Mormons, also known as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), are a religious group that originated in the early 19th century in the United States.
The church was founded by Joseph Smith Jr., who claimed to have received divine revelations and established the LDS Church in 1830. Mormons consider themselves to be Christians and believe in Jesus Christ as their Savior and Redeemer.
Central to Mormon theology is the belief in the restoration of the true gospel and priesthood authority. Mormons believe that after the death of Jesus Christ and his apostles, the original Christian church gradually lost its authority and became corrupted.
Joseph Smith claimed to be called as a prophet to restore the church and its priesthood authority, establishing the LDS Church as the true church on the earth.
Mormons Facts
1. Mormons are also known as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church)
Mormons, also known as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), are a religious group that originated in the early 19th century in the United States.
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The church was founded by Joseph Smith Jr., who claimed to have experienced visions and received divine revelations. These revelations led to the restoration of the true gospel and the establishment of the LDS Church.
2. The church was founded by Joseph Smith Jr. in 1830 in upstate New York
The church was officially organized on April 6, 1830, in Fayette, New York. Joseph Smith published the Book of Mormon, which he said he translated from ancient records engraved on golden plates.
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Mormons believe that the Book of Mormon is an additional volume of scripture alongside the Bible and contains the teachings of Jesus Christ to the ancient inhabitants of the Americas.
3. Mormons believe in the Bible, including the Old and New Testaments, but they also believe that the Book of Mormon
Mormons believe in the Bible, including the Old and New Testaments, but they also believe that the Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ.
They consider it to be an inspired record of God’s dealings with the people of the Americas and a companion to the Bible in teaching about Jesus Christ and his gospel.
4. The official headquarters of the LDS Church is in Salt Lake City, Utah
The official headquarters of the LDS Church is in Salt Lake City, Utah. However, Mormons can be found worldwide, with a significant presence in the United States, Mexico, Brazil, and the Philippines, among other countries.
The LDS Church has a strong missionary program that encourages young men and women to serve as missionaries, spreading the church’s teachings and beliefs.
5. Mormons believe in the restoration of the true gospel and priesthood authority
Mormons believe in the restoration of the true gospel and priesthood authority. They believe that after the death of Jesus Christ and his apostles, the original Christian church gradually lost its authority and became corrupted.
Joseph Smith claimed that he was called as a prophet to restore the church and its priesthood authority, enabling individuals to receive divine ordinances and access the power of God. Mormons believe that through Joseph Smith, the true church was reestablished on the earth.
6. Family is highly valued in Mormon culture
Family is highly valued in Mormon culture. Mormons believe in the eternal nature of families, and they place a strong emphasis on creating and nurturing strong family relationships.
They believe that family relationships can continue beyond death and that marriages can be eternal.
To achieve this, Mormons participate in religious ceremonies known as sealings in their temples, which bind families together for eternity.
7. Mormons are known for their strong emphasis on education
Mormons have a strong commitment to education. The LDS Church places great importance on learning and encourages its members to seek knowledge and education.
The church operates Brigham Young University (BYU) and several other educational institutions around the world. These institutions provide a combination of secular education and religious instruction, promoting both intellectual and spiritual growth.
8. Mormons adhere to a strict code of health called the “Word of Wisdom”
Mormons adhere to a strict code of health known as the “Word of Wisdom.” The Word of Wisdom is a set of dietary guidelines and health practices revealed to Joseph Smith in 1833. It includes abstaining from alcohol, tobacco, coffee, and tea.
Mormons interpret the Word of Wisdom as a commandment to take care of their bodies and to live a healthy lifestyle. While adherence to the Word of Wisdom is encouraged, it is ultimately a personal choice, and violations are not considered grounds for expulsion from the church.
9. The LDS Church places great importance on missionary work
The LDS Church places a significant emphasis on missionary work. Young men and women are strongly encouraged to serve as missionaries for a period of 18 to 24 months.
These missionaries are called to locations around the world to share the teachings of the church and invite others to learn about and join the LDS faith.
Missionaries dedicate themselves to full-time service, focusing on teaching, community service, and helping others develop a relationship with Jesus Christ.
10. Mormons have a unique theology
Mormons have a unique theology that includes several distinct beliefs. They believe in the concept of a pre-mortal life, where individuals existed as spirit beings before being born on Earth. Mormons believe that during this pre-mortal life, individuals made choices that influenced their circumstances and opportunities in mortality.
They also believe in a plan of salvation, known as the plan of happiness, which outlines God’s purpose for His children to progress and return to live with Him.
Mormons believe in the potential for eternal progression, which means that individuals can continue to learn, grow, and become more like God in the afterlife. This concept is often referred to as exaltation or eternal life.
11. Mormons engage in regular religious services on Sundays called sacrament meetings
Mormons engage in regular religious services on Sundays called sacrament meetings. During these meetings, members gather to partake of the sacrament, which consists of bread and water, symbolizing the body and blood of Jesus Christ.
Members renew their baptismal covenants and reflect on the teachings of Jesus Christ. Sacrament meetings also include hymns, prayers, and sermons delivered by members of the congregation.
12. The church has a lay clergy
The LDS Church operates under a lay clergy system. This means that members of the church serve in various leadership positions without receiving monetary compensation.
Bishops, who are leaders of local congregations called wards, are typically responsible for the spiritual and temporal welfare of their congregations.
Other positions, such as teachers, youth leaders, and administrators, are also filled by volunteer members who dedicate their time and resources to serve the church and its members.
13. Mormons emphasize personal righteousness and living according to high moral standards
Mormons place a strong emphasis on personal righteousness and living according to high moral standards. They strive to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ and adhere to a set of principles known as the “LDS Church Standards.”
These standards include abstaining from premarital sex, being honest in all dealings, using clean and respectful language, and living a virtuous and chaste life. Mormons believe that living these standards brings blessings and helps individuals draw closer to God.
14. The LDS Church has faced criticism and controversy over various issues
The LDS Church has faced criticism and controversy throughout its history. One of the most well-known controversies is the historical practice of polygamy or plural marriage, which was officially discontinued in 1890.
Polygamy was a part of early Mormon practice, but it was eventually abandoned due to social and legal pressures.
The LDS Church has also faced scrutiny regarding its stance on LGBTQ+ issues, particularly its opposition to same-sex marriage. Additionally, the church’s involvement in political campaigns and its influence on social issues have generated debate and criticism.
15. Mormons are known for their humanitarian efforts and charitable contributions
Mormons are recognized for their humanitarian efforts and charitable contributions. The LDS Church operates a robust welfare system that provides assistance to those in need.
The church’s welfare program includes employment services, food production and distribution, addiction recovery programs, and counseling services.
In times of natural disasters or humanitarian crises, the church frequently mobilizes resources and volunteers to provide aid and relief. Mormons also emphasize individual acts of service and encourage members to actively engage in community service and charitable endeavors.