In this episode, Allan and Kattie discuss finding value at church as a mixed faith couple. They discuss the difficulties, the benefits, and how they’ve learned to be more respectful of each others perspectives regarding church attendance.
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Sometimes my beef with Mormonism is that we focus way too much on Christianity where I would love that we spend more time focusing on new ideas, thoughts, and revelations.
We don’t have enough of that these days, we seem to regurgitate old mainstream Christianity perspectives and if that’s what I wanted well any church would do that.
I just wish we would speak more about what was controversial at church.
Loved the podcast, great job guys. I love your positive take on things and wish there were more models of people like you in the Church remaining engaged while adjusting their faith and world view. David–like you, I have often found the way we frame Christianity in the Church uncompelling. God gives us a long list of commandments that we need to obey (it’s impossible to do) and Christ makes up for our failures and gives God his 100% obedience through the atonement. We get a heavy dose of guilt along the way “how many drops of blood were shed for me?” To me, that is not the good news. I would recommend checking out some New Testament scholarship and the exciting world of people who have explored the wisdom, compassion and social message of Jesus’ teachings (Marcus Borg, Richard Rohr, Peter Enns). For me, that approach to Christ is good news and is exciting, hopeful and engaging and not a guilt trip about all the ways we don’t measure up to perfection.
Felix…thanks for the comment and for listening =)
I feel the same way. Not to diminish the atonement or sacrifice of Christ, but I gravitate much more toward the teaching that can help me live better today rather than a guilt filled living in hopes of a reward in the next life.
I find great meaning in putting my focus in how Christ’s example can improve the life of my family, friends and those around me when I do better at putting that example into practice in my own life.
I’ll absolutely check out those references you pointed out! I’m always on the hunt for a new perspective!
Hey folks! Great podcast. I’m curious about how widely known Allan’s apostasy is in your ward. Once I came out to the bishop, even though I asked for confidentiality, my unbelief status made the rounds in ward council and people started reaching out to express their sympathy to my wife. My wife believes strongly in keeping up appearances, and all of the attention made her really uncomfortable.
Did you just call me an apostate!?! I kid…I kid.
I’m sorry that you weren’t given control over informing others of your journey. My ward experience has been mostly in my control. The bishop has discussed with his counselors (one of them came and spoke with us briefly about it) but other than that has been good about keeping things confidential. I think a big reason for this is the fact that Kattie is in ward council! I can only guess what the conversations would be in WC if Kattie wasn’t in there.
I’ve told a few close friends about my apostasy and they’ve kept it to themselves. I participated in the March to Protect LDS Children and was interviewed by local media, so a few people have talked to me about that (all complimentary).
I’m comfortable talking to anyone and everyone about the details of my faith crisis, but I don’t go around broadcasting it. Unfortunately, if it was widely known, I would no longer be looked at as a credible voice when I ask questions and give opinions in EQ and Gospel Doctrine.