Conversion to Reform Mormonism begins by seriously considering the implications of this theologically radical idea:
“As we now are, God once was;
as God now is, we may become.”
The first step in converting to Reform Mormonism is to accept our human nature as our most profound link to God. The experiences of life here on earth—whatever those experiences may be—do not separate us from God. On the contrary, God, having once been like us, understands everything we experience.
All children exist in their parents’ image, possessing the potential to grow and become like their parents. In doing this, they take nothing away from their parents. No ethical parents are offended when their children follow their example and make an effort to become happy, productive adults. Far from it! Good parents take great pride in their children’s achievements! They are flattered when their children desire to follow in their footsteps. This is merely nature taking its course. Reform Mormonism proclaims that this same principle pertains to humanity’s relationship to God. The Human and the Divine share the same nature.
The second step in conversion is to realize that every human being is free by nature. Each of us has Free Agency (Free Will). While some religions teach that one must surrender one’s will to God’s will, Reform Mormonism proclaims something entirely different: God expects us to be curious and to ask questions – not live by blind faith. God expects us to think for ourselves, take responsibility for our choices and actions, increase our understanding and wisdom, and progress morally and ethically. The good news of Reform Mormonism is that God, like all good parents, loves us unconditionally and wants us to develop this Divine capacity for love.
The third step in converting to Reform Mormonism is to make a personal commitment (a covenant) to emulate God. This final step is entirely private and personal. It is between the individual and God alone. It does not consist of joining any organization or church or going through a formal ritual, ceremony, or ordinance.
To emulate God is to accept God as one’s example, think of God as one’s Heavenly Parent, and commit to the process of Eternal Progression: a process of becoming more like God by developing within oneself all of the virtues that God possesses. This personal covenant with God can be made silently or expressed in a simple prayer or vow. Here is just one example of such a prayer:
“Dear God, I accept that I exist in your image, and I accept you as my Heavenly Parent (or Heavenly Father or Heavenly Mother). As your child, I will look to you as an example. From this time forward, I commit myself to progressing and becoming more like you. Amen.”
The exact words are unimportant. All that matters is that you accept that because you are a child of God and commit to emulating the Divine character.
“I have said that you are gods; all of you are children of the Most High.” (Psalm 82:7)
“Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet been revealed, but this we know: When He appears, we will be like Him.” (I John 3:2)