Jesus for Mormons

In this episode, Kai Van Leuven and Di Beals discuss the emotional and spiritual aftermath of leaving the Mormon church, asking whether ex-Mormons are driven by a “murderous spirit” or simply processing deep hurt. Kai reflects on how his past anger fueled the podcast but ultimately became unsustainable. Di explains the difference between demonic possession and oppression, emphasizing how lies and bitterness can spiritually weigh people down. Both agree that true healing and purpose come from love, not destruction. Kai shares his renewed conviction to focus less on tearing down the LDS Church and more on simply sharing the gospel of Jesus with grace and truth.Contact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

Katie, "the Pink Apostle," shares her journey of leaving the Mormon Church after confronting doubts sparked by her brother's departure and reading the CES Letter. Guided by her Christian relatives, she found a relationship with Jesus based on grace, not works. In this conversation, she highlights how many Mormons love Jesus but are often led toward agnosticism due to LDS theology. Katie emphasizes gentle evangelism, the importance of deepening faith, and her calling to launch The Pink Apostle podcast. Her message: seek true freedom in Christ and avoid lukewarm faith.Contact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di examine the Mormon Church's controversial history with race, focusing on its past teachings about Black members, including the priesthood ban that wasn't lifted until 1978 and its reluctance to open missions in Africa during the Civil Rights Movement. It critiques the hypocrisy of the church's token support for civil rights while denying Black members key privileges, such as eternal family sealing and priesthood. The speaker, a descendant of Brigham Young, reflects on the damaging racist teachings of the past, including the belief that skin color was tied to spiritual failure. They contrast the Mormon Church's exclusionary stance with the inclusivity of the Azusa Street Revival and discuss the dangers of blind loyalty to religious leaders, encouraging a more personal, critical, and direct relationship with God for spiritual renewal.Contact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

In this episode, Annalisa interviews Brandy Bronson about her book The Journey to Jesus, where she shares her transition from the LDS Church to a personal relationship with Jesus. Raised in a devout Mormon family, Brandy struggled with doctrinal inconsistencies and left the church after discovering a deeper faith in the God of the Bible. She reflects on the emotional challenges of leaving Mormonism, including fears of losing community and identity, and emphasizes the importance of questioning beliefs and distinguishing personal spiritual experiences from theological truth. Brandy contrasts Mormonism’s legalism with Christianity’s message of grace and transformation, encouraging others in similar faith transitions to explore Biblical Christianity and trust in Jesus as Savior, focusing on salvation through grace rather than works.Contact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

Kai Van Leuven discusses how the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) has increasingly used Christian language and practices, such as "worship service" and "congregation," to align with mainstream Christianity. Historically, the LDS Church rejected traditional Christianity, but recently it has adopted Christian-like terminology and marketing strategies, including search engine optimization (SEO), to boost its online visibility. Despite these efforts, doctrinal differences, especially on views of God and Jesus, keep the LDS Church excluded from major Christian councils.Critics argue the Church’s shift from the Angel Moroni symbol to the cross is more about marketing than spirituality, with some seeing it as disingenuous. This move increased visibility by 25%, but the Church's use of business-like tactics, like rebranding buildings and avoiding core symbols, raises questions about its authenticity. The speaker also reflects on transitioning from Mormonism to Christianity, highlighting the discomfort they felt with the focus on Jesus in Christian services. Over time, they came to appreciate a personal relationship with Jesus and emphasize the importance of salvation through Him.Contact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

Aaron Shafawalaf discusses street preaching to Mormons, emphasizing the need for bold yet relational conversations. He stresses understanding the Mormon community, building Christian unity, and addressing Mormon theology thoughtfully, while delivering the message with love, humility, and accuracy. Shafawalaf critiques Mormonism for secretive doctrines like polygamy and exaltation and argues that Mormon apologists avoid addressing inconsistencies. He contrasts Christian unity, based on shared faith in Jesus, with the more fluid doctrines of the Mormon Church. They also touch on Stephen Pinecker, an evangelical involved in Mormon culture, and his attendance at a progressive LGBTQ-affirming church, which the speaker views as apostate. Shafawalaf invites Pinecker to discuss theological differences and emphasizes the importance of maintaining clear boundaries in Christian faith. The conversation concludes with a message of hope for those transitioning from Mormonism, offering peace and restoration in Christ.Contact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

In this podcast, Kai and Steven Pinecker discuss the importance of respectful dialogue between evangelicals and Mormons. Steven shares his evangelism approach, which focuses on building personal relationships with Jesus rather than emphasizing doctrinal differences. They highlight the need for unity within Christianity and understanding individuals despite theological disagreements. Steven emphasizes compassionate conversations over institutional criticism, especially with Mormons in faith crises. Both speakers argue that focusing on personal relationships with Jesus is more important than doctrinal debates and criticize apologetics that prioritize doctrine over meaningful dialogue. They reflect on the evolving relationship between Latter-day Saints and traditional Christianity, advocating for positive reforms in the LDS Church. The conversation stresses the importance of healing from religious trauma, accountability from institutions, and rejecting divisive approaches to faith. Both speakers agree on the need for constructive dialogue, healing, and love, while expressing mutual respect for each other's perspectives.Contact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

Brandy Bronson shares her journey growing up in the Mormon faith, where the pursuit of "exaltation" and perfectionism shaped her beliefs. After leaving Mormonism, her view of God shifted from a utilitarian perspective to one of awe and mystery, contrasting the Mormon belief in a progression of gods with the biblical view of a self-existent, sovereign God. Brandy reflects on the pressures of Mormon culture, particularly at BYU, where marriage and outward righteousness were emphasized. After starting a family, she and her husband struggled with church involvement, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. This led them to question Mormon teachings, ultimately leaving the LDS church for Christianity. Her faith journey deepened after reading Is Atheism Dead?, which led her to explore grace and salvation through Christ rather than works. She rethought key doctrines and found freedom in a relationship with God based on grace. This transformation impacted her family, with her husband embracing church life and their children learning the difference between law and grace. Brandy wrote a book, The Journey to Jesus, to share her story and help others understand the contrast between Mormonism and Christianity.Contact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

The episode questions LDS Church leaders' biblical literacy, focusing on the eighth Article of Faith, which doubts the Bible’s accuracy while affirming the Book of Mormon. The hosts critique the LDS reliance on the KJV and contrast traditional pastoral training with the corporate backgrounds of Mormon leaders, arguing this leads to scriptural misinterpretation. They highlight doctrinal discrepancies, particularly regarding marriage and priesthood authority, emphasizing Hebrews 5:4, which affirms Jesus as the sole High Priest. A speaker shares their exit from Mormonism, realizing LDS teachings contradict biblical Christianity. The episode urges LDS members to read the Bible in context, recognizing Mormonism as a different gospel.Contact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

This episode of Jesus for Mormons explores the “Ex-Mormon Curse” and how negative statements from Mormon leaders create a self-fulfilling prophecy. Kai and Di discuss the Pygmalion Effect, showing how ex-Mormons often feel isolated and expect hardship. Kai shares how he was passed over for a head coaching job shortly after leaving the Mormon Church. At first, he questioned if his faith played a role, but later saw it as a blessing, realizing God's plan was greater. The speakers compare leaving Mormonism to escaping an abusive relationship—freedom comes when one stops looking back. They emphasize the importance of trusting God, finding community, and seeking truth. The episode closes with a young adult’s story, highlighting the need for support and resources.Contact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

Raised in a devout Mexican-American Mormon family, Annalisa endured childhood trauma and her father’s shift toward fundamentalism and polygamy. After a rebellious phase, she returned to the LDS Church, married, and became deeply involved. However, the loss of her third child triggered a crisis of faith, leading her to biblical Christianity. During COVID, she questioned Mormonism, researched its history, and found contradictions. With her husband's support, she embraced Jesus, was baptized, and found peace. Reading the Bible without an LDS lens revealed the truth, leading her to reject Mormon teachings. Now, she boldly shares her faith, encouraging others to seek the real Jesus.Contact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

Kai Van Leuven reflects on his journey of leaving the Mormon church and embracing Christianity, using Christian music and the Bible to heal and deepen his connection with God, describing it as a personal revival. Di, a pastor at Venture Church, explains revival as a spiritual reawakening, especially significant in Seattle, where faith is less common. Kai shares a transformative moment during a revival service when he received a sign from God, strengthening his belief. The speaker recalls their spontaneous decision to be baptized during a church service, marking a key moment in their new life with Jesus. They emphasize baptism as a symbol of inner transformation and encourage others to move past negative influences, especially from the ex-Mormon community, and embrace positive, faith-driven changes.Contact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

Kai Van Leuven shares his journey after leaving Mormonism, highlighting two moments of rejecting God: during a sermon on Ezekiel’s valley of dry bones and when a pastor’s story about hiding faults struck him. Over time, through reading the Bible with his son and attending church, Kai softened, experiencing God’s grace despite his resistance. The narrator reflects on their own spiritual resistance, eventually surrendering to Christ after a pivotal church service. This decision marked the start of healing. The podcast offers hope to those leaving Mormonism, focusing on a personal relationship with Jesus over religious systems.Contact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Cameron shares his journey from growing up in a Mormon community to leaving the church. After struggling with spiritual conflict and disillusionment, he and his family found a new, more fulfilling path in a non-denominational Christian church. Cameron embraced salvation through grace, finding peace in a personal relationship with Jesus. He encourages others feeling disconnected from Mormonism to explore alternative spiritual paths and invites listeners to visit his church. The episode ends with a prayer for those seeking God.Contact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

Elle Sante shares her journey of leaving the Mormon Church after questioning its teachings, sparked by her attempt to convert a Christian friend. She found contradictions in Mormon doctrine through sources like the Journal of Discourses and embraced Christianity. Despite guilt, she found freedom in embracing biblical truth. The episode also follows a 17-year-old who leaves Mormonism for Christianity, gets excommunicated, and uses the opportunity to share their new beliefs. Despite social alienation, they remain firm in their faith, finding peace in Christ’s grace and freedom from legalism.Contact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

Doug Perry and Kai Van Leuven discuss Kai's transition from Mormonism to Christianity after a painful faith crisis. They critique institutional religions, including Mormonism, for prioritizing power and structure over a personal relationship with Jesus. Emphasizing grace over works, they highlight the importance of sincerity of heart and spiritual freedom. Sharing personal experiences, they express concern for those disillusioned by religion but still seeking truth, urging them to embrace the simplicity and grace of the Gospel.Contact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

Kai Van Leuven reflects on his journey after leaving the Mormon Church, exploring atheism, agnosticism, and various religions. He struggled with rigid Mormon teachings and sought a more personal approach to faith. After exploring science and Christianity, he embraced faith in Jesus, finding peace and transformation. He encourages others to explore faith thoughtfully and recommends Timothy Keller’s The Reason for God for those seeking answers about God's existence.Contact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

Kai Van Leuven reflects on his emotional journey after leaving the Mormon Church, struggling to reconcile fond memories with the realization that its teachings were false. He compares this to Stockholm Syndrome, where ex-Mormons may still feel emotionally bound to the church despite rejecting its claims. Kai discusses the challenge of letting go of deeply ingrained beliefs and shares how coaching wrestling became a new focus. Inspired by coaching and the Bible, he symbolically closed that chapter by burning items from his Mormon past—garments, scriptures, and his missionary tag. This act represented releasing emotional baggage and embracing personal growth, encouraging others to let go of whatever holds them back.Contact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di respond to a comment on the Mormon Stories Podcast Facebook page about key Christian concepts like the Trinity and salvation by faith alone. They explain that God's anger is a righteous response to sin, not vengeance, and that salvation is available to all through faith in Jesus, whose sacrifice covers all sin. The speakers emphasize divine justice, encouraging believers to trust in God's judgment rather than seek vengeance. They contrast Christianity and Mormonism, discussing salvation, grace, and the nature of God, particularly the differences in their views on the Trinity. The conversation also addresses the challenges of transitioning from Mormonism to Christianity, encouraging open exploration of faith and trust in God's grace.Contact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven reflects on the isolation he experienced after leaving the Mormon church and the challenges of rebuilding a sense of community. Initially skeptical of church life, he eventually found support and authenticity at Venture Church and later in Kauai, discovering that both large and small church environments can offer meaningful connections. Pastor Di emphasizes the importance of community, noting that genuine relationships are often easier to build in faith-based settings. The speaker highlights the transformative power of finding a supportive community, especially for those leaving religions like Mormonism, and the deep bonds that form through shared faith and experiences.Contact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di explore Joseph Smith's magical worldview, including treasure digging, supernatural encounters, and the use of artifacts like a Jupiter talisman. They examine how these elements blend folk magic with early Mormon history, critiquing the rigid, works-based practices tied to temple rituals. Emphasizing compassion for those in Mormonism, they contrast its theology with the freedom and grace found in a relational faith in God.Contact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di discuss the control mechanisms in the Mormon Church, focusing on the extreme obedience demanded from missionaries and the psychological toll of strict rules. They critique the legalistic environment at Mormon-affiliated schools like BYU and how it fosters feelings of unworthiness. The hosts argue that teachings on obedience and blessings create guilt and spiritual confusion, exemplified by Joseph Smith's controversial polygamy doctrine. Emphasizing that God's love is unconditional, they advocate for embracing grace, self-forgiveness, and a more liberated, grace-centered approach to faith.Contact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di explore the impact of anti-Mormon chants at sports events, focusing on a 2001 game between Oregon and BYU. Kai shares his personal struggle with anger and resentment after leaving the Mormon Church, and how these emotions strained his relationships with family. The conversation highlights the challenges of processing anger toward a former faith and emphasizes the importance of healing, particularly through the concept of "selfish forgiveness"—forgiving not for others, but for personal peace. The speakers discuss how media, such as the Mormon Stories podcast, can fuel anger and impede emotional healing. They acknowledge that while anger after leaving the Mormon Church is natural, holding onto it can harm one’s well-being. Forgiveness is framed as an ongoing, individual process that doesn’t excuse past wrongs, but helps release negativity, ultimately improving emotional health and relationships.Contact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

In this episode, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di discuss Kai's spiritual experiences in the Mormon Church and how he now views them after leaving the faith. Kai shares two key moments: feeling divinely prompted to invest in a difficult property and to marry his wife at a young age. While he once saw these as divine interventions, he now questions if they were his own efforts. Di argues that spiritual experiences can happen outside any specific religious context, and the conversation explores how people interpret such experiences, especially when transitioning between faiths. They discuss the challenge of distinguishing divine guidance from emotional responses and encourage listeners to reconsider their experiences beyond religious frameworks. The episode invites listeners to share their own stories, as doing so can help deepen their spiritual journey.Show Notes:Mormon Segulls: https://issuu.com/utah10/docs/uhq_volume38_1970_number3/s/107089Jesus for Mormons Ep18: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXgP2wAo0noContact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

In this episode, Kai Van Leuven interviews Pastor David Diaz to discuss what worship is in the Christian church. David explains that worship is not just music but a lifestyle of honoring God through actions, generosity, and praise. He touches on tithing as a heart matter and highlights various forms of worship expression, like raising hands or waving flags. Ultimately, worship is about honoring God in all aspects of life. The hosts highlights that worship is a way to connect with God, and it can take many forms, from singing to quiet reflection. It emphasizes that worship isn’t about performance but about the heart’s posture. People are encouraged to experiment with different ways of worship, as it can lead to healing and a deeper relationship with God. Ultimately, worship is about encountering God's presence, which brings transformation.Check out our playlist of worship songs: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5vb0yihgxqHSDqy11EjX3M?si=1uIosbLMTuCvM_fnjTGHrg&pi=u-clpaYuIMTuaPContact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di discuss the significance of Mormon garments—sacred underwear worn by church members—covering recent changes like sleeveless styles and the belief in their protective symbolism. They also address the controversy surrounding Joseph Smith not wearing his garments at his death, which raises questions about their importance. The conversation critiques the rigid modesty standards, particularly the pressures faced by women, emphasizing the guilt and shame associated with these expectations. The hosts argue that linking worthiness to clothing is harmful and advocate for a more compassionate approach to spirituality.Show Notes:Joseph F. Smith describes garments as unchanged. | B. H. Roberts: https://bhroberts.org/records/09wgH3-kO8Oec/joseph_f_smith_describes_garments_as_unchanged Sleeveless LDS temple garments are coming to the U.S. Here’s when: https://www.sltrib.com/religion/2024/10/17/heres-when-sleeveless-lds-temple/LDS Garments and Agency | The Religious Studies Project: https://www.religiousstudiesproject.com/podcast/lds-garments-and-agency/Joseph F. Smith - Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_F._SmithChurch Updates Temple Recommend Interview Questions: https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/october-2019-general-conference-temple-recommend Mormon Church Introduces SLEEVELESS Garments: https://youtu.be/mQ9RMIo7eC4?si=d-dIwNXy_GaKDsl9Juvenile Instructor » From the Archives: Brigham Young on Joseph Smith’s Last Mistake: https://juvenileinstructor.org/from-the-archives-brigham-young-on-josephs-smith-last-mistake/Temple Garments: https://mormonr.org/qnas/0DdNd/temple_garmentsContact us:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

In this episode, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di discuss the "fight or flight" response, focusing on Kai's journey after leaving the Mormon Church. He reflects on his past as a fighter and his struggle with avoidance, highlighting his attempts to escape through travel and major life changes. The conversation emphasizes the importance of confronting challenges for healing, the clarity gained from living minimally, and the value of processing emotions and seeking support from therapists. Kai also shares his experience adjusting to life in Hawaii while finding purpose in his move. Ultimately, the episode encourages listeners to seek help and build resilience on their healing journeys.Show Notes:Cleveland Clinic: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-happens-to-your-body-during-the-fight-or-flight-response Huberman on Grief: https://youtu.be/dzOvi0Aa2EA?si=BD-k-850mo1bqpcb How do disappear: https://medium.com/@hijab7437/the-art-of-disappearing-how-to-disappear-without-a-trace-f5a3e26396a3 Chad Zapitul Story: https://www.win-magazine.com/2012/03/13/unfulfilled-ncaa-promises-still-sting-20-years-later-for-zaputil/ Contact us:Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

In this episode, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di discuss emotions and spirituality for those leaving Mormonism. They highlight the church's focus on feelings as truth and the risks of emotional manipulation. Using testimonies, including one from a young woman in a polygamist group, they advocate for balancing emotional awareness with critical thinking. They introduce "elevation emotion," the positive feelings from witnessing kindness, which can enhance connection and purpose. They emphasize that actions speak louder than words, encourage seeking joy beyond material possessions, and reference Jesus' teachings on living in the present. They also suggest a decision-making framework involving biblical insights and trusted counsel, inviting listeners to explore their faith journeys thoughtfully.Show Notes: Ask Reality, My LDS Journey: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ycUvC9s4VYA ​​Elevation, What it is and Why do we need it? https://www.thepositivepsychologypeople.com/elevation-what-is-it-and-why-do-we-need-it/#:~:text=Haidt%20(2000)%20characterised%20elevation%20as,motivation%20to%20behave%20more%20altruistically. CES Letter: https://cesletter.org/CES-Letter.pdf Elevation study by Thomson, A. L., & Siegel, J. T. (2017). : https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2017-31938-013 Contact us:Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

In this episode of "Jesus for Mormons," hosts Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di discuss the relationship between faith and works, emphasizing that genuine faith in Jesus leads to good deeds. Kai reflects on his past in the Mormon Church, encouraged by a friend to view his experiences as valuable rather than wasted. He shares a boating mishap as a lesson in learning from mistakes and highlights the lasting impact of a heartfelt letter from a family he influenced during his missionary work. The episode encourages listeners to embrace their past positively and focus on personal growth and relationships.Show Notes:Sunk Cost Reality: Sunk Cost Reality, Ep7, #exmormon #mormonchurch #mormonstories #jesusformormons Contact us:Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

In this episode of "Jesus for Mormons," Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di discuss the financial structure of Mormon wards, estimating they generate around $600,000 in tithing annually with minimal expenses. Kai compares this to Circus Circus in Las Vegas, highlighting themes of financial accountability. They also emphasize the importance of transparency in church finances and community-building activities, concluding with a focus on trust and respect in church leadership, inviting listener engagement.Mormon Whistleblower - https://youtu.be/k3_Fhq7sEHo?si=FnmaKxx0iQcT_iXX Widows Mite - https://thewidowsmite.org/Mormon Stories Podcast - https://www.youtube.com/live/YemKD2GtVwA?si=Edh88XpJwQkIrPGV Mormon Stories Podcast- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TAOqZHyxbtg&list=PLxq5opj6GqOBpeZFSE0_Cdw3oz2gJDprC Ward Radio- https://www.youtube.com/live/Z7ZNGZosC38?si=BkpRsVMgJ4McXvyrContact us:Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di discuss the Mormon Church’s significant financial assets, valued at $265 billion, and question whether the church is fulfilling its non-profit mission or simply accumulating wealth. They highlight declining membership and outdated traditions as signs of disconnect and draw parallels to the "Parable of the Talents," criticizing the church for hoarding resources. The conversation emphasizes the importance of transparency, honesty, and using resources for the benefit of the community.Show Notes:46% of millennials are active: https://religionnews.com/2019/03/27/how-many-millennials-are-really-leaving-the-lds-church/ 2016History of sacrament meeting: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/history/topics/sacrament-meetings?lang=enghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Membership_history_of_the_Church_of_Jesus_Christ_of_Latter-day_Saints#cite_note-9 - population of the church https://widowsmitereport.wordpress.com/2023update/ - Widows Mite ReportContact us:Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di discuss Kai's initial hostility towards Brandon, Di's husband and a pastor, due to his past bias against religious leaders from outside his former Mormon faith. Despite his skepticism, Kai was taken aback by Brandon's genuine and down-to-earth approach, which contrasted with his preconceived notions. This encounter led Kai to reconsider his negative views and engage more openly with the church community. The narrator reflects on their surprising encounter with Brandon, a former Mormon bishop, who was much more humble and authentic than expected. This experience challenged their preconceived notions about church leaders and made them reconsider their own biases. They emphasize the importance of grace, patience, and personal growth while acknowledging the ongoing struggle to overcome past frustrations and show kindness to others.Contact us:Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di discuss how detailed confessions in the Mormon Church can cause unnecessary shame and guilt. They contrast this with the simple, direct forgiveness from Jesus. They argue that these practices can lead to guilt and psychological harm, making forgiveness seem conditional. They also address the harm from strict teachings on sexual sin and early marriages. They stress the importance of grace and respectful conversations about intimacy, advocating for removing shame and focusing on God's grace rather than institutional processes. Show Notes:   Protest Secret Lives of Mormon Wives:  https://www.abc4.com/news/local-news/abc4-meets-with-cast-members-for-the-secret-lives-of-mormon-wives/   Secret lives of Mormon Wives https://www.hulu.com/series/58cd73be-408d-4eed-8e3d-82339f3f93e2?cmp=11932&utm_source=google&utm_medium=SEM&utm_campaign=CM_SEM_Various+Niche+Originals&utm_term=&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw_4S3BhAAEiwA_64YhhluehF22t34MKoLbYjrnvwRm-ZBOiNQNvGa3Y0GHxUfrUDFaOSrohoCcIYQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds   Under the Banner of Heaven:  https://www.hulu.com/series/under-the-banner-of-heaven-9c4ae394-e9c4-4a6d-985e-314270602c6b   Mormon No More: https://www.hulu.com/series/mormon-no-more-61c6289d-1038-45a4-a982-6fad782a00f1   Bishops guide for handling sexual sin {Handbook 2}  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/bc/content/shared/content/english/pdf/language-materials/08702_eng.pdf?lang=eng Contact us:Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons episode, Kai Van Leuven explores a removed segment from the Mormon temple ceremony that emphasized a divisive "us vs. them" mentality, likely leading to its 1990 removal as the church aimed for a more inclusive image. Kai uses a personal landlord experience to illustrate how past trauma can shape one's mindset, arguing that ex-Mormons may still retain beliefs that affect their view of other religions. He notes that many ex-Mormons turn to atheism or other belief systems due to lasting emotional scars and encourages them to confront and address these issues for a more open and self-aware spiritual journey. Contact us:Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di challenge Brad Wilcox's claim that non-Mormons are "playing church" and that leaving the Mormon church means losing everything valuable. It highlights frustration with spiritual elitism and the impact of these beliefs on inclusivity and personal faith. The speaker finds Wilcox's views manipulative and harmful, especially to youth, and contrasts them with a more open Christian perspective where leaving a church doesn’t equate to losing faith or value. Contact us:Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven, and Pastor Di discuss the concept of "anti" in Mormonism, exploring how anything negative toward the church is labeled as anti, even if it's historically accurate. The hosts talk about how Mormon missionaries, like Kai, are trained to promote the Book of Mormon as the most correct book, which undermines other Christian beliefs. They also discuss the aggressive nature of missionary work and how it challenges the authority of other religious leaders, creating an "us vs. them" mentality. This mindset, they argue, can affect ex-Mormons, making them skeptical of other faiths and contributing to why many ex-Mormons are agnostic or atheist.Contact us:Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di reflect on the emotional content from previous episodes and discuss grief as a motivated state. They compare the dress codes of the Mormon church with those of Venture Church. Kai shares a personal experience of feeling disappointment from a friend after going against his tribe. Despite these challenges, they both express hope for the future and anticipation for continuing their podcast journey in the next episode. Contact us: [email protected], and Facebook: Jesus for Mormons.

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di explore the themes of shame, guilt, and sin. They share personal stories about the effects of these emotions within and beyond the Mormon church. The discussion emphasizes the importance of finding a supportive community and seeking healing. Di offers theological insights on God's promise of hope and restoration, while Kai reflects on the loneliness experienced when leaving the church. They encourage listeners to reach out for support and share their own journeys. Contact us:Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di explore the concept of sunk costs—the reluctance to abandon a course of action due to heavy investment—particularly in the context of the Mormon Church. They discuss sunk costs like church callings, tithing, missed opportunities, missions, and strained relationships after leaving. The hosts stress the importance of recognizing intentions and moving forward with grace and self-compassion. They encourage listeners to share their own experiences and consider letting go of unproductive investments. The episode concludes with an invitation for feedback and stories for future discussions. Contact us:Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

his episode of Jesus for Mormons emphasizes mental health and grieving, sharing personal experiences and strategies for overcoming difficult situations. Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di discuss the stages of grief, the importance of self-compassion, and the conscious choice to move forward. They offer practical tips such as setting boundaries with negative influences and prioritizing self-care. The conversation focuses on the journey to healing and discovering life's value after facing challenges. Contact us:Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di discuss the challenges of leaving the Mormon church and its impact on his family and his relationships. He recounts his experience of informing his family, particularly his mother, about his decision and the emotional reactions it triggered. The episode explores the complexities of mixed-faith relationships, emphasizing the need for common ground and mutual respect. It highlights the struggles and hope involved in navigating family dynamics after leaving a religious institution, with Kai reflecting on the importance of empathy and understanding in rebuilding relationships. Contact us:Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kxt1hS692rDMcJi8/Website: https://jesusformormons.com/

After leaving the Mormon church, Kai Van Leuven faced depression and nihilism due to consuming negative content about the church. He struggled to separate his belief in God from his negative experiences and felt manipulated by religion. A moment of reflection at a doctor's office led him to acknowledge his mental state and regret not healing faster. Pastor Di, offered empathy and validation for those hurt by the church, emphasizing the importance of recognizing pain and allowing time for grief. Kai aimed to provide hope and positivity, encouraging listeners to look forward with optimism. Both speakers reflected on their journeys of healing and transformation, inviting listeners to reach out for support. Contact us: [email protected], and Facebook: Jesus for Mormons.

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven recounts his experience attending a mainstream Christian church with his family on Easter, highlighting the contrasts in worship style and practices between this church and the Mormon church. He reflects on the significance of asking challenging questions and maintaining a critical perspective on faith. Kai also addresses the need to balance blind allegiance with critical thinking regarding church leaders and underscores the importance of grace and understanding in church relationships. He encourages listeners to engage with their questions or comments by contacting him.Contact us: [email protected], and Facebook: Jesus for Mormons.

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di explore Kai's faith crisis within the Mormon church. Kai shares his emotional reactions to historical figures and the pressures he faced to conform from a young age. He recounts his mission experience in St. Louis, where he encountered criticisms of Mormonism and misconceptions. A significant turning point occurred when Kai learned about Joseph Smith's translation method, leading to tension with his wife and a shift in their relationship. The discussion highlights the complexities of personal growth and belief systems, ending on a hopeful note with promises of further exploration in upcoming episodes.

In this episode of Jesus for Mormons, Kai Van Leuven and Pastor Di discuss the recent moral failings of Micah Wilder, a former leader of Adams Road Ministry, who was found to be involved in unethical behavior while preaching against such practices. They explore the impact on the ex-Mormon Christian community, emphasizing feelings of betrayal and the broader implications for religious leadership. The discussion also covers the balance between public accountability and protecting vulnerable individuals, advocating for a responsible approach to addressing moral failings without resorting to shaming.

Kai Van Leuven, a lifelong Mormon with deep family roots in the church, recounts his journey of faith crisis and departure. Triggered by troubling historical accounts and inconsistencies in church teachings, Kai’s confidence in Mormonism eroded, leading him to abruptly leave the church and request to be removed from all church roles and contact lists. Despite his pain and sense of betrayal, he now seeks to explore and share his path to faith and hope beyond Mormonism.