The It Girl's Guide to Mormonism

There's been way too much drama about the fact that Republican candidate Mitt Romney is Mormon.  His rivals keep bringing it up, hoping that you won't vote for him because of it.  We know you're smarter than that.  But since so many folks are unfamiliar with Mormonism - hey, it's okay to be curious and informed -  we've provided a little Q&A below to bring you up to speed. 

Make no mistake, we're NOT endorsing Mitt Romney for president.  He might not know what the heck he's doing for all we know.  That's for you to decide in the voting booth. 

All we're saying is that he shouldn't get nixed just because of his religion.  Know what you need to know about his faith, check out where he stands on the issues, and then decide his presidential fate.

Is the Mormon Church a cult?

No.

Do Mormons believe in God?

Yes, but unlike those of other faiths, they believe that God has a body of flesh and blood like humans.

What about Jesus Christ?

They believe in Christ, but their views about Him differ from those of other Christians.  They believe that Jesus was married.  They also believe that he will return to Bethlehem and Missouri.

Missouri?!  Are they tripping?

No. Practicing Mormons don't take drugs.

Are Mormons social?  Will they kick it with us at Starbucks?

Come on now! Mormons are regular Joes (or Janes), just like the rest of us.  So yeah, they'll hang at Starbucks, but they won't order coffee, tea or any other caffeinated drinks.  Caffeine is a no no for practicing Mormons.

Will they talk to us at the water cooler at work?  (About.. uh... work, of course.  We'd nevah talk about our co-workers behind their backs.)

Sure! A thirsty Mormon would chill with you at the water cooler.  But they won't step out with you for a smoke.  Mormons are smart enough to lay off the nic.

Have you heard this one? So a Mormon walks into a bar...

Puh-leez. Practicing Mormons don't drink alcohol.

I heard Mormons run chicks.  Is this true?

Some do, some don't.  That has nothing to do with being Mormon.  Rudy Giuliani is known for running chicks, and he's not Mormon. 

Maybe you are thinking of the common belief that Mormon men have many wives.  The Mormon Church outlawed this practice in 1890.  The number of Mormons who still live in "plural families" is very small.

Is it true that the Mormon Church does not allow African American members?

That used to be true, but the church lifted it's ban on African American membership in 1978.

Are there any black Mormons?

Yes.

Yeah right! Name one.

Gladys Knight.

Name another.

Uhhh....  [crickets]