Dear John,
Q: What is Mormons Exposed?
A: Mormons Exposed is a forward-thinking brand that is best known for its controversial Men on a Mission Calendar, featuring twelve handsome former Mormon missionaries who have dared to pose bare-chested. The brand is predicated on a message of religious and cultural tolerance with humanitarian efforts. The reaction has been polarizing within and outside the Mormon community as it has created dialog around the world.
Q: What makes the Men on a Mission calendar so unique?
A: Behind the eye-candy, this brand has a deeper story - one that can reshape perceptions, heighten awareness, and perhaps encourage and inspire a broadened acceptance of human and religious diversity. The fact that twelve young Mormons posing shirtless has certainly raised eyebrows, it has also helped sort out some common misconceptions about Mormons. The shock value of what these traditionally conservative young men has done is a powerful progressive step in building a dialogue that encourages people across every belief system and walk of life to defy stereotypes, step out of judgment and embrace tolerance.
Q: Who is the face behind Mormons Exposed, and why has he created this calendar?
A: Having come from a sixth-generation Mormon family, lived in Utah for 8 years, and served a 2-year religious mission himself, Chad Hardy, the producer and co-founder of Mormons Exposed, has an in-depth understanding of the LDS church and its devotees. Hardy set out on a mission to showcase individuality within religion and to build bridges that separate humanity based on religious and cultural intolerance. Hardy�s excommunication from the LDS Church because of this project has given him more reason to encourage people of every belief system to take a stand for their own voice, while showing more tolerance and love for one another.
Q: Why Mormons?
A: This brand is more about promoting the idea that we are all unique individual people, made up of the same material and woven together in one canvas, than it is about religion. The message is of acceptance and understanding. While this brand is humorous, dangerous, daring and sexy - our message runs deep - whether you love, hate or are indifferent to Mormons, you can appreciate this brand for what it represents.
Q: What was the impetus for the development of the Men on a Mission Calendar? What do you hope to achieve through the calendar release?
A: The Men on a Mission calendar is intended to be a light-hearted and fun spin on a social taboo. Far too much fear, hatred, anger and violence is committed in (and against) the name of religion. By showing these missionaries as regular people, we hope to build a common thread that can break down some of the barriers that have been built up. Driven by the desire to serve as an advocate for change, Mormons Exposed created an international product that consumers everywhere found humorous and enjoyable. The calendar project and surrounding buzz served as a platform to encourage many different groups of people to look beyond the stereotypes of race, religion or political affiliation to achieve a greater understanding of one another.
Q: Who are the twelve missionaries featured in the calendar?
A: The twelve former missionaries who "bare their testimony" on the pages of the Men on a Mission calendar were hand-selected for their striking good looks and powerful personal devotion. They are men who were comfortable enough in their own beliefs, and independent and brave enough to take a stand for what they believe in regardless of what others may think. By slightly stepping away from the Mormon traditions of modest dress, these men show the world they can have a strong faith and be proud of who they are, both with a sense of individualism and a sense humor at the same time.
Q: What has motivated the twelve missionaries to be part of this project?
A: Like their religion itself, not much is known about the duties of these young missionaries serving around the world. The general public is largely unaware of the stories of selflessness and sacrifice that these missionaries have endured as they have helped thousands of people live better lives. While it is true that much of their duty is focused on promoting Mormon ideals, these men have helped the poor, fed the hungry, built schools and homes and helped many people in need. Theirs are stories that deserve to be told.
Q: How will the proceeds of the calendar be used?
A: The Men on a Mission calendar will benefit a variety of worthy causes. Each missionary will have the opportunity to donate a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the calendar to a cause in the area he served.
Q: What has been the public response to your project, thus far?
A: While the brand is intended to be tongue-in-cheek, we understand that some people are offended by it. Thus far, reactions have hailed from each polar end of the spectrum. We believe there's real heart in looking at these young men who have sacrificed two years of their lives to selfless service, and that's why some definitely celebrate it. Yet, whatever the reaction solicited, the brand is already achieving what we set out to do - it had sparked dialogue, which is the first step toward understanding.
Q: What is your return policy?
A: All calendar sales are final.
All unworn apparel may be returned or exchanged within 30 days of original purchase. We will pay the return shipping costs if the return is a result of our error - if you received a defective or incorrect item, etc.
For all questions about your purchase, or concerns about your order, please contact Customer Care. A representative will be in touch with you shortly.