Mormon

Mormon
William Armitage · Public domain · source
Name	Mormon
Founder	Joseph Smith
Founded date	April 6, 1830
Founded place	Fayette, New York
Headquarters	Salt Lake City, Utah
Area	Worldwide
Scriptures	Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, Pearl of Great Price
Theology	Restorationism

Mormon. The term "Mormon" is a widely used descriptor for members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and, historically, other groups within the Latter Day Saint movement. This movement originated in the early 19th century in the United States with the visions and teachings of Joseph Smith, who published the Book of Mormon in 1830. Adherents are characterized by their belief in modern prophets, distinctive scriptures, and a strong emphasis on family, missionary work, and community. While the largest body, headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, has requested the use of its full name, "Mormon" remains a common cultural and historical identifier.

Etymology and terminology

The term derives directly from the Book of Mormon, which adherents believe was translated by Joseph Smith from ancient records and named for Mormon, a prophet-historian figure within its narrative. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, "Mormon" and "Latter-day Saint" were used interchangeably by members and outsiders. In 2018, the leadership of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints issued a style guide emphasizing the use of the church's full name and discouraging the use of "Mormon" as a stand-alone term. Despite this, the term persists in academic, historical, and popular usage, and is still employed by other branches such as the Community of Christ and various fundamentalist groups.

History

The history begins with Joseph Smith's First Vision in Palmyra, New York, around 1820, which he said inaugurated the Restoration of the primitive Christian church. He organized the Church of Christ in 1830 in Fayette, New York. Early communities faced severe persecution, leading to migrations to Kirtland, Ohio, Independence, Missouri, and Nauvoo, Illinois, where Smith was killed by a mob in 1844. Following a succession crisis, the majority group, led by Brigham Young, undertook a monumental exodus to the Salt Lake Valley in 1847, part of the broader Mormon Trail migration. The 19th century was marked by conflict with the United States government, most notably during the Utah War, and the formal discontinuation of plural marriage in 1890. The 20th and 21st centuries have seen massive global expansion, increased engagement with mainstream culture, and ongoing theological development.

Beliefs and practices

Central beliefs include the concept of a Great Apostasy requiring a restoration of authority through Joseph Smith, and the acceptance of additional scripture alongside the Bible, namely the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price. Theology emphasizes pre-mortal existence, a plan of salvation with multiple degrees of glory, and the potential for humans to become like God. Key practices involve weekly sacrament meeting worship, adherence to a health code known as the Word of Wisdom, performance of sacred ordinances in temples such as baptism for the dead and celestial marriage, a strong emphasis on family home evening, and a expectation of missionary service for young adults. The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles is sustained as prophets, seers, and revelators.

Organization and leadership

The church operates under a hierarchical, lay priesthood structure divided into the Aaronic and Melchizedek orders. The leading governing bodies are the First Presidency, composed of the president and his counselors, and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Administrative and spiritual oversight is managed through a worldwide system of stakes (dioceses) and wards (congregations), alongside auxiliary organizations like the Relief Society, Young Men, and Young Women. The General Conference, held semi-annually in Salt Lake City, is a major event for instruction and policy announcements. The Church Educational System oversees institutions including Brigham Young University.

Demographics and distribution

With over 16 million members globally, it represents one of the fastest-growing religious movements originating in the United States. While strong concentrations remain in the Mormon Corridor of the Western United States, particularly in Utah, Idaho, Arizona, and Nevada, significant membership now exists across North America, South America (especially in Brazil, Chile, and Mexico), Europe, Africa, and Asia Pacific. The missionary program, involving tens of thousands of full-time volunteers, is a primary driver of growth. Demographic studies indicate a population with higher-than-average birth rates, strong educational attainment, and a tendency toward political and social conservatism in its North American heartland.

Culture and society

Distinctive cultural elements have developed from historical isolation and shared beliefs, fostering a strong sense of community and identity. This includes an emphasis on self-reliance, preparedness, and extensive family history work. Cultural contributions are notable in areas like music, with the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square, and in business, with influential enterprises in Las Vegas and the Mountain West. The community has historically been involved in political controversies, from 19th-century debates over polygamy to modern engagements with issues like LGBT rights and the Equal Rights Amendment. Annual events like the Days of '47 parade in Salt Lake City celebrate pioneer heritage, while media outlets like Deseret News and BYU Television provide internal communication.

Category:New religious movements Category:Christian denominations Category:Religious groups in the United States