Understanding the CES Letter: A Complex Look at Faith and History

Over the years, a document called the “CES Letter” has become a point of significant discussion and controversy, especially among members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). In this post, we’ll explore what is the CES Letter Mormon, why it matters, and its impact on those who have encountered it. We’ll also take a balanced approach, acknowledging its criticisms while emphasizing the importance of continued research, open dialogue, and compassion.

What Is the CES Letter?

The “CES Letter” is an 84-page document written by Jeremy Runnells, a Latter-day Saint who experienced a personal faith crisis in 2012. Runnells, disillusioned by his findings in Church history and doctrine, eventually stopped believing in the truth claims of the LDS Church. Seeking answers, he was put in touch with a Church Education System (CES) Director, who invited him to outline his concerns. Runnells responded by crafting what would become the CES Letter, initially an 84-page document, which grew over time to 138 pages.

The CES Letter was never intended to be a call to belief; instead, Runnells was clear in stating his disaffection and desire to share information he felt the LDS Church “does not want its members to know.” It addresses multiple criticisms of the Church and its history, covering a wide range of topics, from the Book of Mormon’s origins to historical contradictions and doctrinal issues.

The Content and Criticisms

The document is structured into 13 chapters, each of which focuses on different areas of concern regarding the LDS Church’s practices and teachings. While much of the information included is not new—some issues have been around for decades—Runnells consolidates them into one accessible format. Some of the criticisms go as far back as the early days of the Church, echoing arguments made by critics since Joseph Smith’s era. In essence, the CES Letter brings together a series of well-known criticisms and presents them in a format intended to encourage readers to question and re-evaluate their beliefs.

Some of the points raised in the CES Letter are valid. For example, it highlights challenges in interpreting historical documents and contradictions in early Church teachings. However, not all claims are universally accepted as accurate, and some are seen as incomplete or misleading by many in the LDS community. For instance, some of the criticisms are based on facts but lack necessary context, leading to misunderstandings about Church history.

As with any document claiming to present “the truth,” it’s important to recognize the perspective of the author. Runnells makes it clear that he is a disaffected member with a specific worldview—his purpose in writing the CES Letter was never to provide a balanced or impartial account but to express his own disillusionment with the Church’s truth claims.

The Challenge of Biased Information

The CES Letter, while compelling to many, also serves as an example of the challenge of finding unbiased information when researching religious history. In a faith tradition like the LDS Church, where belief and cultural identity are tightly interwoven, it’s difficult to find purely neutral perspectives. The CES Letter, written from a critical point of view, undoubtedly presents a one-sided narrative. However, it serves as an important reminder of how individuals can interpret the same data in vastly different ways, depending on their perspectives and emotional investment.

For those seeking a more balanced understanding, there are many resources available that explore these issues from the perspective of the Church and offer a CES Letter debunking. Official resources, such as the Church’s gospel topics essays and the Joseph Smith Papers Project, offer context and additional information. Non-official resources, such as BYU Studies and Saints Unscripted, provide opportunities for further exploration and counterbalance the critiques found in the CES Letter. However, even these resources come with their own perspectives and biases.

The Importance of Research and Reflection

One of the central points of the CES Letter is the encouragement to do independent research. Runnells urges readers to dig deeper into the issues he raises, and this is advice that everyone, regardless of faith position, should follow. The world of religious history is filled with complexities, and it is only through diligent research and reflection that one can fully understand the context and depth of the topics discussed.

It’s important to note that the questions raised in the CES Letter are not unique to the LDS Church. Every religion has its difficult history and theological puzzles to grapple with. For many, engaging with these challenging issues leads to stronger, more informed faith. For others, the difficulties may be insurmountable, leading them to leave their religious tradition. Both responses are valid and represent the diverse ways in which people navigate complex questions of faith.

The Impact on Faith

The CES Letter has had a profound impact on individuals within the LDS Church. Some have read it and found their faith shaken, while others have used it as a tool to deepen their understanding and reaffirm their belief. It’s important to recognize that faith is deeply personal, and each person’s journey will look different.

Some individuals have come to terms with the challenges presented by the mormon CES Letter, finding answers that strengthen their testimony. For others, the information presented has led to a faith crisis, with some choosing to leave the Church. This variety of responses is natural, as faith is often shaped by personal experiences, emotional connections, and intellectual reasoning.

Compassion and Respect

As we engage with complex issues like those presented in the CES Letter, it’s crucial to approach them with empathy and respect for those who may come to different conclusions. Leaving a faith is not a sign of weakness or a desire to live in sin; it’s often the result of deep personal struggles and painful questions. We are called to love and support one another, regardless of where we each land in our faith journeys.

It’s also important to remember that disagreement does not have to lead to division. Healthy, respectful dialogue about difficult issues can help individuals grow and learn, regardless of whether they ultimately agree or not. In these conversations, kindness and patience are essential.

Mormonism Explained

In summary, the CES Letter has sparked important conversations about faith, history, and belief within the LDS Church. While it raises valid criticisms, it is also a document shaped by its author’s personal experience and perspective. For anyone who encounters it, the best response is not to accept or reject it outright, but to approach it with an open mind, a commitment to research, and a heart full of compassion.

Faith is a journey, and it’s one that looks different for everyone. Whether you’re still within the LDS faith, have left, or are somewhere in between, it’s important to engage with these complex issues thoughtfully, respectfully, and with a spirit of understanding. We can disagree, but we must do so with love, recognizing that each person’s path is unique and worthy of respect.

About Mormonism Explained

Mormonism Explained is a resource that was designed to provide objective and factual information about Mormonism, its history, doctrines, and policies. Our team of researchers consults experts and primary sources to present factual information on a variety of topics relevant to the Mormon Church.

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