A new two-part documentary “The Mormons: A Documentary” is scheduled to air on Monday April 30, 2007 and Tuesday May 1, 2007 on PBS. You can check your local listings for the time in your area. This documentary takes a look at the history of the LDS church, and how the church is operating today. Helen Whitney directs the documentary. This documentary is an objective view of the church.
The first part of the documentary will take a close look at the history of Mormonism. The second part looks specifically at where the church is today. The documentary is not made from an LDS viewpoint. It may raise some controversy or cause people to ask questions. It pulls on church historians and historians outside of the church to put together the information. Whitney also interviews Mormon members and families, as well as former members of the church.
This should be an interesting documentary to watch. In any case it is likely to generate discussion about the church. While some of the questions and perceptions may be negative, it may give you the chance to dispel some myths and rumors about the church. It covers history, beliefs, and many other facets that involve life for LDS church members.
As you discuss the documentary with others, or if you have questions of your own you can visit www.mormon.org to find the answers. The church has missionaries available to answer questions live online. You may also find answers to numerous questions at the site. The site really breaks down the basic LDS beliefs. There are extensive lists of frequently asked questions as well.
You may want to watch the first part of the film for your family home evening lesson this week, or record it to watch later. You can record the second half to watch next week or at a later date as well. You may want to invite any friends or family that are interested in learning more about the church to watch as well.
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