched sides, that was why Jesus was supposed to come so that he could die so we can grow and learn.
Why do they care to be ex'd when they don't believe in the church anymore. I've listened to every single video on them up to this point and I don't get why they are sad to be ex'd when they don't believe. Also, why try to stand up to the church if you think it's fake? I think the Catholic Church is fake, but I'm not gonna sit there and argue with a priest why. Why not wear their apostate title as a badge of honor?
I completely agree as an active Latter-day Saint. If they hate the LDS Church so much, why don't they just leave the rest of us alone and go find another church where they feel they will fit in better and be more comfortable.
Fred & Crystal Vilas because, their whole life is intertwined in the church. Between family and friends and leahs businesses. The way the church works they can lose it all. So it’s like starting over! And it’s really hard living in a predominantly Mormon area. They will be black listed so it’s very hard for them
Earth Is Not A Ball actually I have never been a part of the LDS church... I have been around it and know the truths and am also a compassionate human. Try again
2 John chapter 23 verse 90: “And Jesus said to Peter, James, and John go and find out who created this Facebook group and excommunicate them. And Peter, James, and John went and began investigating immediately.”
Only cults don’t allow questioning. Many, many, many things in Mormonism are just simply untruths. In addition, it is light years away from true Christianity but the people don’t know that as they are deceived. Even loving, well meaning and kind people can be deceived. I think the groups are excellent. I hope and pray these fine people come to faith in the True Christ! He is The Way, The Truth, and The Life! God does not bless “ magic” anything and especially undergarments.
Makes me go directly to this scripture John 3:20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. What’s there to hide? Oh sooooo much in the mornin church is done in secrecy. Many scriptures point to this. How things need to be brought to the light. So dark !!! Unreal.
Two sides of the same coin. Both kept elaborating on “the teachings of Christ” yet neither side believes the Word of God to be trustworthy, the very Word which testifies and prophesied about Jesus Christ. If the Bible had never existed, we would not know who the Son of God is. Suggesting the Bible was corrupted was one of the most egregious pieces of propaganda Smith used. I suppose he’d forgotten what God said to the false prophets of old: *_“I will tear down the wall you whitewashed and level it to the ground, so that its foundation is exposed.”_* The words still apply today.
When Joseph Smith as a prophet has spoken to the Savior himself, and the Lord Jesus Christ is the one who states that Traditional Christianity is ”...vain and foolish doctrine” and through revelation, JS knows that parts of the Bible have bee taken out. So JS didn't just throw out the Bible corruption, he base the statement based on prophets revelation. While I understand that you will not accept or believe that, but that's the reason. There is scientific research showing there has been corruption. It gets explained away, but it's just a fact.
This couple is by no means "apostate" anything...don't let them kid you, they are not any kind of authority...such projection is indeed so un warranted and cruel. I am so glad that they saw pass the Mormon façade, Yea, there are such self appointed religious men in this world who love the idea of playing God over other people's lives, I m just happy that they found a way out of that pompous kangaroo court organization. think free, think strong, think clear.
I joined the Church from prison and it has completely changed my life from bad to good, when nothing else could. There are so many blessings; I hope you find your way back, and can forgive those who have hurt you.
If their questions would have been answered- would they have stayed in the church or not? If not, than they shouldn't be upset about the excommunication
Your words are incredibly judgmental and it’s obvious that you’ve never been in this position. We LOVE our community/family. When we have doubts, we NEED comfort and understanding from those that we love instead of being demeaned, lied about and disciplined.
I'd also recommend Grant Palmer's book: An Insider's View of Mormon Origins. As an ex Mormon, and born-again believer my hope is you find the truth. God bless.
Thank you for making this video. Your story now joins the many other stories from people-across religions-who’ve faced similar grief/loss/ostracization/fear/pain/gas-lighting/scapegoating when leaving their religion. Hopefully, once enough stories are shared, (Reddit users in particular have numerous and profound stories) people will begin to re-evaluate religion in general. Here’s to lifelong learners unwilling to stay in the dark.
cody said "yes we had disassociated ourselves from the Church and activity in the Church" in those words you said you had left the Church. Why then were you so shocked that is was made official ? lf in your hearts, your message is more important than your membership in the church, go for it, but quit whining about the outcome. l too had disassociated myself from the Church. l did not have a desire to harm the church. On the other hand, l did not want to obey the commandment, nor the advice and council of the brothern. the Prophets speak for our Heavenly Father. They are not just the men in Salt Lake. It took many years for me to accept the invitation to come home. l pray for you to find the joy and peace I found in coming Home Leila Johnson
So in others words you were sinning against the counsel of lesdership “willful disobedience” and you somehow think that is the same as debauchery in the early church history? You think they are at fault for practices that arent in harmony with the teaching of Jesus Christ. Something is off in your Heart.
Y'all, please don't quit Jesus, just because of leaving Mormonism. Jesus is Lord and Savior and the Bible is the infallible word of God. It truly is. You've been led to mistrust it. Please don't listen to Bart Ehrman, the atheist. Love ya'll and God Bless!
It is difficult to express the sense of freedom that comes when one removes oneself from under the 'authority' of anyone in the .Mormon church. They only have the authority that you give them. Remove yourself and be free!
Here's my thinking...If you were a member of the Mickey Mouse Club as a kid, do you care whether Disney counts you on their rolls now? Rather than resign or seek excommunication, I say enjoy writing sarcastic TH-cam comments.
Catholicism is a cult too dude especially if you bow down to Mary or worship your Saints! Jesus is the only way truth and the life and no one comes to the father but through Jesus!!! You don't need a priest to interpret the Bible for you that's the reason why the curtain was torn from top to bottom so clergy and laity could stop being separated, God bless you on your journey to the truth! God is not defined by a man's religion, worship Jesus alone and use your Bible and consult with those you do the same Ephesians 5:4 there is one Lord one body and one faith and one baptism.....Jesus be with you!!
Catholic Church from Jesus till now, to Mother Mary is asking her to help pray for us, just like you talking and witness about your Prophet Joseph Smith, but Joseph was married a lot of Women and girls under age, Jesus not marry any one, Mary was told Jesus the wine its finish, Jesus said my time has not come yet, Did Mary said okay? No, after Jesus said his time not come yet then turn to the people who prepare the wine and she said, Do Everything That Jesus Says, and Jesus form a Miracle change the water to a Wine, Amen, we not worship Mary we ask for help our prayers, thank you
I had serious reservations regarding the meeting between President Nelson and Pope Francis. Having listened to this wonderful couple and see how they have been treated l am convinced that Pope Francis made a serious mistake in agreeing to the meeting.
The Church had already decided as soon as you were summoned. You were working up Church members and that's not acceptable. But believe me there are many people still in the Church who are working behind the scenes to try and change things on a local level or in the minds of members. Most leave, or some get excommunicated, you can't rock the boat some stay.
I honestly and sincerely do not believe the church wants to support people who leave the church. Maybe they know the church isn't true? Maybe their "business" will fall apart if enough people leave? I don't know. I just don't believe they are interested in the actual members. I have spoken to Elder Holland and didn't feel any love, concern or interest from him. He was only interested in the church, period. It just was a shock to me and very disconcerting because it certainly isn't how he comes across in his general conference addresses. It's sad.
I honestly don't understand this "we don't want to hurt people with the truth" thing that Cody is doing. Cody - you are not responsible for how terribly the Church of LDS has handled the truth of their history. My greatest hope for you, is that you will one day quit feeling guilty for _their_ mistakes and trying to protect members of the LDS which proclaims via their missionaries how honest and loving their church is. People should NOT be afraid of hearing the truth. As a country we have to deal with the truth of our history, like Japanese Camps during WWII, atrocities perpetrated during the "separate but equal" policies, or how about all but wiping out the Native Americans? So the best thing the LDS could do is tell their member the truth and then move on.
I've been watching a few hours of your story here, read the CES some time ago, & wish your family all the best. While I do see how all your data gathering & reading may cause doubt I'm not seeing the faith shattering discoveries. As an example, the 4 stories on the 1st Vision don't seem too irrational. Let's further say there's a car accident; there are always at least 3 versions right after - the truth, party A story, & party B story. But these stories also evolve over time right? Ask party A 30 minutes after the accident what happened as the adrenaline level has dropped, fear has calmed, etc. & the story starts to "evolve"; maybe that is part of our humanity. You seem to still believe but with all the questions raised in that CES & the credence you attach to that (& the other info you have reviewed) I'm surprised.
AnniamNgoppe having a few different versions of an accident from a few different people is plausible. But 9 versions from the same person is deception.
This is one of many doubts I have. If its true, he could have add details or change some things about the event, but not the main thing which was he saw heavenly father and Jesus after that if he added or removed minor details that would still keep the most important part without changing but he said different things 3 or more times.
To create a support group, no matter how beneficial it may be, is implying that the church has faults. They don’t like that much. Remember- they NEVER admit to fault. They purposely dodge responsibility for any wrong doing by calling problem topics “continuing revelation.”
It's like a knife going into your heart and bleeding it's like a knife striking your motions and they're very intense and it's almost like you're withdrawing and you're losing everything you know it's all you know your whole life and then outside it that is the most scary hard thing to cope out there I am not Elias but LDS but I've been in a small bubble in a similar situation like the more situation like this and when I came out of it with a person It was devastating because it's all I knew my whole life and then getting into the world again is so hard and that's where you have to find Good counseling and therapy and try new things good things and trying to make decisions and sometimes that's hard and the only thing you can do is get all the support you can and the love you can for people that are there for you people outside of the system I'm still working on that myself it's very very hard hard and there's a grieving process and it is like a death But I went through this through domestic violence cognitive dissidents believing in hoping things would be different gaslighted you know it's almost like your whole life and then it's torn from you and it's like what do I do now but thank you so much for sharing thisharing this I can relate to this a lot
Many ex Mormons have moved on and found Jesus via the New Testament I hope this family does the same and finds peace and happiness God bless them in their pursuit of truth and happiness they are special people
Also, all the jargon 'disciplinary council' 'stake president' 'bishop' and on and on and on (and on) - the layers and layers and layers of men (old and white mainly) in charge, the bishops of churches with zero training (men again), the discipline (as you would do with children) and the normalizing of that, the speaking with teenagers about their masturbatory practices and the shaming of that, the tacit encouragement of 'mixed orientation marriage', the over reliance of individuals on their bishops and stake presidents so clearly point to it being a cult. and Even these two lovely people still doing apologetics work for the Mormon Church (these are good men) all speak cult. cult cult. And finally, the absolute unnecessary drama of all of this is ridiculous.
Y'all are beautiful and courageous! Please know that just because the LDS church is a false gospel, Jesus is Lord and the Bible is God's word. We were taught as Mormons to NOT fully trust the Bible, but you can trust it. Please do the research :)
I’ve been studying and the teaching of Christ, there is no mention of excommunication in the original true church in Christ’s teachings. Jesus did not baptise then later excommunicate.
There’s certainly plenty of references to cutting people off from the church in the Bible. This is why the Jehovah’s Witnesses are notorious for shunning because of how zealous they are about following the word.
Praying for you guys! Knowing that you leave and lose so many people, knowing that life long family and friends can cast you out. That’s so hard. Knowing it’s all wrong and blasphemy and having to find truth is worth it, but still SO hard and I’m so glad you have support through all of this!
The stake president spoke with the higher ups. With membership not exactly flourishing, their main objective is to bring in that 10% to satisfy the shareholders. They felt your nice and helpful group would create off shoots which would affect their cash flow, and the only way to punish your good works was to excommunicate you, because they truly don't care how people feel. Love bombing lasts only so long and so does bs for me personally. I see the exhausted looks on the womens faces, general appearance in my ward, and tearful testimonies. I knew the first day of hearing them with every single person stating....I know the book of mormon is true, I know the church is true, the robotics of it, was a group of brainwashed individuals. Why so many temples in impoverished countries, with church accountants looking for loopholes to establish more shell companies. I prefer the Jesus and God from my Bible. The book of mormon, handed to me is filed in my bookcase in the fiction section, written by a pedophile, with excerpts from treasure fantasies, along with corrupted by Smith passages from the Bible. I wish you both the very best with your work. You seem like very nice people.
Wish u would not have allowed them to excommunicate u. Should have told them u are choosing to leave they don't get a choice in that. Those council's are not done out of love like the leaders try to make u believe.
This is really interesting. All the terminology and beliefs just sound nuts. Except for apostate. That seems to carry the same connotation as it does with the jws. But the whole guts of the issue - I can totally feel the same as you guys. Isn’t that bizarre? How is that I can sense what you’re feeling, especially the weird things like your insecurities right now, when you guys were in some wacky cult, and we were in the One True religion.
It's so sad to see so many wonderful people, like yourselves, being so deeply hurt by Mormon leaders. The real problem is that Mormonism is a cult developed by a very persuasive leader, Joseph Smith. A basic hallmark of a cult is that independent thought or contact with "outsiders" with different beliefs is not just discouraged but forbidden. Sunlight kills mold, and in the same manner learning the truth of Mormon history and the inconsistencies in doctrine over the years, exposes the falseness of the claims of Church leaders. The price of questioning within a cult is unimaginably high - loss of friends and family relationships, loss within business and work situations, loss of a world view that was positive and comfortable. The leaders are in a difficult situation because information is so much more readily available now, and facts are becoming more widely known - it is only a matter of time until the dam of isolation from outside information and truth breaks and the church hemorrhages members. My deepest prayer is that those who find themselves on the outside, retain their faith in God, and find a Christian Church that not only permits questions and soul-struggle, but encourages it. Be assured, God will be with you in your journey.
Hello @@johnlee1352and thank you for your reply. The Mormon church is not experiencing growth, it fudges it's numbers by counting inactive members and children baptized in the mission field who never really become members. But growth and size do not mean valid doctrine or valid foundational claims. Mormonism is and always was a fraud generated from the fertile mind of Joseph Smith. He was (as was his father) a local treasure hunter who used a magic stone (later the stone he used to "translate" the book of Mormon) to locate buried treasure on people's property for a sum of money. He was convicted in a New York court of fraud. As for growth - neither growth, wealth nor power in this world indicate God's approval. Many evil, wealthy, powerful people and societies have existed; more to the point, the Jehovah's Witnesses are also growing because they field members to knock on doors and present their version of Christianity. The main reason traditional Christianity is dwindling is that few Christians actually allow God to change their character and make them more loving, kind and forgiving of others. Many, if not most, Christians are mean spirited, gossip and fully engage in the culture wars. Jesus taught that loving God, and loving others are the great keys to the Gospel - the Good News (not the bad news, sad news or the angry news). I understand your anger - no one likes to have their entire world-view challenged and called invalid; it hurts. But truth is important and worth the pain of discovering you have been deceived, as have millions of others.
If there is any consoling fact in such a situation as this, it is the knowledge that the LDS Church never was the true Church of Jesus Christ and that Joseph Smith was a false prophet from the beginning. Smith himself is most likely burning in Hell under the penalty of being a false prophet. The whole LDS cult has not one ounce viability. It will never be the true Church no matter how much time passes or how much money it accumulates. Never. However, in terms of being shunned by former friends and family it will be painful to be excommunicated for quite some time. You can begin to pray for loved ones still ensnared by the deceit of this false religion. Eventually your lives will start to improve in ways you never thought possible. Viva Cristo Rey!
Sounds like they lost the game of "leadership roulette." Probably 80-90% of congregations (wards/stakes) wouldn't have done this to them. (Or am I being that glass-half-full guy again?)
Isn't that interesting. A couple on another podcast you did were only disfellowshipped for apostasy, probably because the husband refused to stop posting things on facebook, from what I understand, benign things. So, why the difference? WOW is all I can say. I was excommunicated for "apostasy" right along with my husband because my husband held a meeting in our home, against my wishes. I won't go into what the meeting was about unless someone asks.
I don’t believe in the doctrine, then excommunication does not matter to me. . It’s just the way I feel personally about myself and my husband. We feel it was all a lie , thus none of it means anything to us. My morals and my caring of others will always remain regardless of this particular religion or lack there of.
I'm not a Mormon, but I've seen this before, where a couple does a _very_ long interview, but takes a huge amount of time skirting around issues before getting to what the matter is really all about (that's if they ever do.) I've listened for almost 18 minutes now and I still don't know - why? Have they something to hide?
god bless you John and the beautiful young family I’m in uk and I feel this families pain they are so lovely an so genuine may they find the love of Jesus to protect them and comfort them I still think that the church should accept and include people with this kind of crisis, the same thing happens here in uk and their is no help so I think that members just keep quiet and continue to to attend but lots of people are waking up to the truth it’s a big problem in the uk I’m lost for words I wish I could help
I honestly have been there and done that -- though not as a member of LDS --- but it is just so sad to see how much influence the LDS exerts over these people's lives. To the point that the feel the need to reassure their leadership that their kids aren't going to talk about the TRUE history of their church? Really??? I know disentangling yourself from a way of life is not easy - trust me, I know. But I sincerely hope a year from now they re-listen to this interview to see how much control LDS had over their life. The foundation of ANY church or religion is truth. Right? people wouldn't believe if they didn't think the organization or founder(s) weren't honest & true - whether it be Buddha, Jesus, Abraham, Zoraster, or Joseph Smith. So when you find out the church leadership is knowingly hiding or covering up behavior - and isn't behaving in the same manner they expect from you the believer.... then that church no longer has the right to dictate whether you can question the foundation/truth of the organization.
So this is why I’ll ask this question….you all are saying there’s so many good things about “the church” but you are ousted if you don’t follow man made rules. What’s good about a lying “church”? What? I know the people, relationships, the programs etc…..And why would you want to be associated and stay in a religion that you’ve found out is a cultish religion? When you know it’s based on lies you no longer need to worry about baptism, or being sealed for all time and eternity, the sacrament etc…. This is all a lie. The hierarchy is clearly threatened and that alone says it ALL. Just asking because as a Bible believing Christian this makes no sense. Freedom please!!!!! Christ and Christ alone. I have those special relationships, friendships etc…. No strings attached, no records kept…. Other than in the “lambs book of life” as the BIBLE talks about. Christ is center and he paid it all and gives us freedom. The Bible is clear if you find and prove one thing wrong it is a lie. The “church” is not going to be healthier. How can it be when its ROOTS are based on falsehood? This is all soooo creepy. Bless you people for spreading truth about this scary “fully controlled members” non Christian religion.
This family’s story has been super therapeutic in my healing process after escaping Jehovah’s Witnesses AKA watchtower organization
Kudos to you for getting out! The rules around shunning in that organization are really tough from what I've heard.
Losing one's faith and thereby the support of their community does cause a deep grief for us. The term is Disenfranchised Grief, which means society doesn't recognize it, affirm it, validate our feelings. But yes, as Leah said, it is like someone has died. Especially if it causes separation in families.
How can you make this a “better church” if there is so much deception? And you can’t talk about this? I am missing something here! This is not the true Jesus that died for you on that cross and said the only salvation is through me.
The fact that your invitation to the brethren went without replies or acceptance to the invitation SPEAKS VOLUMES to their everlasting discredit.
This is amazing!! I claim no religion and don’t attend church but this is so inspiring and excites my soul! I feel truth here and love here and integrity in this situation! In this day and time it makes me hopeful for humanity!! Power on folks... blessings to all involved!!🙏
Around 27:40 you all touch on a question I've always had about the LDS church... About being summoned to talk to leadership etc. Thanks so much for helping me understand that. I come from a Protestant non-Mormon background. I have close friends with family members in the LDS church and we want to understand them better.
Agreed!
You can feel just how hurt these good people are. So sad.
My heart goes out to this brother and sister. I wish them luck on their new path. I hope that they will continue to look to Christ for comfort and help. He is the way, the truth and the life. Follow him and all will work out.
As someone who left the lds church 5 years ago I can tell you this. These folks, as great as they are for leaving are still brainwashed. You can hear it in there comments. They don't want to say anything bad about there leaders. They are still under the influence of them. The way that talk. "I am so glad he listened" Man..I have been there. I hope as time passes they will realize how they have been manipulated and be able to break that chain. God bless brother and sister.
Same as the jehovah witnesses they call that POMI.or physically out mentally in. Give them time
does a black cat give black kittens? the codys really think those men really love them? they really think any of the mormon church leaders are cut from a different bolt cloth? in briggys utah it was fast and testimony and blood atonement meeting. what has changed in 100 years? they don't practice the blood atonement. they still believe in it. just like polygamy. they don't practice it they still believe in it. she says they're really good men. in briggys utah they would blood atone him and put her in a harem as fast as you could snap your fingers. i don't know of a single mormon in the whole mormon church that loves anyone. if there is they run out of the churchl like their hair is on fire.
I think they are just trying to be respectful, seeing as they still have many family and friends who are believers
As someone who left the church 13 years ago. I don't have a single bad thing to say about the Mormons. It's simply a fairy tale, like all religions.
TheTuesday11 -Yeah, then you can make up your own religion, completely contradict the Bible so that when you finally get a chance to meet Christ, you won't know who he is.
Please remember to like all of the videos you enjoy watching. These videos deserve an 100/1 ration if not more. You can tell some disillusioned Mormons are coming here and disliking these videos... they’re great!!!
Thank you for sharing your experience! It’s difficult to go through things like these! Wish the church would be honest and transparent! We are not lazy learners! We want to know the truth!!
Thank you for your courage and willingness to go so public. I’m in the same place but have been waiting for the right words to communicate to my kids that have been raised in the church. It’s life changing, unchartered territory.
You are loved even if you cant see it or feel it sometimes. More support groups are needed.
Sorry my ignorance but I don't get it. Why would it be heart-breaken about being excommunicated by a Church that you now know is not True?
The best parallel I can think of is if your mother tells you she never wants to see or talk to you ever again. The fact that she's "not true", that is, in the wrong, doesn't help much emotionally.
@@garthof_izar2688 I have seen all their videos and I empathized their pain of having learned something that would change their whole world. I am sorry for that. I understand their grief and mourning. Just that I thought they were convinced after 16 months of researching and studying.
If my Mother was a narcisist and I learned that all my life she had been taking my energy away and lying to me making me feel bad about myself, it would be really painful. But if I decide to stay around her even if I don't see her frequently. Sooner or later, she will do something to make me feel worse. I know she won't change so I should just cut all my interaction with her. I will hurt because she gave me life but It would be healthier.
Leonina Victoria - Thank you for this comment!..This has been my life with my mother!..This gave me validation that I made the right decision! 🌹
@@Bareybienesraices You hit it with the narcissist mother/church example...Anyone who decides to not have contact with their parent(s) but still interacts with their siblings, the issue will keep coming up. Most of us ex-mormoms have Mormon family members.
@@garthof_izar2688 Sorry, I don't mean to be unrespectful.
Impressive couple and their journey reflects what many go through as they navigate this level of change.
Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) involves a pattern of self-centered, arrogant thinking and behavior, a lack of empathy and consideration for other people, and an excessive need for admiration. Others often describe people with NPD as cocky, manipulative, selfish, patronizing, and demanding.
Lds is a man-made cult. Anyone who is afraid to leave just shows how deeply traumatic being a part of this corporation is.
Church: "You and your trying to make people feel better! That goes against church policy. We had them feeling bad so they'd come and toe the line! You're ruining our plan!"
A sincere question. Why are you so sad about being excommunicated if you don't believe the doctrine anyway? That is puzzling.
Not so puzzling, your family is sealed in the temple together for eternity, then what does excommunication mean for this family structure?. Certainly as this couple go thru this unacceptable process they will grieve.
@@irenepearse6289 I agree with you 100 percent. It is no wonder the daughter was so terribly upset. Her spirit knows truth and is grieving her parents sad choice. I have a brother in law who is a scriptorian and can answer EVERY question someone would have about Gospel doctrine. He has saved countless members from taking this path. This Gospel is a remarkable gift and it would be wise to doubt your doubts before you doubt your faith.
Even though excommunication officially severs ties to the church, deep emotional ties remain for a long time and perhaps the rest of the member's life. You believed all that was taught to you for years and years, as truth. Why would a church that supposedly represents the Lord, lie and deceive its members? So of course, you believe it all, out of innocence and trust. When you find out otherwise, it is akin to the deep emotional death of a beloved one. . With time, and staying close to the Lord, the pain does go away. God bless to all that are going through this.
People who leave the cults lose their culture as well.
@@markrankin3297 Not a cult
It is like someone dies when you find out the truth! I went through all the steps of the grief proccess!
Plus I can't believe they are STILL excommunicating people when there are people voluntarily leaving in droves. You'd think they want to hang on to ppl at this point.
Lol God doesnt need anyone.. that's why they dont care who leaves..
@@martinandersen9810 yes, yes we do!
It's an absolute abuse of power
@Eternally Righteous
The leadership of the Mormon church have converted millions to a church based on what they knew were lies. That can be proven even on their LDS website in the footnotes of the church Essays.
And you are right. Starting any message with the abuse of juvenile language was and is in poor taste. My apology. When you first find out just how horrifically and knowingly you were lied to by the very leaders you trusted for decades of your life changes you. It hurts for the longest time and you question everything and everyone. I will however be forever grateful I did finally get out with what's left of my life.
💔💔💔💖
@Eternally Righteous
There are so many lies I'm not sure where to begin. For starters their wasn't one story of the first vision there were 9 different versions of that first vision.
Why wasn't a convert told about all 9 while being taught by the missionaries. Why did the missionaries mention that Joseph Smith translated the book of Mormon by looking at a stone in the bottom of his hat. Why were we shown pictures of him translating the book of Mormon in a way that NEVER even happened. Looking through the bottom of a hat that was used to find treasures for those who hired him for such was NEVER mentioned in the translation of the book of Mormon. Why were we not told that a virginal innocent young woman was to be sacrificed to the bed of both his and his wife's and Emma by an Angel with a sword?
Why were we not told that Joseph Smith not only practiced polygamy "ALOT" but that he married many women who were already married. Why were not told that Joseph Smith married to sister's and lied to Emma about it. Why were we not told that the Witnesses to the book of Mormon saw it with their "Spiritual" eyes. Not their "Physical" eyes. Spiritual eyes? Seriously?
I can be here for the longest time discussing the many lies. All of which can be found buried deep the LDS website. Not necessarily in the Essays themselves but hidden in the footnotes of those Essays. Footnotes?
Is that even being transparent and as honest as they could and should be?
Many people over the decades have been humiliated, shamed and excommunicated for exposing the very truths that are finally being addressed in the footnotes of those Essays. Has the church sought out those they shamed and excommunicated and apologized to those who's lives they destroyed by doing so?
💔💔
This is so hard to comprehend. Disciplinary counsel? What about this is Not cultish? You don’t get any disciplinary anything if you come and go in any Christian church….and to be afraid? What?
Excommunicated? Bring that on. Fear the Lord only and that all is in love. Fear NO man. Who do these “authorities” think they are? You precious people …..so sorry. 🙏🏼
Once people wake up that the Church Authorities do not have the peoples greatest interest at heart then make a choice to leave. I was in it for 30 years. And had my awakening. Once you wake up you cannot continue blindlessly in the Gospel. You are confronted with a choice. Excommunication or have your name taken off the records. I chose the later due to the stress of it all. People have to understand they ( the Church leaders) are in control. You are not. It is a church of obedient to the rules.
Cults can't brook dissent. Normal churches accept it. This kind of behavior by the leaders simply amplifies the world's view of them as a cult. It's certainly the kind of thing that repels potential joiners and raises doubts among some members. The church seems schizophrenic in a way. On one hand, they say they'd like to win people over and gain more members from all over. On the other, their actions seem to show they want to boil it down to a core of true, totally obedient believers who obey without question. They can't have it both ways.
The Church is not a cult. I have just been watching two different TV series about cults, and we don't fit any of the criteria. Our Church leaders have admitted that they are not infallible, but most members want them to be, so they don't have to think for themselves. The Lord does not expect blind faith or blind obedience. I don't understand how these people can succumb to Satan's lies and temptations, and then be so proud about it.
Ephesians 4:1 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,
2 With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;
3 Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;
5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism,
6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.
7 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.
Matthew 7:1-5
7:1-5 Judge not unrighteously, that ye be not not judged without charity or mercy, for with what judgement ye judge, I, the Lord, will judge ye likewise. Because all are sinners, let no man or woman judge unrighteously, but seek first to cleanse thyself from sin by repentance that ye may judge righteously. Be not a hypocrite, judging thy brother or sister for the mote in their eye, which ye cannot see because of the beam which is in thine own eye, but clear first thine own eye through repentance that ye may more humbly remove the mote from thy brother or sister's eye.
1 Corinthians 5:
9 I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators:
10 Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world.
11 But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.
12 For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within?
13 But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.
Romans 1:
18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;
19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.
20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:
21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.
22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,
23 And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.
24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:
25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
26 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:
27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.
28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;
29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,
30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,
31 Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:
32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.
Isaiah 1:
16 ¶ Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil;
17 Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow.
18 Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
19 If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land:
20 But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it.
@@1sirteddles- If you're interested in a different perspective, that might help with the cult/non-cult question, Recovering Agency, by Luna Lindsey could help.
You said that right, “in a system”
What makes anyone in more authority over anyone other than GOD. Wouldn’t you want to be released from the church knowing it’s not true? What exactly does excommunication mean? I’d want my name off their books learning the falsehoods. Blessings to you as you find truth. You’re an amazing family.
Love the comment section. So many haters of Mormonism. Truth is, this happens with all religions in some form or another. People leave all religions, and many stay and are happy.
As an outsider, the church seems to be a bully.
I just want you too know that you guys have support from Spanish Fork, Utah!!!!
Thank you so much from Canada 🇨🇦
Not Mormon, but I have been in leadership of a High Demand church and have been through a similar process for simply asking hard questions about my church's doctrine. In my brief experience of being involved in disciplinary meetings on both sides, I can tell you - nothing gets the attention of top leadership faster than issues with church finances and doctrine. Everything else, upper echelons seem content to leave to local leadership - but don't mess with that collection plate or any portion of doctrine. They circle those wagons F A S T! The meetings I sat in on the counselling side, our Branch Coordinator arrived at the meeting, would debrief me and my husband - and then he would tell us, _before_ the meeting how things were going to play out. He already knew, because all State & Branch coordinators receive a "How To" book with specific rules and questions for certain types of church disciplinary meetings. My guess, your Stake President arrived at that meeting already knowing what SLC's stance would be.
So part of my faith crisis was going to LDS addiction recovery for friends and family. I was told by trying to control another person's addiction is switching sides. The leadership of the church very much have switched sides, that was why Jesus was supposed to come so that he could die so we can grow and learn.
The sad truth is that the Mormon Church is above all a religious system. And in this system, there is no place for people like this couple.
Why do they care to be ex'd when they don't believe in the church anymore. I've listened to every single video on them up to this point and I don't get why they are sad to be ex'd when they don't believe. Also, why try to stand up to the church if you think it's fake? I think the Catholic Church is fake, but I'm not gonna sit there and argue with a priest why. Why not wear their apostate title as a badge of honor?
I completely agree as an active Latter-day Saint. If they hate the LDS Church so much, why don't they just leave the rest of us alone and go find another church where they feel they will fit in better and be more comfortable.
Fred & Crystal Vilas because, their whole life is intertwined in the church. Between family and friends and leahs businesses. The way the church works they can lose it all. So it’s like starting over! And it’s really hard living in a predominantly Mormon area. They will be black listed so it’s very hard for them
Pride? Feeling victimized? PTSD?
Earth Is Not A Ball actually I have never been a part of the LDS church... I have been around it and know the truths and am also a compassionate human. Try again
Tori Pride okay well I was a member for 51 yrs and it’s a false doctrine. So I was speaking from a person who knows it firsthand.
2 John chapter 23 verse 90:
“And Jesus said to Peter, James, and John go and find out who created this Facebook group and excommunicate them. And Peter, James, and John went and began investigating immediately.”
5:24 - It's not unjust if you don't believe in it
It absolutely is... not sure why you would state that as fact. Open up that mind of yours.
How dare they try to have support ! what a terrible thing to want support ! The Church sure showed them support but kicking them to the curb Evil Cult
1:23 I think alot of people don't ask why because they're afraid to.
Only cults don’t allow questioning. Many, many, many things in Mormonism are just simply untruths. In addition, it is light years away from true Christianity but the people don’t know that as they are deceived. Even loving, well meaning and kind people can be deceived. I think the groups are excellent. I hope and pray these fine people come to faith in the True Christ! He is The Way, The Truth, and The Life! God does not bless “ magic” anything and especially undergarments.
You are still in a cult.
Makes me go directly to this scripture
John 3:20
For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.
What’s there to hide? Oh sooooo much in the mornin church is done in secrecy. Many scriptures point to this. How things need to be brought to the light.
So dark !!!
Unreal.
Two sides of the same coin. Both kept elaborating on “the teachings of Christ” yet neither side believes the Word of God to be trustworthy, the very Word which testifies and prophesied about Jesus Christ. If the Bible had never existed, we would not know who the Son of God is.
Suggesting the Bible was corrupted was one of the most egregious pieces of propaganda Smith used. I suppose he’d forgotten what God said to the false prophets of old: *_“I will tear down the wall you whitewashed and level it to the ground, so that its foundation is exposed.”_* The words still apply today.
When Joseph Smith as a prophet has spoken to the Savior himself, and the Lord Jesus Christ is the one who states that Traditional Christianity is ”...vain and foolish doctrine” and through revelation, JS knows that parts of the Bible have bee taken out. So JS didn't just throw out the Bible corruption, he base the statement based on prophets revelation. While I understand that you will not accept or believe that, but that's the reason.
There is scientific research showing there has been corruption. It gets explained away, but it's just a fact.
This couple is by no means "apostate" anything...don't let them kid you, they are not any kind of authority...such projection is indeed so un warranted and cruel. I am so glad that they saw pass the Mormon façade, Yea, there are such self appointed religious men in this world who love the idea of playing God over other people's lives, I m just happy that they found a way out of that pompous kangaroo court organization.
think free, think strong, think clear.
I joined the Church from prison and it has completely changed my life from bad to good, when nothing else could. There are so many blessings; I hope you find your way back, and can forgive those who have hurt you.
Does the church not realize we live in the US & we have rights?
If their questions would have been answered- would they have stayed in the church or not? If not, than they shouldn't be upset about the excommunication
Your words are incredibly judgmental and it’s obvious that you’ve never been in this position. We LOVE our community/family. When we have doubts, we NEED comfort and understanding from those that we love instead of being demeaned, lied about and disciplined.
Can someone point me to the material that they are talking about that shows the contradictions and history of the church?
Look up the CES Letter.
I'd also recommend Grant Palmer's book: An Insider's View of Mormon Origins. As an ex Mormon, and born-again believer my hope is you find the truth. God bless.
www.churchofjesuschrist.org/topics/plural-marriage-in-kirtland-and-nauvoo?lang=eng
Here is a link to the lds website about one of the essays
Why do so many people feel they need a middleman between themselves and God, especially one that requires your money?
EXACTLY!!!!
Thank you for making this video. Your story now joins the many other stories from people-across religions-who’ve faced similar grief/loss/ostracization/fear/pain/gas-lighting/scapegoating when leaving their religion. Hopefully, once enough stories are shared, (Reddit users in particular have numerous and profound stories) people will begin to re-evaluate religion in general.
Here’s to lifelong learners unwilling to stay in the dark.
cody said "yes we had disassociated ourselves from the Church and activity in the
Church" in those words you said you had left the Church. Why then were you so shocked that is was made official ? lf in your hearts, your message is more important than your membership in the church, go for it, but quit whining about the outcome. l too had disassociated myself from the Church. l did not have a desire to harm the church. On the other hand, l did not want to obey the commandment, nor the advice and council of the brothern. the Prophets speak for our Heavenly Father. They are not just the men in Salt Lake. It took many years for me to accept the invitation to come home. l pray for you to find the joy and peace I found in coming Home Leila Johnson
So in others words you were sinning against the counsel of lesdership “willful disobedience” and you somehow think that is the same as debauchery in the early church history? You think they are at fault for practices that arent in harmony with the teaching of Jesus Christ. Something is off in your Heart.
Love and support from New Zealand. God bless you guys❤️
Y'all, please don't quit Jesus, just because of leaving Mormonism. Jesus is Lord and Savior and the Bible is the infallible word of God. It truly is. You've been led to mistrust it. Please don't listen to Bart Ehrman, the atheist. Love ya'll and God Bless!
It is difficult to express the sense of freedom that comes when one removes oneself from under the 'authority' of anyone in the .Mormon church. They only have the authority that you give them. Remove yourself and be free!
Here's my thinking...If you were a member of the Mickey Mouse Club as a kid, do you care whether Disney counts you on their rolls now? Rather than resign or seek excommunication, I say enjoy writing sarcastic TH-cam comments.
it was mentioned that Cody wrote a document detailing his issues with the Church. Is this document available to read?
How can they say their bishop is loving. You can't be a loving person while being self righteous. Who turned them in, really?
Remember even the Saducees and pharisies needed Jesus to point out they were self righteous. I was there so i get it now.
Be thankful the "church" showed their true colors !
You are both in my prayer. I am Catholic. Mike from Ireland 🇮🇪🙏🏼☘️
Catholicism is a cult too dude especially if you bow down to Mary or worship your Saints! Jesus is the only way truth and the life and no one comes to the father but through Jesus!!! You don't need a priest to interpret the Bible for you that's the reason why the curtain was torn from top to bottom so clergy and laity could stop being separated, God bless you on your journey to the truth! God is not defined by a man's religion, worship Jesus alone and use your Bible and consult with those you do the same
Ephesians 5:4 there is one Lord one body and one faith and one baptism.....Jesus be with you!!
Catholic Church from Jesus till now, to Mother Mary is asking her to help pray for us, just like you talking and witness about your Prophet Joseph Smith, but Joseph was married a lot of Women and girls under age, Jesus not marry any one, Mary was told Jesus the wine its finish, Jesus said my time has not come yet, Did Mary said okay? No, after Jesus said his time not come yet then turn to the people who prepare the wine and she said, Do Everything That Jesus Says, and Jesus form a Miracle change the water to a Wine, Amen, we not worship Mary we ask for help our prayers, thank you
I had serious reservations regarding the meeting between President Nelson and Pope Francis. Having listened to this wonderful couple and see how they have been treated l am convinced that Pope Francis made a serious mistake in agreeing to the meeting.
The pope is worse.
After how many young boys have been raped by priests I'm surprised there are any Catholics left.
Praying for you!
Please look up Lynn Wilder and her videos for support!
Amen! The Wilder family will be a great support and lead you in the right direction.
The Church had already decided as soon as you were summoned. You were working up Church members and that's not acceptable. But believe me there are many people still in the Church who are working behind the scenes to try and change things on a local level or in the minds of members. Most leave, or some get excommunicated, you can't rock the boat some stay.
I honestly and sincerely do not believe the church wants to support people who leave the church. Maybe they know the church isn't true? Maybe their "business" will fall apart if enough people leave? I don't know. I just don't believe they are interested in the actual members. I have spoken to Elder Holland and didn't feel any love, concern or interest from him. He was only interested in the church, period. It just was a shock to me and very disconcerting because it certainly isn't how he comes across in his general conference addresses. It's sad.
I love the Young’s.
Leah and Cody's family story would make a great movie. I'm from an agnostic family but I really enjoyed them talking about their faith journey.
I honestly don't understand this "we don't want to hurt people with the truth" thing that Cody is doing. Cody - you are not responsible for how terribly the Church of LDS has handled the truth of their history. My greatest hope for you, is that you will one day quit feeling guilty for _their_ mistakes and trying to protect members of the LDS which proclaims via their missionaries how honest and loving their church is. People should NOT be afraid of hearing the truth. As a country we have to deal with the truth of our history, like Japanese Camps during WWII, atrocities perpetrated during the "separate but equal" policies, or how about all but wiping out the Native Americans? So the best thing the LDS could do is tell their member the truth and then move on.
I remember Jesus saying they will know is by their love. ❤️
He also said, “You shall know them by their ways”. And He called these types…”children of the deceiver”.
I was afraid to comment or like anything on Mormon Stories Podcast when this came out! 😂 Not the case anymore! 😂
Was the full recording played? And if not is there a way to hear it fully?
Support from a close neighbor in Slippery Rock, PA!
What was the Houston retreat and will there be others. I’m in Texas.
The woman at the well was exonerated.
I've been watching a few hours of your story here, read the CES some time ago, & wish your family all the best. While I do see how all your data gathering & reading may cause doubt I'm not seeing the faith shattering discoveries. As an example, the 4 stories on the 1st Vision don't seem too irrational. Let's further say there's a car accident; there are always at least 3 versions right after - the truth, party A story, & party B story. But these stories also evolve over time right? Ask party A 30 minutes after the accident what happened as the adrenaline level has dropped, fear has calmed, etc. & the story starts to "evolve"; maybe that is part of our humanity. You seem to still believe but with all the questions raised in that CES & the credence you attach to that (& the other info you have reviewed) I'm surprised.
AnniamNgoppe having a few different versions of an accident from a few different people is plausible. But 9 versions from the same person is deception.
This is one of many doubts I have. If its true, he could have add details or change some things about the event, but not the main thing which was he saw heavenly father and Jesus after that if he added or removed minor details that would still keep the most important part without changing but he said different things 3 or more times.
And that would be YOUR experience. I can respect that. It hasn’t been everyone’s... hence needing a group of support from being lied to about it.
This comment is a great example of Cognitive dissonance
Sending moles in to gather information about members in a private group is stalking!
Blessings Cody and Leah.
Welcome to freedom! The Bible says that no man is perfect, no not one. Men may condemn you, but Jehovah looks at the heart.
To create a support group, no matter how beneficial it may be, is implying that the church has faults. They don’t like that much. Remember- they NEVER admit to fault. They purposely dodge responsibility for any wrong doing by calling problem topics “continuing revelation.”
It's like a knife going into your heart and bleeding it's like a knife striking your motions and they're very intense and it's almost like you're withdrawing and you're losing everything you know it's all you know your whole life and then outside it that is the most scary hard thing to cope out there I am not Elias but LDS but I've been in a small bubble in a similar situation like the more situation like this and when I came out of it with a person It was devastating because it's all I knew my whole life and then getting into the world again is so hard and that's where you have to find Good counseling and therapy and try new things good things and trying to make decisions and sometimes that's hard and the only thing you can do is get all the support you can and the love you can for people that are there for you people outside of the system I'm still working on that myself it's very very hard hard and there's a grieving process and it is like a death But I went through this through domestic violence cognitive dissidents believing in hoping things would be different gaslighted you know it's almost like your whole life and then it's torn from you and it's like what do I do now but thank you so much for sharing thisharing this I can relate to this a lot
Many ex Mormons have moved on and found Jesus via the New Testament I hope this family does the same and finds peace and happiness
God bless them in their pursuit of truth and happiness they are special people
Also, all the jargon 'disciplinary council' 'stake president' 'bishop' and on and on and on (and on) - the layers and layers and layers of men (old and white mainly) in charge, the bishops of churches with zero training (men again), the discipline (as you would do with children) and the normalizing of that, the speaking with teenagers about their masturbatory practices and the shaming of that, the tacit encouragement of 'mixed orientation marriage', the over reliance of individuals on their bishops and stake presidents so clearly point to it being a cult. and Even these two lovely people still doing apologetics work for the Mormon Church (these are good men) all speak cult. cult cult. And finally, the absolute unnecessary drama of all of this is ridiculous.
Y'all are beautiful and courageous! Please know that just because the LDS church is a false gospel, Jesus is Lord and the Bible is God's word. We were taught as Mormons to NOT fully trust the Bible, but you can trust it. Please do the research :)
I suggest some intro music or noise
Sent a message to you ♥️ Lea just giving you some love during this time and know you not alone
I’ve been studying and the teaching of Christ, there is no mention of excommunication in the original true church in Christ’s teachings. Jesus did not baptise then later excommunicate.
Irene Pearse 💯
There’s certainly plenty of references to cutting people off from the church in the Bible. This is why the Jehovah’s Witnesses are notorious for shunning because of how zealous they are about following the word.
Is this a one party consent state?
Yep
Praying for you guys! Knowing that you leave and lose so many people, knowing that life long family and friends can cast you out. That’s so hard. Knowing it’s all wrong and blasphemy and having to find truth is worth it, but still SO hard and I’m so glad you have support through all of this!
The stake president spoke with the higher ups. With membership not exactly flourishing, their main objective is to bring in that 10% to satisfy the shareholders. They felt your nice and helpful group would create off shoots which would affect their cash flow, and the only way to punish your good works was to excommunicate you, because they truly don't care how people feel. Love bombing lasts only so long and so does bs for me personally.
I see the exhausted looks on the womens faces, general appearance in my ward, and tearful testimonies.
I knew the first day of hearing them with every single person stating....I know the book of mormon is true, I know the church is true, the robotics of it, was a group of brainwashed individuals. Why so many temples in impoverished countries, with church accountants looking for loopholes to establish more shell companies. I prefer the Jesus and God from my Bible. The book of mormon, handed to me is filed in my bookcase in the fiction section, written by a pedophile, with excerpts from treasure fantasies, along with corrupted by Smith passages from the Bible. I wish you both the very best with your work. You seem like very nice people.
It’s not about marriage in heaven , about personal relationships with Jesus Christ, that’s the good news is that Jesus paid the price for our sins !
Wish u would not have allowed them to excommunicate u. Should have told them u are choosing to leave they don't get a choice in that. Those council's are not done out of love like the leaders try to make u believe.
I've seen a lot of defamation go on in the church towards people that value truth over association. The disipline should be going the other direction.
This is really interesting. All the terminology and beliefs just sound nuts. Except for apostate. That seems to carry the same connotation as it does with the jws.
But the whole guts of the issue - I can totally feel the same as you guys. Isn’t that bizarre? How is that I can sense what you’re feeling, especially the weird things like your insecurities right now, when you guys were in some wacky cult, and we were in the One True religion.
It's so sad to see so many wonderful people, like yourselves, being so deeply hurt by Mormon leaders. The real problem is that Mormonism is a cult developed by a very persuasive leader, Joseph Smith. A basic hallmark of a cult is that independent thought or contact with "outsiders" with different beliefs is not just discouraged but forbidden. Sunlight kills mold, and in the same manner learning the truth of Mormon history and the inconsistencies in doctrine over the years, exposes the falseness of the claims of Church leaders. The price of questioning within a cult is unimaginably high - loss of friends and family relationships, loss within business and work situations, loss of a world view that was positive and comfortable. The leaders are in a difficult situation because information is so much more readily available now, and facts are becoming more widely known - it is only a matter of time until the dam of isolation from outside information and truth breaks and the church hemorrhages members. My deepest prayer is that those who find themselves on the outside, retain their faith in God, and find a Christian Church that not only permits questions and soul-struggle, but encourages it. Be assured, God will be with you in your journey.
Hello @@johnlee1352and thank you for your reply. The Mormon church is not experiencing growth, it fudges it's numbers by counting inactive members and children baptized in the mission field who never really become members. But growth and size do not mean valid doctrine or valid foundational claims. Mormonism is and always was a fraud generated from the fertile mind of Joseph Smith. He was (as was his father) a local treasure hunter who used a magic stone (later the stone he used to "translate" the book of Mormon) to locate buried treasure on people's property for a sum of money. He was convicted in a New York court of fraud. As for growth - neither growth, wealth nor power in this world indicate God's approval. Many evil, wealthy, powerful people and societies have existed; more to the point, the Jehovah's Witnesses are also growing because they field members to knock on doors and present their version of Christianity. The main reason traditional Christianity is dwindling is that few Christians actually allow God to change their character and make them more loving, kind and forgiving of others. Many, if not most, Christians are mean spirited, gossip and fully engage in the culture wars. Jesus taught that loving God, and loving others are the great keys to the Gospel - the Good News (not the bad news, sad news or the angry news). I understand your anger - no one likes to have their entire world-view challenged and called invalid; it hurts. But truth is important and worth the pain of discovering you have been deceived, as have millions of others.
If there is any consoling fact in such a situation as this, it is the knowledge that the LDS Church never was the true Church of Jesus Christ and that Joseph Smith was a false prophet from the beginning. Smith himself is most likely burning in Hell under the penalty of being a false prophet. The whole LDS cult has not one ounce viability. It will never be the true Church no matter how much time passes or how much money it accumulates. Never. However, in terms of being shunned by former friends and family it will be painful to be excommunicated for quite some time. You can begin to pray for loved ones still ensnared by the deceit of this false religion. Eventually your lives will start to improve in ways you never thought possible. Viva Cristo Rey!
Sounds like they lost the game of "leadership roulette." Probably 80-90% of congregations (wards/stakes) wouldn't have done this to them. (Or am I being that glass-half-full guy again?)
I’d say 90% and up WOULD do this.
John isn't a very good interviewer....it's just leading question after leading question
Bman Isn’t that a sign of a good interviewer in this context though? :)
@@janina873 depends if you're wanting the story or a bias narrative??
Blocked from what????
Isn't that interesting. A couple on another podcast you did were only disfellowshipped for apostasy, probably because the husband refused to stop posting things on facebook, from what I understand, benign things. So, why the difference? WOW is all I can say. I was excommunicated for "apostasy" right along with my husband because my husband held a meeting in our home, against my wishes. I won't go into what the meeting was about unless someone asks.
You teach people how to treat you.
I don’t believe in the doctrine, then excommunication does not matter to me. . It’s just the way I feel personally about myself and my husband. We feel it was all a lie , thus none of it means anything to us. My morals and my caring of others will always remain regardless of this particular religion or lack there of.
Count it all joy..
50% of Church members are going to fall away! The History of My People is not a Cult!!!!!!Like a Lion in the mix of sheep, pride before the fall!!!
You're as brainwashed as any Mormon.
Pride goeth before destruction! Proverbs 16:18. Significant difference than a fall.
Lucifer Fell!!!!!
I'm not a Mormon, but I've seen this before, where a couple does a _very_ long interview, but takes a huge amount of time skirting around issues before getting to what the matter is really all about (that's if they ever do.) I've listened for almost 18 minutes now and I still don't know - why? Have they something to hide?
god bless you John and the beautiful young family I’m in uk and I feel this families pain they are so lovely an so genuine may they find the love of Jesus to protect them and comfort them I still think that the church should accept and include people with this kind of crisis, the same thing happens here in uk and their is no help so I think that members just keep quiet and continue to to attend but lots of people are waking up to the truth it’s a big problem in the uk
I’m lost for words I wish I could help
I honestly have been there and done that -- though not as a member of LDS --- but it is just so sad to see how much influence the LDS exerts over these people's lives. To the point that the feel the need to reassure their leadership that their kids aren't going to talk about the TRUE history of their church? Really??? I know disentangling yourself from a way of life is not easy - trust me, I know. But I sincerely hope a year from now they re-listen to this interview to see how much control LDS had over their life. The foundation of ANY church or religion is truth. Right? people wouldn't believe if they didn't think the organization or founder(s) weren't honest & true - whether it be Buddha, Jesus, Abraham, Zoraster, or Joseph Smith. So when you find out the church leadership is knowingly hiding or covering up behavior - and isn't behaving in the same manner they expect from you the believer.... then that church no longer has the right to dictate whether you can question the foundation/truth of the organization.
Organised”
getting excommunicated for questioning their faith. Abusive and cultish.
So this is why I’ll ask this question….you all are saying there’s so many good things about “the church” but you are ousted if you don’t follow man made rules. What’s good about a lying “church”? What? I know the people, relationships, the programs etc…..And why would you want to be associated and stay in a religion that you’ve found out is a cultish religion? When you know it’s based on lies you no longer need to worry about baptism, or being sealed for all time and eternity, the sacrament etc…. This is all a lie. The hierarchy is clearly threatened and that alone says it ALL.
Just asking because as a Bible believing Christian this makes no sense. Freedom please!!!!! Christ and Christ alone. I have those special relationships, friendships etc…. No strings attached, no records kept…. Other than in the “lambs book of life” as the BIBLE talks about. Christ is center and he paid it all and gives us freedom. The Bible is clear if you find and prove one thing wrong it is a lie. The “church” is not going to be healthier. How can it be when its ROOTS are based on falsehood?
This is all soooo creepy.
Bless you people for spreading truth about this scary “fully controlled members” non Christian religion.