Returned missionary for the LDS church reads CES letter. Breaking the silence. This is my story.

Strong member of the LDS church for 24 years, returned missionary reads CES letter & discovers truth about the religion I believed in my entire life

[@lisaspikes4291]

Never be afraid of finding or looking for information. Any church that forbids you from looking at outside information is hiding something! If something is true, it can stand up to criticism. The truth is not afraid! Good luck to you.

[@eureka_2270]

Yes! Absolutely! If your beliefs can't stand up to scrutiny, the scrutiny is not the problem.

[@richardholmes5676]

You're hiding something. As not a single one of your anti-Mormon cult admit that Paul Gregersen proved Joseph Smith was right, the arrogant Egyptologists were wrong.

[@loudogg73]

I think the bigger issue is people who read a criticism and simply accept that criticism as truth instead of digging deeper or even verifying the reality of the thing they "learned"

[@Icanonlyimagn7891]

Amen💕☀️👍🏻

[@eclipse-sh1qmZ3mOtcua]

The criticism shows the flaws and there are NO answers to those flaws @loudogg73

[@christielane3975]

Thank you for your bravery and sharing your story. I too recently had a Mormon faith crisis and it’s a very traumatic and depressing time to go through. I feel lost most days. I’m not sure if I believe in God any more. I can totally see how very good people end up in cults. Doesn’t make them bad people, they just get sucked in and believe the lies. More than anything I’m embarrassed 😞

[@carstonsteele6477]

Here are some awesome talks discussing the other side of the conversation. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fqXCdYGndsllgKc This one is also really cool! kzbin.info/www/bejne/rpKxYmqKpatjrbM

[@3thingsfishing427]

With all due respect, there is an arrogance involved in believing Mormon doctrine. That all other denominations don't know God like you do, and that you will someday become a sex god in charge of your own planet. Not sure if these are views that a humble individual could ever truly hold, no offense.

[@danielwalker2381]

Jesus loves you so much. I know this through spiritual experiences and if He loves me the way that He does, then surely the same is reciprocated for you. I understand why you would leave the church and I have started reading the CES letter as well. The same problems come up everywhere in Christianity. An example I can think of is Christopher Columbus. He brought about so much bad to the New World, but in the end, he discovered the promised land, and he was in fact prophesied of by the prophets of old. His impassion to sail to the “West Indies” was the Holy Spirit. God’s purposes are mysterious but it’s just one testament that he doesn’t use perfect people to carry out His purposes. Don’t give up on your faith, stick it out to the end with Jesus. He wants you back soooo bad. I have had an incredibly powerful spiritual witness that this is the restored gospel on the earth. If you want, I can tell you of this experience. But it was undeniable. It’s the type of experience that if you did deny it, you’d probably have nightmares about it. Even if you do decide to leave the church, never leave God and His fold. People fail where Jesus never fails us. 😇

[@koltoncrane3099]

Once ya have a crisis of faith ya gotta think do you remain Christian? Many people hastily leave Mormonism and then remain Christian magically. Haha it’s so hilarious. It’s like every problem basically with Joseph and the Book of Mormon I can argue the same thing against the Bible or Catholics etc. the Bible was formed by man centuries after Christ’s death. The Jews got the story of Adam and Eve when they were slaves in Babylon. Read the creation story of Sumeria. It’s like I feel sad for people that leave Mormonism and then remain a Christian and don’t think critically of the Bible but rather depend purely on accepting Christ as their savior and they’re saved. It’s like great to focus on Christ but people leaving Mormonism really need to likewise criticize the Bible so they’re intellectually fair to themselves. Sadly most Christians just assume the Bible is true. Mormons are one of the weird bunch’s where people be like I studied hard and I think the book is false. Haha it’s like how many Christians do that to the Bible.

[@Zorroinstillingorthodoxy]

As a Mormon, I believe Oriental Orthodoxy, specifically Armenian. I highly recommend instilling their gospel into any church you currently belong to, no need to change.

[@jgm33884]

It's hard, for all of us when we wake up and realize we've been fooled by the very people we loved and adored and thought were bringing us to Christ. Hugs for you and the journey you are on. You are not alone in this. You were ALWAYS good enough.

[@Risosi1515]

As an active member who is also struggling with her faith, I thank you for this. It is painful and confusing and I’m trying to navigate this with grace towards me. I’m also talking to my husband about how I feel about it and I thank him for being understanding. Thank you and wish you the best ❤️

[@carstonsteele6477]

Here are some awesome talks discussing the other side of the conversation. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fqXCdYGndsllgKc This one is also really cool! kzbin.info/www/bejne/rpKxYmqKpatjrbM

[@djStens]

God isn't real, blunt news, sorry for the time you've wasted

[@carstonsteele6477]

@djStens you're totally able to make your own beliefs and judgments. That's the beauty of life

[@heathermcdougall8023]

@@carstonsteele6477 We leave for real reasons. |YOur stupid ideas that we just "want to sin" is pathetic and untrue. Often it's because we want to sin no more. really?You have to give money to the Church to go gto the Temple? Has nobody pointed out that is is actually totally immoral ?

[@carstonsteele6477]

@heathermcdougall8023 I honestly have no idea what you are referring to. You seem angry and I apologize if I said something that broke your composure. I just pasted a link that allowed for both sides of the conversation to be heard and even told the last guy I was grateful that we could both hold to our own opinions. Tithing is a law that has existed since the old testament in malachi and was continued even into Christ's time. Yes we still dobit because we are the church of Jesus Christ so we follow his commandments. And yes entrance into the most sacred place on earth requires a certain degree of worthiness and obedience to Christ's commandments. Very similar to how a restraint requires me to be clothed and respectful and pay at the end of the meal and so on. There are many places in life that have requirements for entrance.

[@LoganBeck]

Congratulations on having a strong thinking mind that got yourself out of Mormonism. There are many of us, like myself, returned missionaries and/or were very devote members of the church that felt and feel like you do now. Leaving the church is a phase of shattering your entire life so you can build up a better stronger one. The pain and sorrow that comes at first is inevitable, but its worth it all to live a liberated authentic life! Kudos, and welcome to the dark side :)

[@ZelphOntheShelf]

👏🏻

[@victoriahebert3073]

Actually It's the light side if you don't throw the baby out with the bathwater. You need to study the New King James or New Living BIBLE. It is by Grace alone: God's free gift that you are Saved and not by works that You do. Jesus paid it all to cover your past, present, and future sins. God be with you and Bless you in your seeking. If you seek , you will find. He will reveal it to you. I love the LDS laity people. They are good people, but are deceived by Hierarchy of this organization. So sad. I pray for my Mormon friends that I care about. And I am already praying for you.

[@codename495]

@@victoriahebert3073 KJV is the chopped up remains of what Martin Luther decided was right. If you wanna preach your solo scripture bull crap at least do it with a complete Bible.

[@cynthiaramey3903]

@@codename495 please explain your 'chopped up' description. KJV is the first English translation. Original language is Greek with Hebrew words and phrases to describe meaning. Yes, lines that could not be verified by several other sources were edited. Is that your seed meaning?

[@shirleymeek-williams865]

@@victoriahebert3073 You took the words out of my mouth. Dont throw the baby out with the bathwater. Your reply is spot on,,,,every word of it. I pray for Jante and will continue to pray for her.

[@AliceTellsAll]

You have a lot more supporters than you think. ❤️

[@kerstinklenovsky239]

Any religious group that calls a sincere pursuit of the truth 'a faith crisis' has already proven itself to be a cult. I wish you all happiness. You deserve it.

[@KnuttyEntertainment]

… but they don’t. If the church uses that language it’s because they’re talking to people that self describe themselves as going through a faith crisis.

[@kelleynrothaermel2311]

The church doesn't. The church actually encourages it's members to study out the scriptures to find the answers. Also, we study the bible just as much as the book of mormon.

[@cc-mk2hp]

@@kelleynrothaermel2311 The Church strongly discourages looking at any material but their own.

[@mateomartinez8641]

@@cc-mk2hp false

[@cc-mk2hp]

@@mateomartinez8641 This was MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE!

[@patbrain913]

You are one brave girl, especially living in Utah. You will get past this, I still feel angry for never feeling good enough, and I tried so hard. Now I know......My husband is still in, so for the sake of our marriage I try to keep quiet. But I feel betrayed, truth is truth,and I would rather know it all, and decide for myself

[@happyday1990]

You should reach out to Mormon Stories. John and Carah love to hear from younger voices. I would have saved myself so much pain in life if I had been in a place like this when I was your age. You will be fine. You will be loved. Once that wall that separates you from the rest of the world is removed, you will be able to see how wonderful and loving and accepting the rest of humanity really is. ❤️❤️

[@shilenn6590]

Theres no wall of separation. People just choose what they want to do from what they are taught to do.

[@christinemhosie9832]

@@shilenn6590 ki

[@joshhutchinson2032]

Would love to see you on Mormon Stories for sure. Thanks for your courage in sharing.

[@denisesalkeld7949]

It’s been 20 years for me and I still get upset thinking about how I was lied to all those years ago. Stay strong. Listening to John’s podcasts at Mormon Stories really helped me

[@tomk5619]

Hearing missionaries not having enough money to feed themselves is criminal. Good luck to you.

[@jeanniefritz20]

One of my sons was sent into Bolivia, and was there over 11 month without papers... when I found out....I call Salt Lake and went as high as I could with the promise to expose them in the news and he had his papers that very week.

[@Katiegirlluv]

That was truly shocking. And the church is a 250 billion dollar company or something outrageous.

[@karolynpieren5129]

Bull. The people feed them almost every day.

[@Katiegirlluv]

@@karolynpieren5129 why should they have to rely on individual charity? Why doesn't the church ensure they are *always* well fed. Food is a basic need. If they are working for the lord they should be taken care of

[@mdcarson]

Sorry, I missed the news report that missionaries are underfed. Compared to what?

[@jackiebailey7355]

Jante’ I am so proud of you . It isn’t easy to be speak your truth sometimes, but the truth will set you free ! I have had the same journey in discovering the hidden truths about the LDS faith and finding what I believe now. I would just encourage you to study the New Testament , and read it as a child for the very first time. If you ever need a friend to talk to ,you know how to find my number .Love you , aunt Jackie ! 💕

[@jantewilson3960]

I love you jackie!!!!

[@stacybroussard3097]

Amen♥️🙏♥️🙏

[@kahahana]

Your Aunt is so right .

[@karengastelum3357]

P. Foster She is right!! I love Jesus Christ with all my heart!! He is the Savior of the world.

[@WooWoo_Deb]

Thanks so much for your heartfelt sharing! I left in 2010 after 57 years (returned missionary, married in the temple, leadership, etc.). And I recognize all the feels! Especially the PEACE! I was actually waiting for some darkness or something... but it's amazing how thing just open up. I still honor and appreciate (and forgive...) my time as a Mormon. I am one of the very lucky ones who have parents and family who, though disappointed, have never turned their back on me. Spirituality is still a priority to me, but it looks different. I truly feel peaceful, connected, and joyful. It is a bit of a remodel or renovation... but after the dust settles, life is beautiful! Keep making your videos. I love your honesty and authenticity! 🥰

[@johnlee1352]

Your family weeps for you...

[@eagleclaw1179]

@@johnlee1352 Christians weep for Mormons

[@johnlee1352]

@@eagleclaw1179 This Christians have so much compassion that they must denigrate and demean the Mormons as harshly as possible on these sites...while weeping apparently.

[@eagleclaw1179]

@@johnlee1352 It was Joseph smith who came on the scene degrading all churches and proffers that they were corrupt and an abomination. The fact is the Mormon church is not Christian, and it is the responsibility of every Christian to point that out Why is it ok for Mormons to lie about history and God, yet that not be considered degrading… you should try reading what your leaders say about the Christian church, stop acting like ppl are picking on Mormons. Its not your fault that Joseph smith committed adultery against his wife Emma numerous times, it’s not your fault Joseph smith committed fraud, it’s not your fault Joseph smith or his brother snuck a gun into the jail and killed someone.. These are all facts of history and non of it is degrading. The fact is Joseph smith was not a prophet and the Mormons are not Christian.

[@johnlee1352]

@@eagleclaw1179 Who did he kill? A made up falsehood to bash Mormons. Amber, 180 year old lies are still lies. I've tried to follow up on this lie for decades. No evidence. Only haters' lies...

[@Lusee22]

Congratulations!!! It isn't the "religion" that will give you eternal life sweetheart. It is your personal relationship with God and the way you live your life. As a born Catholic and now a reborn Christian I welcome you into your journey of finding the truth. Pray for discernment,strength, and courage!! God will provide all!!!🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@alishabee369]

Get your name removed IMO. It is another layer of the freedom from control. My parents were distraught but I suddenly felt better.

[@SM-vd5bi]

Interview with Mormon Stories !

[@mamawapikiya]

I would love to watch you interview with them!

[@Katiegirlluv]

Yes!! Someone should email John

[@southernbawselady7092]

Thanks for your bravery in sharing your story Jante! 🙌 Stay strong! 👠👛👒💃 ExJW (Jehovah's Witnesses)Solidarity! *I began to wake up from the JW's by reading about Mormons and watching a of episodes entitled.."I was a Mormon". Then John Dehlin's excommunication was broadcast on television. I started following him and I noticed a ton of similarities between the JW's and the Mormons. This was an eye-opener for me!! After that I got the courage to go to KZbin and look up.. "Why do people leave the Jehovah's Witnesses faith"...that's when I really started waking up! I became obsessed listening to all ExJW stories on KZbin and the FEAR of the "so called" apostates that we are taught to detest started to become a different reality, they are just people telling their experiences when they were an active JW and why they left. So all the stigma started to dwindle. Then I branched out and started looking into Seventh Day Adventist, Scientology, Christadelphians, The Brethren, Christian Science. I started noticing the parallels between all the religions, and it runs deep...no questioning, no doubting and everything comes from the top down. The rank-and-file are just the followers with no personal self, no individuality. After you wake up and start seeing these things it can take a toll on you, especially if this is the only thing you have known all your life! It is really tough! The phobias and fears, can mess with a person's mind. Now I see why a lot of people resort to suicide, it is scary but the good thing is there's help!! The internet has played a big part in all of this! Now I look at people as being just human beings trying to do their best, trying to deal with all the stresses and anxieties in this world. I can now honestly say that life is better on the outside! 💯

[@scottpurves]

Jante - you have a stunned look in your eyes, like you're still shocked. That makes you a SANE person :). I know and have felt that shock for a few years now, and it gutted me at first. Trust your instincts, keep reading, take your time. Therapy helps. Take care my friend, time will help heal it.

[@pixibelle3282]

I agree with you on this.

[@stacybroussard3097]

♥️🙏♥️🙏♥️ Yes....

[@bergamottea1206]

Such a kind way to show support.

[@hollykreitner-fletcher1660]

Thank you so much for this video . You nailed it when you said,” God is the same yesterday , today and forever” I’m a Christian and I’ve been having meetings with a small group of missionaries. I have learned a lot about the Mormon church and wow it’s pretty crazy. The one thing we talk a lot about is identifying truth. I encourage you as I encourage them - read the Bible without the lens of the Mormon faith as much as possible. Start in John. I’ll be praying for you that you find the love and saving grace of Jesus!

[@karenstiltner1386]

I totally agree..

[@trinascanapico6358]

Great advice!

[@karinland8533]

The bible is the claim there is a god. It is no proof!

[@raulytere]

I hope you have a chance to watch Mormon Stories Podcast. It helped me digest a lot of these horrible truths that where hidden from us. Thank you for sharing

[@FFM115]

Mormon stories, Bill Reel and Radio Free Mormon are great sources, better than any therapy. For those who want to stay and continue to believe I highly recommend Denver Snuffer books.

[@juniorsir9521]

Kent hovin debunks Mormonism in less than 5 minutes. But what has been known is that the tribes of the Book of Mormon never existed. There is no archeological findings to prove this. The teachings of the Mormons are self conflicting even with the Bible which is the word of God. For example Mormon teach that after Jesus left his disciples he went to teach on the other side. Let’s look at a few things here. Mormons believe Jesus ressurected in the flesh. So now as Jesus supposedly went to the other side of the world to teach people the gospel there, Mormons didn’t see the mistake there. Jesus apparently would have lied to his disciples when he told them he was going to heaven. Next you have a problem with Jesus teaching the common people. If many people rejected him in Jerusalem how on earth would a lost tribe similar to Mayans or Aztecs would receive him or accept his message? Maybe why With this, Mormons seem to propose a white Jesus. This would be a narrative similar to the Spanish conquest of the americas. So already many bells should be ringing here. We have heard the stories of the golden plates. And how Joseph supposedly translated them from an ancient Egyptian source. Why would God have a man translate golden plates written in Egypt’s language in the first place? Plates being of gold? This is like trying to put emphases that they were more valuable that the Bible. Mormons also teach and believe that the garden of eden was somewhere in Minneapolis area. Yet the Bible says the Garden was in the East. East in perspective to the writer of the time which was either moses of people prior to him. Four rivers are named which crossed eden two of which still exist today. Yet these are more commonly found in present day Iraq and neighboring countries and not in America. So the Mormon religion is false.

[@raulytere]

@@juniorsir9521 If you still believe the Bible is the"word of God" then I suggest you watch Marketing the Mesiah in Netflix.

[@juniorsir9521]

@@raulytere the Bible is the word of God. The Book of Mormon is not divinely inspired. Most of the stories were plagiarized from the scriptures. Even then I only trust in Gods word. Nothing more. People want to tell me the Bible is not true, they too I ignore or disregard. For such people are only doing the work of the devil.

[@raulytere]

@@juniorsir9521 work of the devil LoL, this conversation just died.

[@sallyscott9172]

God bless you! Pick up a Bible and start with Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. That's all you need! Jesus loves you! Enjoy your new journey!

[@joflicker8944]

Amen...read about the real Jesus!

[@wilburwilson1034]

Excellent start!

[@unicorntamer2207]

You guys are missing the point

[@Sarah-ky2zb]

My husband and I started researching all these issues a few months ago. It been an extremely emotional time and I was depressed for a few weeks after we started learning. I really am not ready to tell people we are stepping away from the church, but I have an almost 8 year old so his baptism has come up in many conversations this past month, which has led to more people knowing then I’m ready to share with. Transitioning out of an orthodox religion sucks! Thank you for sharing your story.

[@Spawn303]

Mormon stories is a great podcast to go to. Thousands of hours of content for all types of Mormons. In, out, struggling, learning. It’s there to teach us things the church never did or hid from us.

[@dmissme911]

Keep critical thinking…and pray about your son’s baptism. I now am so thankful my parents waited until I was older and it was my choice to get baptized. I knew and believed in Jesus Christ and my faith.

[@larar-pecadorarandom8400]

@@dmissme911 prayer to get critical thinking is an oxymoron :-(

[@richardholmes7199]

Jim Bennett debunked the CES Letter.

[@Spawn303]

@@richardholmes7199 no he didn’t.

[@heatherambler2682]

Great video! Way to be brave. It gets better. My story is quite similar.

[@patdasler6874]

In the Lutheran church we believe in God's Grace. We must remind ourselves that we are enough, we are loved by God. We are both Saints and Sinners. But by Grace we are saved though Christ Jesus. He has set us free. Take joy in that. I can see you may fall away from LDS but your faith is strong. Cling to that and believe He has made you an incredibly strong woman. Blessings on your journey.

[@bradleyjoseph6678]

I’m so glad you made this. I was a Mormon for 18 and a half years. I’ve felt betrayed. I was about to serve a mission. I remember my friend telling me things that shook my faith. So I went out and did research, I wanted to be a Mormon apologists 😂. To me Joseph Smith being a false prophet was the biggest blow. Him having false prophecies, he gets the Book of Abraham wrong, he said that God was once a Man and then became a God, that he was better than Jesus, the polygamy, polyandry, and lying about it. Then we was exposed, he sent his men out to destroy a printing press(he was the Mayor at the time too). That’s how he got arrested and killed in jail. He wasn’t a martyr, which growing up I was led to believe. There are way more problems within Mormonism but I just want to say, for me I thought it was over until I read my Bible. That’s how I discovered the true Jesus. I learned about his grace and how it’s a gift. It’s not your works that save you. The true gospel is Jesus Christ not Jesus Christ ft Joseph Smith. I hope you’re able to search for more knowledge. Let me recommend some channels that’s helped me grow my knowledge in Christ. God Loves Mormons: kzbin.info Mike Winger: kzbin.info Waddoyoumeme: kzbin.info I also recommend looking up Sandra Tanner: kzbin.info/www/bejne/o3i6p5uehdWYqsk As for Joseph Smith saying God was once a Man( which is blasphemous and not biblical) he said this at a funeral. It’s called the King Follet Sermon: en.m.wikisource.org/wiki/King_Follett_Discourse Skip or Read to God Exalted Man. One of the quotes: “We have imagined and supposed that God was God from all eternity. I will refute that idea, and take away the veil, so that you may see.” Sorry if this was too long😂

[@supervegeta1833]

Thanks for sharing your story. I’m sorry you also spent so much time in Mormonism without having all the information from the beginning. Hopefully, the church will get better at being transparent about the history and theology as the years go by. I also know about all these different topics and although I haven’t lost my faith in Mormonism, my faith has become more nuanced by looking into all these different issues. Even though we’re going down different paths despite looking at the same information, I respect your journey no matter what it looks like and I hope you’ll respect others’ journeys as well. I wish you a happy life and God bless us all!

[@theelliottfamilyvids]

@@supervegeta1833 thank you for being a good human. Well wishes on your journey!! Wish we could’ve stayed because it’s all we knew. Hugs

[@theelliottfamilyvids]

Thank you for this! It rings true and is similar to many of our experiences within the church and the devastating realizations within it. Thank you also for jotting down some awesome refrences!

[@supervegeta1833]

@@theelliottfamilyvids Thanks for respecting me as a human being. I feel like some people who’ve been replying to my initial comment have been really disrespectful to me solely because I have a different perspective from them. Comments like yours right here are refreshing.

[@theelliottfamilyvids]

@@supervegeta1833 it’s going to depend on where they are in their journey as well as deconstruction & grieving process. We feel betrayed and deeply hurt because everything we ever knew, loved and believed in are stripped away in a moment. It’s scary & horrifying. I read everything you said and thought about how I felt a mere 8 months ago… empathy on both ends help a lot. There are some things that LDS people say that can be very VERY triggering & it takes a minute to work through it. Wishing you well in your journey.

[@karenmartell4230]

Takes a strong person to be able to see these things, after having been indoctrinated with lies. I had same type of issues with Jehovah's Wittnesses. Unfortunately many of them would never look outside of the organization for info. Just stick to the bible and pray. God will reveal himself and give you his peace.

[@feliciabreshears1272]

Your story is helpful to women especially!! Thank you for sharing and I hope you continue to grow. Keep Strong!! Life will get better!!

[@origamisensei]

I remember feeling desperate for Christian fellowship when I was living in a foreign country. Two LDS missionaries were polite and I yearned to talk to them but they kept me at a distance. I remember feeling so sad and lonely as they cycled away. I thought maybe they were just focused on avoiding girls as a potential source of temptation and I decided to respect whatever was holding them back. I was glad they had each other because it was not an easy place to be foreign alone. Thank you for sharing. I come from a mainstream Catholic/Protestant background and this really helps me understand the experience of LDS missionaries and what it can be like to leave this church. I’m praying for you and for everyone facing this tough reality check. God bless you on your journey. I pray that you find a place where history, logic, reason, faith and the Bible don’t conflict. I know trust can take a long time to build after a thing like this. No one can blame you.

[@desiadaven]

Jante, thanks for sharing! I am experiencing a lot of the same as you. Thank you for validating the journey and the difficulties involved. Also the crazy strict mission rules.

[@bettecummins8340]

It's not religion that we should be seeking. It's our relationship one-on-one with God, our Father in heaven, our creator. He loves you fiercely, warts and all!

[@blakeheiner499]

@Prisoner8612 Finallyfree Brette's imaginary friend. Don't worry he will grow out of that phase eventually.

[@jessicac6787]

Amen 🙌

[@rosealexander9007]

Amen

[@rosealexander9007]

@@blakeheiner499are you an ex Mormon now a atheist?

[@genecurl6284]

Thank you for sharing your story. Like you I had faith struggles on my mission but it wasn't until many years later that I left the Church. I have heard of a lot of people who left the Church after reading the CES letter but I left the Church long before the CES Letter came out. On my mission I asked my mission president about the Book of Abraham because I was told it was not a translation of the papyrus so he yelled at me and told me I needed to pray more.

[@tammyward349]

You look just like my daughter who is on a mission currently, Maybe someday she will come across this video. Beautiful, tender hearted soul.

[@jeaniedenton-smith1041]

Read Walter Martin "Kingdom of the Cults." MIND BLOWING true information on the LDS. He had factual information. Also, pay attention in the book to the relation/plagiarizing from the KJV.

[@Paulapint3]

This is one of the few comments that I will make. I joined the church at 20 and a half over 40 years ago and now I am 61. I had no reason to go searching as well. Your story resonates with me. My 33 your old daughter has been on the journey for a while and in March of this year introduced me to some of her thoughts not trying to run my testimony or anything just confiding in me how she felt and I listened and at times I thought she was making things up until I started researching just like you did. Short and sweet I realized what was taught to me was not the truth and many things were left out as you explained in your video. At this point I've already written my letter and resigned my membership. I too am between anger and upset this for devoting such a large part of my life to something that wasn't even true. I think we all need to give ourselves a break with that.

[@stacybroussard3097]

So proud of you 😊♥️🙏♥️

[@johnlee1352]

Thanks for leaving voluntarily so we didn't have to throw you out. 4 decades of your weakness and confusion will not be missed.

[@mylesmarkson1686]

@@johnlee1352 If they ever find out what a complete a-hole you are on the internet, you will definitely be thrown out. It's people like you that makes people want to leave, and for those of us already out, you remind us why we're so glad to have left. If anybody wonders why Mormons are leaving in droves, I present to you "Exhibit A: John Lee". Get help!

[@janetkfitz]

I hope that you have some family supporting your decisions. One of the most heartbreaking things about any religion, is the encouragement to separate. Whether you call it shunning, disfellowship, or something else, forcing people to choose between religion and family or friends. I hope you learn that your value, your worth, your strength.

[@stacybroussard3097]

Yes!! You are worthy of God's love♥️♥️♥️

[@kelseymillia]

It's not a high demand religion. It's an ALL demand religion. And it's very damaging. Proud of you. It's such a hard thing to accept that it is not what you thought it was. It's incredibly difficult to leave in the face of immense loss. That takes integrity. Love and support!

[@melissaandreag]

I was just talking about this with my husband! I’m sad I made the church my whole life up until I was 24 or 25.

[@mylesmarkson1686]

@@melissaandreag I just got into an argument about this with a TBMer who said "High-demand religion? Where do you-guys get this stuff?" And I said "From living it? It's not just a religion. It's a way of life." The level of denial is through the roof with these people!

[@nancyd2758]

Jesus Christ himself said 38 For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. If we are to become like the savior then we too must focus our lives on the Will of the Father. The church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints provides the true, raw commandments given directly from the savior in order to accomplish the Lords goal. Which is to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.

[@mylesmarkson1686]

@@nancyd2758 So if we're all sons and daughters of God (as LDS teaches), then Jesus is our brother, so he's not any more special than the rest of us--Right? Jesus got his body in the same way that the rest of us did (except for the fact that God himself did the impregnating). So it isn't really "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints"--It's "The Church of Joseph Smith of Latter-Day Saints". Joseph even said himself that he was more important than Jesus, and if you believe that he was a true prophet of God, then you have to take his word on that.

[@philbrooks5979]

The CES Letter disproves Mormonism. So glad you were able to get out of that abusive cult.

[@RichardHolmes-ll8ii]

The CES Letter is a pack of lies.

[@philbrooks5979]

@@RichardHolmes-ll8ii Name one.

[@ChardeeMacdennis339]

I’m an atheist and just wanted to say this was a super brave video! I would love to see an update and see how you’re doing. I hope other people see this and get out of the cult that is Mormonism.

[@shellieriley6307]

My ❤ hurts for you! I encourage you to read the New Testament in the true BIBLE! Jesus is all we need … no works! Jesus says he is the way, the TRUTH and the life!

[@FlyFishingRealtor]

For every brave person that shares what they’ve learned with others, hats off to you. Thank you for helping spread truth.

[@shilenn6590]

What's the truth?

[@juniorsir9521]

@@shilenn6590 Gods word the Bible has the truth.

[@shilenn6590]

@@juniorsir9521 so do you practice mosaic laws today? According to the bible?

[@shilenn6590]

@@juniorsir9521 I believe in the bible I also believe the Book of Mormon is another testament for these latter days.

[@juniorsir9521]

@@shilenn6590 the Book of Mormon greatly conflicts the Bible. The Bible is undeniably Gods word. It is sound with science history and archeology. A book accepted by many scholars. The Book of Mormon is your taking a mans word for it. There’s no lost tribes of the americas. There’s no golden plates and never was. I used to briefly believe these stories up until I began doing my own research into the Mormon faith.

[@helorumtheknightsofmambrin2155]

The CES letter is today's "Mormonism Unvailed."

[@karenstiltner1386]

Thank you for sharing. I also used to be a Mormon. If you want the truth, read the Bible, starting with the New Testament, through the eyes of a child, like you didn't know anything before, and pray for the truth 🙏 I love you sister, and God loves you!

[@wilburwilson1034]

Right on!

[@howdoyouknow1218]

That’s just trading more BS for less BS. None of it is real in the sense that it is all mythology…and quite obviously. Don’t be afraid to keep digging once you are out of the church.

[@joannevargas9638]

Amen!

[@whitneyjones8678]

I was raised and grew up Mormon/ LDS… I never served a mission though! Being 29 now I am NO longer a member/ I stopped going when I was 19/ 20 years of age!

[@cherylstokes636]

I'm 53 and still a member on record (until i have my name removed) - 2nd generation Mormon --- Officially, in a private, personal ceremony removed my *ENERGY* from the lds church July 18, 2021 12:22 pm CST- I am so thankful for the generation that came after me - what some people call millenials - i call my children and their peers ---- for having the wisdom, education, discernment and strength to walk away from this abusive, high demand group. What you did at such a young age, most people can't do at all -- Think for yourselves! May you all consider yourself Pioneers -- and such a Blessing with your fine example.

[@whitneyjones8678]

Also a lot of people come home early because of anxiety/ depression/ mental health issues, etc.

[@WendySyron_10.]

Our Lord is in charge and He has you in the palm of His hand. Thank you for sharing.

[@elizabethdawes9527]

So proud of you for using the gifts of intellect and free will the Creator gives us. ❤️

[@sarahklopfenstein1565]

It breaks my heart when I hear Mormon youth saying they never felt worthy. But they already are.

[@annashuwho]

There is no reason for you to justify needing your “freedom” after that mission. Jesus Christ died for our sins, and any church that tells you that you need to follow a crap ton of rules in order to deserve that is not the church of Jesus Christ. He doesn’t demand perfection, only our love. I’m so sorry you had this traumatizing and emotionally draining experience.

[@maxjenkins7139]

Glad to hear your story. It is hard to go through a transition of faith but it gets better. I am 77 and it is an interesting journey to go through. Good luck to you

[@lisaspikes4291]

Wait…why couldn’t you hold babies? I don’t get it.

[@mantispid5]

Liability. Nothing informs mormon rules like a threat to their money.

[@rhonddalesley]

@@mantispid5 Is that a fact or supposition on your part because if it is true, that’s incredulous! I’m trying to think back and remember if I ever saw missionaries holding babies or whether it’s a new thing?

[@mantispid5]

@@rhonddalesley It's a more recent rule. It was not a rule during my mission 1991-93. And it's my supposition, the church isn't exactly transparent about these things

[@andreapaul2818]

@Heather Gillette why I still don’t understand?

[@mylesmarkson1686]

@Heather Gillette They are totally freaked out about getting sued these days. They aren't even allowed to go into the house of a single lady unless there's another dude around (like a cousin or a kid or a neighbor or something).

[@Nick-iw3ol]

Thank you for your bravery!

[@missybancroft6688]

Thank you for sharing this. I think you're awesome! I completely understand what you're saying and how it feels. I've heard it called " the dark night of the soul" a process that is actually necessary for true individual growth. A lot of LDS individuals call it " your shelf collapsed" either way it's a lot...I get it and you're not alone. I also grew up in Alpine, Utah although I am older than you. It's hard to explain to individuals who didn't live in that type of environment how much pressure is put on people. Anyway thank you again for sharing! X)

[@nae0067]

Thank you! Nice to meet you! I also served a mission then left later. It’s been 5 years since I stopped believing. It gets better as you reconstruct your beliefs but I still feel upset when I think about my mission. Any way it is nice to feel like I’m not alone.

[@Longe]

Focus on JESUS, NOT an organization.

[@savannahsmiles1797]

not a corporation...it was ALWAYS about the $$ Joseph was a proFIT, look into how he was stealing for those at his banks...

[@Longe]

@@savannahsmiles1797 Next, you'll say he printed his own $3 bills!

[@mikelray3965]

I'm really amazed at these young people leaving the church.It took me 45 years to figure it out.

[@di3486]

The internet makes a huge difference. I left 10 years ago before even finding out anything about the problematic stuff.

[@workermannamrekrow2768]

1980 convert at 15, mission at 19, resigned in 2012. Struggled from day one with beliefs. 32 years a member.

[@starrcrossreardon]

You are loved, you are worthy, you are enough. God delights in you...

[@PamelaCulp1127]

The Lord pulled me out of church years ago.. I sit daily at the kitchen table and read my Bible. I have learned more from the Holy Spirit than any teaching man has taught. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith-and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God- not by works, so that no one can boast. Ephesians 2:8‭-‬9 NIV God bless you, trust in Jesus and stay strong.

[@lizzthatvegan1207]

Thank you so much for sharing your story. I'm glad you are on the road to healing. Religious trauma is real and your experience is not uncommon. There are a lot of us healing from indoctrination. We are here for you.

[@britharb6044]

Jante! This is such a beautifully raw and honest video. Thank you thank you. I served a mission just a year before you and I totally understand what you are talking about. I also left the church for these same reasons this past year and I can honestly say, I am happier, just like you. Thank you for having the courage to post something like this. There is so much detangling, and pain, and feelings of betrayal that goes into this. Always know there is a whole community of exmos and you are welcome.

[@JohnDLee-im4lo]

...and we're happier too! A win win. Your weakness and confusion is not missed.

[@kennethbradfordjamesthroop]

Wtf respect her beliefs and her own personal decisions. We respect you for still being stuck in the lies😂​@@JohnDLee-im4lo

[@JohnDLee-im4lo]

@@kennethbradfordjamesthroop That's a lie...you don't respect any Mormon. Admit it...you're a hater whose only goal here is the denigration of my faith.

[@britneybunker6279]

Thank you sooooo much!!!! You are NOT alone! I used to be a member of the church and when I left my eyes were opened to so much. I do NOT miss it at all. I hate that my kids are still a part of this religion. My ex husband is still a member. But thank you for being so brave.

[@stacybroussard3097]

♥️

[@joannmorris8269]

How can you possibly claim to have been an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ and not have ever heard of the urim and thummim? I remember being taught about those and the seer stone in Primary. Joseph Smith DID translate from the Golden Plates using the urim and thummim, and a seer stone, but all were given to him to use, and he could use them through the power of God. He put the stone in the hat to be able to see the translations more clearly by shading it from the sun.

[@joannmorris8269]

As far as Joseph having an affair, complete nonsense! I just can’t stand to hear you go on and on saying that you never heard these things. Like you said, it’s all on the church website. However, that’s not where I learned about them. I learned from church teachers, my mother, friends in church, and through my own personal study. Plus, I’ve actually read the Doctrine and Covenants, it doesn’t seem like you have. Everybody knows there are slightly differing versions of The First Vision, but we don’t fret and freak out. We pray and read the scriptures. You sound like you went on your mission for the wrong reason, “ To get away from family issues”. How did you miss the stories about missions and how hard they can be? You’re very fortunate that you weren’t sent to some other country where you had to learn a new language and eat very strange food. You never would have survived that! You whine and whine about not being able to do anything for yourself. Did you really think that being on a mission was going to be like going on vacation? I still can’t wrap my head around the fact that you “never” heard of how the Book of Mormon was translated before now! You lived just south of Salt lake. Did you never ever go to the Church History Museum? Unbelievable!

[@markh.harris9271]

many millions of mormons have left 'the church' (often because of the CES letter) and most of them feel lied to, and betrayed ! You are not alone.

[@lauraburdett8932]

You did the most dangerous thing a Mormon can do. You thought for yourself. Good for you.

[@Lisa-th7rm]

“If God is the same yesterday, today, and forever” than these things should be true no matter the time period. Yaaaaaaasss!!! It’s wild to me how much is brushed off as “metaphor” while other thing are the holy truth and can never be questioned.

[@crewdrake4031]

This girl looks exactly like my daughter. Side by side they would be accused of being twins. I wish my daughter could figure out the downfalls of the LDS church.

[@aprilwilliams9565]

You are not alone !

[@lyndaphelps7423]

Good for you for not being afraid to investigate. Keep it up! My advice is to read the King James Bible and get to know Jesus. There is no condemnation for being deceived. Jesus loves you!

[@markh.harris9271]

Congratulations on escaping the false LDS high demand religion; best to you !

[@israelcaigoy4166]

I am convert for the church and its true..any church you will go. After .im sorry for you..i have witness from the spirit and know the destruction that will terrible as you cannot imagine..the Lord is holy...better you repent more better than find fault

[@SM-vd5bi]

I am so proud of you. I am also a returned missionary out of the Mormon church. Thank you for speaking truth ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️

[@davidbass7844]

Get yourself a real BIBLE and read it. find a BAPTIST church after you read the bible and ask any and all question you may have about what you read.

[@1exlds90]

Brave lady hope you find lots of support through this journey

[@Melmelba]

Jesus isn’t a religion. Seek a relationship with Him. Oh how He loves us. He alone is the way and the truth.❤️

[@lisapurplehayes]

Thank you!!

[@livingwaterministries9319]

The book of Mormon is really good but the mormon church is not the book of Mormon actually proves all the Mormon teachings wrong the book of Mormon teaches god is 3in1 and jesus is god in the flesh yet mormons don't believe that the book of Mormon also teaches baptism in jesus name yet the Mormons don't believe that the book of Mormon also teaches having more than one wife is against god yet some of the Mormons do that the book of Mormon also teaches we are saved by grace not works the book of Mormon also teaches biblical repentance the book of Mormon does not teach temple marriage or baptism of the dead the book of Mormon teaches jesus as the only leader not Joseph smith tithing is not a new testament thing at all it is for the nation of Israel and the temple the book of Mormon proves Freemasonry and mormonism wrong in fact the book of Mormon is against all secret societies it refers to them as secret combinations.

[@markh.harris9271]

Sweetie, mormon missions are extremely 'toxic' for 'most' women (and men too); we often say that mormon mission is a cult within a cult. Its really true.

[@thebiscuitrose]

@11:50 costs to be missionary

[@julietenaglia3042]

“Kind of like a business.” Completely. Build a billion dollar mall, but don’t pay for missionary work.

[@16jcstratton]

I am glad you found it also my wife and I left church.. I had very bad experinced by abused church.. we are REALLY HAPPIER EVER! thank you for your sharing..

[@jsmith1746]

Welcome to the dark side! It is traumatic to go through. But once you make it through, things are so much nicer on this side.

[@theelliottfamilyvids]

It’s the actual light side… once those glasses come off, the world is seen in COLOR! ❤️❤️

[@lisaspikes4291]

Absolutely!

[@rhonddalesley]

Apart from the ‘what if?’ fear I still feel 25 years after leaving that it IS true, that these ARE the latter days, that I WILL go to hell and never see or be with my loved ones again for not being a devout member. That brainwashing is real and can be devastating and even saying this out loud fills me with fear.

[@davidl2438]

You will find your way through the challenges of Mormonism. Please take your time to decide your correct path. And if the path you choose is not the correct one, you can change it. Life is about change. Change is a certainty.

[@deannayoung5311]

My beautiful sister your awesome! I completely understand how your feeling... your not alone" 💞 I pray that you will continue to be Strong and be true to your self 🥰 I'm personally not happy that The church doesn't take better care Of the missionaries... The work is beyond hard.... And the shaming is disgusting I had to leave the church.... Doing so" iv lost my entire family My 6 brother's and 2 of my sisters My mother! But you know what" 😏 it's ok.. I'm happier now" ☺ Thank you for sharing this 💐💝 Your going to help so so many!

[@toddsharp4990]

Two themes here you will discover about all religions; shame and acceptance of control. That’s what religion is. All the rest is window dressing. Keep digging and you’ll eventually realize there is nothing at the bottom. The meaningful and transcendental can be found for you on your own terms.

[@mommyduncan84]

As a young woman who left how I was raised (Pentecostal) I left at 28yrs old, I am now 37. I am still unlearning so much of what I was taught. I realize now that there is the Bible as Gods truth, but man takes and makes his own doctrine and preaches it as gospel truth. I now say I follow Jesus, and not man. I still find it hard to commit to a church, but I will never stop loving Jesus, because through it all, he has never stopped loving me.

[@linakamergi3570]

Hi you are so clever i was brainwashed by missionary and have found out that the church makes 7billion pounds a year from vulnerable people.

[@fungrammacat]

Right on! Keep being brave. Stand in your truth! I was 50 years old before I felt the peace you are speaking of. There are many of us. You are not alone! I live in grace now!

[@randinboise]

Thanks for sharing. I know the CES Letter is true.

[@maiar.2951]

Your feeling about your mission and the church are 100% valid. My mission was the catalyst for me eventually leaving as well and I agree-missions are very toxic.

[@usinebob]

You were not letting God down, you were letting man down.

[@SM-vd5bi]

Welcome to the light and truth!

[@donnaboucher7]

An excellent book is called The Godmakers.

[@OS-yf3ko]

30:46 Mic drop! Count yourself one of the lucky ones. You are a gifted wonderful woman. You are smart. You can communicate and read and do anything you want. Being in the Mormon church squashes all that! You did the right thing!! The tough part now is watching your friends and family being duped day after day after day. I wish so badly I could help my parents but they’re so old, they’ll be happier if I leave it alone. Much love. Hope you’re doing well!! Please continue to speak out!! I won’t follow a church that builds and owns $1.5 billion dollar malls! I can’t even imagine living in Utah while losing your “faith”. This will be a life long journey for you now. The research NEVER stops. I’ve been following for 15 years now and it just keeps surprising me! But hell it’s interesting!

[@livingwaterministries9319]

You have been through alot baby your in our prayers.

[@starguy2718]

I was a convert, to the Mormon church. After several years, it was clear that it just wasn't working out. So, the church and I parted company. Best thing I ever did!

[@shilenn6590]

How much of a difference was there?

[@starguy2718]

Like night and day.

[@shilenn6590]

@@starguy2718 thanks for answering my question. What wasnt working for you?

[@starguy2718]

@@shilenn6590 When I was talking to the missionaries, there were indications of eternal progression, celestial kingdom, and so forth. I wanted to know more; I wanted to *do* that. But, after joining, it soon became clear that it was all talk, no action. Other than paying lip-service ("Of course I hope to reach the celestial kingdom! Doesn't everyone?), there much passivity, throughout the church. I was hoping for something: a Celestial Kingdom Boot Camp, or a training manual ("Translated Beings for Dummies"), anything. Nothing. Nada. Bupkis. Since leaving Mormonism, I have been finding some answers, but (more importantly) I've also found some very intriguing new questions, ones never even thought of, by mainstream Mormonism. It's amazing, and is so, on a daily basis.

[@marionmoulton5847]

You are strong and brave. Take time to heal.

[@daigagrady9585]

Wow, thank you so much for sharing. I never realized that actual internalized racism/prejudice is something that is part of the doctrine of the LDS church. What an eye opener.

[@derekpascal3749]

The CES Letter has gashed the LDS hull.

[@abrahamdelacruz8389]

Thanks for sharing your experience, I think the practices within the church can be really toxic sometimes

[@Sllacy]

Proud of you! Sending you all the love. You are perfect. You are loved. You are connected. And you are now and will always be inherently Worthy just because you are you.

[@strawberrychampagnechica1193]

I grew up indoctrinated Catholic, I’ve left the church to much dismay of my family. I totally understand you where your are coming from.

[@juliagamez8342]

Really? Dr Scott Hahn?

[@sonjarademan1162]

Love Love Love. May you get to know The God of Love, The True Jesus Christ by reading/listening The Bible yourself. Don't throughout the Baby with the Bath water. If the church is wrong it does not make God wrong. Don't let the devil take your eternal life. God love you and you are beautiful, much love!

[@kathleencurtis3984]

You are so precious...bless you in your truth seeking.."THE TRUTH SHALL SET YOU FREE"..I SEND YOU GREAT BIG HUGS! ALIGN YOURSELF WITH PEOPLE