How Do Mormons React to People Who Leave the Mormon Church?

Understanding the Mormon stance on former members is crucial for anyone navigating the transition from this faith. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or the LDS Church, does not 'handle' members who have chosen to leave. Rather, they respect the decision and believe it is a matter of personal agency and choice.

Agency and Personal Choice

At the core of Mormon beliefs is the belief in individual agency. This means that each person is given the freedom to choose. The official position of the LDS Church is that leaving the church is not a 'handle' problem, but rather an expression of personal choice and sovereignty. According to the Church, this agency is a precious gift from God that allows individuals to improve and grow.

The Church acknowledges that Satan seeks to undermine this agency through various means such as addiction, isolation, and fear. Mormons, therefore, strive to follow God, not Satan, by respecting and upholding this agency in their beliefs and practices.

Post-Leave Interactions

For those who leave the church, the response ranges from minimal to varied interactions. Typically, the Church does not actively 'handle' or 'intervene' in such cases, unless there are serious matters of doctrine or if the person is actively fighting against the church's teachings.

Individual reactions can be diverse, with some former members feeling a lack of the 'love' and 'family' they expected, while others perceive a genuine effort by the church to be sensitive and respectful. It's important to note that the Church hopes and prays for former members to reconsider and return, but they maintain a no-intervention policy for most circumstances.

Official Doctrine on Excommunication

Excommunication, a powerful punishment reserved for severe violations of church doctrine, is typically imposed only in serious cases. Such actions usually require proof that the person is actively working against the church and has broken significant promises, such as cheating on a spouse who was married in a temple.

Interestingly, excommunication is not permanent. Once someone has repented and seeks the necessary help, they can be baptized again. Even after excommunication, the Church continues to pray for and support the individual, reflecting their belief in the redeemability and ongoing worthiness of every human being.

Personal Experiences in Sydney, Australia

A individual based in Sydney, Australia, shares their personal experience after resigning from the church. They express surprise at the lack of follow-up from church members, highlighting a contrast with the 'love' and 'family' rhetoric often heard during their time in the church.

The response from the local church was minimal, with no contact despite the individual's resignation. This lack of immediate follow-up has led to questions and further clarifications about how the church handles former members, emphasizing the importance of official doctrines in such scenarios.

Conclusion

Overall, the Mormon perspective on ex-members is complex, reflecting a balance between maintaining doctrinal integrity and showing respect for personal agency. The church prefers an environment where individuals can make their own choices, and they support ex-members through prayer and continued, supportive relationships.

As a former member, it's crucial to understand that the church values personal freedom and the right to make choices, even those that lead away from the faith. This understanding can help ease the transition and foster a more compassionate and supportive environment for all involved.