https://www.reddit.com/r/bahai/comments/38rwtj/when_i_met_two_friendly_mormons/
created by justlikebuddyholly on 06/06/2015 at 07:48 UTC
35 upvotes, 9 top-level comments (showing 9)
Today something cool happened. As I was walking to the gym, two caucasian men of the Mormon faith stopped me and said hello to me. They introduced them selves and asked me where I'm from. Before the conversation got any further, I told them that I'm a member of the Baha'i faith and that I have decided my beliefs already, and am steadfast in said beliefs. I mentioned this because I know that they are looking for people to join in their religion, and there's nothing wrong with that. But I don't feel it's fair for them to be on their two year service and have someone teach them of another religion, which may alter the pure intentions of their faith or not, since they're currently dedicating their lives to the Mormon faith.
They respected that but asked about my faith very hesitently. And so I gave them a little over view of what it is I believe and why, and why I chose this my self after independent investigation, something required if one wishes to become a Baha'i.
But then I changed the conversation from "my religion and your religion" to how Baha'i teachings promote interfaith and consorting with people of all religions, as well as service to humanity regardless of position in society. They were very surprised and asked me more questions. Once we got to a common understanding of each other's beliefs through respectful and insightful dialogue, I commended them on their dedication to take two years to serve their faith, and said I'd pray for them to not endure too many difficulties, especially since they're talking to foreigners about Mormonism in a different language. That must be really intense.
We each have beliefs and we should be steadfast yet open minded and respectful to others beliefs. At no point did they try to attack my beliefs even if they disagreed with it. And at no moment did either of us try to impose ideas, but rather we were in a humble posture of learning. I found that really refreshing.
We cannot change peoples ideas, but rather present our perspective and let individuals investigate and remove any trace of ignorance from their lives. We each live different lives and should find the truth and happiness for ourselves. I know Mormon friends who have left their faith because they couldn't find a right fit, but I also know some faithful Mormons who, religion aside, have so much in common with me like favourite TV shows, hobbies and even what makes us laugh. Sometimes you learn some much from people who you wouldn't consider interacting with on a daily basis.
'Consort with all religions with amity and concord, that they may inhale from you the sweet fragrance of God. Beware lest amidst men the flame of foolish ignorance overpower you.'
Comment by nickchuck at 06/06/2015 at 08:51 UTC
18 upvotes, 1 direct replies
As a former Mormon missionary this makes me happy :) I loved meeting people of other faiths that were respectful like you were.
Comment by solarhawks at 06/06/2015 at 13:22 UTC
8 upvotes, 0 direct replies
When I was a Mormon missionary in Honduras, I met a young Baha'i man who said he was on a kind of mission as well. My companion and I chatted with him several times as we would occasionally run into one another around town. We exchanged written materials so we could each learn about the other's beliefs. His name was Moon Morey, son of the founder of Morey Boogie Boards. Cool guy. Always wanted to play lacrosse with us.
Comment by justlikebuddyholly at 06/06/2015 at 08:14 UTC
5 upvotes, 0 direct replies
Also the directives from the Guardian regarding the Mormon faith. Pretty cool!
> 'The Bahá’ís should deal with the members of all religious sects, however, with the greatest tolerance and friendliness, and try to point out to them the significance of the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh to the world in this Great Day. The Guardian would advise you to teach the Mormons, like everyone else, the Faith, when you find them receptive. They have many great principles and their teachings regarding charity, not drinking or smoking, etc., are quite similar to ours and should form a point of common interest.'
Comment by testudoaubreii at 06/06/2015 at 12:49 UTC
5 upvotes, 0 direct replies
In my town, a Mormon friend of mine (I'm Mormon too) and a Baha'i friend of his organized a local AMA for believers (or non-believers) of any type. These have included Methodists, Mormons, Baha'i, Jews, Muslims, Secularists, Spiritualists, Atheists, and others (all by the labels they chose for themselves). These open-house-like meetings have been held at several different churches and the local mosque so far. They're very refreshing, and very much in the spirit of the encounter you describe. Highly recommended. :)
Comment by Tinman556 at 06/06/2015 at 21:13 UTC
6 upvotes, 0 direct replies
God bless you for your humility and sincerity, that is something I am striving to become better at. As a Mormon and former missionary myself, I thank you for the prayers on behalf of these Elders and will pray for you as well.
Comment by TotesMessenger at 06/06/2015 at 07:51 UTC*
4 upvotes, 0 direct replies
I'm a bot, *bleep*, *bloop*. Someone has linked to this thread from another place on reddit:
[/r/latterdaysaints] When I met two friendly Mormons... [X-Post /r/bahai]
[/r/mormon] When I met two friendly Mormons... [X-Post /r/bahai]
2: /message/compose/?to=/r/TotesMessenger
Comment by todaywasawesome at 06/06/2015 at 13:55 UTC
4 upvotes, 1 direct replies
When I was a Mormon missionary I met a young lady who was Baha'i, I'd never heard of the religion before but we had a great time taking. She represented your faith well and I had a lot of fun learning about Baha'i.
Comment by papercranium at 11/06/2015 at 20:28 UTC
3 upvotes, 0 direct replies
Truly, Mormons make some of the best friends for Baha'is! I love having people outside of my own faith community who is cool with
Seriously. SO NICE.
Comment by [deleted] at 06/06/2015 at 08:05 UTC
2 upvotes, 1 direct replies
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