The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Joseph Smith, Jr. portrait owned by Joseph Smith III

Carthage Jail from southwest

BrighamYoung1

Pioneers Crossing the Plains of Nebraska by C.C.A. Christensen

Washington D.C. Temple At Dusk

Christus statue temple square salt lake city

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), often informally known as the Latter-day Saints or the Mormon Church, is a nontrinitarian, Christian restorationist church that is considered by its members to be the restoration of the original church founded by Jesus Christ. The church is headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA, and has established congregations and built temples worldwide.

Beliefs and Practices

The LDS Church teaches that it is the continuation of the church established by Jesus Christ, restored through the prophet Joseph Smith in the early 19th century. It follows a set of unique doctrines and practices, including the belief in modern-day revelation, the Book of Mormon as another testament of Jesus Christ, continuous guidance from living prophets and apostles, and the importance of families in God's eternal plan.

Book of Mormon

One of the foundational texts of the LDS Church, the Book of Mormon, is regarded as scripture alongside the Bible. It is believed to be a record of ancient prophets living in the Americas and contains teachings of Jesus Christ, his ministry among the people of the Americas, and the history of two great civilizations.

Prophets and Revelation

The church is led by a prophet, who is also the president of the church, and a quorum of twelve apostles. Members believe that the current prophet receives revelation from God for the guidance of the church and its members.

Temples and Family History

The LDS Church places a significant emphasis on temple work, which includes ceremonies such as baptisms for the dead, endowments, and celestial marriages, believed to unite families for eternity. Members are also encouraged to research their family history and perform temple ordinances on behalf of their ancestors.

Organization and Structure

The church is organized into stakes and wards, with stakes being a collection of wards or branches (smaller congregations). Each ward is presided over by a bishop, and each stake has a stake president. Men holding the priesthood typically fill these leadership roles, with women serving in auxiliary organizations for women, young women, and children.

Missionary Work

Missionary work is a fundamental principle of the church, with thousands of missionaries serving worldwide. Young men, women, and retired couples serve missions, teaching about the church's doctrines and offering humanitarian aid.

Humanitarian Efforts

The LDS Church is also known for its humanitarian efforts, including disaster relief, welfare services, and the LDS Humanitarian Services. These efforts are funded by donations from church members and others.

Controversies and Criticisms

The church has faced criticism and controversy, including issues related to its history, beliefs, and practices. Topics such as polygamy, which the church officially discontinued in 1890, and the historical treatment of African Americans, who were not allowed to hold the priesthood until 1978, have been particularly contentious.

Membership

As of the early 21st century, the LDS Church claims millions of members worldwide, with the majority living outside the United States. The church's growth has been significant since its founding, though it has faced challenges, including retention of members and adaptation to cultural and societal changes.