The Mormon religion, formally known as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), is a Christian denomination that emerged in the early 19th century in the United States. Founded by Joseph Smith, Jr., in 1830, the LDS Church has since grown to become one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing Christian organizations. Often simply referred to as Mormonism, the religion is characterized by unique doctrines, an emphasis on family and community, a distinct theological canon, and a structured missionary effort. This article explores the foundational aspects of the Mormon religion, including its beliefs, practices, and its place within the broader Christian tradition.

The Founding and History of the LDS Church

Joseph Smith and the Origins of Mormonism

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was founded by Joseph Smith, who reported a series of religious visions that laid the foundation for the new faith. Smith claimed that in 1820, he received a vision of God the Father and Jesus Christ, who told him that all existing Christian denominations were flawed. This vision, often referred to as “The First Vision,” is a central event in LDS history and signifies a theological break from traditional Christianity.

Over time, Smith reported further divine revelations, including the discovery of a set of golden plates, which he claimed to have translated into what is now known as the Book of Mormon. Published in 1830, the Book of Mormon is considered by Latter-day Saints to be a volume of holy scripture that complements the Bible. Smith formally organized the LDS Church in Fayette, New York, in the same year.

Expansion and Migration

Facing persecution due to their beliefs and practices, early Mormons migrated westward. After Smith’s death in 1844, Brigham Young assumed leadership and directed the community to what is now Utah, where Salt Lake City became the central hub of Mormonism. This migration was an essential part of the religion’s development, as it allowed the LDS community to grow in relative isolation, establish a strong organizational structure, and build significant religious and community institutions.

The Modern LDS Church

In the modern era, the LDS Church has grown significantly beyond the United States, with an increasing presence worldwide. Today, it reports millions of members and a strong missionary network, with missionaries actively sharing their faith globally. The Church continues to emphasize community welfare, family values, and its unique religious doctrines.

Key Beliefs and Doctrine

The Godhead

Mormons believe in the Godhead, which consists of three distinct beings: God the Father, Jesus Christ the Son, and the Holy Ghost. Unlike mainstream Christian doctrine, which teaches the concept of the Trinity as three persons in one God, Mormon theology asserts that these three beings are separate entities united in purpose rather than substance.

The Book of Mormon and Additional Scriptures

While the Bible is an important part of Mormonism, members also consider the Book of Mormon to be scripture. This text, according to LDS teachings, is an ancient record of people in the Americas and includes the teachings of Jesus Christ, whom Mormons believe visited the American continent after his resurrection. Additionally, Mormons regard the Doctrine and Covenants and the Pearl of Great Price as canonical texts, which contain additional teachings and revelations provided to Joseph Smith and other prophets.

Plan of Salvation

One of the core tenets of Mormon theology is the “Plan of Salvation,” which outlines a path for the progression of human souls. This doctrine includes the concept of pre-mortal existence, mortal life, and an afterlife. Mormons believe that all people lived with God before being born into mortal bodies. Life on Earth is seen as a period of testing and growth, while the afterlife offers a place for individuals to continue their spiritual development.

Salvation and Exaltation

Mormons believe that salvation is possible through the atonement of Jesus Christ, which provides redemption for humanity’s sins. However, Mormon doctrine also teaches a concept called “exaltation,” which goes beyond salvation. Exaltation is the idea that faithful Mormons who live according to the Church’s teachings and participate in specific ordinances can ultimately achieve a divine state and return to live with God, achieving eternal life with their families.

Modern-Day Revelation and Prophets

A distinctive aspect of Mormonism is its belief in continuing revelation. Mormons believe that God communicates with humanity through prophets and apostles in the present day. The LDS Church is led by a president who is considered a prophet, seer, and revelator. This president, along with the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, is believed to receive divine guidance on behalf of the Church.

Religious Practices and Community Life

Sacraments and Ordinances

Ordinances are religious rites considered necessary for salvation and exaltation in Mormon theology. These include baptism, confirmation, priesthood ordination (for men), the endowment ceremony, and marriage sealing in temples. Baptism is performed by immersion and typically occurs at the age of eight, when children are believed to reach an age of accountability.

Temple marriage, or sealing, is a sacred ordinance unique to the LDS faith, where couples are “sealed” together for eternity. This belief extends to the concept of eternal families, where relationships endure beyond death if individuals are faithful to LDS teachings.

Worship Services

Mormon worship includes both weekly meetings and additional gatherings in LDS temples. Regular Sunday services, often held at local meetinghouses, consist of a sacrament service (similar to communion) and additional meetings focused on religious education and fellowship. These gatherings emphasize community, as members play active roles in service and teaching.

Missionary Work

Missionary work is a prominent part of LDS life, with young members, often around the age of 18 or 19, encouraged to serve as full-time missionaries. Missionaries are typically assigned to specific areas and are tasked with spreading the teachings of Mormonism. This missionary tradition has significantly contributed to the global growth of the LDS Church.

Emphasis on Family and Community

The LDS Church places a strong emphasis on family values, encouraging members to uphold family relationships as a core part of their faith. Family-centered practices are evident in LDS teachings on marriage, child-rearing, and even the afterlife, where families are believed to remain together. The Church also supports a welfare program designed to assist members in need and encourage self-sufficiency, aligning with its emphasis on community and interdependence.

Social Structure and Governance

The Priesthood

In the LDS Church, priesthood authority is central to governance and religious practice. The priesthood is divided into two categories: the Aaronic and the Melchizedek priesthoods. These roles are reserved for men and grant them authority to perform certain ordinances, lead congregations, and fulfill other religious responsibilities.

Organizational Structure

The LDS Church has a hierarchical structure led by the President and Prophet, who presides over the entire organization. Below the President are the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and other leadership bodies that oversee administrative and spiritual matters. Local congregations, known as wards or branches, are led by bishops or branch presidents, respectively. The Church operates under a lay ministry system, where local leaders are unpaid and serve voluntarily.

Financial and Humanitarian Efforts

The LDS Church is known for its substantial humanitarian efforts, including disaster relief, community development, and welfare programs. Funding for these initiatives is derived from tithing contributions, where members donate 10% of their income. The Church also operates a wide range of educational and healthcare programs, with a focus on self-reliance and community support.

Controversial Aspects and Common Misconceptions

Polygamy

One of the most historically controversial aspects of Mormonism is the practice of polygamy. While the LDS Church officially discontinued polygamy in 1890 and no longer endorses it, the historical association persists in popular culture. Polygamy remains a point of distinction between the LDS Church and other groups, such as the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS), which still practices polygamy but is unaffiliated with the mainstream LDS Church.

Perception of Exclusivity

Mormonism’s unique doctrines, such as the additional scriptures and the belief in modern-day revelation, can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or misconceptions among those outside the faith. The Church is often perceived as exclusive or secretive due to its unique beliefs and temple ceremonies, although LDS leaders emphasize the openness of Church teachings and outreach to non-members.

The Role of the LDS Church in Modern Society

Education and Employment Initiatives

The LDS Church is a prominent supporter of education, both religious and secular. Brigham Young University (BYU), owned and operated by the Church, is one of the most well-known Mormon-affiliated institutions. The Church also provides programs focused on employment, education, and personal development for members, reinforcing its emphasis on self-sufficiency.

Political and Social Influence

In the United States, the LDS Church has a notable influence, particularly in Utah and parts of the western United States. Politically, the Church has occasionally taken public stances on moral issues, including the defense of traditional marriage and opposition to certain social policies. However, it also emphasizes political neutrality and encourages members to engage civically according to their personal beliefs.

Global Expansion

Mormonism is increasingly global in scope, with significant membership growth in Latin America, Africa, and Asia. This expansion has led to new challenges and opportunities for the Church as it adapts its teachings to diverse cultural contexts while maintaining its core doctrines.

Summary

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints represents a distinct Christian denomination with a unique theological and cultural identity. Founded in 1830, the LDS Church has developed an extensive religious framework that emphasizes family values, community welfare, and a structured belief system grounded in modern-day revelation and additional scriptures. Despite challenges and misconceptions, Mormonism has continued to grow globally, appealing to a diverse audience drawn to its teachings on salvation, family, and spiritual progression.