Dear John,
Q: What is Mormons Exposed?
A: Mormons Exposed is a new brand launching a forward-thinking product - a steamy 2008 calendar featuring twelve handsome former Mormon missionaries who have dared to pose bare-chested in the first-ever Men on a Mission calendar. Usually seen riding their bicycles and preaching door-to-door, the calendar celebrates these missionaries' great looks and beautiful bodies, as well as the amazing stories of service of these deeply spiritual men.
Q: What makes the Men on a Mission calendar so unique?
A: Behind the eye-candy, this calendar 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 returned missionaries are posing shirtless will certainly raise eyebrows, but may also help to sort out some common misconceptions about Mormons. The shock value of what these traditionally conservative young men have helped to create has the power to build 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. Since the veil surrounding the Mormon religion can be difficult for outsiders to permeate or to understand, the humor of the calendar is intended to help debunk common misperceptions and dispel some myths about the Mormon religion - encouraging people of every belief system to be more tolerant of one another.
Q: Why Mormons?
A: This project 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 project is humorous, dangerous, daring and sexy - our message runs deep - whether you love, hate or are indifferent to Mormons, you can appreciate this project for what this calendar 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 a national product that consumers everywhere can find humorous and enjoyable. The calendar project and surrounding buzz serves 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 spiritual 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 missionaries 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. Some of the charities supported will include Habitat for Humanity, Salvation Army and Care for Life.
Q: What has been the public response to your project, thus far?
A: While the project is intended to be tongue-in-cheek, we understand that some people are offended by it. Thus far, reactions have hailed from each polar ends 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 project is already achieving what we set out to do - it is sparking dialogue, which is the first step toward understanding.
Q: What plans are on the horizon for Mormons Exposed?
A: This product may be the must-have stocking stuffer of the year, or even be the gag gift of 2008, or perhaps it will inspire someone who needs a bit of encouragement to live out loud and be proud of who they are. Whatever the result, we feel now is the right time to come out with this product, and planning for the 2009 calendar is already underway.
Q: Where can consumers go for more information?
A: For more information or to purchase the calendar and related Mormons Exposed apparel, visit http://www.mormonsexposed.com/. You can also sign up to be "friends" of the Men on a Mission at http://www.MySpace.com/.
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.