Mormon writer says he faces excommunication for criticizing Romney

The managing editor of MormonThink.com, an online magazine that challenges Mormon teachings, said he faces excommunication because of his writings - including some critical of Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney, a Mormon.

David Twede, 47, has been summoned to appear before the disciplinary council of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Orlando on Sept. 30, when he could face "disfellowshipment or excommunication," according to a letter he posted on his blog.

The letter stated that Twede was "reported to have been in apostasy," an offense in which a member attempts to lead people away from church teachings.

In an interview Friday morning, Twede, a scientist who published his recent writings under the name "David, MormonThink editor," described himself as a fifth-generation Mormon but "agnostic, a doubter."

He said he had been a "less active to non-practicing" church member until assuming the title of managing editor of MormonThink two months ago.

He said he returned to services to gain the perspective of practicing church members.

Twede, who is not paid for his work as managing editor, said church leaders were miffed by his blog, which is often critical of the church and its "secrecy."

One of his recent articles is titled "A History of LDS Politics: Will ’President Mitt’ be ’advised’ by his prophet?" Another is titled "The God of Mitt Romney: Why Do Some Claim He’s Not Christian?"

---

)2012 The Orlando Sentinel (Orlando, Fla.)

Visit The Orlando Sentinel (Orlando, Fla.) at www.OrlandoSentinel.com