“If this isn’t true, how do I go on?”

Those who consider leaving Mormonism face the consequences of isolation from their communities, shattered marriages and devastated family relationships. In the Shadow of the Temple is a 55 minute documentary that weaves together the stories of still-practicing non-believers and ex-Mormons as they reject the culture and teachings of the Church. Their strategies of coping can be as varied as hiding their disbelief and continuing to practice, to defiant refutation of the Church and its teachings.

Click on the images below to see clips that illustrate the themes of fear, rage and renewal. The documentary follows their emotional and spiritual journeys as they struggle to re-assemble their lives.

This is not only a Mormon story.  Any society, organization, or system of belief that restricts freedom of thought and action exacts a toll on the human spirit. What price would you be willing to pay to have the freedom to say, this is what I believe, this is how I want to live?

"Enigma" - 5th Generation Mormon

"Grace" - Lifelong Shadow Mormon

Michelle Spencer - Mormon Convert at age 8 - Ex-Mormon since 2007

Richard Teerlink - 3rd Generation Mormon - Ex-Mormon since 1975

Richard Packham - 5th Generation Mormon - Ex-Mormon since 1958