The latest happenings and context for navigating them.
Questions about Tim Ballard
Tim Ballard, founder and former CEO of Operation Underground Railroad (OUR) and subject of the movie The Sound of Freedom, has been in the news lately. Here are some answers to common questions about him.
Abuse and the Church
The abuse of a child or any other individual is inexcusable. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believes this, teaches this, and dedicates tremendous resources and efforts to prevent, report and address abuse.
Aversion Therapy Performed at BYU in the 1970’s
Understand the history aversion therapy at BYU in the 1970’s, the context of medical and psychological science of the time.
Manipulations & Dishonesty in the CES Letter
A detailed response full of citations and sources showing readers where to research the answers raised in the “CES Letter” for themselves.
Questions about Church Finances
One of the difficulties in responding to criticisms against the Church is that even after they are debunked, some time goes by and they are resurrected again. Such is the case with criticisms about the Church Finances.
Under the banner of Heaven: Fact vs. Fiction
In spite of the miniseries’ tagline “Uncover Buried Truths,” this fictitious work is only loosely based on actual events.
Chad and Lori Daybell and Religious Extremism
Daybell and Vallow’s beliefs are not shared or taught by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, its leaders, or the overwhelming majority of its members.
Why would the Church put tithing into investment portfolios?
Some individuals wonder why the Church puts tithing into investments instead of donating to the poor. President Gordon B. Hinckley explained that saving some tithing funds is a fundamental principle of Church finances:
In the financial operations of the Church, we have observed two basic and fixed principles: One, the Church will live within its means. It will not spend more than it receives. Two, a fixed percentage of the income will be set aside to build reserves against what might be called a possible “rainy day.”
Why doesn’t the Church provide public disclosure of its financial data?
Some have claimed that the Church ought to provide full disclosure of its financial records to members or interested on-lookers. Believing members typically believe that their tithes and offerings are consecrated gifts to God, and do not feel that they need a detailed accounting of their use. That said, the Church complies with all legal requirements for reporting income, business profits, and donations. These laws vary by country and political jurisdiction. But, the Church has no duty to provide more information than that required by law.
