LDS leader warns against digital masks

A top leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints warned Sunday that remaining anonymous online carries spiritual risks that can lead to terrible consequences. Apostle Quentin L. Cook addressed a global audience of young adult members during a devotional streamed from Brigham Young University-Hawaii. He argued that hiding one's identity contradicts the faith's core instruction to shine a light.

Cook stated that seeking to diminish another person's light by speaking unkindly from the shadows is incompatible with being a disciple. He described this behavior as the opposite of letting one's light shine. Instead, he urged members to act as a light on the hill and provide a visible example of commitment to Jesus Christ. He specifically called for members to avoid camouflage during what he described as toxic times.

The apostle used historical examples to illustrate the danger of hidden identities. He recalled a conversation with a Jewish friend about preventing future atrocities. The friend pointed to the masked Ku Klux Klan of the early 1900s, which committed evil against Jews, Blacks, Catholics, and immigrants. Cook also referenced a mob that painted their faces before tarred and feathered church founder Joseph Smith and early leader Sidney Rigdon. These stories served to show how masks have historically facilitated harm.

Cook identified putting on a false face as a primary tool for the adversary. He told the young adults that avoiding the mask of anonymity is one of their greatest protections against making bad choices. He warned that the desire to hide online is a serious sign of danger. Members should recognize this impulse as a warning to stop before they act. He encouraged them to steer clear of anonymity in both digital and physical spaces.

This message aligns with recent guidance from other church leaders. Former President Russell M. Nelson expressed concern in a 2023 General Conference address about the prevalence of vulgarity and faultfinding. He noted that many pundits and politicians throw insults constantly. Nelson said he was greatly concerned that people believed it was acceptable to malign those who disagreed with them. He observed that many seemed eager to damage reputations with pithy barbs.

The church's General Handbook also addresses digital conduct. The document condemns threatening, bullying, degrading, violent, or otherwise abusive language and images used online. Cook's remarks add a spiritual dimension to these practical guidelines. He framed the issue as a matter of spiritual safety rather than just etiquette. The devotional concluded with a call for members to be peacemakers and visible witnesses.