I truly believe that the proxy baptisms performed by the Mormons do no harm to others. If the Catholics believe the Mormon Faith has no credence from God these acts are for naught. I mean I cannot tell you how many times my mother has sent my name to be prayed for at some Shrine to Mary. Same thing in the long run.

The Mormons are doing a good thing in documenting the parentage of human kind. Let’s look at the big picture and stopped getting tangled up in our ecclesiastical robes over things that in the long run mean nothing.

Perhaps the world would be a better place if the Churches of this planet would stop bickering first. Then maybe, just maybe, the governments of the world, will follow. Peace.

In fairness to Non Mormon groups, this policy appears to have only been spradicaly enforced. I agree, though, the decision to deny access is unfortuante as the collected records serve as a historical data base for all people. Another poster raised the possibility that the Pope was angered by the theological implications of Catholic Saints being Baptized and celibate nuns, monks and priests being “wed”.

Perhaps a compromise can be reached. Catholic Church allows Mormons to digitalize records, Mormons agree to enforce existing policy (dont Baptize Catholic saints, martyrs) and also takes a pledge not to knowingly perform post death marriages for lesser known religous celibates.

if a living person, now secular, found his ancestors were catholic, he or she might consider learning more about the church of his family

Hugh W

An interesting take on the subject.

But to say that Mormons “need” to separate their religion from their genealogy is like saying the Pope needs to separate his religion from his vestiments. Mormons believe that they cannot be saved without their ancestors AND that their ancestors cannot be saved without them.

Still, it is sad that the Pope wishes to separate their church records from the rest of the world. “Wait,” you say, “he’s only keeping them from the LDS church.” Ahh, but then why not post them publicly on the Internet for others?

The LDS church has made it clear that a simple request not to perform their ordinances in behalf of selected individuals will be honored.

I really enjoy your Blog. I also enjoy the FamilySearch.org. I believe that the Catholic church has done much good in the world, too. I just find that the Pope’s decision is unfortunate.

Happy Dae.
http://www.ShoeStringGenealogy.com