Comments on: Mormons in Memphis

By: Lydia Van Dreel

Lydia Van Dreel — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:31:30 +0000

Its interesting how many religions and cultures rely on rigid gender roles, which I think stem from a now defunct need for division of labor. I feel so lucky to have found an environment where diverse gender expression isn’t only accepted, its quite commonplace. I’m so impressed by your ability to reach out and connect with people who, on one level, can’t accept you. I find myself quick to anger in those situations and I’m trying to be more accepting of those who wouldn’t accept me. It seems like the only way to rise above it. Love your blog.

By: Susan Sommer

Susan Sommer — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 23:08:19 +0000

Really interesting, Eve. If I were given a glimpse, say like Joseph Smith, I might also think that glimpse is the total rather than a glimpse. I’m just supposing here…

By: Eleanor Clark

Eleanor Clark — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 22:05:01 +0000

There’s a big “however” in any discussion of the history of Mormonism. When you read the story of Joseph Smith, it’s really appalling that a religion is based on the “findings” of this total quack. And as for it’s “theology”, it was explained to me in high school (in Wyoming) by a friend of mine and certainly even at the age of 16, it made no sense at all. The fact that there are lovely people who adhere to it just makes me want to give up and withdraw from the human race!

By: Janine

Janine — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 18:20:51 +0000

King James:
John 13:16 Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him.
17 If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.

There may not be a lot of “happy” but there is a great deal of “joy.” Not quite the same thing, and I think that might be good and important.

(Remind me sometime to tell you of my encounter with Mormon evangelists in Athens, near the Acropolis and the place where St. Paul preached the sermon on the unknown god.)

By: Monica

Monica — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 04:09:30 +0000

Hi, Eve —

Fascinating. The more I understand about Mormonism and families the more I see what a painful bind it creates for anybody who decides to leave (and those who love them who decide to stay.)

Another book for your wishlist:

Mormonism: The Story of a New Religious Tradition, by Jan Shipps

Written by a very smart, funny, non-Mormon historian. Haven’t read it but its reputation among historians I admire is stellar.