Mormonism is a religious movement that started in the early 19th century in the United States.
At its core, Mormonism is about the Latter Day Saints (LDS), a group of people who follow the teachings of Jesus Christ as revealed to their founder, Joseph Smith.
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Mormonism and Mormon Religion
Simply put, Mormonism is a Christian religion that believes in the Bible and other scriptures, including the Book of Mormon. The Mormon religion emphasizes the teachings of Jesus Christ, living a life guided by the Holy Ghost, and the importance of family life and eternal life.
Mormons are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and they strive to follow the principles taught by Jesus Christ and ancient prophets.
Mormon Founder and How It All Began
It all started in 1820, in western New York, when Smith, then a teenager, claimed to have experienced a series of visions. In these visions, God and Jesus Christ appeared to him, informing him that all existing Christian churches had strayed from the true teachings of Christ and that he was chosen to restore the true Christian Church. This event marked the beginning of the Latter Day Saints movement.
In 1827, Smith claimed another heavenly visitation by an angel named Moroni, who revealed the location of golden plates buried in a nearby hill. These plates, Smith said, contained the writings of ancient prophets who lived in the Americas. By 1830, Smith had translated these writings into what is now known as the Book of Mormon, and on April 6, 1830, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was officially organized in Fayette, New York, with six initial members.
The early years of the church were marked by significant challenges, including opposition and persecution from non-Mormon communities. This led to several relocations for Smith and his followers, from New York to Ohio, then to Missouri, and finally to Illinois, where Smith established the city of Nauvoo. In Nauvoo, the Mormon community flourished, but so did the tensions with non-Mormons. In 1844, amid growing conflict, Joseph Smith was killed by a mob, marking a critical turning point in Mormon history.
Following Smith’s death, the Mormons faced a succession crisis, eventually led by Brigham Young. Young led a large portion of the Latter Day Saints westward, settling in what is now Salt Lake City, Utah, in 1847. This migration was a monumental effort to find a place where Mormons could practice their faith freely, establishing Salt Lake City as the new church headquarters and a central point in Mormon history.
Key Figures
The Mormon faith has been shaped by several key figures throughout its history, beginning with Joseph Smith, its founder. Smith is central to Mormonism, not only for establishing the church but also for his teachings and revelations, which form the core of Mormon doctrine.
After Smith, Brigham Young emerges as a significant figure, taking over the leadership after Smith’s death. Young led the Mormons on their westward migration and is credited with establishing Salt Lake City as the church’s new home. His leadership helped the Mormon community survive and thrive in the Utah territory.
Other notable leaders include the succession of church presidents who have guided the LDS Church through its development into a global faith. Each president is considered a prophet, seer, and revelator to the church members, continuing the legacy of Joseph Smith.
The Twelve Apostles also play a crucial role in Mormon leadership, acting as a governing body that oversees the church’s worldwide affairs. This group of church leaders is integral to spreading Mormon teachings and administering the church’s global efforts, including missionary work and humanitarian aid.
Main Beliefs
At the heart of Mormon beliefs is the doctrine that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world and that following His teachings is essential for salvation and eternal life. Mormons believe in the Bible, as well as other scriptures like the Book of Mormon, which they consider another testament of Jesus Christ.
Mormons also hold unique beliefs about God and the Holy Ghost, including the nature of the Godhead as three distinct beings with one purpose rather than a Trinity. The concept of continuing revelation is fundamental to Mormonism, with church members believing that God still speaks to prophets today, guiding the LDS Church through church presidents.
Another central belief is the importance of family life, seen in practices like family home evening and temple marriages, which Mormons believe can last for eternity. The church emphasizes living a moral life, following church teachings, and participating in church services and temple ceremonies.
Mormons also believe in a pre-mortal existence and a life after death, where individuals will be judged and live in a state corresponding to their actions and faith on earth. This includes the concept of the Celestial Kingdom, the highest level of heaven, reserved for those who have followed Christ’s teachings most closely.
Mormon Church of Latter Day Saints (LDS Church)
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), commonly known as the Mormon Church, is a Christian restorationist church founded in the early 19th century in the United States.
Mormonism and Christianity
Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) firmly declare their Christianity, grounded in their unwavering faith in Jesus Christ as the divine Son of God and the Savior of humanity. This foundational belief in Christ’s divinity and his central role in humanity’s salvation places them squarely within the Christian tradition.
However, the theological landscape of Mormonism includes distinctive elements that set it apart from mainstream Christian orthodoxy. Notably, the LDS Church embraces additional scriptures, such as the Book of Mormon, alongside the Bible. Furthermore, their interpretation of the Godhead presents a nuanced difference from the traditional Christian Trinity, emphasizing a more distinct and separate relationship among the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.
The LDS Church posits itself as the restored original church that Jesus Christ founded, asserting that after a period of general apostasy, essential truths, and priesthood authority were reinstated through the prophet Joseph Smith. This restoration perspective includes the belief in ongoing revelation and the addition of scriptures such as the Book of Mormon, which Mormons view as a complementary testament of Jesus Christ alongside the Bible.
From the standpoint of many other Christian denominations, however, the teachings and doctrines of the LDS Church diverge from what they consider orthodox biblical Christianity. These denominations often cite differences in the understanding of the nature of God, the process of salvation, and the authority of priesthood as areas of significant theological departure.
While Mormons identify as Christians, their religious practice and theology contain elements that are distinct from those found in traditional Christianity. One of the most notable aspects is their belief in temple ceremonies, which include sacred ordinances believed to be necessary for eternal progression. The concept of a lay priesthood available to all worthy males is another distinctive practice, differing from the professional clergy seen in many other Christian denominations.
Additionally, the LDS Church adheres to a health code known as the Word of Wisdom, advising against the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, and certain other substances. The emphasis on ongoing revelation through prophets and apostles is a fundamental aspect of their faith, reinforcing the belief that divine guidance is an active and continuous part of the church’s direction.
Mormons celebrate Christmas with a strong emphasis on Jesus Christ as the reason for the season. Community and familial gatherings often include nativity reenactments and musical performances that highlight the sacred nature of the season.
Moreover, embodying the spirit of Christ’s love and service, Mormons engage in acts of charity and service during the holiday season, reaching out to those in need and strengthening bonds within communities. This commitment to reflecting Christ’s teachings through service and celebration marks the Christmas season as a time of profound religious importance and communal joy for Mormons.
Mormon Lifestyle
The lifestyle of members of the LDS Church is marked by a deep commitment to family values, community service, and adherence to moral and health standards outlined in the Word of Wisdom. This code of conduct prohibits the consumption of substances like tobacco, alcohol, coffee, and tea, promoting physical health and spiritual well-being among Mormons. By following these guidelines, members seek to maintain a healthy lifestyle that aligns with their religious beliefs and fosters personal discipline.
In addition to health practices, Mormons place a strong emphasis on family unity, valuing the importance of strong familial relationships and prioritizing time spent with loved ones. Community service is also a significant aspect of Mormon life, with members actively engaging in humanitarian efforts to assist those in need and contribute positively to society.
Education is highly valued within the LDS community, with an emphasis on lifelong learning and personal development. Mormons are encouraged to pursue education and self-improvement to enhance their knowledge and skills. Self-reliance is another key principle, promoting independence and the ability to provide for oneself and others in times of need.
As of 2024, The total population of Mormons is approximately 16,663,663 worldwide. The regions with significant Mormon populations include the United States with 6,592,195 members, Mexico with 1,417,011 members, Brazil with 1,354,127 members, the Philippines with 745,959 members, Chile with 585,887 members, Peru with 578,526 members, and Argentina with 445,108 members.
Mormons are encouraged to avoid R-rated movies, among other activities, as part of their religious beliefs and practices. This guidance stems from the teachings of the LDS Church leadership, which has consistently advised against watching R-rated movies. While there isn’t an explicit doctrine against R-rated movies, the counsel provided by the First Presidency and General Authorities emphasizes avoiding content that is vulgar, immoral, violent, or pornographic. This guidance aligns with broader principles outlined in “For the Strength of Youth,” which advises against participating in anything that presents immorality or violence as acceptable.
In addition to abstaining from R-rated movies, Mormons are also encouraged to avoid gambling and activities that may distract them from their spiritual focus. This commitment to spiritual well-being extends to observing the Sabbath day as a time for rest and worship, refraining from secular activities on Sundays. These practices are integral to Mormon culture and are aimed at fostering a lifestyle that aligns with their religious values and principles.
Marriage holds a central place in Mormon doctrine, viewed as a sacred and eternal union that is performed in temples for couples who are both members in good standing. These temple marriages, known as “sealings,” are believed to endure beyond death, connecting families for eternity according to LDS beliefs. The emphasis on eternal marriage reflects the importance of family bonds and the eternal nature of relationships within Mormon theology.
In addition to the sanctity of marriage, the LDS Church places a strong emphasis on family life and the upbringing of children within the faith. Family is considered a fundamental unit in Mormon teachings, with parents encouraged to raise their children in accordance with LDS principles and values. This focus on family unity and spiritual growth is integral to Mormon culture and beliefs.
While polygamy was practiced by early members of the LDS Church, it was officially discontinued in the late 19th century under the leadership of Wilford Woodruff, the fourth president of the Church. The practice of polygamy is now strictly prohibited by the LDS Church, aligning with legal and cultural norms in modern society. Today, there is an emphasis on monogamous marriages, which are recognized as sacred and binding both in this life and in the eternities.
Mormonism Today
In the modern era, the LDS Church has made significant strides in engaging with broader societal issues while adhering to its core beliefs and values. This includes a more open dialogue with other faiths, a commitment to community service, and a sophisticated approach to humanitarian aid. The church’s welfare and humanitarian programs, operated under the principle of self-reliance and support for the needy, are among its most praised features, illustrating a practical application of its teachings.
The church’s doctrinal stance remains conservative, particularly on issues of family and morality. It upholds traditional marriage and family structures as central to God’s plan, reflecting these values in its teachings and activities. However, there has been a noticeable effort to address and clarify controversial aspects of its history and doctrine, including plural marriage, racial restrictions in its early priesthood (which were lifted in 1978), and the historical and doctrinal foundations of the Book of Mormon.
Technological adaptation has also marked Mormonism’s recent era, with the LDS Church leveraging digital platforms for evangelism, education, and community building. The church’s extensive genealogical resources, made available through the FamilySearch website, underscore its emphasis on family history and the eternal nature of family bonds. Digital platforms have also facilitated a broader dissemination of general conference messages, educational materials, and the distribution of the Book of Mormon.
Leadership within the church maintains a significant role in guiding the faith and its followers. The current Prophet and President, along with the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, are seen as modern-day prophets, seers, and revelators, akin to biblical figures, tasked with leading the church through revelation and guidance from God. Their teachings and decisions influence all aspects of church activity, from doctrine to daily living, reflecting a belief in continuous revelation.
Contemporary issues and societal changes continue to challenge the LDS Church, requiring a balance between adherence to core doctrines and responsiveness to a changing world.
While holding firm to its foundational beliefs, there is evidence of evolving perspectives and increased dialogue on these and other issues.
Wrapping It Up
As Mormonism continues to adapt and grow, it remains a faith deeply committed to its founding principles while seeking to engage constructively with the broader world.
Despite its distinct beliefs and practices, Mormons identify strongly with the Christian tradition, centered on a deep faith in Jesus Christ. They have unwavering community service, humanitarian aid, and global understanding, and speak to the church’s ongoing efforts to live out Christ’s teachings in a modern world. The church has also engaged with societal issues, adapting to new technologies and addressing controversial aspects of its history with an eye toward transparency and faithfulness to its doctrinal core.
References
https://origins.osu.edu/read/joseph-smith-discovers-gold-plates?language_content_entity=en
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/gospel-topics/holy-ghost?lang=eng
https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/ldsnewsroom/eng/background-information/temples
https://www.sltrib.com/religion/2022/05/18/what-world-is-lds-church