Insider: LDS Church is Hemorrhaging Members

[@jakeallen8309]

End of 2023 my wife and I both left due to not wanting to indoctrinate our children and no longer believing anything they preach. I was 26 she was 25.

[@Spark_Horizion]

Um you do realize that anything that anyone learns about history from a different country will very and is indoctrination to make you a slave to what ever government you are a part of

[@styphlynne8253]

Being true to my soul and cutting my losses showed my kids what strength is. I was a temple goer and had spent thousands to LD$ My last two kids (adults) thank me daily.

[@maddog46]

Thanks for getting out and welcome home. I feel what your saying for I;m and ex-Jw myself.

[@themightybrew3979]

Good job. The next step will be to grow out of all religions. You will need to research with a critical mind, not a religious mind.

[@davidrawlings1176]

@@themightybrew3979 I’m

[@HomestarJr]

I left at 43, 4 years ago. My wife and 6 kids are absolutely done with this deceitful greedy organization.

[@LatterDaisySaint]

Did you always view the Church as simply an organization? Just curious.

[@HomestarJr]

@@LatterDaisySaint I used to think it was the kingdom of God on the earth. I served a mission, went to BYU, married in the temple, attended the temple regularly. I studied at BYU for 5 years. I took church history classes. I was taught at BYU that the stuff now admitted by the church in the gospel topics essays were anti Mormon lies. I still have BYU textbooks that contradict what is being taught today. Seeing the lies and deceit, and the hoarding of money and lying to the government opened my eyes, and it’s not fair to call it the kingdom of God, or even a church. It’s a dishonest business.

[@inaweofu344]

I left this yr , I am 92 yrs of age. I am disgusted by the lies which I have been told.

[@kimberlyewell]

I love that you were brave enough to leave at this point of your life! Bravo! 👏

[@AS72831]

❤❤❤

[@lynnjohns4650]

Good on you! Wish my TBM pioneer stock mom would do the same! Hoping..

[@0869606]

You are a rock star! Can I be like you when I grow up?

[@MrBcuzbcuz]

I am 78 years old. I stopped affending when I was 30. In the following years I specifically told 3 different bishops that I no longer wanted to be a member. They did nothing. It wasn’t until I wrote a three page letter to the church headquarters outlining every detail of why I knew the church to be a cult and why I wanted my name removed from any and all records that I received a response. I was 60+ years old when I wrote that letter. If you want out, you need to put it in writing

[@pvanmondfrans]

PIMO- 53 years old here. I live in Utah County. We dissolved a ward in our stake due to the loss of members you are talking about here. Again, this is Utah County.

[@styphlynne8253]

Thanks for sharing!! After decades of being a temple mormon I had my name & LD$s number removed, with honor "welcome back for baptism" any time....um NO !

[@sandygrogg1203]

I have been watching various videos about the Mormon, church, including Mormon stories. This has made me very glad that I belong to the evangelical Lutheran Church of America. We do not care about your sexual orientation, we do not care that you consume, coffee, and alcohol, And we certainly do not care if you have tattoos or piercings. Men and women are assumed to be equal, and both can be ordained Deacon, pastors and bishops. And the best thing is it all baptized Christians are welcome to receive holy communion. Our wedding and baptisms can be attended by everyone, and we have no secrets. If you visit one of our churches, you will find a very welcoming and loving. And you will find that there are no rigid rules to adhere to.

[@MarciaMatz-ll6sx]

Not all are as you are, my ward is growing , and if you are leaving you are letting Satan lead you away, I'm sorry for you

[@styphlynne8253]

@@MarciaMatz-ll6sx Its good to know LD$ are still saving foreigners, the poor & needy and the fear drivin foolish. Dont forget the 2nd coming is nigh and they will ask for your secret handshakes to heaven, Your secret heavenly name and the secrets of your masonic priesthoods. Keep drinking the cool-aid marciagonzalesmatz

[@juliebradford8522]

@@MarciaMatz-ll6sxnot everyone views truth or defines it the same someone else does. Please be respectful to those of us who have come to a different conclusion. I wish the Mormon church and true believers would not only read the 11th article from the Articles of Faith but respect it. Thanks.

[@garyslabaugh1863]

I didn’t grow up in the church, but joined when I was 23. I left when I was 38 in 1995. One of the very worst decisions in my life was getting involved with Mormonism.

[@styphlynne8253]

I spent thousands $$, put kids on missions, & served as a faithful temple goer before I realized its better to be true to my soul, swallow my pride and cut my losses than to live a facade. I took back my name LD$ # number all of it!

[@TheSocstar]

That's sand that's your experience. It is the greatest part of my life and is a big part of who I am. I love people and understand everyone's journey is specific to them.

[@styphlynne8253]

@@TheSocstar If your CULTure helps you believe in handshakes to heaven, $$ to the Celestial kingdom, and life after this one in which you marry many and have more spirit babies then that is your way. Dont buy into the fear that "The 2nd coming" in these "Latter Days" (end of times) in which "god may smite thee" for breaking promises. Many of us have found peace, solace and love without ridiculousness. I hope my loved ones pay attention to LEX instead of LD$ peer pressures.

[@juliebrandt197]

​@@TheSocstarIt has harmed people since the day of its inception, and it's doing tremendous harm now. Its doctrine and policies cause depression, self-loathing, suicidality, homelessness, and broken relationships. Saying it's one of the best parts of your life is like announcing that you are privileged. Perhaps you haven't been harmed because you're part of the in crowd, one of the people who fits into the mold of the church. Someone who loves people will take very seriously the fact that this organization harms people.

[@caralinde]

I’m so sorry. I was raised in it and finally figured out how toxic it is a few years ago when I was 47. I can relate.

[@lindagoselin6637]

I left the church 4 years ago at the age of 73. I was baptized at 8 years and was a full-tithe paying, temple attending gospel doctrine teacher. I am happy and grateful to be free from that cult.

[@sarag1158]

That takes incredible guts! I feel like leaving at a young age is easier. I know why I went through a phase of figuring out who I was in my early twenties. but 73 your entire life devoted to a farce. It takes critical thinking and guts to do what you did. I salute you

[@the-salamander4truth]

Wow!! Congratulations!

[@windigo44]

@@the-salamander4truthAre you the white salamander & will you guide me to the gold plates

[@EE33339]

Congratulations 🎈!!!🎉🍾🎊

[@kathydahlstrom8193]

That is awesome!

[@sallyjackson1873]

Left in 2015…50 years old. Born in the covenant. Only one of 7 siblings that has left. Myself, husband and 5 kids all left together. So happy!

[@GS-mh6xv]

I'm also the only sibling (out of 6) that has left, but my husband hasn't. 3/4 of my adult kids have though, so at least I have someone who understands.

[@Evolution.1859]

When Mormons say they have “left the Church,” does that usually mean that they only physically stopped attending the Church in person, or does it more often mean the person who has left realizes the stories they have been told are false?

[@windigo44]

It means they no longer attend for a given reason such as problems with doctrines, loss of belief, feeling shamed, being overwhelmed by all the demands on one’s time, discovering that the church lied to its members about its history, polygamy, racism, sexism etc etc etc

[@styphlynne8253]

@@Evolution.1859 I had my name & LD$s number removed 20 yrs ago. Im dating in Utah and most men say they aren't mormon, just Jack-mormon. My thought "so you dont have the ba11s to leave" you are simply "inactive" um.. Goodbye Jack !

[@lawpenner]

​@@Evolution.1859both

[@Conrad_Garner]

I was born into the church in 1983, I was always in trouble for questioning everything and finally left when I was 18.

[@lorikillpack5626]

I was 54, I’m now 61. It was the hardest thing to discover I had been lied to, duped, but now, I am so happy to love my own life and to be out of the cult.

[@juancarlosverdugosanchez4296]

I am happy for you. I am 63 now and wife two years older. I dont believe anymore my wife doesnt want anything to do with it.

[@SteveSmith-os5bs]

I'm in the same boat. I lost my faith in the church at age 50. I left at 59, Now I am 64.

[@user-ld9fh7sq8u]

2011. -In Florida 600 on roles but only 60 attend (only 6 Adult men). 80% of new converts leave in first year. Happy on the Outside : )

[@ricktompson9453]

Notice how nice Mormans are now? They don't have much of a choice now.

[@rychei5393]

THIS! Fraud is fraud.

[@HereForTheComments990]

Our family of 6 left in 2014. Removed our names from the records once that horrendous policy about the children of gay people was first implemented. Best decision we ever made.

[@shaneclinger5888]

I'm curious what policy are you referring to about children of gay people?

[@taramama6658]

I left when I was 35 with my 7 children. I’m so glad I did. My youngest came out 2 years ago I’m thankful I had us out before this.

[@curtandersen3592]

The “November Policy” leak was it for me and my wife. Coincidentally, teen suicide attempts went up so much after that awful allegedly policy “inspired of the Lord”… a brief closure of Herriman HS even made the local KUTV news.

[@curtandersen3592]

The November policy stated that children of gay parents could not advance in the Priesthood or get baptized until they turn 18 and then they must denounce gay parents.

[@HereForTheComments990]

@@shaneclinger5888 It’s explained in comments above. Denying baptism to children of gay people is a fundamental betrayal of the atonement. The church faced such severe backlash and the rate of people resigning their membership was huge, so they had to pull it.

[@nikolaibuscho5881]

I was born into the church, got baptized at 8, got my Eagle award at 16, and was endowed and went on a mission at 18. I had the realization that the church was false a few months into my mission, but went through with my full two year mission. This was notably a service mission during the pandemic, so it was easier in that way. Nevertheless, I only stopped attending church last year at some point, but my family does not know that. Instead of going to church, I go on nature walks, but still attend with my family on important days, like I went on Mother's Day. I've found that going on walks, around reservoirs and in riparian (riverside) habitats, has really increased my mental health more than church ever could.

[@cubstep1944]

Walking kicks ass

[@Vicapr]

In the process of leaving. I’m 61 years old and wish I had never been introduced to it! It disgusts me how much information is hidden by not just upper leadership, but local leaders who turn their heads and pretend nothing is wrong.

[@DocMom391]

Me too! And we are the same age! I am so angry. When we were told the little spirits could go to criminals by Benson and have kids as fast etc….now we hear the RS general Pres “timed” her children conveniently after her bar exam? (She is our age)We were never told we had personal options! Now they revere her though she defied Benson and Kimball’s words and now the hypocrite tells us to follow Nelson’s words…BS

[@courtneyusmcwife5665]

Was in but mentally out at 15. When I got married at 21 so 2015 I never went back. I'm 30 now. Best decision I've ever made

[@yourcraftycatlady]

I was a legacy memeber too. My great grandfather worked with Spencer W Kimball. I began doubting when I was a teenager, but did't feel empowered to make any changes until 3 years ago (I was 49). I came across your channel and bought the CES letter book. I was blown away. There were so many things that, when layed out in black and white, just crushed any belief I may have had left. Most of my family are still members. The ones closest to me understand and accept. The rest of the family tell me they're praying for me (insert eye roll here). I haven't removed my name from the roles, but I'm going to do that now. Thank you for your content.

[@VanceSallenbach-rx2fl]

I left the scam of a church in 2017 at age 55 but I hadn't been active in 30 years. I had my name removed from church records.

[@e1erpjww]

Left in 1997. Three of my four daughters have also left. Today my new wife and I are getting homeless women off the streets and helping them get housing and rebuilding their lives.

[@e1erpjww]

Was 38 years old baptized at 18 years old

[@lucineusch5484]

I was born and raised in the church, I left when I was 25, I'm 55 now

[@nwsvndr]

@@michaelnicholas5587 Well, I kind of imagine the time and monetary committments required by the Church would have at least taken time and resources away from the good works that could be done otherwise.

[@e1erpjww]

I was a ward mission leader and Elders Quorum President among other callings and we were not permitted to do such ministry. My relatives who are still LDS wish they could serve like we do

[@LatterDaisySaint]

@@e1erpjww That's completely false, bro. Plenty of members do tons of extra humanitarian work....don't crap on or dismiss all the good that so many members do. We are completely free to do "unassigned" good...and we do, all the time. I have friends and family who are doctors and frequently make non Church-related trips to other countries to offer up their skills, time and resources to help communities desperately in need.

[@robertworthington6592]

I left the church when I was in my late teens. I went on a trip for a job that did not pan out, so I took a greyhound from one location back home going through Salt Lake City. Being stranded for 24 hours in Salt Lake City without money left as I bought the bus ticket; I went to the church for food. I did not care if they gave me something for McDonalds. I was starving. The church told me to come back later which I did, and the church told me that they would not feed me. Turning their backs on me. So, I left the church. I tried one other time to understand them and nothing except the missionaries that came to my house. Being pre-law now, I told the church that if the missionaries keep coming by, I will get them for harassment.

[@bewitched3912]

.. or you can do what I plan to do; invite them in to use your phone and computer to call and email home. I'm going to make them something to eat and offer them a fatty bonghit of prescription strength cannabis and to watch John Dehlin whenever they want because I just learned that 40% of missionaries leave the church within 6 months after the mission ends. I realize they were brainwashed and left isolated without the ability to talk to someone neutral about how awful the church really is. I believe their parents and Bishops coerced these poor guys and wouldn't choose to be on a mission if they weren't guilt trip little kids from age 7!! ❤ peace to you my friend

[@carolynlind7872]

I left at 20 right after I got married in the temple. My husband and I could not get our heads wrapped around the blood oath promises and the cult teachings after taking out our endowments. I’m now 58 and I’ve never regretted leaving, not for one moment. Lots of family members shunned us and still do. It’s sickening.

[@lindabommarito4623]

I left in 1991 at 30 years old. This was way before the internet. I was tired of the misogynistic, patriarchal leadership- it just felt wrong.

[@pattykake7195]

It IS wrong…👎🏽

[@Mayabee321]

I’m 41 now. Left the church at 31. I’m relieved that I’m out of that bullshit. What makes me so angry is that they pile on all of these callings and activities and temple attendance onto members, and then have the audacity to say “you should never be too busy to pray and read your scriptures.” And the misogynistic patriarchal system, that is so harmful to women.

[@pattykake7195]

It’s a nasty organization…congrats on your escape…👏🏾

[@Mayabee321]

@@pattykake7195 thank you. I’m so much happier

[@bewitched3912]

It makes me mad too. I'm working towards changing laws to eliminate infant and child baptisms, confessions and tithes. Children cannot consent and I'm taking this all the way through to the Feds

[@bewitched3912]

@@michaelnicholas5587 it isn't real.

[@pattykake7195]

@@michaelnicholas5587 Mormonism is NOT a prerequisite for the next life…

[@winnie7314]

I left in 2020 when I was 17 shortly after lockdown began. Having a break from the constant indoctrination finally gave me the space I needed to think for myself, and the change in mindset was almost immediate

[@LatterDaisySaint]

That can definitely be a good thing. I left at 17, too (but it was the late 90's). After years of seeking and intense study, I came full circle back into the faith. What matters is being genuine in where you're at and where you are going. The point is...stepping away and having a greater perspective can be a vital thing. Regardless of where you end up, continue learning with an open mind and curiosity, learn to prove contraries and use that critical thinking. Ultimately, everyone shouldn't be in a belief system simply because they were born into it....but should be knowledgeable and have an understanding of those beliefs - for yourself - and be there intentionally and genuinely, not just because "someone told you so." You're young....keep learning, never stop! ~xoxo

[@lawpenner]

You let go of the the Iron Rod ;)

[@jimellis4165]

Im 71, my wife is 70. We formally resigned in May 2009. So we were in our mid 50s. We were active, doctrinal believers. Never inactive. We did it all. But when we took an honest look at it (that took a year) we realized we no longer believed. 36 years of Mormonism. Sheesh. No regrets. We are so much happier now and have freedom from dogma and busy work. Life is good.

[@terrillmel]

Amen. The Dogma was a mental prison.

[@lawpenner]

Yes, you do gain a lot of time back. Is wild how much simpler life gets. One less treadmill to run on

[@auntbeckyjoo]

Left 1 month ago, I’m 49

[@ExmoLex]

Congrats on your exit, I hope you’re doing alright! I know it can be a tough transition sometimes ♥️

[@daxleone]

Great you escaped ... the first few months are the worst, but believe me, soon you will feel a sense of great freedom

[@chrismiddleton4733]

It only gets better from here! First your world (your narrow, confining Mormon world) has to crumble, which can be painful, before you can build a bigger, better, freer world on top of the rubble. It'll be scary at first but well worth it. Onward and upward my friend!

[@sotto212]

Congratulations!

[@wladimirkulik8997]

No matter what some may say about “knowing” the LDS church is true, unless they’ve had a Moses-like supernatural God-to-mortal experience, they are stretching that truth. They don’t really know it; they believe it. They may believe with all their heart that they know it, but believing isn’t knowing. They have faith that it’s true. They hope that it’s true. Latter-day Saints often rely on the experiences of others to bolster their own faith. That’s one of the reasons the church holds monthly testimony meetings, Sunday services in which individuals in the congregation bear witness to the veracity of their spiritual leanings. Congrats and good luck!

[@ajackson5955]

I left the church in 2017 at age 38. I was “born under the covenant”, baptized at 8, held Aaronic Priesthood callings, served a mission, married in the temple, and had five kids “born under the covenant”. I could no longer swallow the lies. The day I decided to tell my wife I was done, I was in full panic mode thinking it may end our marriage. Luckily she felt similar. We’ve been out for a while, and we’ve never looked back.

[@IBNED]

What are all the lies...

[@sjenson6694]

​​@@IBNEDAll of it is lies. Every aspect fails to stand up to any real scrutiny.

[@IBNED]

Who decides what 'real' scrutiny means? Are all religious faith traditions wrong or just the LDS Church?

[@lawpenner]

​@@IBNEDit's actually quite easy to study Mormon church history and discover that all of the supernatural claims are lies. Deconstructing Biblical history and other religions is more difficult because its goes back thousands of years. But yes, all religions are false, including Christianity. The unexpected twist is that the God of the Old Testament is actually the Adversary, Satan. ...the God of this World. It explains why he loves child and animal sacrifice so much, murders so many people, calls himself a jealous god and commands us to worship Him. Also explains why the world always has wars, slavery and child torture thru all of recorded history. He is a false god who recruited so-called prophets to lead people to worship Him

[@fairywingsonroses]

I officially left the church in about 2008 at the age of 21-ish, but I've hated going since I was 4. That last time going in 08 was as a favor to my grandmother. I hadn't really been going at all prior to that. The lesson that day centered around blaming women with careers and the LGBTQ+ community for ruining families. I just couldn't anymore.

[@gordonjohnston758]

I was excommunicated for being gay when I was 32 (40 years ago). I had been a temple worker and been in the branch presidency. It was a cataclysmic disaster in my mega-mormon family back then, but today in the extended family, less than half are associated with the mormon church.

[@scandia67]

Oh yeah, I'm in that demographic. I resigned when I was 40, and the final straw was the Church's involvement in California's Prop 8.

[@windigo44]

Prop 8 sucked & support for it cost a crapload of tithing $$

[@jonjahr3403]

I hate that they got involved in Prop 8!

[@mustanggirly5602]

I was 19 (1996) After I was s*xual assaulted by a very new returned missionary, I went to my bishop. He blamed me, saying I was jeopardizing the RM's salvation and told me NOT to report it to the authorities. Fast forward, when all the lies surfaced, so did the fact some bishop's discouraged women from reporting any type of abuse.

[@findingcraigie]

Omg thats awful what the bishop said to you. I'm sorry that happened.

[@taramama6658]

I feel you I had bishops tell me to stay with an abusive husband and basically blamed me for his actions. He eventually abused my daughter. I left and took my kids in the middle of the night! I hate the church and how they put women below men!

[@pattykake7195]

This happens too often…women are not protected…men are..🤢

[@EE33339]

Some?? MOST

[@styphlynne8253]

Yep ! All of them did

[@ppgranja3]

Left March 2023, I'm 38. Never been happier.

[@tracymarshall8273]

I left in 2007 (actually the church left me, shunned). I was alone and without any of my friends or fellowship and felt so depressed. I started investigating the facts about the church when I was going to therapy for depression and trauma. I believed in the gospel my whole life and was a really good Mormon, and lived a clean, charitable life. I attended temple and had many callings. So it was shocking when I learned the real truth about Joseph Smith etc. I’m glad now that I was shunned by my bishop and ward. They did me a favour , although at the time it was devastating. The bishop shunned because I was finally brave enough leave an abusive marriage. They made an example of me. It took me years to overcome the sadness of being treated so cruelly, but I’m better off now. I have had my records removed from the church.

[@wt460]

I left the Church when I was 24, and that was in 1980. I’m 68 and love your work!!!

[@lindamaurer5723]

I’m 68 and I was actually doubting everything from about 12. I finally stood up to my father and by 16 I was no longer attending the church. My doubts began because my father was abusive and after seeing his behavior and listening to church doctrine I couldn’t understand why God would ordain my father in the high council. I told him that I was closer to “God” sitting naked in the woods than I ever felt at church. My spirituality is focused on love, kindness, tolerance and all things that lead to helping others. It is so helpful to watch these videos of ex Mormons. I never really processed it before I started following many of the vlogs. Thank you for your honesty and giving me a sense of community.

[@fredlarge8209]

I am a return missionary, temple divorced, ex-mormon, resigned at age 65.

[@dreibel]

Like you, I left in 2018, at age 58 - I actually filed my request with QuitMormon on my birthday. I’d been inactive for quite a few years, but the indoctrination from TSCC still had a hold on me and I was fearful about hellfire and damnnation if I left. It was gradual, but the November 2015 exclusion policy, discovering Ol’ Joe used a rock in a hat to go through the motion to translate gold plates that weren’t even in the room, and his con man/treasure digging past, and then the evidence that The Q15 were being paid “modest stipends” of six figures and medical and tuition plans. The last straw was hearing M. Russell Ballard and Dallin Oaks blatantly lie at a BYU devotional about “this Church has never hidden anything from anybody ”. Since then I’ve lost all fear and am a lot calmer, and am now enjoying life.

[@georgeriley4818]

Hellfire? What on earth are you talking about. The church teaches you'll live a pretty good eternity in the Terrestrial Kingdom. This isn't the Baptist Church

[@dreibel]

@@georgeriley4818 According to what I was taught by TSCC, the Terrestrial Kingdom is for all the good non-Mormons who lived exemplary lives, but who were blinded by “the craftiness of men”. Since I went through the temple, and then left the Church, I was therefore in danger of going to Outer Darkness with Mr. Beezybub, along with the rest of the apostates and “traitors”.

[@Lucyyyjaneee]

Almost 17, After the last couple of years I realize I 100% do not believe it’s truth “Left” the church a month ago. Since I’m not an “adult” I’m still forced to go to church and Wednesday activities

[@chrismiddleton4733]

You know right from wrong. You don't need a cult to superimpose their distorted morals on you. Stick to your morals. You'll be an adult soon enough. I wish I had your strength and smarts at your age to get out so early. You have a whole life of freedom ahead of you!

[@sotto212]

I'm sorry you're forced to go. Your decision and perspective should be respected by the adults in your life.

[@lorinapetranova2607]

Stay strong to your inner self. Many blessings that one day you can throw off the shackles and be free at last!! 😊

[@shelleyfunk7720]

Left the church at age 48. Took my name off the church at age 57. I will be 58 in July. I questioned the church at age 8.

[@lightningphoenix69]

I was the same age when I started to realize the lie. The last couple of years at home were very tough. When I moved out, I was out for good. Eventually two of my sisters left too. Keep holding on. You’re doing the right thing. 👍🏽

[@shaunmessick9460]

I left in 2021 when I was 46. For most of my adult life I suffered from anxiety and depression. After going to counseling after I left, I was diagnosed with religious trauma and PTSTD from my Mormon up bringing. Leaving was the best decision of my life! It saved my life.

[@unicorntamer2207]

21 years old spring of 2016, I stopped attending. 28 years old winter of 2022, I officially resigned.

[@djvee25]

I was 42 yrs old in 2023 when my faith came crashing down, so hard, so fast.

[@pamelahofman1785]

I have never been Mormon, but my next-door neighbor of 29 years is a faithful member and active in her church. She went on a mission when young and met her now husband. He converted and they got married. Wonderful people. They have six adult sons and not one has remained in the church. The youngest has said that it’s a cult. I am very fond of her and have always felt a little bad that something that has always been so important to her has been discarded by all her kids, but I think it’s better that they left.

[@sotto212]

My parents had 7 children, and we all left in our early adulthood. They've stayed extra active, and have basically chosen their church over their children, and it's really sad. We all think it's a cult too, because it is.

[@drtaverner]

​@@sotto212 IMO, if someone chooses their church over their family, then it's _proof_ that it is a cult.

[@Surfer5689-ez2yd]

My family has 10 siblings, (two families combined) 9 out of the 10 are active.

[@monongahelacats]

The internet and social media are going to be the downfall of this cult.

[@ricktompson9453]

Did the church ask the parents to sign their will over to the church? Teach the kids a church lesson?

[@kaciestansfield6251]

Left in 2023 at 40yrs old. I was a born and raised member, so glad to be done

[@24kennifer]

Covid was the final straw for me. I was 45. I converted at 18.

[@DocMom391]

Thats when i started to dig deep…between shutting the churches and the vvx push, plus the church donating millions to give the vvx to others! Nelson knew better, it was experimental at best! I was a researcher for 30 years and real researchers called The little putz Fraudci for 30 years starting with the aids fiasco- Nelson knew all this being in the health field he had to know fraudci either personally or professionally we all knew him.

[@lawpenner]

Ya, Prophet led the Church astray when he/they told everyone to take the mark of the beast

[@zethcrownett2946]

I pulled my records in 2020, as a young adult. It was a combination or recognizing the lies, manipulations, and seeing it for the cult that it is, that finally got me out.

[@pamdehlin7088]

I am 70 years old. I left about a decade ago. I have asked to be removed, with no luck.

[@Wren402]

A cousin sent me a link to a website in 2015 that had a template for form letter that you can personalize and send to the address listed for the church headquarters. If you send a letter to the right address, they have to release you. I’ll try to find the address.

[@wellIdiditagain]

I've sent letter to this address..... Unsure what happened after this.

[@laurencek.1580]

So when I resigned back in 18' or 19' I got a certificate and letter saying my name was removed. On the other hand missionaries still come to our address and say we are still on the contact list. Would my prior membership slip into an inactive dormant membership list or is it just the missionaries list isn't updated with resigned members?

[@DavidOConnor-nb3iq]

For those of you looking to have your name removed from the Mormon church and are having problems, the following site can help (Quit Mormon). He is a lawyer and an ex Mormon. He is a great resource and will help free of charge.

[@drtaverner]

​@@laurencek.1580 I expect they're desperate to get you back.

[@nordicexile7378]

I stopped affiliating in 2012 (age 45). In the spirit of "you receive no witness until after the trial of your faith", we then had the gospel topics essay on polygamy and racism the following two years, then that bigoted policy about excluding children of homosexual couples and finally the SEC scandal last year. All those things (and more) were a complete confirmation that I made the right choice!

[@ralfgenz1752]

I was 49 when I walked out and never looked back. However, I was 63 when I had my name removed from the records of the church. Almost one year ago now. I firmly let them know that any effort of getting me to change my mind was a waste of their time and mine, so they didn't even try. There is a multitude of issues that caused me to walk away. A few months ago, I finally read the CES letter.

[@brb5506]

The CES letter is so riddled with factual inaccuracies and logical fallacies that it's hard to see how anyone sees anything in it because it's so full of holes.

[@Flintlock1776]

@@brb5506 Says someone who believes that a known charlatan and grifter translated ancient gold plates about North American civilizations for which there is not one shred of evidence while he sat behind a curtain and stared at a magic rock in his farm hat. Yep. No holes in that story. Rock solid. Air tight.

[@mikeoyler2983]

@@brb5506 What specifically about it is inaccurate?

[@brb5506]

@mikeoyler2983 I. truly wish I had the space and time to tell you here, but there are myriads of things. There are those who have detailed them. Look for them. In the meantime, read The Book of Mormon earnestly, wanting to know if it's true. Give it a shot. You have little to lose and everything to gain.

[@brb5506]

@3october1993 Actually, there's considerable evidence that neither Joseph Smith nor anyone of his time could have written The Book of Mormon. Read it for yourself if you have the courage to do so. Until you have studied it carefully, you can not honestly say you know it to be true or false.

[@krakenfan6818]

My husband and I left the church in 2008, along with our four children. We were both 44 years old. At the time, there was nothing available online. Just recently I have learned about gospel, topic, essays, CES letter, letter to my wife, book of Abraham, and the many many many changes in the church since we left. I didn't need very much on my shelf for it to break, but now people have so much shelf breaking info available.

[@carle9924]

I am 44 years old I left when I was 16-17 years old and officially resigned in 1998. So happy that I got out in my teens. We are 6 siblings and 3 of us are out now 💪🏻

[@tannerc.390]

It’s bittersweet because I’m happy people are starting their journey. I genuinely think they will be happier in the long run. However I feel so bad that their world is turning upside down

[@QuinnPrice]

3.5m seems right for those who attend. I left in 2005 after having fully vetted LDS truth claims (age 42 in a Bishopric). No regrets. And I find 4 groups both in and outside of the church who don't believe or attend. 1 - Shadow. Don't believe it but attend for many reasons. 2- Don't attend but feel guilty about not attending. These are the suicide risks because they believe but can't stomach it. 3 - Wandered off. It just didn't resonate or they had a bad experience and no longer attend. Did NOT deconstruct it. 4- Left and fully deconstructed it. Zero chance of any of these folks of returning.

[@joelgoldsmith4747]

You're making it sound calamitous buddy!

[@chlyri]

that third classification is really bad wording.

[@WacoUIC1933]

I left in 1984, at age 31, after 12 years of active membership. I was never happier in my life than whe I wrote a letter to Church Headquarters requesting my name be removed from the records. However, that happiness quickly turned into anger and disgust when two men from the ward in which I resided (but had never attended) showed up at my front door, after dark, with a copy of my letter and demanded to know if I wrote it. I felt like a criminal being confronted with the FBI. My neighbors were peaking through their curtains, later telling me they thought I was about to be arrested. Eventually I did receive a letter from SLC, wishing me well in the remainder of my sojourn on earth. It was a very thinly disguised way of saying, "You've screwed up and now you'll be cast into outer darkness forever." Their threat of outer darkness was meaningless when compared to the inner darkness I felt while trapped in the Cult.

[@RedTheThief]

I was born into the church, but left a little after I moved out on my own at age 20 in 2011. It was so easy to just stop going to church. I also met a guy (who would later become my bf) around the same time, and while he never discouraged me from being religious, I knew I couldn't live a double life so I chose not to be Mormon anymore. I did try church again when I started at UVU in 2015, even started the repentance process, but after a while I just felt so out of place there and quit going again. Haven't been back since except for family occasions (baby blessing, baptism etc). I don't regret it, and I definitely can't go back now after all I've learned! Thanks for the info Lexi! 💜

[@beckygreenberg4283]

Dear Lex: I just enjoyed 15 minutes of reading the comments/reactions to your video. I wasn't looking to leave, but when somebody told me about Sunstone, and started trying to tell me about all of the issues, I was amazed. I wrote away to Sunstone for materials. I think the only address I had was Sunstone, Sandy, UT. It didn't take long. I was 16 when I involuntarily and overnight stopped believing, still living at home with my M. family (for generations). This was about 1969 or 1970. I kept writing Sunstone for more and more materials. I was STUNNED. I refused to go to church......it was painful. God bless you, Sandra Tanner and Sunstone. At the end of the 1980s, the missionaries came to my door (different married last name, 40 miles away); they knew about me. They told me they were holding some kind of "court" on me. I had that frightened response inculcated in me from childhood. I told them to do whatever they felt like, it was of no interest to me. One of the pivotal moments from my childhood is when they divided our ward---that I could walk to---and told us we had to now attend some ward way over there-- with strangers. We never fit in: that ward was in an economically higher bracket than we were, and much farther away. Since we didn't change to the new ward right away, I remember the bishop (of the old ward) finally coming to the house to tell my parents they couldn't attend our ward anymore. That particular moment came at a painful moment in my adolescence, pre-Sunstone. Maybe they themselves helped me become available to an outside message! As you and your readers know, exiting out into "normal" average American life is not an easy or simple passage, but I'm so grateful I'm safely in my own life of my own making. You have motivated me to take steps to make sure I am not on their rolls. Keep up your excellent work shining a light into the darkness.

[@kimberlyewell]

@MormonStoriesPodcast did a couple of posts on this!

[@donchrlan5167]

I joined the church in 1981 left in 1991 at age 33. My husband stopped attending and I was going with two toddlers which grew old fast. We would get calls from Bishopric members saying how much we were missed and I went back a few times only to see everyone was being counted to get a building extension. I am glad I got out while my kids were too young to be impacted.

[@MATTierial]

I was 25-26 when I stopped going. But it wasn't until I was about 28 when I read the CES letter and did my own research on the history of the church. So, I'd say it wasn't until then that I "left." Many of my friends are still in it, and they sound tired when they talk about it. One of my friends is an organist. It's her first time playing for a crowd, and she spends all week preparing for it. Now they want her to do another calling on top of it. All of this after... you know, working full time and trying to live a life. I think they're trying to keep people in the church as much as possible. The more life they live outside the church, the more likely they are to see how batshit insane it all is.

[@tg3609]

Left the church 3 years ago at age 61 after 32 years of being very active. So many lies the church tells its members.

[@barryrichins]

I am now 83, and I resigned from the church eight years ago. The freedom of mind is the biggest reward from my leaving.

[@styphlynne8253]

"Freedom of mind" !! worth millions

[@FruitoftheMinistry]

I’ve been trying to leave for 8 months now. Moving states in order to finally leave this month. It’s so abusive how they try to control your life 😢

[@3thingsfishing427]

This "church" also preys upon many vulnerable individuals in Central America, implying to them that they are the descendants of the "lost tribes of Israel". The membership numbers down there are enormous.

[@gregdiamond6023]

It may be hemorrhaging members but it’s got plenty of money.

[@sjenson6694]

Yep it's easy to see by their focus and efforts which they actually cared about this whole time.

[@JuliaGulia310]

As a non-Mormon, what do they do with those billions besides building temples? Unfortunately they are building one in my city currently.

[@gregdiamond6023]

@@JuliaGulia310 I’m a non Mormon too. I have no idea where the money goes. I hear they turn it into more money through investments. Building temples doesn’t make a dent.

[@kayjohnson4062]

I'm 70 bleep years old. I left 9 years ago. There were many discoveries that caused me to wake up. The one that crushed me though was Joseph Smith boasting he was able to hold a whole church together not even Jesus Christ could do that! (Paraphrasing). It's from the church history books. Vol.6, pg 408,409. Not one Prophet nor Apostle in the Bible ever bragged about themselves, they always gave glory to the Lord. They were humble and loved the Lord. It's so sad how some are still hanging on to what they've been taught because when they finally find out the truth and are set free. They will have regret that they didn't pay attention to what everyone tried to share with them as to what has been discovered. Praise God for breaking all my chains so I now can have a relationship with Him through His word. Praying for the LDS people to be brave enough to read the NT at least to see how much you've missed. God bless❤😊🙏

[@gregdiamond6023]

@@kayjohnson4062 How long were you in the church?

[@juancarlosverdugosanchez4296]

the only reason why I would not remove my name from the church is because if I ever have a chance to get something back from them. If I could use them and get back some of the money i gave them i would do it immediately. it is ok that they have my name on their records as long as they are not getting my time, my talents and my money.

[@lawpenner]

It would be nice to have money returned to us that was taken under false pretense wouldn't it

[@48dart]

January 2024. 28 years old. Shelf broke last summer after researching into the SEC scandal and the rabbit hole that lead me down. Leaving was one of the best and hardest choices Ive ever made.

[@djvee25]

The SEC findings broke me too, my friend. The very day that the press release went public, Feb '23. I gave the church a chance to apologize/repent in April '23 Gen. Conference. But they didn't. It completed the breaking of my heart.

[@48dart]

@djvee25 I started researching into it trying to understand why they did it. It was an attempt to bolster my testimony about the church being true. Instead of taking things off my shelf though, more research kept adding more to my shelf. Then I kept trying to learn more to disprove those things that i thought were false, and that just added more to it. Then one day the question hit me, maybe it's not true. I immediately knew the answer. It was like a wave of water that hit me, and once that happens, you really can't undo it.

[@lawpenner]

​@@djvee25it doesn't bother me at all that the church would try to shelter investments from the IRS. The IRS is corrupt and a thief

[@mathnerd97]

I was all in on my 12th birthday, vacillating on my 13th, and out by my 14th. I pulled my name shortly after I turned 18.

[@raymondhull4113]

I left in 1980 at 23 years old. I did not agree with the intrusiveness into every members’ personal life, sometimes VERY personal life. NONE OF THEIR BUSINESS!!

[@kimberlyewell]

They’re obsessed with it!

[@lawpenner]

I cringe now at children being put into worthiness interviews

[@TriciaIvison]

I am 50 years old and left the church 2 years ago. So difficult to come to terms with the fact that I was lied to and then gaslighted.

[@lawpenner]

You can be proud to know that out of all the cults out there you were part of the best one

[@catistokes]

I left October 2022. I was in the Relief Society Presidency when I realized the church wasn’t true. I asked the RS president in July when we would all be released since we were in our third year, first year during Covid which was a huge challenge. She said it would be at the end of October, but asked if I wanted to be released sooner. No way did I want the attention on me as I would be released in sacrament alone without the rest of the presidency. So I waited until we all were released and it was a huge relief! Pun intended 😂 I haven’t been back since. I’m still friends with the ladies in my presidency, but they don’t want to know why I left. I like the question you suggested to ask them. Keep up the good work!❤

[@saGgi27]

I left the past october 2023 for my 23 birthday. I’m just a happy girl. :)

[@nathanbigler]

My seminary class in Oregon had about 12 students in 1995 when we graduated. Only one of my old classmates is still a member as far as I know. And most of my family have left the church now too, dozens of people. It's incredible. I wouldn't have predicted that in 1995

[@cubstep1944]

Yay🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@austinmyers6322]

Left in 2016 at 20yrs old, and my wife left in 2018 at 25 years old, never been happpier. Truly best decision we ever made.

[@GLCToni]

Yes, I think the Internet and ability to research are important factors. It was a different world.

[@elferchovasquez]

Me and my wife left the church on January 2023 and took out our 5 children with us. Our membership records are still there and we'll take your advice to have our names removed. For me was a hard transition due to my 40 years as an active member (worked for the church, served a mission, sealed in the temple, member of a bishopric and stake secretary). Totally disappointed after finding everything was a lie. Thanks for the content and your good intentions. Greetings from Ecuador.

[@bradleytarr2482]

I've heard from lots of sources that it is extremely hard for the Mormon/LDS faith to keep growing, with things like Internet search engines, Thriftbooks having history books for cheap, and Social Media, simply existing.

[@reneeherb6305]

Never a Mormon, but my former neighbors are. I learned about the LDS church from them but never considered joining. You are definitely the most respectful ex-Mormon on KZbin. Some others do a lot of Mormon bashing, without educating the way you do. Keep giving us the comprehensive content I have enjoyed watching from you!

[@karlalamunyon350]

I left at the age of 66 three years ago. I was waiting for a senior mission call with my husband. We texted the bishop to withdraw our request to serve.

[@andybenson4633]

We ditched the calling after it came. Spent our mission money in Vegas instead on a five night bender playing craps and getting plastered. My wife and I are so much closer than ever now.

[@lawpenner]

​@@andybenson4633when to Sin City instead of a mission? you heathens lol

[@norahuss2875]

We left in 1983 at 25 and 27 years of age. My husband was a return missionary. Always been happy with that decision even though it was hard.

[@davewallentine5306]

I lost faith in 2014 and resigned in 2022 at age 61

[@sjenson6694]

I hate the word faith anymore.. something is either fundamentally true or it isn't, what someone wants to believe has zero effect on that. Faith is just a gaslighting cult tactic.

[@lawpenner]

​@@sjenson6694you're right. People's faith is not being lost. It's simply being replaced by knowledge. And people adjusting their life accordingly

[@kianajensen1709]

I left a few years ago when I was 16. My parents talked me out and thank god they did because I was an actual “lazy learner” and probably wouldn’t have found out all the horrific shit behind the church without them.

[@wendyroland7543]

I was 38 when I left 3 years ago. I’d only been semi active for about 6 months at that time. I thought I’d give the “church” another chance after being inactive since I was 17. And nope the Mormon Church is the Mormon Church.

[@kkheflin3]

Excellent choice of words. "If the church wasn't true would you want to know?" I've used it a lot over the years. Some do and some don't. You can't do it for them. I was born into the church (BIC) in 1954 and left in 1992 after 38 years. Best thing I EVER have done.

[@markbradley-mv9kg]

Great message and video. I am still attending 2-3 sacrament meetings a month so my TBM wife feels my support. I don’t do testimony meetings, and I haven’t renewed my temple recommend in 18 years. ❤️💪

[@andybenson4633]

Do that too. Every Sunday I feel like a secret agent infiltrating the enemy. Espionage is the name of the 👬

[@rf9477]

My spouse and I stepped away four years ago at age 62, after a lifetime of full activity. Truth matters.

[@Cascadian_6.5]

Pimo for the last 14 years, 47M. Wife is still all the way in. Once you start looking at the details it all falls apart.

[@dandragonx243]

Grew up in church. Haven't officially left yet but I am completely checked out. Gonna try and help my friends before I go.

[@maddilee1189]

I left when I was 25. I'm currently 47. So I left just as the internet was becoming a thing, but I didn't really have access to it at that time. I was just tired of the hypocrisy and blatant sexisim in the church.

[@PiemanPerkins]

I was PIMO for 5 years until I stopped attending completely at 27. I'm in my late 30s now, and I have noticed that more than half of the guys that I attended Young Men's with as a teenager have also left.

[@eronavvstark6674]

I left in 2015, at 25 - immediately following my graduation from BYUI.

[@musekic4654]

ha! I threw out my garments and left the church for good right after graduating from BYU too. Immediately started growing long hair.

[@gladtobefreeagain7375]

Good for you! BYU attendance can be a trap since church can hold your degree hostage.

[@valeriepylican1546]

1994, I was 29 turning 30 and am now 59 turning 60. I did not marry a believer and did not raise my children in the LDS Church. But In 1994 I had my name removed from the church records and even though my entire family are mormons, I am not and neither are any of my now grown children.

[@12cowwoman]

Left two years ago (2022), shortly prior turning 50 - after having been a member for 32 years! 😎 Have not looked back or regretted it - though sometimes I miss the community, the people that I thought were friends... 🤪

[@rdancranston]

Have not looked back....and yet here you are...looking back....

[@slimdifference08]

I think the person here is looking back and a nostalgic sense rather than an actual literal sense in the same way that many Russians are nostalgic for the ussr.​@@rdancranston

[@andybenson4633]

Terrible church. Awful people. Delusional, lying, selfish bunch. I thought it all along. After I had my name removed, they stopped inviting me to social events. Just proves my point.

[@pridefulheart]

I left about 5 years ago after reading the CES Letter and then reading the ridiculous responses that the "prophets" gave in the Gospel Topics essays. I'm so much happier now, but the hurt and betrayal is still there. I'm fortunate enough to have siblings that are no longer members which has helped my transition out. My parents have respected my decision, but I do know that it hurts them that so many of their children are out of the church and I know they will never leave.

[@JoshRichardsonisanactor]

I went inactive in my late 20's, had a brief relapse of activity around 35, then went from inactive to non-believing by the time I hit 40. Now I'm 46 and have been non-believing and non-attending for years, and I'm happier than I've ever been.

[@lightningphoenix69]

I started questioning at 15, after my joke of a patriarchal blessing. Stopped going at 17. Left home and the church at 19, in the mid 1990’s. Disowned by my family and friends, but worth it. Two of my sisters eventually left too. We’re happier and healthier for it.

[@mikkilovescats]

Started to pull back mentally in 2012 when I was 17, and fully physically exited in 2014 when I was 19

[@laurabryant2572]

I was born and raised in the church (my ancestors crossed the US with the pioneers) and always had more questions than I could get answers for. As a result of this, I doubted the validity of the church from a young age. I left the church when I was 18 (I'm 62 now). This was way before the internet, but I was so happy to find the CES letter and have my many doubts confirmed. Most of my family has stopped attending services, but won't officially leave because my ailing mother is still a staunch believer. I have several nieces who are in the LGBTQ community and I do my best to remind them that the church is not true, thus their views on that lifestyle are invalid. Love your channel Lex! Keep up the great work!

[@ronincraftsman]

Raised in the Church. Haven’t attended since 2020. Officially deconstructed and decided to never go back this year. 40+

[@lawpenner]

It's a fascinating history isn't it

[@ellarah8783]

I officially left the church in 2020 when I was 28. My resignation was rejected 3 times by the church and took 6 months to complete. But I have always said that I emotionally left the church in 2014 when I was 22. 2014 was the most pivitol year for me getting my life back and discovering who I was without the church. It also happened to be my first year of marriage and I'm so thankful that I had a husband that went through the same spiritual journey with me.

[@sjenson6694]

I've heard Europe with 50 countries and half a billion people has something like 200k active members..

[@IGaveUpEternalLifeForCoffee]

My husband left at age 42 and then I followed 7 years later at age 46. Our daughters also left at the same time. I’m seeing more and more people I know leaving, including two of my siblings. Most are between 20 and 50. The kids grow up, hit their 20s and leave. The older generation is still entrenched. I believe this it will continue until the church isn’t “growing” anymore.

[@kimgarff9671]

Left in 1999, after getting married in the temple. Horrible experience. I had an awakening in the temple that it was not true. I was 26. Officially resigned in 2015.

[@Fenster020]

I left in 1994 at the age of 23. Serving a full time mission was influential in driving me away. Also, the temple always creeped me out. I thought I was part of this mainstream, "normal" sort of faith. The temple rituals (especially the penalties) left me feeling confused and honestly frightened. In the end, it was the implicit and explicit homophobia and racism that drove me completely out.

[@kimberlyewell]

Hey Lex! Always enjoy your posts! After being inactive off & on for long stretches throughout my life I finally resigned my membership in 2017 at 53 years of age. Absolutely no regrets & went public about it on social media to help others who need support.

[@LifeAfterBelief]

2022 @ 46 yrs old. My wife and 2 kids joined me on the journey out. But all for slightly different reasons. It was the best decision we ever made, although it was and still is so, so painful. It gets better every day.