Understanding the CES Letter and Its Impact on the LDS Church

LDS Perspective

The CES Letter is a document authored by Jeremy Runnells, which outlines various claims and concerns regarding the teachings, history, and practices of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). It originated as a personal letter to Church educational leaders in 2013, expressing Runnells’ doubts and questions after he encountered challenges while teaching Church history in a seminary context. The letter covers a variety of topics, including issues related to Church history, the Book of Mormon, polygamy, and the Church's handling of controversial subjects. It is often cited by members who are struggling with their faith or who have left the Church. The controversy surrounding the CES Letter stems from its highly critical tone and the way it presents information. Many Lat

Historical Perspective

The CES Letter, authored by Jeremy Runnells, is a critical examination of the foundational claims of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). Initially written in 2013 as a letter to a Church Educational System (CES) director, Runnells sought clarity on various aspects of church history, doctrine, and practices that raised concerns for him as a lifelong member. His document systematically addresses numerous topics, including the historicity of the Book of Mormon, Joseph Smith's polygamy, and the various accounts of the First Vision. The CES Letter gained significant traction and became a widely referenced resource among Latter-day Saints who are experiencing doubt, leading to over 600,000 downloads and a substantial online presence. The controversy surrounding the CES