Five years in hiding as a fundamentalist family

Five Years in Hiding as a Fundamentalist Family: A Critical Examination

Living in perpetual hiding, some fundamentalist Mormon families lead lives that puzzle many. In an astonishing account shared in the Mormon Stories Podcast, a fundamentalist family revealed they spent five years concealed in the suburbs of Las Vegas. The family lived in four different homes between 2005 to 2010, all while maintaining their clandestine lifestyle, largely isolated from the outside world. Understanding why some fundamentalist families go to such lengths to avoid public scrutiny sheds light on the complex relationship between modern Mormonism and its more radical offshoots.

The Historical Context of Fundamentalist Hiding

Many people may wonder why certain fundamentalist families feel the need to live in hiding. It all comes down to the turbulent history between the mainstream Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) and various splinter groups practicing polygamy. After the LDS Church officially renounced polygamy in 1890, several groups broke away to continue the practice, resulting in long-standing tensions. For these fundamentalists, secrecy is survival. Historically, law enforcement and societal norms have placed them at the periphery, often driving them to evade both legal repercussions and societal judgment.

Living on the Periphery: Key Revelations

The family's story, as recounted on Mormon Stories Podcast, serves as a vivid example of living on the societal fringes. Here are some startling aspects of their life in hiding: Restricted Movement: For five years, the family rarely ventured outdoors. Even something as simple as playing in the backyard was forbidden, for fear of drawing attention. Constant Relocation: Every year, they moved to a new house within the same city. This relentless cycle of uprooting served to prevent too much familiarity with neighbors, maintaining their invisibility. Loss of Normalcy: Such isolation inevitably disrupts daily life and stifles personal growth and community engagement, which are crucial for a fulfilling existence.