The Reader Center is one way we in the newsroom are trying to connect with you, by highlighting your perspectives and experiences and offering insight into how we work.

Readers reacted strongly to our obituary for Thomas S. Monson, who served as prophet and head of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for nearly a decade. In hundreds of messages to The New York Times and dozens of comments on the obituary, readers, including many Mormons, wrote that the obituary focused too narrowly on the politics and controversies of the Mormon Church and overlooked Mr. Monson’s contributions to the community.

Here are some of their comments, which have been lightly edited for length and clarity.

As a gay Mormon I can state that while President Monson’s policies were controversial to some, they do not reflect his life teachings, which focused on service and selfless love. That The Times only focused on the politics and not the teachings that defined him is disgusting. — Zachary, in a message to the Reader Center Hugo Chávez? Hugh Hefner? They had glamorous obituaries compared to this man, who dedicated his life to serving and helping others. — Jon Wilson, in a letter to the editor Decisions he made (not having women ordained to the priesthood or accepting gay marriage) were included without any fair explanation of his beliefs/Mormon beliefs regarding the subjects and without any context. I would accept it as normal that Mormon beliefs or church standards might be viewed as controversial and might be brought up in this obituary, but it was done without any taste. — Chantelle Wood, in an email to the newsroom

We drew questions from readers’ feedback, and William McDonald, our obituaries editor, responded to them.

Many readers have pointed out that much of the obituary focused largely on the Mormon Church’s controversial and politically divisive issues. They say Mr. Monson’s life included strong community and humanitarian work as the leader of a large religious following and wish the obit had reflected more of that. How do you respond to those readers?