Latter Day Saint movement

Latter Day Saint movement. Also known as Mormonism, it is a Restorationist branch of Christianity originating in the early 19th-century United States under the leadership of Joseph Smith. The movement encompasses a diverse collection of denominations, the largest of which is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). Central tenets include belief in modern prophets, additional scripture beyond the Bible, and the concept of an ongoing, universal Christian apostasy that required a restoration of the original Church of Christ.

History

The movement began in the 1820s in the Burned-over district of western New York with Joseph Smith's reported First Vision of God the Father and Jesus Christ. Smith published the Book of Mormon in 1830 and formally organized the Church of Christ on April 6, 1830, in Fayette, New York. Early adherents, facing persecution, gathered in Kirtland, Ohio, and established communities in Independence, Missouri, and Far West, Missouri. After conflicts like the 1838 Missouri Mormon War, the main body relocated to Nauvoo, Illinois, where Smith was killed by a mob in Carthage, Illinois in 1844. This precipitated a succession crisis, leading to the migration of most followers under Brigham Young to the Salt Lake Valley, part of the Mexican Cession. Other groups, such as those following James Strang or Sidney Rigdon, remained in the Midwestern United States or formed separate communities.

Beliefs and practices

Core beliefs include the Godhead as three distinct beings, the plan of salvation, and the potential for human exaltation. Distinctive practices often include adherence to the Word of Wisdom, a health code; temple rituals like the endowment and sealings; and a strong emphasis on family history and baptism for the dead. Missionary work, conducted globally by organizations like the Missionary Department (LDS Church), is a fundamental duty. Many members participate in Fast Sunday and contribute Tithing to their respective churches.

Denominations

The movement is divided into numerous denominations with varying doctrines and leadership. The largest is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah. The second-largest is the Community of Christ, based in Independence, Missouri, which emphasizes peace and justice. Other significant groups include the Church of Christ (Temple Lot), the Church of Jesus Christ (Bickertonite), and the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS Church), which continues the practice of plural marriage. Smaller sects include followers of the Remnant Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (Strangite).

Scriptures

Adherents accept the Bible as scripture, alongside other texts considered to be divine revelation. The foundational text is the Book of Mormon, which adherents believe translates an ancient record of prophets in the Americas. The Doctrine and Covenants contains modern revelations, primarily to Joseph Smith and later prophets. The Pearl of Great Price includes the Book of Moses, the Book of Abraham, and writings by Joseph Smith–Matthew. Some denominations, like the Community of Christ, also accept the Doctrine and Covenants with additions from their own presidents.

Organization and leadership

Polity is typically hierarchical and priesthood-based. In the largest denomination, the President of the Church (LDS Church) is considered a prophet, seer, and revelator, assisted by his First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. The Presiding Bishopric oversees temporal affairs. The church is organized geographically into stakes, wards, and missions. Other denominations, such as the Community of Christ, are led by a President of the Community of Christ and utilize a World Conference for legislative matters.

Culture and demographics

The movement has a strong cultural identity, particularly within the Mormon Corridor of the Western United States. Cultural hallmarks include an emphasis on education, exemplified by institutions like Brigham Young University and Brigham Young University–Idaho; extensive genealogical research; and a tradition of choral music. Demographically, the largest membership is in the United States, with significant populations in Mexico, Brazil, the Philippines, and across Europe and Africa. Cultural events like the Hill Cumorah Pageant and the Days of '47 Parade in Salt Lake City celebrate its heritage.