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Welcome to a home-based religion with no centralized organization calling
the shots. Reform Mormonism is a personal philosophy, not a Sunday activity. Reform Mormons believe in: • rational thinking • the importance of knowledge, intelligence, and progression • freedom from judgement and condemnation • eternity (an existence other than this one) • morality and accountability • evolution and man's ultimate destiny as an evolved being There are many types of Mormons in the world today. Reform Mormons are not like any of them. We are NOT the LDS Church based in Salt Lake City. In addition: • we're pro-gay, pro-women, and pro-intellectualism • we keep church and state separate Our definitions of standard religious terms, like "faith," are dramatically different than in most religions. Read more about what makes us different. |
 Reform Mormonism Yahoo Discussion Group |
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| FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT REFORM MORMONISM | ||||||
 Is Reform Mormonism a Christian denomination? |
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| No. Reform Mormonism is a type of Mormonism, and is different from orthodox Christianity. | ||||||
| Are Reform Mormons Christian? |
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| Some. Reform Mormons can also consider themselves to be practitioners of other faiths. Reform Mormonism does not require its adherents to confine themselves to just one religious pursuit; in fact, we encourage religious diversity. You may find Reform Mormons who consider themselves Christian, or non-Christian, or Mormon/Buddhists, etc. The blending of several religious faiths is common in the east, but new to the west. | ||||||
| Aren't Mormons the religion from Utah who sends out missionaries and used to practice polygamy? |
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| The LDS Church (formally named "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints") headquartered in Salt Lake City, is the organization that sends out missionaries. They prefer not to be called "Mormons." There are many sects of Mormonism in the world today - fundamentalist Mormons, known for their continuing practice of polygamy; reorganized Mormons, known now as "The Community of Christ;" LDS Mormons, known for their missionary work and their large numbers (12 million.) But Reform Mormons are different than all of these, and are known for being more liberal and progressive than any of these. We like being called "Reform Mormons." We do not send out missionaries or practice polygamy. We offer our philosophy of faith and life to those who find it appealing, recognizing that it will not work for everyone - but it's the right thing for those who understand it. | ||||||
| Where is Reform Mormonism practiced? Is there a church or a temple? |
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| No. Reform Mormonism is primarily a home-based religion, and observance occurs in the home. Some Reform Mormon religious ceremonies are performed in dedicated spaces. | ||||||
| Mormons are known for being conservative. Is Reform Mormonism a conservative
organization? |
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| Reform Mormonism does not involve itself in politics. However, Reform Mormonism openly welcomes and accepts all people, including women and gay people, and does not exclude anyone from its ceremonies and priesthood. We're generally at the other end of the spectrum from what most people think of when they think of Mormonism. | ||||||
| The LDS are known for not smoking, and not drinking alcohol or coffee.
Does Reform Mormonism have these traits? |
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| No. Reform Mormons have no dietary restrictions due to their observance of Reform Mormonism. | ||||||
| Aren't Mormons the ones who believe in Joseph Smith? |
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| Yes, generally all sects of Mormonism today are rooted in Joseph Smith's teachings. Reform Mormons consider Joseph Smith to have been a prophet. We also consider Mohammed, Moses, Jesus, and Martin Luther King to have been prophets. Reform Mormons don't believe in blind obedience. We do look for inspiration in life from many sources, not just from particular religious leaders. | ||||||
| What makes Reform Mormonism special? |
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| We're a religion that places emphasis on individual progression rather than on scriptural literacy or adherence to rules. We do not claim to be Christian, or like any other faith - we're entirely something new. We don't claim to be the only true religion. We believe in evolution, scientific progress, rational thought, and treating all people with respect. We also use our faith to tap into our potential - the ability to become better, to gain knowledge and wisdom, and to progress. | ||||||
| Are there other things about your religion that might surprise me? |
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| Plenty. Read about them in our Library. | ||||||
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