A recently released streaming series presents a fictionalized interpretation of events in mid-19th century Utah. While historical fiction can be illuminating, this drama is dangerously misleading.
Brigham Young, a revered prophet and courageous pioneer, is, by any historical standard, egregiously mischaracterized as a villainous, violent fanatic. Other individuals and groups are also depicted in ways that reinforce stereotypes that are both inaccurate and harmful.
As to the Mountain Meadows Massacre, which the series inaccurately portrays as reflective of a whole faith group, the Church has long acknowledged and condemned this horrific tragedy. It has also taken significant steps to uncover and share the full truth of what happened and promote healing.
The problem with such deceptive, graphic and sensationalized storytelling is that it not only obscures reality and hinders genuine understanding but can foster animosity, hate and even violence. This is particularly troubling today when peacemakers are needed more than ever. At a time when so many responsible leaders are condemning the division and hostility that dominate so much of our public discourse, we echo the plea of President Russell M. Nelson: “The Savior’s message is clear: His true disciples build, lift, encourage, persuade, and inspire—no matter how difficult the situation. True disciples of Jesus Christ are peacemakers. … Peacemaking is a choice. … I urge you to choose to be a peacemaker, now and always.”
This sentiment, shared across many traditions, is resonating around the world today. It is the prophetic message of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—a message of peace that all the modern prophets have shared, including Brigham Young.
I doubt Chuck took a single day off from proclaiming the Gospel. He won’t be forgotten and will continue to bring souls to Christ on Earth through his ministry. Memory Of My Friend Chandler Hendry https://t.co/4kgC9Zg3G0 via @YouTube
@iiTzz_Tyrell Read and discuss in a group setting. This honest Catholic guy reads often with a bunch of other LDS and following along has been really uplifting for me. https://t.co/zLm0RqWfZ2
@OPSCentral2@BSquadKlaussy@realDrTT Oh wow you don’t even know what you do and don’t know. That’s a dangerous combination. You’re early on the Dunning Kruger curve and you’ll never get off with that approach.
@Worst_Human_Eva@joecooprider What question? Would Christ care about enslaving one group of people to benefit another? Yes. He would liberate the enslaved and extend his hand to follow him. Free agency is an eternal law and cannot be taken away for any supposed good consequence.
This is a truly tragic loss. A bright young man who dedicated himself to outreach and understanding to dispel deception and bridge the gaps between the faithful. Godspeed and God bless his widow and family during this time.
I don’t covenant with a corrupt Government who enslaved me from birth points a gun at me and takes more than 60% of every penny I earn. I do covenant and fully Tith to Jesus Christ’s goals among is. You’re lying to yourself if you think the Government cares at all about the refugees other than more humans to enslave and one as pawns
What a great loss for our earthly family, but a immense gain to our heavenly family. Chuck has received a new calling and accepted it. He’s now testifying and teaching of Christ to the spirits that need a strong witness. You will be greatly missed Brother Chuck
@Worst_Human_Eva@joecooprider You don’t understand Christ or charity or even kindness if you believe our Government’s welfare system is something Christ would approve of. It’s a system run on theft, slavery, sloth, greed and gluttony. It destroys humans and is against God’s Plan for his children.