In Reason #8, I pointed out how Mitt Romney's conflicting oaths could pose a real moral dilemma for him. Someone might say that Mormons are intensely patriotic (and they are — they believe that the framers of the US Constitution and other founding documents were inspired to write them in exactly the same manner as Paul, Luke, and Bible authors.) Modern-day Mormons, as a group, are exemplary in military service and patriotism, there is no doubt of that.
However, that has not always been the case. During the 19th century, the LDS temple oaths swore vengeance on the United States government. (This was documented by a US Senate committee — see this article )
In addition, only 150 years ago the prophet of the LDS Church in effect declared war on the United States of America. You can see his “Proclamation by the Governor” to the citizens of Utah that began the so-called “Utah War.” Google it.
Are you having trouble reconciling these concepts — a church that damned the United States and the wonderful LDS around you who are so patriotic? Well, they're having trouble reconciling the two, as well. That's why they are trying, as does Romney, to distance themselves from their heritage.
