If there’s one thing Mormonism is good at—besides creating a network of genealogists—it’s encouraging journaling. As a former devout Mormon girl, my journals are like time capsules of my younger self: awkward, deeply religious, and slightly embarrassing. The idea behind it? To chronicle your spiritual journey so your future kids can marvel at how committed…
When I first stepped onto the campus of Brigham Young University (BYU), I had no idea that I was entering what could only be described as a surreal, highly controlled microcosm of Mormon culture. For those unfamiliar, BYU is owned and operated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and students are required…
Alright, let’s just rip the Band-Aid off—I don’t believe in God. At all. And yes, I know that probably makes some of you clutch your pearls, but stick with me. Here’s the thing: I wasn’t always an atheist. I grew up very Mormon. Like, prayed-morning-and-night, got-married-in-the-temple, knocked-on-strangers’-doors-to-convert-them Mormon. God wasn’t just part of my life—He…
Living in the LDS Church comes with a rigid set of expectations and failing to meet these expectations can lead to serious consequences that may be spiritual, social, emotional, or even psychological in nature. The fear of these consequences often keeps members in line, even when they struggle to believe or follow the church’s teachings….
Ever wondered what Mormon missionaries do all day? Or why they dress the way they do? Did you know most missionaries fund their mission themselves? Serving a mission was supposed to be a pivotal, enriching experience, but for me, it felt like a significant waste. As a former missionary, I’ll take you behind the scenes…
My Story—Leaving the Mormon church after years of dedicated faith and service. My family has a deep-rooted connection to the Mormon faith, passed down from my polygamist ancestors who followed Brigham Young and Joseph Smith. They fervently prayed for the salvation of their descendants, and my familial line remained faithful through the outlaw of polygamy…