Mormonism

Mormonism
derivative work: Entheta (talk) Salt_Lake_Temple,_Utah_-_Sept_2004.jpg: Diliff · CC BY 2.5 · source
Name	Mormonism
Caption	The Salt Lake Temple, a central symbol.
Founder	Joseph Smith
Founded date	April 6, 1830
Founded place	Fayette, New York
Headquarters	Salt Lake City, Utah
Area	Worldwide
Congregations	Over 30,000
Members	~16.8 million
Parent	Restorationism

Mormonism. Mormonism is a religious and cultural tradition originating in the early 19th-century United States, formally established with the organization of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints by Joseph Smith in 1830. Central to its theology is the belief in a ongoing Restorationism of primitive Christianity, guided by modern prophets and additional scripture. The movement encompasses multiple denominations, with the largest being the Utah-based The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often informally called the LDS Church.

History

The origins of the movement trace to the First Vision reported by Joseph Smith in 1820 in Palmyra, New York. Smith later stated he was led to a set of golden plates by an angel named Moroni, which he translated and published as the Book of Mormon in 1830. The early church faced intense persecution, leading to migrations from Kirtland, Ohio, to Independence, Missouri, and later to Nauvoo, Illinois, where Smith was killed by a mob in 1844 at Carthage Jail. Following a succession crisis, the majority of members, led by Brigham Young, undertook a monumental exodus to the Salt Lake Valley in 1847, establishing a theocratic settlement in the Utah Territory. Key historical events include the Utah War of 1857-1858, the official cessation of polygamy with the 1890 Manifesto, and the gradual integration into mainstream American society, culminating in statehood for Utah in 1896.

Beliefs and practices

Core doctrines include belief in a Godhead of three separate beings—God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost—and the potential for humans to achieve exaltation and become like God. Distinctive practices have included baptism for the dead, performed in temples, and eternal sealing ceremonies that bind families for eternity. While the practice was formally discontinued in the late 19th century, polygamy remains a defining historical feature. Adherents follow a strict health code known as the Word of Wisdom, which prohibits alcohol, tobacco, coffee, and tea. Members are expected to adhere to high moral standards, pay tithing, and participate in missionary work, with young men often serving two-year proselytizing missions for the LDS Church.

Organization and leadership

The largest denomination, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is led by a hierarchical structure believed to be headed by a living prophet, who also serves as the President of the Church. This prophet, along with two counselors, forms the First Presidency. The next governing body is the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. The church operates through a worldwide network of geographically defined stakes and wards, led by lay clergy. Other significant denominations include the Community of Christ, headquartered in Independence, Missouri, which has a more liberal theology and a presidency, and various smaller Mormon fundamentalist groups that continue the practice of plural marriage.

Scriptures and texts

The movement's scriptural canon, the Standard Works, includes the Bible (with a preference for the King James Version), the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price. The Book of Mormon is regarded as a record of ancient inhabitants of the Americas and a companion testament of Jesus Christ. The Doctrine and Covenants contains modern revelations, primarily to Joseph Smith and his successors, on church doctrine and organization. Ongoing revelations from the living prophet are considered binding and may be added to the canon, as seen in recent additions to the Doctrine and Covenants.

Culture and demographics

Strongly centered on family life, the culture emphasizes Family Home Evening, genealogical research, and high participation in church education systems like Brigham Young University. Geographically, the cultural heartland remains the Mountain West of the United States, particularly Utah and Idaho, but membership is now global, with significant populations in Mexico, Brazil, the Philippines, and parts of Africa. Cultural hallmarks include a high degree of volunteerism, a distinctive musical tradition featuring the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square, and the construction of ornate temples worldwide, which are separate from regular meetinghouses.

Criticism and controversy

The movement has faced criticism and legal challenges throughout its history. Early controversies involved the practice of polygamy, which led to the Edmunds-Tucker Act and the disincorporation of the LDS Church. Modern critiques often focus on its historical origins, the authenticity of the Book of Mormon, and its former policies regarding race, such as the priesthood and temple ban on members of African descent, which was lifted in 1978 after a revelation to then-President Spencer W. Kimball. Other points of contention include its financial transparency, political influence in Utah, and its stance on LGBT rights, including its support for Proposition 8 in California.

Category:Christian new religious movements Category:Religious faiths, traditions, and movements Category:American religious movements