The Lila Rose Show E286: I Loved Mormonism, But I Couldn't Stay w/Isaac Hess | Lila Rose Show
Jan 23, 2026
Isaac Hess is a former Latter-day Saint who converted to Catholicism and now works as a software engineer. He delves into his upbringing in a devout Mormon family and the formative experiences of his two-year mission. Exploring the complexities of Joseph Smith's life and LDS history, he discusses his internal struggles with faith and his eventual discovery of early Christianity. Isaac shares insights on the significance of papal authority in his conversion, and he reflects on how his spiritual journey has reshaped his family's dynamics and enriched his faith.
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Deep Mormon Roots And Early Faith
- Isaac Hess grew up in a devout Mormon family with ancestors who knew Joseph Smith.
- He practiced Mormonism actively until his mid-30s before beginning a long conversion process to Catholicism.
Rigorous Mission Life In North Carolina
- Isaac served a two-year Mormon mission in North Carolina focused on door-to-door proselytizing.
- He described a strict daily schedule of study and street outreach that left few hours free each day.
The Great Apostasy Framework
- Mormon teaching holds that the early Christian church fell into a 'Great Apostasy' after the apostles died.
- Joseph Smith is presented as the prophet who restored priesthood keys and public revelation to the earth.
