Factual, citation-backed information about Latter-day Saints (Mormonism). All claims are sourced from reputable publishers.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), commonly known as Mormonism, is a restorationist Christian tradition founded by Joseph Smith in upstate New York in 1830. With approximately 17 million members worldwide, it is the largest and most well-known organization within the broader Latter-day Saint movement. [2][3][1][4]
The LDS Church teaches that Joseph Smith received divine revelations restoring the original church established by Jesus Christ, which Latter-day Saints believe had fallen into apostasy after the death of the original apostles. Smith reported that in 1820, God the Father and Jesus Christ appeared to him in a vision (the "First Vision"), and that he subsequently translated the Book of Mormon from golden plates delivered by an angel. [2][3]
The tradition is distinguished by its additional scriptures (the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price), its belief in continuing revelation through a living prophet, its temple ordinances (including baptism for the dead and eternal marriage), and its extensive missionary program. [2][3]
The LDS Church is headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, where Brigham Young led the majority of Latter-day Saints after Smith's assassination in 1844. The church has experienced significant global growth, with particularly strong presence in the United States, Latin America, the Philippines, and the Pacific Islands. The church's emphasis on family, education, self-reliance, and community service has shaped a distinctive cultural identity. [2][3][1][4]
Note: The LDS Church's relationship to mainstream Christianity is a matter of theological debate. Most Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant churches do not consider the LDS Church to be within the bounds of historic Christianity due to its additional scriptures and distinctive theology, while Latter-day Saints consider themselves Christian. [2][3]
LDS theology differs significantly from mainstream Christian theology in several key areas. [2][3]
The Godhead: Latter-day Saints believe in God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost as three separate beings united in purpose, rather than the traditional Trinitarian understanding of one God in three persons. God the Father and Jesus Christ are understood as having perfected, glorified physical bodies. [2][3]
The Plan of Salvation: LDS theology teaches that all humans existed as spirit children of God before birth (pre-mortal existence), came to earth to gain physical bodies and be tested, and will be resurrected and judged after death. The afterlife includes three degrees of glory (celestial, terrestrial, and telestial kingdoms) rather than a simple heaven/hell dichotomy. [2][3]
Continuing revelation: The President of the LDS Church is regarded as a prophet, seer, and revelator who receives ongoing divine guidance for the church. This means that church doctrine and practice can develop over time through new revelation. [2][3]
The Restoration: Latter-day Saints believe that the original church established by Jesus fell into apostasy after the death of the apostles and was restored through Joseph Smith. The priesthood authority (Aaronic and Melchizedek) was restored through angelic visitation. [2][3]
Exaltation: The highest aspiration in LDS theology is exaltation, becoming like God and living eternally as families in the celestial kingdom. Temple ordinances, including eternal marriage (sealing), are essential to this goal. [2][3]
The Book of Mormon: Accepted as scripture alongside the Bible, it is described as "Another Testament of Jesus Christ," narrating the history of ancient peoples in the Americas and Christ's post-resurrection visit to them. [2][3]
LDS practice is structured around personal devotion, family life, congregational worship, and temple ordinances. [2][3]
Sunday worship: Latter-day Saints attend a weekly sacrament meeting (similar to communion services in other churches), followed by Sunday School and other classes. Services are led by lay members rather than professional clergy. [2][3]
Temple worship: LDS temples (distinct from regular meetinghouses) are sacred spaces where special ordinances are performed, including endowment ceremonies, baptisms for the dead (proxy baptism on behalf of deceased ancestors), and eternal marriage sealings. Temple attendance requires a "temple recommend", a certification of worthiness issued by local church leaders. [2][3]
Missionary service: Young men are encouraged to serve two-year missions (typically at age 18-19), and young women may serve 18-month missions (at age 19+). Approximately 50,000-70,000 missionaries serve at any given time worldwide. [2][3]
The Word of Wisdom: A health code prohibiting alcohol, tobacco, coffee, tea, and recreational drugs. Tithing: Members are expected to contribute 10% of their income to the church. Family Home Evening: A weekly family gathering (typically Monday evening) for spiritual instruction, activities, and bonding. [2][3]
Genealogy and family history: The LDS Church operates FamilySearch, the world's largest genealogical organization, reflecting the theological importance of connecting families across generations through temple ordinances. [2][3]
Major observances follow the general Christian calendar (Christmas, Easter) without an elaborate liturgical cycle. Pioneer Day (July 24) commemorates the arrival of the first Latter-day Saint pioneers in the Salt Lake Valley. [2][3]
The LDS scriptural canon includes four standard works: [2][3]
The Bible: Latter-day Saints use the King James Version, believing it to be the word of God "as far as it is translated correctly". The Book of Mormon: Described as a record of ancient peoples in the Americas, translated by Joseph Smith from golden plates. It covers approximately 600 BCE to 421 CE and includes an account of Christ's post-resurrection visit to the Americas. First published in 1830, it is considered by Latter-day Saints to be "the most correct of any book on earth". The Doctrine and Covenants: A collection of revelations received primarily by Joseph Smith, addressing church organization, doctrine, and practice. The Pearl of Great Price: A collection including the Book of Moses, the Book of Abraham, Joseph Smith's history, and the Articles of Faith. [2][3]
"And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true.", Moroni 10:4, Book of Mormon. This verse is central to LDS missionary practice, inviting investigators to pray about the truth of the Book of Mormon. [2][3]
General Conference addresses by church leaders, while not canonized scripture, carry significant authority and are widely studied. The church also publishes official manuals, magazines (Ensign/Liahona), and educational materials. [2][3]
The LDS Church reports approximately 17 million members worldwide. However, activity rates (regular church attendance) are estimated to be significantly lower than total membership, perhaps 30-50% in many areas. [1][4]
The United States has the largest LDS population (approximately 6.7 million), with particular concentration in Utah (where approximately 60% of the population is LDS), Idaho, Arizona, and other western states. Latin America has experienced significant growth, with large LDS populations in Mexico (approximately 1.5 million), Brazil (approximately 1.4 million), Chile, Peru, and Argentina. [1][4]
The Philippines has the largest LDS population in Asia (approximately 800,000). Pacific Island nations including Tonga and Samoa have particularly high LDS membership rates relative to population. [1][4]
The LDS Church has experienced rapid growth since the mid-20th century, expanding from approximately 1 million members in 1947 to 17 million today. Growth has slowed in recent years in North America and Europe while continuing in parts of Latin America, Africa, and Asia. [1][4]
The broader Latter-day Saint movement includes several other organizations, the largest being the Community of Christ (formerly the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints), with approximately 250,000 members. [2][3]
LDS history spans less than two centuries but has been eventful: [2][3]
1805: Birth of Joseph Smith in Sharon, Vermont. 1820: Joseph Smith's First Vision (according to LDS accounts). 1827: Smith receives the golden plates from the angel Moroni. 1830: Book of Mormon published; Church of Christ organized in Fayette, New York. 1831-1838: Church moves to Kirtland, Ohio, and then to Missouri, facing persecution. 1839: Saints settle in Nauvoo, Illinois, which becomes one of the largest cities in the state. 1844: Joseph Smith assassinated by a mob in Carthage, Illinois. 1846-1847: Brigham Young leads the majority of Saints westward to the Salt Lake Valley. 1890: Manifesto officially ending the practice of plural marriage (polygamy). 1978: Revelation extending priesthood ordination to all worthy male members regardless of race. 1990s-2000s: Rapid international growth; church membership surpasses 10 million. 2000: Church membership reaches approximately 11 million. 2012: Mitt Romney becomes the first LDS presidential nominee of a major party. 2018: Church requests use of full name rather than "Mormon" or "LDS". 2020s: Church membership approaches 17 million; continued global expansion. [2][3][1][4]
The broader Latter-day Saint movement includes several organizations that trace their origins to Joseph Smith: [2][3]
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: By far the largest body (approximately 17 million members), headquartered in Salt Lake City, following the succession of Brigham Young. Community of Christ (formerly RLDS): The second-largest body (approximately 250,000 members), headquartered in Independence, Missouri. It follows the succession of Joseph Smith III and has moved in a more liberal theological direction, ordaining women and accepting LGBTQ+ members. Fundamentalist LDS groups: Several small groups that continue to practice plural marriage (polygamy), which the main LDS Church abandoned in 1890. These include the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS) and the Apostolic United Brethren. Other Restoration branches: Various smaller groups with different succession claims and theological emphases. [1][2][3]
Within the main LDS Church, there is no formal denominational diversity, but cultural and theological variation exists between more conservative and more progressive members. [2][3]
LDS observances are relatively simple compared to liturgical Christian traditions: [2][3]
Christmas (December 25): Celebrated as the birth of Jesus Christ. Easter: Celebrated as the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Pioneer Day (July 24): A uniquely LDS holiday commemorating the arrival of Brigham Young and the first pioneers in the Salt Lake Valley in 1847. Celebrated primarily in Utah with parades, fireworks, and community events. General Conference (first weekends of April and October): Semi-annual worldwide gatherings where church leaders address the membership through broadcast talks. These are major events in LDS life. Fast Sunday (typically the first Sunday of each month): Members fast for two meals and donate the money saved as a "fast offering" to help those in need. [2][3]
The LDS Church does not observe Lent, Advent, or saints' days. Sunday worship (sacrament meeting) is the primary weekly observance. [2][3]
The LDS Church has a highly structured, hierarchical leadership system staffed entirely by lay (unpaid) clergy at the local level: [2][3]
The Prophet/President: The President of the Church is regarded as a prophet, seer, and revelator, God's spokesman on earth. He serves for life and is succeeded by the senior member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. The First Presidency: The President and his two counselors, who together form the highest governing body. The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: Twelve men who serve as special witnesses of Christ and assist in governing the worldwide church. The Quorums of the Seventy: General Authorities who oversee church operations in various regions. Stake Presidents: Leaders of stakes (similar to dioceses), each comprising several congregations. Bishops: Leaders of local congregations (wards), serving as lay pastors, counselors, and administrators. [2][3]
All male members in good standing may hold the priesthood (Aaronic priesthood from age 11-12, Melchizedek priesthood from age 18). Women do not hold the priesthood but serve in leadership roles in women's (Relief Society), youth, and children's organizations. The question of women's ordination is a subject of ongoing discussion within the LDS community. [2][3]
Local leaders (bishops, stake presidents) serve without pay for limited terms, while General Authorities receive a living allowance. [2][3]
LDS symbolism is relatively restrained compared to Catholic or Orthodox traditions: [2][3]
The Angel Moroni: A golden statue of the angel Moroni blowing a trumpet, placed atop most LDS temples. Moroni is the figure who, according to LDS belief, delivered the golden plates to Joseph Smith. The Christus: A replica of Bertel Thorvaldsen's statue of the resurrected Christ, displayed at Temple Square in Salt Lake City and other LDS visitors' centers. Temple architecture: LDS temples are architecturally distinctive, ranging from the iconic Salt Lake Temple (completed 1893) to modern designs. Temples are considered the most sacred LDS spaces. The CTR shield: "Choose the Right", a motto and ring design widely used in LDS youth programs. The Beehive: A symbol of industry and cooperation, reflecting the LDS value of hard work. It appears on the Utah state flag and seal. [2][3]
The LDS Church does not use the cross as a symbol, preferring to emphasize the living Christ rather than the crucifixion. Meetinghouses (regular worship buildings) are architecturally simple, with a chapel, cultural hall, and classrooms. [2][3]
Joseph Smith (1805-1844): Founder and first prophet of the LDS Church. He reported receiving divine visions, translated the Book of Mormon, organized the church, and led the early Latter-day Saint community through periods of growth and persecution until his assassination. [2][3]
Brigham Young (1801-1877): Second president of the LDS Church, who led the migration to Utah and served as territorial governor. He oversaw the colonization of the American West and the establishment of LDS institutions. [2][3]
Emma Smith (1804-1879): Wife of Joseph Smith, first president of the Relief Society (women's organization), and a significant figure in early LDS history. [2][3]
Spencer W. Kimball (1895-1985): Twelfth president, who in 1978 announced the revelation extending priesthood ordination to all worthy male members regardless of race, ending a longstanding racial restriction. [2][3]
Gordon B. Hinckley (1910-2008): Fifteenth president, who oversaw significant temple construction and international growth. [2][3]
Russell M. Nelson (b. 1924): Current (seventeenth) president, who has emphasized the use of the church's full name and continued global expansion. [2][3]
Other notable figures include Parley P. Pratt and Orson Pratt (early apostles and theologians), Eliza R. Snow (poet and women's leader), and David O. McKay (who emphasized international growth in the mid-20th century). [2][3]
LDS ethics combine Christian moral principles with distinctive Latter-day Saint teachings. [2][3]
The Articles of Faith (13 statements of belief written by Joseph Smith) include: "We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men". [2][3]
Family-centered ethics: The family is considered the fundamental unit of society and of eternal existence. "The Family: A Proclamation to the World" (1995) articulates the LDS position on marriage (between a man and a woman), gender roles, and family responsibilities. This document has been a focal point of debate regarding LGBTQ+ issues. [2][3]
The Word of Wisdom: Abstinence from alcohol, tobacco, coffee, tea, and recreational drugs is a distinctive ethical requirement. The Law of Chastity: Sexual relations are reserved for marriage between a man and a woman. Tithing: Contributing 10% of income to the church is considered a commandment. Self-reliance: The LDS Church emphasizes personal and family preparedness, including food storage, financial responsibility, education, and employment. [2][3]
Service and welfare: The LDS Church operates an extensive welfare system including bishops' storehouses, employment services, and humanitarian aid. LDS Charities provides disaster relief and development assistance worldwide. [2][3]
Honesty, integrity, and obedience to law are emphasized. The church teaches respect for government authority while maintaining political neutrality as an institution. [2][3]
LDS afterlife theology is more detailed and optimistic than most Christian traditions. [2][3]
The Spirit World: After death, the spirit enters the spirit world, divided into spirit paradise (for the righteous) and spirit prison (for those who did not accept the gospel in life). Missionary work continues in the spirit world, and temple ordinances performed by the living on behalf of the dead provide the opportunity for all to accept the gospel. [2][3]
The Resurrection: All people will be resurrected with perfected physical bodies. [2][3]
The Final Judgment and Three Degrees of Glory: Rather than a simple heaven/hell dichotomy, LDS theology teaches three kingdoms of glory: The Celestial Kingdom: The highest degree, for those who accepted the gospel and lived faithfully. Those who receive exaltation (the highest level within the celestial kingdom) live eternally as families in the presence of God. The Terrestrial Kingdom: For honorable people who did not fully accept the gospel. The Telestial Kingdom: For those who rejected the gospel but will eventually be redeemed after suffering. [2][3]
Outer Darkness: Reserved for a very small number (sons of perdition) who had full knowledge of God and deliberately chose to reject him. [2][3]
Baptism for the dead: Temple ordinances performed on behalf of deceased ancestors allow them the opportunity to accept the gospel in the spirit world. This practice drives the LDS Church's extensive genealogical research programs. [2][3]
The LDS Church originated in the "Burned-over District" of upstate New York during the Second Great Awakening, a period of intense religious revivalism in early 19th-century America. [2][3]
Joseph Smith reported that in 1820, at age 14, he prayed to know which church to join and received a vision of God the Father and Jesus Christ (the "First Vision"), who told him that none of the existing churches were correct. In 1823, he reported being visited by the angel Moroni, who directed him to a set of golden plates buried in a hill near his home. [2][3]
Smith translated the plates (using what he described as divine instruments) and published the Book of Mormon in 1830. The same year, he formally organized the Church of Christ (later renamed) in Fayette, New York. [2][3]
The early church grew rapidly but faced intense opposition and persecution. The Saints moved successively to Kirtland, Ohio (where the first temple was built), to Missouri (where they were expelled by the governor's "extermination order"), and to Nauvoo, Illinois (where they built a thriving city). [2][3]
Joseph Smith's introduction of plural marriage (polygamy) and his growing political ambitions generated controversy both within and outside the church. He was killed by a mob while imprisoned in Carthage, Illinois, in 1844. [2][3]
After Smith's death, the majority of Saints followed Brigham Young westward to the Salt Lake Valley (1847), where they established a theocratic community that eventually became the state of Utah. The church officially ended the practice of plural marriage in 1890 under pressure from the U.S. government. The 20th and 21st centuries have seen dramatic growth, with the church expanding from a regional American movement to a global institution. [2][3][1]
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Matthew Bowman
A balanced, readable narrative history of the Latter-day Saint movement from Joseph Smith to the present.
Why we recommend this: This is the most balanced single-volume introduction for readers who want history without polemics.
Matthew Bowman
A balanced, readable narrative history of the Latter-day Saint movement from Joseph Smith to the present.
Why we recommend this: This is the most balanced single-volume introduction for readers who want history without polemics.
Richard Lyman Bushman
The most comprehensive scholarly biography of Joseph Smith, written by an eminent LDS historian.
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