With that observation, pollster Gary Lawrence begins a lively analysis of the facts and fictions surrounding Mormonism – a religion mysterious to some, misunderstood by many, and maligned by more than a few. Sprinkling each chapter with results from his national polls, Lawrence produces the go-to guidebook for the person who wants to understand “just enough” about this increasingly visible religion.
Taking 24 criticisms of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as his springboards – which he likens to pies being thrown at those attending the family reunion – Lawrence, the friendly host of the get-together, presents the claims and reasoning of Mormon beliefs that are at turns properly serious, candidly informative, and unexpectedly entertaining.
Mormons Believe .. What?! looks at:
- Why Mormons claim to be the re-established original Christian church.
- Mormons in politics and whether a Mormon can be elected president.
- The visions that established the religion.
- The unique traits – vertical, geographic, and unpaid – of the LDS Church.
- Mormon temples and their purpose.
- Why Mormons reject fourth-century Christian creeds.
- The three types of intellect – rational, emotional, and spiritual.
- The self-deprecating Mormon sense of humor.
- Mormon beliefs about a pre-earthly existence, the status of women in the church, blacks and the priesthood, life after death, and, yes, polygamy.
Mormons Believe .. What?! presents Lawrence’s straightforward explanations and rationale for LDS beliefs, all informed by a deep reverence for Jesus Christ, the Son of God.