DIVINE DISENCHANTMENT: TRANSITIONS AND ASSISTING THOSE IN RELIGIOUS MIGRATION

Reliable social science statistical data indicates that thousands of Latter-day Saints leave the LDS Church each year. Over time, these individuals adopt a variety of irreligious and religious pathways as a result of their prior Mormon experience. Although the social scientific literature includes material that sheds light on religious affiliation, disaffiliation, and reaffiliation, this material is rarely consulted as an aid to assisting others in their spiritual migration. This seminar will discuss the background behind Transitions, a new video and workbook resource designed for immigrants shifting from Mormonism to more traditional forms of Christianity. It will consider the perspective and needs of the transitioner, the multidisciplinary perspectives and resources that inform Transitions, and how religious institutions might better assist those making the journey from one religious tradition to another.

John W. Morehead, Dan Wotherspoon