Somebody recently asked me how prepared church leaders are with the historical and doctrinal issues that lead to a Latter-day Saint questioning their faith.
I thought this was a great question, which led to an interesting conversation on how leaders could be better prepared to help someone who is questioning their faith.
However, the more I processed this question, the more I ended up at a dead end.
Mainly because we often try to resolve faith crises with data or information.
However, every faith crisis is a façade to a culture crisis.
In other words, no complex faith question can be effectively resolved outside the context of a religious culture where they want to engage.
For example, if someone stumbles upon the complexities of the Book of Mormon translation process, with all its seer-stones-in-a-hat, anachronisms, and 1820 definitions, it doesn’t matter how tight the scholarly explanation is; it won’t have a lasting impact without a ward community where they feel psychologically safe, connected in friendship, listened to by leaders, and an overwhelming desire to attend church the following week.
In short, our human nature will give us a lot of grace and patience for whatever complicated beliefs we want to preach, as long as individuals feel cherished, nurtured, intellectually engaged, and part of something sanctifying.
Of course, I’m a big fan of apologetics and scholarly research to help us reach a better understanding.
However, no work is more critical than fostering a positive culture within our wards and communities.
Culture sets the tone for resolving painful doubt.
Culture drives people to the saving and redeeming doctrine.
Culture is charity.
And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of [doubt]. 1 Peter 4:8
Sincerely,
Kurt Francom
Executive Director
Leading Saints
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