| Cultural Mormons |
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Information AboutCultural Mormons |
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Cultural Mormons do not necessarily hold " Anti-Mormon " sentiments and they often support the goals of the Church and find value in some of its teachings and practices. Many remain members of the Church for life. However, other Cultural Mormons consider their status to be temporary, as they work towards leaving the Church. Cultural Mormons can fall into three different categories: # Jack Mormon - members of the Church who rarely practice the religion. # Practicing Cultural Mormon - members of the Church who practice their religion for social reasons or to maintain harmony in the family. # Ex-Mormon beliefs and members of record only, but otherwise non-practicing. Many Cultural Mormons will keep their doubts a secret, and maintain a facade of believing in the doctrines. This is usually done to prevent conflicts within their families. One such group is the New Order Mormons , an Internet community which, depending on their level of activity within the church, can belong to either of the above two categories. It should be emphasized that the Church does not consider lack of belief in its doctrines to be acceptable. The church is adamant about maintaining unity in doctrine among practicing members. If an unbeliever is discovered, they are encouraged to repent, fast, pray, and seek guidance within the church to strengthen their Testimony . If they fail to do this, the consequences will often depend on their bishop. They may be Disfellowshipped or Excommunicated . However, there have been reports of unbelievers revealing their doubts to their Bishop and continuing to be members of the Church, though they will usually be denied a Temple recommend. This will depend on their willingness to not discuss their unbelief with other members of the Church. If they try to convince others to abandon their belief in the Church's Doctrines , they can be subject to church discipline, which may include Disfellowship or Excommunication . EXTERNAL LINKS
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