From Clergy to Convert

by Stephen W. Gibson

Once they were variously known as minister, priests, nuns, and monks. Today they are all known as Mormons. Once they were confused and dissatisfied. Now they are confident and fulfilled. This book contains their fourteen first-person accounts of the conversions of former leaders in their various churches, both men and women, who embraced the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. One former minister was carried into the waters of baptism from a wheelchair and minutes later walked to the pulpit to speak at his confirmation. Another, pleading for God’s help in his extremity of need, felt something lift him although there was no other physical presence in the room. A former nun had often challenged her students to have the faith of the ancients, to do the Lord’s will unquestioningly, and now that challenge was hers personally. The stories are as varied as the individuals. One person phoned the bishop’s home and said he was interested in joining the Church-and the phone was hung up on him. Another sought to “borrow” a few Mormon ideas to use in her church’s family-oriented programs and ended up accepting the whole thing. The fourteen high-impact stories show the agony of watching lifelong beliefs crumble; the longing for that unknown “something” else; the humble pleadings for heavenly guidance; the power of a divine witness of restored gospel truths; the peace and joy that accompany baptism; and the ever-present gratitude for having found the one true way. Courage comes in many forms. These converts showed it in the resolution to follow higher truth whatever the cost. Their moving stories will reach into the heart of every reader.

103 pages, Hardcover

First published June 1, 1983

Reviews

[Edy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since I married a former Catholic monk, I have been interested in conversion stories similar to his. I read Hartman Rector's books, No More Strangers, and really enjoyed them. I particularly enjoy the stories in this book because it includes my husband's story. Those who leave religious backgrounds to join the Church are truly courageous, brave people. Not only do they have to recommit to a totally different theological framework, many face challenges with family and friends. It took years before there was any kind of normality with the relationships within his family. From what I understand, this is quite common with many converts. I hope you will enjoy this book as much as I did.

[Ranee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inspirational!

[Jamie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is definitely a different approach to a "Mormon" book, but I really enjoyed it. It's the sweet and simple testimonies and conversion stories of individuals who had been in various religious roles before joining The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It brings a new perspective and respect for other religions as well as build your faith in the truthfulness of the restored gospel.

[Kandace · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked the stories. It's interesting to know what points of doctrine people who have actually studied theology realize are missing in their church before they discover it in our church. I also liked hearing about what the missionaries did back then. Missionary work changes so often that it's always interesting to see what helped various converts.

[Taylor Prado · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the stories from the nuns.

[CynthyB · Rating 4 out of 5]

First person accounts of the journey of various clergy members (nuns, priets, pastors, etc) who converted to the LDS Church.