Boyd K. Packer, Controversial Mormon Apostle

When it comes to living controversial Mormon figures, Mormon apostle Boyd K. Packer often tops the list. Referred to by his critics as Boyd KKK Packer for what is often seen as homophobic and racist comments, he is credited perhaps more so than Mormon apologists such as Jeff Lindsey with helping people see the truth and leave the church. Why has an elderly gentlemen sparked such controversy? It is not that he said that men are allowed no earrings and should not have facial hair as the current leader Gordon B. Hinckley has suggested, it is various comments that are now in his past and the general attitude that he conveys that the membership of the church is their to serve the Brethren and not the other way around.

His "little factory" speech detailing the evils of masturbation may have made him a figure of fun. As misguided as that may have been, what causes him trouble is a statement made shortly after the group known as the September Six were excommunicated. The statement goes, "Feminists, homosexuals and so-called intellectuals are a danger to the church." Why exactly feminists or homosexuals represent a threat to the Utah based Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints was unclear, however the so-called intellectuals statements meaning could not have been clearer in context. The September Six were excommunicated after writing truthfully about the history of the organization.

Another quote that would cause him trouble among his critics was along the lines of "Not everything that is true is useful." While such a statement may be true as there are many bits of information that while true are totally worthless, Boyd K. Packer was not commenting on that alone. He was instead commenting on the idea that Mormon historians should only write a "faith promoting" view of the organization.

Among church members he is seen one of two ways. He can be seen as a hero who will straighten things out once he retains power, or ironically among non-Utah Mormons as a far bigger threat to his church than the three groups he mentioned as being dangerous to the Mormon faith. It is not an uncommon statement especially on New Order Mormon boards to see someone say that they will leave if he become prophet.

It may not be likely however, as he is advanced in age and he is second in line after Thomas S. Monson. The failing health of the current leader, Gordon B. Hinckley may bump him up soon but the recent death of James Faust will not significantly affect the order.