Church’s Confusing Past Mixed with Confusing Case

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Mohler investigation has a global church based in the metro speaking out after being tossed into the spotlight.

The Burrell Mohler Sr. and this four sons are charged with sexual abuse crimes against young relatives spanning from the 1980’s – mid 1990’s .

This one family has ties to three different churches all connected to one beginning.

Community of Christ Church

The towering landscape of the Community of Christ Temple in Independence is next to impossible to miss.

“"We’re really an international church at this point and this building reflects the mission," says Mark Scherer, the church historian.

But few outside the church know much about it and often confuse it with its distant cousin, the Mormon Church.

"It is a pretty complex story. But the story of the nation is complex as well," Scherer says.

History

In the 1830's, the Community of Christ and the Mormons were one in the same.

But the two eventually split.

Known first as "Reorganized church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints", the Community of Christ settled in Independence in 1920.

In the mid-80’s, it allowed women to have leadership roles. Then, in 2001, its name changed to Community of Christ.

Mohler Investigation

Church leaders suddenly found themselves dealing with media attention following the arrest of Burrell Mohler Sr, and his four sons, Burrell Jr., David, Jared and Roland.

Burrell Mohler sr., David and Jared, were lay ministers with the church.
All have been suspended.

"None of these three men had any involvement with children or youth in the congregations where they attended," says Linda Booth, the Church Spokesperson.

Burrell Mohler Jr. was reportedly with the Mormon Church until being ex-communicated.

Roland was with a "restoration branch", which broke with the Community of Christ.

All five men are in jail.