Understanding the CES Letter and Its Controversy within the LDS Church

LDS Perspective

The CES Letter, authored by Jeremy Runnells and first released in 2013, is a document intended to present questions and concerns about the doctrines, history, and practices of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). Runnells framed the letter as an earnest inquiry from a traditionally faithful member seeking clarity on troubling aspects of the faith. However, it has been widely criticized within the Church for its approach and content, which many believe misrepresents fundamental teachings and church history. The controversy surrounding the CES Letter primarily stems from its method of questioning deeply-rooted aspects of the Church, such as the First Vision, polygamy, and the Book of Mormon. Critics argue that Runnells strategically chose questions that, while seemi

Historical Perspective

The CES Letter, authored by Jeremy Runnells, originated in 2013 as a formal correspondence directed at a Church Educational System (CES) director. The document, initially titled "Letter to a CES Director," articulates a series of questions and concerns regarding the historical integrity and doctrinal claims of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). Issues addressed include the historicity of the Book of Mormon, Joseph Smith’s multiple accounts of his First Vision, plural marriage practices in early Mormonism—which included marrying underage girls—and the authenticity of the Book of Abraham. By laying out these concerns in an organized format, Runnells facilitated a platform for many members who began to question their faith due to new disclosures about the church's h