NOM

This is why my Sabbatical is happening now, one year away from eight for my oldest. We don't want the endless pressure...

It has been some time since I talked with recent converts. But, even 10 years ago they told me most of their family and friends just don't understand why they feel they need it (what is so bad about your life, current faith, or social groups). Those that didn't get asked those questions probably nee...

I have kept a somewhat regular journal (maybe once month). So interesting to see my transition happening on paper, without even mentioning I am ready to leave or my challenges my the Church.
I just sound different.

Like what was said above, this is somewhat of a journal for you. Keep it up.

Listened to some of it. I can only listen to so much Mormon Stories, John D starts to wear on me as an interviewer (but he has become much better over time). Mike came off as I know all the facts. I see too much gray in the story/process. In general, I am surprised Mike has a religious bone in his b...

So, the first week of the Sabbatical was very nice. At the end of the day, DW and I felt better than we had in a long time. Church was an hour and half including some chit-chat. We ended up going to a small non-denominational church up the street. They are more Evangelical and conservative than I wo...

The only change I see is a more conservative/staunch church. Those with new ideas and a more pragmatic approach to doctrine or a monotarian church are leaving or will leave. When leadership does decide to move in a different direction. Those who are left won't want it, and will push back- that tug-o...

I went to a different church today. The pastor sat down and said, I want to have a conversation with you all, like we are out to coffee. He proceeded to read an email he wrote. Inside he detailed how serving in a calling/ministry that you do not want, or have lost the passion for can be draining and...

Most of those tasks would have been done by a bishopric member, he wants to spread the wealth...

Very interesting story.

I first heard about him from a Reply All podcast (my favorite podcast).

https://gimletmedia.com/episode/23-exit-return-part-i/

Just a quick update. My DW actually went to meet with BP. I stayed home with the kids. She was gone for over an hour. Overall, he was broken hearted. He is at about 5 years in as a BP and feels like he has failed. So many people have left, or want nothing to do with the Church. This stings a little,...

The picture is a few years old, but it has my doggie in the background so I like it.

I think it all started after hanging out with some friends and they described their Church. It had such a different feel to it, more full, more let's just enjoy each other's company. Less stress and worry about small things, and the idea of having a nice sermon without two kids complaining sounds ni...

So DW and I are taking a break. The primary program is over. We are going to look into other churches. My inclination is to just do it and not worry about what others think. We invite a lot of ward friends over on a regular basis so we will see them. We have also had a busy summer with lots of misse...

I too passed on standing in the circle last spring at a Nephews baptism. I hadn't talked with his parents yet. I had a few looks from my MIL and even my atheist FIL. I just sat and snuggled with my four year on my lap. Later, we all had a conversation. No one really batted an eye (thanks to my FIL a...

He always seemed shy about Saturday's Warrior. I would see him at a store I worked at. I eventually talked to him and said he did nice work with him compositions and of course Saturdays Warrior. He was nice and thanked me, but I sensed a wince at Saturdays Warrior. I just thought it was funny becaus...

I don't know. He sold all the same lies and rhetoric as the rest. He just played good cop about it and was more soft sell. He perpetuated apostolic in person witness of Jesus Christ; the veracity of the first vision; personal visits to the afterlife attested to by his wife as well; the historicity ...

I knew his grandkids, a good crew. He seemed like a kind person.

For me Grace is giving to others when they haven't earned it. This fits whether I believe or don't believe in Big G.

Great new podcast this week from The Liturgists (Gungor and Science Mike) talking about what is an enemy and how do we treat the enemy.

I have attended a Presbyterian church regularly for a couple of years. I enjoy the more open views, and mainstream scholarship that the pastor and some members have. I have noticed that those who become full fledged members make some vows that I'm not ready to make. The temple thing has made me lee...

Keep it up. The baptism thing is coming next year for me...not sure what to do. I still like a good interesting mormon podcast, as long as it isn't too long. I long for the day when that isn't true... Glad the UU works for you, still looking for a place to rest my can on Sundays outside of my dentis...