This section draws from over two decades of personal experience as a Mormon, offering insights into the principles, community, and lived experiences.
I spent the first 25 years of my life as a Mormon, and I served a Mormon mission in Denver, Colorado for 18 months. Like many members, I often emphasized that “Mormon” was just a nickname, and that our church’s real name–“The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints”–was proof enough that we were Christians…
You’ve probably seen Mormon missionaries at least once–usually two young men going door to door in white shirts and ties asking to share a message about Jesus. But where do they come from and how do they end up as missionaries? As an ExMormon who served my own mission for 18 months in Denver, Colorado,…
When the Secret Lives of Mormon Wives dropped on Hulu, it immediately grabbed attention, and some even claiming it caused Hulu to crash. I binged it the weekend it came out and, like many others familiar with Mormon culture, I had plenty of thoughts about how this show would portray the infamous MomTok group and…
Most faithful Mormons live their entire lives without ever drinking alcohol. This may seem surprising in a world where alcohol plays a significant role in social gatherings, celebrations, and even relaxation. For Mormons, however, alcohol is not only avoided but can often be demonized and seen as a sign of worldly wickedness. The Word of…
You may have heard about “soaking” or “Mormon soaking” on TikTok or Reddit, where it has become a viral topic of conversation. This unusual practice is often associated with young Mormons trying to reconcile their intimate desires with the teachings of the LDS Church. But what exactly is soaking, and why is it connected to…
Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints follow guidelines that shape every aspect of their lives, including what they wear, eat, and drink. These rules, whether considered commandments, guidelines, or social expectations, often serve as a measure of a member’s righteousness and personal worth. Every Rule I Followed as a Mormon: What…
Did you know Mormons research dead people so they can be baptized on their behalf into the church? Or that they believe the U.S. Constitution will be saved by the LDS Church during a time of national crisis? These are just a few of the unusual and wild beliefs that set Mormonism apart from other…
Have you ever wondered what Mormon garments look like? These garments, often referred to as “temple garments,” are religious underwear worn by members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) who have undergone the endowment ceremony in the temple. The endowment is a sacred ceremony in the LDS Church that includes…
Ever wondered what a Mormon temple wedding is like? Or why the ceremonies are so secretive? Maybe you were asked to wait outside during the ceremony. My temple wedding was supposed to be a sacred and joyous occasion, but for me, it turned out to be a disillusioning experience…