Most Americans believe religious responses to gay and lesbian issues is an important reason young people are leaving organized religion. But researchers who have dug into this topic have discovered some findings that might surprise you.

When approaching biographies of famous Mormons at the bookstore, there tend to be two types. Some lionize the subject, with a liberal use of sugarcoating. Others vilify, with plenty of exaggeration.

Freedom of religion has been, and still is, an essential moving force in the grand experiment of American democracy. Planting that principle of religious freedom in early America brought about two profound results—the rejection of a “divine right of kings” doctrine, and breaking the 1,500-year European tradition of upholding a state-established church.[1] And with that, a heritage of self government, not to mention distinctly different congregations, sprang up. Yet no one could take freedom of religion for granted. Baptists, Catholics, Jews, Mormons and others have all faced, at one time or another, overt prejudice and serious attempts to curtail their liberties (sometimes coming from fellow religionists). Yet looking back over the long narrative of American religious history and the experience gained, the principle of religious freedom is prevailing.

Mitt Romney. Broadway smash “The Book of Mormon.” HBO hit series “Big Love.” Mormonism seems to be center stage these days. Religion scholar Matthew Bowman looked at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – past and present – in The Mormon People: The Making of an American Faith. I recently had the chance to talk with Bowman about his book, the rise of “the Mormon moment,” and what American voters should know about Romney. Here are excerpts of our conversation. Previously you had mainly studied the evangelical Christian church. Why are you now writing about Mormonism?

The recent visit of Church leaders here will be remembered as an event of profound spiritual significance for Central American members. Elder M. Russell Ballard and Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve added "oil to the lamps" of thousands of Central Americans with their inspiring messages and counsel. Elder Ballard and Elder Christofferson were joined by the Presiding Bishop, Bishop H. David Burton, and Elder Jay E. Jensen of the Presidency of the Seventy. Sister Katherine Christofferson, Sister Barbara Burton and Sister Lona Lee Jensen accompanied their husbands.

The Lyceum Philharmonic and American Heritage youth Chorus, consisting mostly of high schoolers born after September 11, 2001, recorded a beautiful orchestral and choir composition called "Hymn of the Innocent" in memory of 9/11 and a tribute to the innocent lives lost.

Although his recorded words are few, the prophet Elijah is among the most prominent in the Old Testament. He ministered in the Northern Kingdom of Israel in a time when the people had almost entirely turned to idol worship (about 900 B.C.). Through his priesthood power and his faith, Elijah was able to perform many mighty works. Here are 15 miracles associated with this great prophet.

Brains and beauty. It's a winning combination that's hard to resist — especially in college students. Our friends at College Prowler created an exclusive list of American schools where the students are both hot and smart.

“What’s that?” I asked my friend Lehi, pointing at the large, silver ring on his index finger. Lehi is a talented artist and a Native American of Navajo descent.

When A Deaf person comes to Salt Lake City to watch a live session of General Conference, the LDS Church goes through great lengths to make sure that the Deaf person can enjoy General Conference in American Sign Language.