The Nauvoo House in Nauvoo, Illinois , was to be a boarding house that Joseph Smith , the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement , and his followers began constructing in the 1840s. The boarding house was never completed, but the structure was later converted into a residential home and renamed the Riverside Mansion . The Nauvoo House, as it is referred to today, is part of the Nauvoo Historic District , a National Historic Landmark .
103-514: In January 1841, Joseph Smith received a revelation with instructions to construct a house in Nauvoo which would be "a resting-place for the weary traveler." The revelation also instructed that the building should be called the Nauvoo House, and set out detailed instructions about how the building of the house would be financed. George Miller , Lyman Wight , John Snider, and Peter Haws were appointed as
206-492: A general apostasy and maintains that it is a restoration of 1st-century Christianity and the only true and authorized Christian church. Church leaders assert it is the only true church and that other churches do not have the authority to act in Jesus' name. This, the refutation of the authority of all other Christian churches, is a doctrine common to almost all Christian churches. The church's cosmology and plan of salvation include
309-620: A " testimony ", described by Richard Bushman as "one of the most potent words in the Mormon lexicon". In response to an inquiry on the beliefs of the church, Joseph Smith wrote what came to be called the Wentworth Letter , the last section of which was canonized as the Articles of Faith . The fifth, sixth, seventh and ninth articles state the essence of Latter Day Saint belief concerning revelation: Most Latter Day Saint denominations believe that
412-520: A belief in the Bible, the divinity of Jesus , his atonement and resurrection , and a form of apostolic succession . Nevertheless, the LDS Church differs from other churches within contemporary Christianity in other ways. Differences between the LDS Church and most of traditional Christianity include disagreement about the nature of God, belief in a theory of human salvation that includes three heavens ,
515-554: A doctrine of exaltation which includes the ability of humans to become gods and goddesses in the afterlife , a belief in continuing revelation and an open scriptural canon, and unique ceremonies performed privately in temples, such as the endowment and sealing ceremonies. A number of major Christian denominations view the LDS Church as standing apart from creedal Christianity. However, church members self-identify as Christians. The faith itself views other modern Christian faiths as having departed from true Christianity by way of
618-474: A fact, was really only a theory." Leaders are still considered regular people with "their opinions and prejudices and are left to work out their own problems without inspiration in many instances." Brigham Young taught "the greatest fear I have is that the people of this Church will accept what we say as the will of the Lord without first praying about it and getting the witness within their own hearts that what we say
721-524: A mob in June 1844, their bodies were secretly buried in the cellar of the unfinished building to prevent their bodies from being stolen. Later, their bodies were removed and buried close to the Homestead, and even later still, they were relocated to the nearby Smith Family Cemetery . After Smith's death, his widow Emma Smith retained title to the Nauvoo House. When the majority of Latter Day Saints left Nauvoo in
824-470: A portion of God's kingdom. According to LDS Church theology, men and women may be sealed to one another so that their marital bond continues into the eternities. Children may also be sealed to their biological or adoptive parents to form permanent familial bonds, thus allowing all immediate and extended family relations to endure past death. The most significant LDS ordinances may be performed via proxy in behalf of those who have died, such as baptism for
927-402: A way so that He could issue your call. He restored the keys of the priesthood to Joseph Smith. Those keys have been passed down in an unbroken line to President Hinckley. Through those keys, other priesthood servants were given keys to preside in stakes and wards, in districts and branches. It was through those keys that the Lord called you. "Your call is an example of a source of power unique to
1030-529: Is a foundational sacred book for the church; the terms "Mormon" and "Mormonism" come from the book itself. The LDS Church teaches that the Angel Moroni told Smith about golden plates containing the record, guided him to find them buried in the Hill Cumorah , and provided him the means of translating them from Reformed Egyptian . It claims to give a history of the inhabitants from a now-extinct society living on
1133-442: Is a still voice, a small voice. There need be no trance, no sanctimonious declaration. It is quieter and simpler than that." In another sermon, Packer warned Latter Day Saints against the dangers of over reliance on a rational or theological approach to knowledge of gospel principles: "The witness is not communicated through the intellect alone, however bright the intellect may be. "'The natural man,' Paul told us, 'receiveth not
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#17328553796861236-633: Is also encouraged. The theology of the LDS Church consists of a combination of biblical doctrines with modern revelations and other commentary by LDS leaders, particularly Joseph Smith. The most authoritative sources of theology are the faith's canon of four religious texts, called the " standard works ". Included in the standard works are the Bible , the Book of Mormon, the D&;C and the Pearl of Great Price . The Book of Mormon
1339-536: Is at once unreasonable, and directly contrary to our conception of the unchangeable justice of God, to believe that He will bless the Church in one dispensation with present living revelation of His will and in another leave [his] Church ... to live as best it may according to the laws of a bygone age." Community of Christ has added a number of revelations to their canon from the president of their church. Other Latter Day Saint denominations have also added new scriptures. There
1442-727: Is available to all those who earnestly seek it with the intent of doing good. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) and some other Latter Day Saint denominations claim to be led by revelation from God to a living prophet , who receives God's word just as Abraham , Moses , Peter , and other ancient prophets and apostles did. It also teaches that everyone is entitled to personal revelation with respect to his or her stewardship . Thus, parents can receive revelation in raising their families, individuals can receive revelation to help them meet personal challenges, church officers may receive revelation for those whom they serve, and apostles and prophets may receive revelation for
1545-634: Is believed to bind its participant to Jesus Christ, who saves them in their imperfection if they continually keep their promises to him. Baptism is performed by immersion, and is typically administered to children starting at age eight. Church members believe that through the ordinances of temple sealing and temple endowment , anyone can reach the highest level of salvation in the celestial kingdom and eternally live in God's presence, continue as families, become gods , create worlds, and make spirit children over whom they will govern. Other ordinances performed in
1648-509: Is communication from God to man. Latter Day Saints teach that the Latter Day Saint movement began with a revelation from God, which began a process of restoring the gospel of Jesus Christ to the earth. Latter Day Saints also teach that revelation is the foundation of the church established by Jesus Christ and that it remains an essential element of his true church today. Continuous revelation provides individual Latter Day Saints with
1751-686: Is in heaven." Boyd K. Packer , a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, explained the source and process of personal revelation: "Following baptism, one is confirmed a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in a brief ordinance, during which there is conferred the gift of the Holy Ghost. Thereafter, all through life, men, women, even little children receive the right to inspired direction to guide them in their lives—personal revelation! (See Alma 32:23.) "The Holy Ghost communicates with
1854-547: Is led by a president , who is considered a "prophet, seer, and revelator." Within the church, he is referred to as "the Prophet" or the "President of the Church." He is considered the only person who is authorized to receive revelation from God on behalf of the whole world or entire church. As such, the church teaches that he is essentially infallible when speaking on behalf of God—although the exact circumstances when his pronouncements should be considered authoritative are debated within
1957-505: Is much more to be done in the process of taking this restored gospel to "every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people"." The LDS Church believes apostolic revelation to be inspired , but not infallible . One leader wrote, "We consider God, and him alone, infallible; therefore his revealed word to us cannot be doubted, though we may be in doubt some times about the knowledge which we obtain from human sources, and occasionally be obliged to admit that something which we had considered to be
2060-408: Is no one accepted way among Latter Day Saints as to where or how revelations should be received. Latter Day Saints believe that God answers prayers . Communicating with God is seen by many Latter Day Saints as an important part of developing faith and coming to know God, resulting ultimately in exaltation if the person remains faithful to covenants with Jesus Christ. Latter Day Saints believe that
2163-450: Is not spectacular. President John Taylor reminds us: "'Adam’s revelation did not instruct Noah to build his ark; nor did Noah’s revelation tell Lot to forsake Sodom; nor did either of these speak of the departure of the children of Israel from Egypt. These all had revelations for themselves.' "In our time God has revealed how to administer the Church with a membership of over six million differently than when there were just six members of
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#17328553796862266-552: Is often included in the lists of larger Christian denominations , though some Catholics , mainline Protestants and Evangelicals have considered the church to be distinct and separate from mainstream Christianity . The church has an open canon of four scriptural texts : the Holy Bible , the Book of Mormon , the Doctrine and Covenants (D&C), and the Pearl of Great Price . Other than
2369-464: Is said to occur through thoughts and feelings from the Holy Ghost , in response to prayer . Similarly, the church teaches its members may receive individual guidance and counsel from God through blessings from priesthood holders. In particular, patriarchal blessings are considered special blessings that are received only once in the recipient's life, which are recorded, transcribed, and archived. In
2472-465: Is the head of his Church and not man, and the connection can only be maintained upon the principle of direct and continued revelation. It… is a living, vital principle to be enjoyed on certain conditions only, namely – through absolute faith in God and obedience to his laws and commandments. The moment this principle is cut off, that moment the Church is adrift, being severed from its ever-living head. In this condition it cannot continue, but must cease to be
2575-553: Is the second thing you need to know. It is that the Lord will guide you by revelation just as He called you. You must ask in faith for revelation to know what you are to do. With your call comes the promise that answers will come. "There is a third thing you need to know: Just as God called you and will guide you, He will magnify you. You will need that magnification. Your calling will surely bring opposition. The Apostle Paul described it this way: "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against
2678-467: Is the word of the Lord." Members are taught to rely on the Holy Ghost to judge, and if a revelation is in harmony with the revealed word of God, it should be accepted. Dallin H. Oaks explains: "Revelations from God ... are not constant. We believe in continuing revelation , not continuous revelation. We are often left to work out problems without the dictation or specific direction of the Spirit." Thus,
2781-705: The Bear River Massacre , and the Black Hawk War . After Young's death in 1877, he was followed in the church presidency by John Taylor and Wilford Woodruff successively, who resisted efforts by the United States Congress to outlaw Mormon polygamous marriages. In 1878, the United States Supreme Court, in Reynolds v. United States , decreed that "religious duty" to engage in plural marriage
2884-477: The Great Depression , the church also began operating a church welfare system, and it has conducted humanitarian efforts in cooperation with other religious organizations such as Catholic Relief Services , as well as secular organizations like Care International . The church supported its members serving in the armed forces during World Wars I and II, both in the U.S. and internationally. From 1913 to 2020
2987-615: The Mormon pioneers , westward to Nebraska and then in 1847 on to what later became the Utah Territory , which at the time had been part of the lands of the Ute, Goshute, and Shoshone nations, and claimed by Mexico until 1848 . Around 80,000 settlers arrived between 1847 and 1869, who then branched out and colonized a large region now known as the Mormon Corridor . Meanwhile, efforts to globalize
3090-560: The Mountain Meadows massacre , in which leaders of a local Mormon militia ordered the massacre of a civilian emigrant party who was traveling through Utah during the escalating military tensions. After the massacre was discovered, the church became the target of significant media criticism for it. After the Army withdrew, Young agreed to step down from power and be replaced by a non-Mormon territorial governor, Alfred Cumming . Nevertheless,
3193-684: The New Jerusalem in North America, called Zion . In 1831, the church moved to Kirtland, Ohio , and began establishing an outpost in Jackson County, Missouri , where Smith planned to eventually move the church headquarters. However, in 1833, Missouri settlers violently expelled the Latter Day Saints from Jackson County . The church attempted to recover the land through a paramilitary expedition , but did not succeed. Nevertheless,
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3296-622: The United States Constitution to be a divinely inspired document. Latter Day Saints believe that all who serve in any position in the church, from apostles who lead the entire church to deacons who pass the sacrament , must be "called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority". This requirement applies to both hierarchical priesthood leadership callings (such as bishop ), as well as other priesthood and non-priesthood callings (such as Sunday school instructor, organist, etc.). "And Joshua
3399-561: The primitive Church of Christ. This restoration is associated with a number of events which are understood to have been necessary to re-establish the early Christian church found in the New Testament , and to prepare the earth for the Second Coming of Jesus. In particular, Latter-day Saints believe that angels appeared to Joseph Smith and a limited number of his associates, and bestowed various priesthood authorities on them. The church
3502-450: The resurrection of Jesus . On June 27, 1844, Smith and his brother, Hyrum , were killed by a mob in Carthage, Illinois , while being held on charges of treason. Because Hyrum was Joseph's designated successor, their deaths caused a succession crisis , and Brigham Young assumed leadership over a majority of the church's membership. Young had been a close associate of Smith's and
3605-465: The American continent and their distinct Judeo-Christian teachings. The Book of Mormon is very important to modern Latter-day Saints, who consider it the world's most correct text. The Bible, also part of the church's canon, is believed to be the word of God—subject to an acknowledgment that its translation may be incorrect, or that authoritative sections may have been lost over the centuries. Most often,
3708-428: The Bible, the majority of the church canon consists of material the church's members believe to have been revealed by God to Joseph Smith, including texts described as lost parts of the Bible , and other works believed to be written by ancient prophets, including the Book of Mormon. Members adhere to church laws of sexual purity , health , fasting , and Sabbath observance , and contribute ten percent of their income to
3811-409: The Church distances itself from them. During the 20th century, the church grew substantially and became an international organization. In 2000, the church reported over 60,000 missionaries and global church membership stood at just over 11 million. Nominal worldwide membership surpassed 16 million in 2018. Slightly under half of church membership lives within the U.S. Academics have called
3914-492: The Church of God and, like the ship at sea without captain, compass or rudder, is afloat at the mercy of the storms and the waves of ever contending human passions, and worldly interests, pride and folly..." (Smith, 362) James E. Talmage , a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles , attempted to connect this belief with the nature of God and also emphasized the importance of the principle of continuing revelation to his faith: "It
4017-648: The Church of Jesus Christ , based in Monongahela, Pennsylvania . Like the LDS Church, these faiths believe in Joseph Smith as a prophet and founder of their religion. They also accept the Book of Mormon, and most accept at least some version of the Doctrine and Covenants . However, they tend to disagree to varying degrees with the LDS Church concerning doctrine and church leadership. For two years after Smith's death, conflicts escalated between Mormons and other Illinois residents. Brigham Young led his followers, later called
4120-441: The Church. These differences include the use of modern technology, such as films, computers, and satellite broadcasts, to teach and communicate new ways to conduct missionary work in various nations; the location and building of temples; and many others." LDS Church president Gordon B. Hinckley further explained: "A growing church, a church that is spreading across the earth in these complex times, needs constant revelation from
4223-573: The Father and his son, Jesus Christ, are separate beings with bodies of flesh and bone, while the Holy Ghost lacks such a physical body. According to statements by church leaders, God sits at the head of the human family and is married to a Heavenly Mother , who is the mother of human spirits. However, church leaders have also categorically discouraged prayers to her and counseled against speculation regarding her. Church members believe in Jesus Christ as
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4326-420: The Father, thus allowing the children of God to become divine beings—that is, gods—themselves. This view on the doctrine of theosis is also referred to as becoming a "joint-heir with Christ". The process by which this is accomplished is called exaltation, a doctrine which includes the reunification of the mortal family after the resurrection and the ability to have spirit children in the afterlife and inherit
4429-497: The Holy Ghost to manifest to them that what you spoke was true. What you say and do will carry hope and give direction to people far beyond your natural abilities and your own understanding. That miracle has been a mark of the Lord’s Church in every dispensation." While teaching the importance of studying the words of both ancient and modern prophets, Latter Day Saints also emphasize the necessity of personal revelation from God by
4532-463: The LDS Church still wielded significant political power in the Utah Territory. Coterminously, tensions between Mormon settlers and Indigenous tribes continued to escalate as settlers began colonizing a growing area of tribal lands. While Mormons and Indigenous peoples made attempts at peaceful coexistence, skirmishes ensued from about 1849 to 1873 culminating in the armed conflicts of Walkara's War ,
4635-428: The Lord "will yet reveal many great and important things" to his church through modern apostles and prophets ; some go as far as to claim that all leaders of their churches are "called of God, by prophecy"; and that each member of the church can receive personal revelation to strengthen their faith and guide them in their own lives. The Latter Day Saint concept of revelation includes the belief that revelation from God
4738-470: The Lord had revealed to him, to allow righteous people to become gods in the afterlife, and a secular institution to govern the Millennial kingdom. He also introduced the church to a full accounting of his First Vision , in which he claimed that two heavenly "personages" appeared to him at age 14. This vision would come to be regarded by the LDS Church as the most important event in human history since
4841-503: The Lord’s Church. Men and women are called of God by prophecy and by the laying on of hands by those God has authorized. "You are called to represent the Savior. Your voice to testify becomes the same as His voice, your hands to lift the same as His hands. "You see, there are no small callings to represent the Lord. Your call carries grave responsibility. But you need not fear, because with your call come great promises. "One of those promises
4944-771: The Missouri settlers. Believing the Latter Day Saints to be an insurrection, the Missouri governor ordered that they be " exterminated or driven from the State ". In 1839, the Latter Day Saints converted a swampland on the banks of the Mississippi River into Nauvoo, Illinois , which became the church's new headquarters. Nauvoo grew rapidly as missionaries sent to Europe and elsewhere gained new converts who flooded into Nauvoo. Meanwhile, Smith introduced polygamy to his closest associates. He also established ceremonies , which he stated
5047-683: The Pearl of Great Price. Another source of authoritative doctrine is the pronouncements of the current Apostles and members of the First Presidency. The church teaches that the First Presidency and the Quorum of Twelve Apostles are prophets and that they are therefore authorized teachers of God's word. In addition to doctrine given by the church as a whole, individual members of the church believe that they can also receive personal revelation from God in conducting their lives, and in revealing truth to them, especially about spiritual matters. Generally, this
5150-484: The Twelve Apostles, gave the following counsel to those called to serve. This counsel illustrates many key LDS beliefs concerning those "called of God, by prophecy", "And so, to everyone, man or woman, girl or boy, who has been called or who will yet be, I give you my counsel. "First, you are called of God. The Lord knows you. He knows whom He would have serve in every position in His Church. He chose you. He has prepared
5253-569: The belief in a Godhead composed of God the Father , his son, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost as three separate persons who share a unity of purpose or will; however, they are viewed as three distinct beings. This is in contrast with the predominant Christian view, which holds that God is a Trinity of three distinct persons in one essence . The Latter-day Saint conception of the Godhead is similar to what contemporary Christian theologians call social trinitarianism . The church also believes that God
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#17328553796865356-486: The bonds of matrimony", and that successful marriages and happy families are most likely established when founded upon the teachings of Jesus Christ. The proclamation also promotes specific roles essential to maintaining the strength of the family unit—the traditional roles of a husband and father as the family's breadwinner and those of a wife and mother as a nurturing caregiver. It concludes by inviting its audience to "promote those measures designed to maintain and strengthen
5459-464: The church as the Church of Christ , on April 6, 1830, in western New York ; the church's name was later changed to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Initial converts were drawn to the church in part because of the newly published Book of Mormon , a self-described chronicle of Indigenous American prophets that Smith said he had translated from golden plates . Smith intended to establish
5562-551: The church began in earnest around this time, with missionaries being sent off to the Sandwich Islands (present-day Hawaii ), India , Chile , Australia , China , South Africa , and all over Europe. Young incorporated the LDS Church as a legal entity, and initially governed both the church and the state as a theocratic leader. He also publicized the practice of plural marriage in 1852. Modern research suggests that around 20 percent of Mormon families may have participated in
5665-593: The church flourished in Kirtland as Smith published new revelations and the church built the Kirtland Temple , culminating in a dedication of the building similar to the day of Pentecost . The Kirtland era ended in 1838, after a financial scandal rocked the church and caused widespread defections. Smith regrouped with the remaining church in Far West, Missouri , but tensions soon escalated into violent conflicts with
5768-497: The church has responded to various challenges to its doctrine and authority. Challenges have included rising secularization , challenges to the correctness of the translation of the Book of Abraham , and primary documents forged by Mark Hofmann purporting to contradict important aspects of official early church history. The church's positions regarding women , Black people , and homosexuality have all been publicly criticized during this timeframe. LDS Church theology includes
5871-418: The church in tithing . The church teaches ordinances through which adherents make covenants with God, including baptism , confirmation , the sacrament , priesthood ordination, endowment and celestial marriage . Members of the church, known as Latter-day Saints or informally as Mormons , believe that the church president is a modern-day " prophet, seer, and revelator " and that Jesus Christ, under
5974-509: The church include confirmation , the sacrament (analogous to the Eucharist or holy communion), and priesthood ordination. The LDS Church asks its members to adhere to a dietary code called the Word of Wisdom, in which they abstain from the consumption of alcohol, coffee, tea, tobacco, and illicit or harmful substances. The Word of Wisdom also encourages the consumption of herbs and grains along with
6077-494: The church is headquartered in Salt Lake City , Utah, and has established congregations and built temples worldwide. According to the church, as of 2023, it has over 17.2 million members of which over 6.8 million live in the U.S . The church also reports over 99,000 volunteer missionaries and 350 temples . The church was founded as the Church of Christ in western New York , in 1830 by Smith. Under his leadership,
6180-424: The church itself. The physical establishment of the church by Smith in 1830 is seen as simply the reestablishment of the same primitive church that existed under Jesus and his Apostles. Similarly, the church teaches that Jesus leads the church presently through its apostles and prophets, especially its current president. The LDS Church shares various teachings with other branches of Christianity. These include
6283-425: The church teaches this atonement began in the garden of Gethsemane and continued to his crucifixion (rather than the orthodox belief that the crucifixion alone was the physical atonement). The church also teaches that Jesus appeared to other peoples after his death, including spirits of the dead in the spirit world, and Indigenous Americans. The church also teaches that Jesus is the true founder and leader of
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#17328553796866386-545: The church uses the Authorized King James Version . Two extended portions of the Joseph Smith Translation of the Bible have been canonized and are thus considered authoritative. Additionally, over 600 of the more doctrinally significant verses from the translation are included as excerpts in the current LDS Church edition of the Bible. Other revelations from Smith are found in the D&C, and in
6489-562: The church was a major sponsor of Scouting programs for boys, particularly in the United States. The LDS Church was the largest chartered organization in the Boy Scouts of America , but in 2020, the church ended its relationship with the BSA and began an alternate, religion-centered youth program, which replaced all other youth programs. During the second half of the 20th century and early 21st,
6592-650: The church's headquarters moved successively to Ohio , Missouri , and Illinois . After Smith's 1844 death and a resultant succession crisis , the majority of his followers sided with Brigham Young , who led the church to its current headquarters in Salt Lake City. Young and his successors continued the church's growth, first throughout the Intermountain West , and more recently as a national and international organization. The church has been criticized throughout its history. Modern criticism includes disputes over
6695-432: The church's historical claims, treatment of minorities, and finances . The church's practice of polygamy was controversial until it was curtailed in 1890 and officially rescinded in 1904 . Church theology is restorationist and nontrinitarian ; the church strongly identifies as Christian including a belief in the doctrine of salvation through Jesus Christ and his substitutionary atonement on behalf of mankind. It
6798-443: The church, an ordinance is a sacred rite or ceremony that has spiritual and symbolic meanings, and acts as a means of conveying divine grace . Ordinances are physical acts which signify or symbolize an underlying spiritual act; for some ordinances, the spiritual act is the finalization of a covenant between the ordinance recipient and God . Ordinances are generally performed under priesthood authority. The ordinance of baptism
6901-471: The church. In any case, modern declarations with broad doctrinal implications are often issued by joint statement of the First Presidency ; they may be joined by the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles as well. Church members believe Joseph Smith was the first modern-day prophet. Normally, the Prophet and two other ordained apostles he chooses as counselors form the First Presidency, the presiding body of
7004-417: The church. Women are not ordained to the priesthood but occupy leadership roles in some church organizations . Both men and women may serve as missionaries . The church maintains a large missionary program that proselytizes and conducts humanitarian services worldwide. The church also funds and participates in humanitarian projects independent of its missionary efforts. Joseph Smith formally organized
7107-401: The church; twelve other apostles form the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. When a president dies, his successor is chosen from the remaining apostles, and is invariably the longest-tenured of the group. Apostles are chosen by the church president after the death of an existing apostle. Following the death of church president Thomas S. Monson on January 2, 2018, senior apostle Russell M. Nelson
7210-474: The current prophet can clarify, correct or change any previous teachings. However, once a doctrine has been accepted by the church by "common consent" , it becomes part of the standard works , and then takes precedence over any other revelation. Members of the LDS church only consider themselves bound by doctrine found in the standard works. Also, though it is not considered scripture, Latter-day Saints also believe
7313-444: The dead . The church teaches that all will have the opportunity to hear and accept or reject the gospel of Jesus Christ, either in this life or the next. Within church cosmology, the fall of Adam and Eve is seen positively. The church teaches that it was essential to allow humankind to experience separation from God, to exercise full agency in making decisions for their own happiness. The LDS Church teaches that, subsequent to
7416-438: The death of Jesus and his original apostles, his church, along with the authority to act in Jesus Christ's name and the church's attendant spiritual gifts, were lost , due to a combination of external persecutions and internal heresies. The "Restoration"—as begun by Joseph Smith and embodied in the church itself—refers to a return of the authentic priesthood power, spiritual gifts , ordinances, living prophets and revelation of
7519-582: The denomination a Restorationist church, a new religious movement , and a potential world religion . The church has become a strong proponent of the nuclear family and at times played a prominent role in political matters, including opposition to MX Peacekeeper missile bases in Utah and Nevada , the Equal Rights Amendment , legalized gambling, same-sex marriage , and physician-assisted death . A number of official changes have taken place to
7622-410: The direction of God the Father , leads the church by revealing his will and delegating his priesthood keys to its president. The president heads a hierarchical structure descending from areas to stakes and wards . The church has a volunteer clergy at the local and regional levels; wards are led by bishops . Male members may be ordained to the priesthood , provided they are living the standards of
7725-399: The doctrines of a pre-existence , an earthly mortal existence, three degrees of heaven and exaltation. According to these doctrines, every human spirit is a spiritual child of a Heavenly Father and each has the potential to continue to learn, grow, and progress in the eternities, eventually achieving eternal life, which is to become one with God in the same way that Jesus Christ is one with
7828-437: The entire church. The important consequence of this is that each person may receive confirmation that particular doctrines taught by a prophet are true, as well as gain divine insight in using those truths for their own benefit and eternal progress. In the LDS Church, personal revelation is expected and encouraged, and many converts believe that personal revelation from God was instrumental in their conversion. Joseph F. Smith ,
7931-447: The family as the fundamental unit of society". Senior church leaders have continued to emphasize conservative teachings on marriage and gender to the present time. LDS Church members are encouraged to set aside one evening each week, typically Monday, to spend together in " Family Home Evening " (FHE), which typically consists of gathering as a family to study the faith's gospel principles, and other family activities. Daily family prayer
8034-511: The forbidding of coffee, tea, tobacco, and alcohol, but not the other guidelines concerning meat, grains, and herbs. In 2019, the church further clarified through its New Era magazine that the usage of marijuana and opioids is prohibited except as prescribed by a competent physician for medical purposes. Church members are expected to follow a moral code called the law of chastity, which prohibits adultery , homosexual behavior, and sexual relations before or outside of marriage. As part of
8137-559: The importance of a heterosexual, nuclear family. The proclamation defined marriage as a union between one man and one woman and stated that the family unit is "central to the Creator's plan for the eternal destiny of His children." The document further says that " gender is an essential characteristic of individual premortal , mortal, and eternal identity and purpose," that the father and mother have differing roles as "equal partners" in raising children, that "children are entitled to birth within
8240-531: The intellect alone, the essential spiritual ingredient is missing, and we will be misled. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints This is an accepted version of this page The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints , informally known as the LDS Church or Mormon Church , is the largest Latter Day Saint denomination . Founded by Joseph Smith during the Second Great Awakening ,
8343-475: The late 1840s, the house was still only partially completed. In the 1870s, Emma and her husband Lewis C. Bidamon converted the unfinished boarding house into a smaller structure called the Riverside Mansion (also called Bidamon House ). Bidamon razed portions of the original structure for materials, some of which was used to construct the nearby Bidamon Stable. During the renovations, Lewis Bidamon removed
8446-434: The law of chastity, the church strongly opposes pornography, and considers masturbation an immoral act. Law of chastity violations can be grounds for church discipline ; resulting penalties may include having access to the temple and sacrament revoked, as well as excommunication. The church discourages romantic dating until around the age of 16. Church members are expected to donate one-tenth of their income to support
8549-469: The literal Son of God and Messiah , his crucifixion as a conclusion of a sin offering , and his subsequent resurrection . However, Latter-day Saints reject the ecumenical creeds and the definition of the Trinity . Jesus is also seen as the elder brother of all who live in this world. The church teaches that Jesus performed a substitutionary atonement ; in contrast with other Christian denominations,
8652-445: The moderate consumption of meat. When Joseph Smith published the Word of Wisdom in 1833, it was considered only advice; violation did not restrict church membership. During the 1890s, though, church leaders started emphasizing the Word of Wisdom more. In 1921, church president Heber J. Grant made obeying the Word of Wisdom a requirement to engage in worship inside of the faith's temples. From that time, church leadership has emphasized
8755-635: The need for guidance by apostolic revelation in Jesus Christ's church is as great today as it was when Peter , Paul , and other apostles wrote the letters that eventually became the New Testament . "Surely the Lord G OD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets." James E. Faust , a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, spoke on the need for continual divine guidance of Jesus Christ's church in both doctrinal and administrative matters: "Much revelation received, in this time as well as anciently, has been doctrinal. Some of it has been operational and tactical. Much of it
8858-732: The operations of the church. After initially relying on a communal lifestyle known as the law of consecration throughout most of the 1830s, the church created the law of tithing in July 1838 when the membership was concentrated in Missouri . Church members would frequently tithe by giving ten percent of their livestock and produce; nowadays donations are generally done with money. Annual donations were estimated to total $ 7 billion to $ 33 billion USD donated in 2012 (equivalent to $ 9.3 billion to $ 43.8 billion in 2023 ). To qualify for participation in temple ordinances (which Latter-day Saints believe are necessary for their salvation), paying
8961-436: The organization during the modern era. In 1978, the church reversed its previous policy of excluding Black men of African descent from the priesthood, which had been in place since 1852; members of all races can now be ordained to the priesthood. Also, since the early 1900s, the church has instituted a Priesthood Correlation Program to centralize church operations and bring them under a hierarchy of priesthood leaders. During
9064-583: The original Book of Mormon manuscript from the cornerstone. Water, which had seeped into the stone, had badly damaged the manuscript, and fragmented pieces were given away to visitors by the Bidamons. Emma and Lewis Bidamon both lived in Riverside Mansion from 1871 until their deaths. In 1909, the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (RLDS Church), now called the Community of Christ , purchased
9167-576: The overseers of the project, and they created the Nauvoo House Association on February 23, 1841. Construction of the Nauvoo House began later in 1841, with Smith placing the original manuscript of the Book of Mormon in the cornerstone of the building. Construction continued until 1844, when resources were pulled away from the Nauvoo House to concentrate on completion of the Nauvoo Temple . After Smith and his brother Hyrum were killed by
9270-700: The power of the Holy Ghost as the only pathway to true knowledge of Jesus Christ: "But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you." "He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-jona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which
9373-461: The practice. By 1857, tensions had again escalated between Mormons and other Americans, largely as a result of accusations involving polygamy and the theocratic rule of the Utah Territory by Young. The Utah Mormon War ensued from 1857 to 1858, which resulted in the relatively peaceful invasion of Utah by the United States Army . The most notable instance of violence during this conflict was
9476-615: The presidencies of the Relief Society, Young Women, and Primary, while men serve as presidents and counselors of the Sunday School and Young Men. The church and its members consider marriage and family highly important, with emphasis placed on large, nuclear families. In 1995, the church's First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve issued " The Family: A Proclamation to the World ", which asserts
9579-636: The property. The building was used by the church as a dormitory available for group rental, as well as a stop on their guided walking tour of the Joseph Smith Historic Site, until March 2024. On March 5, 2024, it was announced that the Nauvoo House, as well as other historically significant properties and artifacts, including the Kirtland Temple , had been sold by the Community of Christ to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Revelation (Latter Day Saints) In Mormonism, revelation
9682-404: The rulers of the darkness of this world." "One of the ways you will be attacked is with the feeling that you are inadequate. Well, you are inadequate to answer a call to represent God with only your own powers. But you have access to more than your natural capacities, and you do not work alone. "The Lord will magnify what you say and what you do in the eyes of the people you serve. He will send
9785-413: The sixth president and prophet of the LDS Church, summarized the church's belief concerning revelation by saying, "We believe ... in the principle of direct revelation from God to man." Smith also more specifically detailed the importance of the principle of modern-day revelation to the church he then led: "The gospel cannot be administered, nor the Church of God continue to exist, without it. Christ
9888-409: The son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom; for Moses had laid his hands upon him: and the children of Israel hearkened unto him, and did as the L ORD commanded Moses." "And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues." Henry B. Eyring , a member of the Quorum of
9991-442: The spirit through the mind more than through the physical senses. This guidance comes as thoughts, as feelings, through impressions and promptings. It is not always easy to describe inspiration. The scriptures teach us that we may "feel" the words of spiritual communication more than hear them, and see with spiritual rather than with mortal eyes. [See 1 Ne. 17:45.] "The patterns of revelation are not dramatic. The voice of inspiration
10094-504: The things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.' (1 Cor. 2:13–14.) "Recently the Council of the First Presidency and Quorum of Twelve Apostles issued a statement alerting members of the Church to the dangers of participating in circles which concentrate on doctrine and ordinances and measure them by the intellect alone. "If doctrines and behavior are measured by
10197-512: The throne of heaven to guide it and move it forward. "With prayer and anxious seeking of the will of the Lord, we testify that direction is received, that revelation comes, and that the Lord blesses His Church as it moves on its path of destiny. "On the solid foundation of the Prophet Joseph's divine calling and the revelations of God, which came through him, we go forward. Much has been accomplished in bringing us to this present day. But there
10300-554: Was admitted as a U.S. state in 1896. Relations further improved after 1904, when church president Joseph F. Smith again disavowed polygamy before the United States Congress and issued a " Second Manifesto ", calling for all plural marriages in the church to cease. Eventually, the church adopted a policy of excommunicating its members found practicing polygamy. Some fundamentalist groups with relatively small memberships have broken off and continue to practice polygamy, but
10403-527: Was announced as president on January 16. The general authorities of the church consist of the First Presidency, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, first two Quorums of Seventy and the Presiding Bishopric . And under the leadership of the general officers are five organizations: the Relief Society , Sunday School , Young Women , Young Men , and Primary . Women serve as presidents and counselors in
10506-461: Was not a valid defense to prosecutions for violating state laws against polygamy. Conflict between Mormons and the U.S. government escalated to the point that, in 1890, Congress disincorporated the LDS Church and seized most of its assets. Soon thereafter, Woodruff issued a manifesto that officially suspended the performance of new polygamous marriages in the United States. Relations with the United States markedly improved after 1890, such that Utah
10609-607: Was the president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in the church. Other splinter groups followed other leaders around this time. These groups have no affiliation with the LDS Church, however they share a common heritage in their early church history. Collectively, they are called the Latter Day Saint movement. The largest of these smaller groups is the Community of Christ , based in Independence, Missouri , followed by
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