5. BE PREPARED TO DEAL WITH PREJUDICE

As a Mormon, you should be fully prepared to tackle people's questions. However, you should never be expected to accept bigotry. Unfortunately, Mormonism seems to attract adamant detractors in large numbers (with entire books written about how to scare approaching missionaries away from your house). The best way to deal with people who challenge your faith is to be well-informed. Aren't you glad you did all that research before converting? The Church has taught that violence is not an answer for any verbal attacks to which you may be subjected.

Now don't panic-being Mormon isn't like signing up for battle. You won't have to be on guard 24/7, but it is helpful to know the answers to some common questions:

Q: I've heard that Mormons believe that water is of the Devil. So are they forbidden to swim? A:

Mormons can swim. (Well, if they learn how . . . otherwise, they sink.)


Q:
Do Mormons believe they are gods? A:

Mormons believe they are the spirit children of God and that they came to this earth to learn.


Q:
Do Mormons believe in The Trinity? A:

No. Mormons believe in God, the Father; his son, Jesus Christ; and in the Holy Ghost. They believe that these are separate entities.


Q:
Do Mormons plan to overthrow other religions? A: No, Mormons expect to have religious freedom and believe that right should extend to other religions as well.

We hope you now have a better idea what being Mormon is all about. Read, research and ask as many questions as possible.

More questions about Mormonism? Find answers on Answerbag.com.