THE NAME EXPLAINED
- "Reform" means to put or change
into an improved form or condition.
- "Mormonism" is a name given to
a collection of sects that began in American
culture in 1830.
- "Reform Mormonism" is a way of
life and faith that is an improved form of
some theological themes of Mormonism.
REFORM MORMONISM AND THE LDS
- The LDS Church consists of approx. 12 million
people, headquartered in Salt Lake City,
Utah. Many people think of this religion
when the word "Mormon" is used.
However, "Mormon" applies to a
variety of sects, the LDS church being the
largest of them.
- Reform Mormonism is not an attempt to change
the LDS Church, it is a separate approach
to life and faith.
- Many Reform Mormons do not consider themselves
LDS or any other form of "Mormon."
- Many LDS members hold beliefs that are Reform
Mormon in nature.
BASIC APPROACH TO FAITH AND LIFE IN REFORM
MORMONISM
- Reform Mormonism is defined by its approach
to faith, life, and our progression through
life - not by a set of tenets that a follower
must adopt.
- Reform Mormons value knowledge, and believe
that our progression through life is enhanced
by acquiring knowledge.
- Reform Mormons are free, and encouraged,
to explore all religious teachings, experiences,
and knowledge available. As a result, we
are highly respectful of, and grateful for,
the diversity of religion in the world.
- Reform Mormons develop skills which will
help them explore and enhance their individual
spiritual and temporal progression.
- Because Reform Mormons value and encourage
personal exploration, they can be defined
by the variety of belief that their individual members
may hold, rather than by a set of common
criteria of belief.
- Reform Mormons believe in living morally
and accountability. Our approach to "morality"
is more sophisticated and encompassing than
a prescribed sexual code.
- Reform Mormons are more liberal in their
approach to women, homosexuality, and intellectualism
than other Mormon sects.
- Reform Mormons view the legitimate role of
a church in their lives as a "support",
not a "control."
- Reform Mormons value their personal and Mormon
heritage, and seek to continually enhance
it.
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