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10 Comments on ““Franchise Religion””

1. 1.   By Dave | 3:31 pm on Tue, 23 Oct 2007 |
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   And what is the opposite of “franchised religion”? The decentralized, patchwork assembly of mildly affiliated congregations that now constitutes most Protestant denominations? Evangelical megachurches (which do their very best to hide any denominational affiliation whatsoever)? And, of course, I doubt the New Yorker would look favorably on any contrasting model of religion besides “franchised” religion, so it’s not the franchising they dislike as much as the religion. I’m sure they don’t have much of a problem with “franchised non-religion.”

2. 2.   By Christian Y. Cardall | 7:57 pm on Tue, 23 Oct 2007 |
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   I suppose even more opposite would be individual belief or ’spirituality’ that’s not associated with any organized religion. But generally speaking I don’t disagree with your comment. I agree one shouldn’t hold one’s breath for a favorable treatment of any sort of religiosity in the New Yorker; and unfortunately the phrase “franchise religion” can only come across as a disparaging cheap shot.

   I think a reading of my old post I link to shows that the comparison with McDonald’s is thoughtful and not disparaging per se. It also notes some very important differences with McDonald’s.

3. 3.   By Mike W. | 2:26 pm on Fri, 26 Oct 2007 |
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   It is interesting to ponder the following from Elder Oaks in the most recent conference in this context:

   “Suppose Church leaders reduce the time required by Church meetings and activities in order to increase the time available for families to be together. This will not achieve its intended purpose unless individual family members—especially parents—vigorously act to increase family togetherness and one-on-one time.”

   Is this a hint at decentralization and less “franchise”-ness in the future of Mormonism? I think that central administration is key to encouraging numerical growth, but it dampens spiritual growth, as individuals are lazily more dependent on church structure and instruction to learn and train instead of family-based efforts to increase spirituality and righteousness.

4. 4.   By rod A. | 4:51 pm on Mon, 29 Oct 2007 |
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   This elevated discussion of lofty principles fails to address certain salient issues: the change since 1974, the “revelation” that Black people are not sub-human in 1978, the subsequent missionary effort in Africa. And how the franchise’s hierarchy still works - as evidenced by the rise of Mr. Romney. Perhaps these issues are being saved for another discussion.

   Meanwhile, a film bringing up these issues - and others - “Desert Bayou” opened in Salt Lake City this weekend. If you have not seen it, I recommend you do so. Then let’s discuss Spinoza and the LDS again.

   RA

5. 5.   By Mike W. | 5:48 am on Tue, 6 Nov 2007 |
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   rod A.

   My comments were to denote a time and a season for numerical growth, but also a season for decentralization and increased local and familial responsibility. The franchise portion of the church has created a culture in Utah that facilitates dependence on the church structure, even though the Brethren are teaching the importance of families being the fundamental unit of the Church instead of relying on the Primary and Sunday School to teach children the gospel.

   Of course there are areas where the central administration needs to be stronger, but eventually I see the church continuing its decentralizing emphasis demonstrated by Elder Oaks comments.

6. 6.   By California Star | 12:36 am on Wed, 23 Jan 2008 |
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   A lot of LDS youth learn powerful management skills as early as serving a mission, or being in a quorum leader, or scout patrol leader.

   Huge leadership skills come in many church callings.

   This is a huge point - Mormonism teaches powerfuly business management and governance skills.

7. 7.   By Matt Thurston | 4:01 pm on Fri, 18 Jul 2008 |
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   Fellow Plastic Porcupine alum,

   You still out there, somewhere? I think it is about time for your semi-annual blog post. You’ve got to have something that’s been simmering on the back burner, no?

8. 8.   By Christian Y. Cardall | 8:16 pm on Sat, 19 Jul 2008 |
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   It’s past time, I suppose… Every now and then an idea for a post crosses my mind, but I just can’t seem to take the time lately.

9. 9.   By Bored in Vernal | 7:05 pm on Wed, 30 Jul 2008 |
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   Are your ears burning? We’ve been talking about you under wraps. That’s what you get for disappearing for so long!

10. 10.   By Christian Y. Cardall | 5:27 pm on Sun, 3 Aug 2008 |
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    Nice to know I’m remembered. It is likely I haven’t said my last.