Provo, UT–FairMormon, a global non-profit organization that sponsors research and distributes information in defense of Mormonism, is holding its 17th annual FairMormon Conference at the Utah Valley Convention Center in Provo, Utah on August 6-7th 2015. Conference organizers have seen an early rush of registrations, setting expectations for a record attendance level. The FairMormon Conference draws individuals interested in presentations and research addressing challenges to the faith of members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and attracts a worldwide audience.
Presenters at the conference include author, educator, and former General Young Men’s Board member Ed J. Pinegar, who will address issues LDS youth face in defending their beliefs; Methodist preacher and Bible scholar Margaret Barker, who will discuss the controversial belief of Latter-day Saints in a Mother in Heaven; LDS Church History Librarian Brittany Chapman, who will explore the motivations behind nineteenth century Mormon women in their choice to practice plural marriage; and Managing Director of Public Affairs for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Michael R. Otterson, who will address interactions between Church Public Affairs and the Press and will take open questions from the audience.
Scott Gordon, President of FairMormon, said, “This is one of the most impressive list of presenters we have ever assembled, and it is reflected with our record setting early registrations. People hoping to attend are encouraged to register quickly before space is sold out.”
Other topics to be addressed include moving towards a better understanding of polygamy as practiced by LDS founding prophet Joseph Smith, examining the legitimacy claims of self-proclaimed leaders who criticize LDS Apostles and Prophets, a humorous approach at dealing with the inherent struggles between faith and scholarship, history and historicity in the Book of Mormon, an historic look at LDS defender Captain Dan Jones, a secular argument for the gospel by FairMormon board member Dan Peterson, a look at ancient temple practices whose corollaries give credence to an ancient origin for modern LDS practices, a unique view of Mormon “whiteness” in 19th century race relations that may have contributed to what is known as “the priesthood ban”, the relevance of Mormon materialism in an increasingly scientific world, and the emancipating role of Christ and his teachings on women that reverberate to modern days.
Credentialed members of the media are invited to attend and are highly encouraged to interact with speakers and attendees. Special discounts are available for Seminary and Institute employees, and there is a streaming video service for those unable to attend in person. The conference is open to everyone. Online registrations close at midnight, July 30th. Walk-in attendees can register at the door and will be admitted on a first-come, first-serve basis and as venue space permits.
FairMormon is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing well-documented answers to criticisms of LDS doctrine, belief, and practice. It is independent but fully supportive of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Along with the annual conference, FairMormon also sponsors a website that provides answers to criticisms of the LDS Church, as well as MormonVoices, a website that responds to comments from public figures or other online discussions that misrepresent the teachings and practices of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
For details on the FairMormon Conference, including how to purchase tickets or to watch online, visit: www.FairMormon.org
