By Janet I. Tu
Seattle Times staff reporter
Sunday, December 08, 2002, 12:00 a.m. Pacific
The Lynnwood stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has decided to postpone indefinitely a disciplinary council that could have led to the excommunication of a local Mormon scholar who challenged a central tenet of the faith.
Thomas Murphy, Edmonds Community College anthropology department chairman and a University of Washington graduate student, published an article earlier this year using genetic evidence to challenge the Book of Mormon claim that Native Americans were descended from a heathen tribe of ancient Israel.
Murphy was accused of apostasy and became a cause célèbre among disaffected Mormons nationwide. Vigils in his support had been planned in several cities for tonight, when the disciplinary council was to be held.
Matthew Latimer, president of the Lynnwood stake, said in a written statement: "Decisions relating to spiritual welfare are a private matter between each member and his or her local Church leader. Unfortunately, this matter has received significant media attention, and Mr. Murphy himself has stated publicly that my decision to hold a disciplinary council is emotionally very difficult for him. In light of these considerations, I think it is best not to proceed at this time."
Latimer also said in the statement that he hoped to discuss matters with Murphy in confidence, "in the hope that his relationship to the Church can be strengthened."
Further action on Murphy's case likely will not be taken until after Latimer and Murphy have had a chance to talk, said Bruce Merrell, a spokesman for Latimer.
Murphy said last night that he would be willing to meet with Latimer and that he was "relieved" and "hopeful" the church would be willing to consider his views.