Launching LDS Faith Journeys

Rick Bennett of Gospel Tangents and Kurt Francom of Leading Saints announced the launch of a new community platform, LDSFaithJourneys.org. This initiative aims to provide a safe forum for Latter-day Saints to discuss difficult topics—including church history, doctrine, social issues, etc. in the most honest way possible.

From “Crisis” to “Journey”

A central theme of the launch is reframing the language used to describe spiritual struggles. Kurt Francom argues against the term “faith crisis” because it implies brokenness and carries a heavy weight of shame. Instead, the hosts advocate for the term “faith journey,” suggesting that questioning and evolving beliefs are a natural part of spiritual life rather than a sign of failure.

“Scuba Gear” Analogy

Francom introduces an interesting metaphor to explain why some members struggle with the Church. He likens the Gospel to a functional bicycle that some individuals attempt to ride while wearing heavy “scuba gear”—representing personal trauma, baggage, or specific cultural upbringings. For these individuals, the ride is exhausting not because the “bike” (the Church) is broken, but because they are encumbered; sometimes, one must step off the bike to remove the gear before they can pedal successfully again.

Leadership and Empathy

Drawing from his experience as a former bishop, Francom recounts the story of a counselor in his bishopric who left the Church after struggling with the history found in Richard Bushman’s Rough Stone Rolling. This experience shifted Francom’s perspective, helping him realize that the “standard formula” of activity does not work for everyone and that leaders must create space for nuance.

Tackling Controversial Topics

The episode does not shy away from current controversies. The hosts discuss:

• Polygamy Denial: They address the trend of members claiming Joseph Smith did not practice polygamy, noting that while members can believe what they want, public advocacy against Church leaders regarding this history has led some to excommunication.

• Visions of Glory: Francom critiques this popular book as possibly “harmful,” arguing it promotes unhealthy narratives about the “mechanics of heaven” and end-times scenarios.

What’s Next? Rick B plans to host regular live events and discussions on his new YouTube channel. He hopes to feature diverse voices such as Patrick Mason, Jim Bennett, and Janice Allred. (He hasn’t asked them yet.) The goal is to support members in their faith, regardless of where they are on their journey, by offering community and honest conversation.

Do you see a need to help people with faith crises/faith journeys? Is this something you would be interested in?