Fuller Theological Seminary President Richard Mouw is continuing his efforts towards Mormon-evangelical dialogue by suggesting in a Beliefnet.com column that Mormon leaders should offer their “official blessing” to discussions with evangelical scholars who have presented their theological differences with Mormons in “fair and careful ways.”

He said this period after former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney’s run for president is just the time for such dialogue, even as Romney is sometimes cited as a potential running mate for Sen. John McCain.

Mouw thinks leaders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints should now comment on the “many distorted characterizations of Mormon thought” that arose during Romney’s campaign.

“The LDS leadership has a marvelous opportunity right now to invite evangelicals and Mormons to learn together how to be better neighbors!” he wrote.

Peggy Fletcher Stack of The Salt Lake Tribune reported that Mormon officials responded “with a broad but vague statement,” saying they “welcome those efforts … and look forward to continued friendly association and dialogue with Dr. Mouw and with others of goodwill.”