We left Mormonism officially in 2021, meaning we told our family & friends we were done. BUT we were still members because we hadn't removed our records from the church. We had talked about the issue before and felt like it didn't mean anything to us so we didn't care to make the effort to remove them. But here we are in 2024 and before we know it, Ethan will be 18, an official adult. Which means, our kids will be able to be contacted throughout their lives, by the church, because they were baptized and are members... well, except Macie who wasn't ever baptized. So, realizing that, it sparked up the topic once again. If we were to remove our records before any of our kids are 18, then they wouldn't have to sign for themselves for consent and it felt like it would just be cleaned and simpler to do it now while they're all minors. If they so chose to pursue religion and land on Mormonism, then they can do the whole process themselves when they're adults and make that decision for themselves. So, that being said, Fred and I drafted up a letter and send it out. We have yet to hear back that we've officially been removed but for now, I thought it would document what we sent out. After I mailed it, I felt this weird sense of resolution. It was closure I didn't know I needed. The only thing is it does make me sad knowing that if my parents ever found out we removed our records, they would be absolutely devastated. I don't find joy in knowing that but I can't let others' feelings dictate what I do or how I choose to live. But it is a pretty big deal that we're doing this because by church standards, we are basically condemning ourselves to hell. So, there's that...hahaha
Anyway, this is the letter we sent out...
To The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints,
Effective immediately, we hereby resign from membership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, for our entire family listed below. We withdraw our consent to being recognized as members of the Church, and we withdraw our consent to being subject to church rules, policies, beliefs, and discipline. As we are no longer members, we request our names and records be permanently and completely removed from the membership rolls of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
We have given the matter of resignation considerable thought. We understand the supposed gravity and the consequences of this action. We are aware that the church handbook states such resignation cancels the effects of baptism and confirmation, withdraws the priesthood held by a male member, and revokes temple blessings. We also understand that we can only be readmitted to the church by baptism.
Henceforth, no representative of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is permitted to contact our children, including, but not limited to, Bishop and Bishopric, Stake President and Presidency, Primary President and Presidency, and Young Men’s President and Presidency. Following this notice, the only contact we expect from the Church or its representatives is a single letter confirming we are no longer recognized as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
We appreciate your prompt action and reply.
Sincerely,
John & Kirsten Everts & Family
23527 Via Castanet
Valencia, CA 91355
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