FAIR Announces Annual Conference

The Foundation for Apologetic Information & Research (FAIR) is proud to sponsor the Fourth Annual Mormon Apologetics Conference in Provo, Utah, August 9 10. This year's conference is titled "Turning Stumbling Blocks to Stepping Stones: Responding to Challenging Issues in Mormonism" and will explore traditionally controversial LDS subjects such as Blacks and the Priesthood, polygamy and changes to the Book of Mormon among others.

This year's conference features speakers from the Foundation for Apologetic Information & Research (FAIR), the Foundation for Ancient Research and Mormon Studies (FARMS) and others. Featured speakers include Daniel Peterson, Chairman of the Institute for the Preservation of Ancient Religious Texts (ISPART) at Brigham Young University; John Tvedtnes, Associate Director of ISPART; Royal Skousen of BYU; and Brant Gardner of FAIR. Topics will range from the effects of anti-Mormon propaganda on the modern LDS Church to the experiences of black members of the Church. One of the most anticipated presenters is Daniel Peterson of ISPART. Dr. Peterson has spoken at all four conferences sponsored by FAIR and his insights and experiences are always crowd favorites.

"Critics of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are quick to point out what they perceive as thorny issues that 'prove' the Church is not true," said Scott Gordon, president of FAIR. "For some, these issues present stumbling blocks to learning and progression. Whether these issues are historical, cultural, or doctrinal, they can be turned into stepping stones leading to greater awareness and growth. This conference will explore the facts surrounding potential stumbling blocks and discuss them in the context of the truthfulness of the Gospel," he said.

This year's conference will be held at Utah Valley State College 800 W. University Parkway in Orem, Utah. The first session will begin at 10:00 am on Friday, August 9th, and will end at 4:00 pm. Saturday's session will begin at 9:00 am, and will continue until 3:00 pm. A catered lunch will be served each day (free for registered attendees). Dress is business casual and seating is "first-come, first-served." Reservations in advance are recommended.

Last year's conference attracted nearly 200 participants, and even greater attendance is expected this year. Regular advanced registration is $45.00 per person (full conference), $75.00 per couple (full conference), $27.50 per person (single day). Student Registration is also available with a valid student ID. Purchase in advance: $35.00 per person (full conference) $55.00 per couple (full conference) $22.50 per person (single day). Registration at the door is more. Interested parties can register on-line at www.fair-lds.org or by phone at (801) 479-3705 Monday through Friday from 8:00 am 4:30 pm. Registration for the conference is open to the public.

The Foundation for Apologetic Information & Research (FAIR) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing answers to criticisms of LDS doctrine, belief and practice. FAIR's mission is to assist lay members and scholars in response to attacks on the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints, its doctrines, teachings and leaders. FAIR publishes articles and books that defend the Church, operates a busy Web site that receives thousands of visitors per day, and sponsors research projects and conferences that provide the LDS scholarly community with an outlet to disseminate information to members. FAIR is funded by the generosity of its members and contributors, now grown to more than 1,000.

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