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[–] Angelis_Solaris ago  (edited ago)

I venture to estimate that pedophilia is far more common than society is willing to admit. I am still technically a member of this church but don't attend. But I don't highly suspect the church of a network of pedophilia and I don't agree that "church leaders and police conspired to keep this secret." I just read the article. I admit that it's not out of the realm of possibility. If you were a lay pastor who cared about his congregation you would also encourage the man to turn himself in, as would I. I would not immediately jump to the police in this specific case, because I do not believe that is what God would want me to do. God cares about pedophiles and wants them to heal, and such a minor pedophile as this should not, I repeat, should not be confused with a Satanist or even a child rapist. The temptation of pedophilia afflicts many more people than is obvious. This is no excuse for such a serious offense, and "minor" pedophiles should responsibly turn themselves in, should ask God what to do, should repent, etc. Those who are remorseful and repentant should be given help and kept away from children. Those who are not, and who actively engage in online pedophile conspiracies (there are many blatant pedophiles) should be reported and stopped. This man should have reported himself.

I am also surprised he was disfellowshipped and not excommunicated.

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[–] Angelis_Solaris 0 points 1 point (+1|-0) ago  (edited ago)

Also, note the paragraph in the report: "Update February 4, 2019 7:55 am: The TTF apologizes for any implication that Van Wagenen’s sexual orientation is tied to this abusive act. That was not the intent and the sentence has been clarified." I am disappointed to see companies continually bend over backwards for the SJWs.

And note this: https://www.sltrib.com/religion/2019/01/02/lds-church-releases/ The article linked to doctrinal changes in the Temple Ceremony (a central and sacredly-held part of church doctrine) that pander to feminism and equity-based thinking. This, to me, is alarming behavior by a church that claims to not "go with the flow."

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[–] Vindicator [S] 0 points 1 point (+1|-0) ago 

Yeah. There are some things I admire about Mormons, like their emphasis on self-reliance/preparedness and their value of family, but I have a hard time understanding how people can believe some of the stuff they teach. Given the amount of power and wealth they have amassed, though, I doubt they've escaped the infiltration with corrupt players that has plagued all the other big powerful faith organizations. I think there has been a deliberate plan to compromise these organizations since probably the very early 20th century.