Understanding the CES Letter and Its Controversy in the LDS Church

LDS Perspective

The CES Letter, written by Jeremy Runnells, is a document that presents a series of questions and concerns regarding the beliefs, history, and practices of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). Originally released in 2013, the letter was intended to serve as a personal inquiry seeking answers from the Church Educational System (CES), but it quickly gained traction as a tool for those questioning their faith. The content of the CES Letter includes critiques on various aspects of Church doctrine, historical events, and practices, many of which are contentious and widely debated among members and scholars alike. The controversy generated by the CES Letter primarily stems from its framing as an earnest inquiry from someone grappling with faith. Many who read it felt it

Historical Perspective

The CES Letter, authored by Jeremy Runnells, is a comprehensive document that originated as a private inquiry to a Church Educational System (CES) director, but eventually became publicly known due to its wide circulation and significant impact on both members and critics of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). Initially, Runnells composed the letter to express his distress and questions regarding various historical and doctrinal matters concerning the church, including topics such as the Book of Mormon's historicity, Joseph Smith’s multiple accounts of the First Vision, plural marriage practices, and more. The controversy surrounding the CES Letter stems primarily from its candid critique of church teachings and history, which Runnells categorizes as insufficient