TAMPA (USA TODAY) — Mitt Romney’s ascendance thrilled millions of fellow members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, especially those from the 19th-century Mormon pioneers’ promised land, Utah.
“This shows a transformation from persecution to acceptance,” said David Nielsen, 26, a GOP convention delegate from Provo. “It’s a privilege to witness it.” …
Nielsen was on the convention floor. This, he said, was how history felt: “exciting and inspiring and overwhelming.” And, considering all he knew about the Mormon story, this, too: “surreal.”
“We’ve come a long way as a country,” agreed Enid Mickelsen, 53, a former U.S. congresswoman whose great-great-grandfather was a pioneer settler with nine wives. “Nice to see barriers come down,” fellow delegate Sen. Orrin Hatch said, beaming….
She said Romney will promote understanding: “He’s not running for Mormon in chief, but he’s given us a chance to talk to people who are curious about our religion.” …
The nominee was not merely a member of the LDS church, but one who became a bishop in his adopted home of Belmont, Mass., at age 34. He spent decades as a lay leader, eventually rising to stake president, which gave him authority over churches in greater Boston.
In his campaign this year, the candidate rarely and only vaguely spoke of his role in the church. But in an effort to explain Romney the Mormon, he was preceded on the convention stage Thursday night by other Mormons who told stories about him, his faith and his church work. …
“It seems to me when it comes to loving our neighbor, we can talk about it, or we can live it,” she said, tearing up. “The Romneys live it every single day.” …
Some uncertainty still remains for voters, however, recent polls show. A Washington Post poll in July showed that 39% of those surveyed had a positive view of Mormons, while 31% had a negative view. Twenty percent also said they would have a problem with a family member marrying a Mormon. …
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