Mormon Stories - LDS

In this two-part episode we interview Stephen Bloor. Stephen discusses his experiences growing up as a Mormon in the U.K. including serving an LDS mission and being married in the Frankfurt, Germany temple. Eventually Stephen served as an LDS Bishop in the U.K. for 7 years. 

While serving as bishop Stephen learned of troubling issues with LDS Church history including Joseph Smith's polygamy, his marriage to other men's wives (polyandry), and his sexual relationships with underaged girls. Unable to reconcile these problems, Stephen eventually resigned from his position as LDS bishop.

After resigning as bishop, Stephen was told by his LDS leaders that he was not allowed to return to church, and would not be allowed to discuss any of his issues or concerns with other LDS church members (by threat of excommunication). Through these actions, Stephen was effectively cut off from the community he served for decades.  

Over time, Stephen became involved in former U.K. Stake President Top Phillips's law suit against the LDS church for fraud. Within the past year Stephen was excommunicated from the LDS church without his knowledge/participation - in violation of the LDS church's own requirement to hold a disciplinary council prior to a member's excommunication.

Stephen's continued interest in the LDS Church is to raise awareness about issues in the LDS narrative and to promote openness, honesty, transparency and acceptance of those who question.

This is Stephen's story.

Direct download: MormonStories-667-StephenBloorPt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 5:55am MDT

For my first interview in our "Mormons in the U.K." series, I interview my dear friend Nathan Lisgo.  In this two part series Nathan discusses:

1) Growing up in Lancaster, England, serving a mission, getting married in the temple, etc.

2) His faith transition, largely caused by questions/concerns regarding the LDS Church's history regarding African Americans and the priesthood.  And

3) How Nathan has navigated a nuanced testimony and a mixed-faith marriage with his wife and three children.

Direct download: MormonStories-666-NathanLisgoPt2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 1:53pm MDT

For my first interview in our "Mormons in the U.K." series, I interview my dear friend Nathan Lisgo.  In this two part series Nathan discusses:

1) Growing up in Lancaster, England, serving a mission, getting married in the temple, etc.

2) His faith transition, largely caused by questions/concerns regarding the LDS Church's history regarding African Americans and the priesthood.  And

3) How Nathan has navigated a nuanced testimony and a mixed-faith marriage with his wife and three children.

Direct download: MormonStories-665-NathanLisgoPt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 1:50pm MDT