Quote:
Originally Posted by pentecorman
Actually, there are confidential marks placed on your record that only your Bishop (or Stake Pres) has access to. I learned this when I inquired about becoming a CES teacher. They said you cannot be divorved and you cannot have been disfellowshipped or exed. I inquired "how would you know if I were?" I was told that there was an astrisk at a certain spot on your record that indicated this fact of your past. It is also used for scout callings and any calling when working with the youth.
As a parent I think this is great. However, as a person I think it dismisses true repentance and permanantly brands people. Terrible!
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Permanent marks are far and few between -- those that pose a danger to children, etc. are a concern however. There is little or nothing that would tell a bishop or branch president that a person had been the subject of Church discipline in the past. The Church is big on repentance and on moving forward. Priesthood leadership and clerks are directed to destroy records of disciplinary proceedings once they are no longer needed (i.e., the individual has been brought back into full fellowship, etc.).
When a member moves between units (wards or branches), the previous bishop or branch president can request that the next bishop or branch president contact him. But this is usually to discuss current issues or concerns (which may include cases of individuals that are moving around frequently attempting to take advantage of Church welfare).
The Church really isn't in the business of building a detailed dossier on each of us. Indiscriminately branding individuals for life would defeat the purpose of repentance, forgiveness, mercy, and the mission of the Church (bringing souls unto Christ).