Mormonism Overview

Group Name: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church)

Founder: Joseph Smith Jr.

Current Leader: Russell M. Nelson

Date Founded: April 6, 1830

Locations: The LDS Church has a global presence, with congregations and temples in numerous countries worldwide, with a particularly strong presence in the United States, Mexico, and South America.

Characteristics:

• Group endorses non-orthodox theology: Yes, the LDS Church’s theology includes beliefs in additional scriptures beyond the Bible, such as the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price, as well as distinctive doctrines such as celestial marriage and the pre-existence of souls. They are not trinitarian.

• The Leader is an infallible authority: While the leader is considered a prophet and spiritual guide, the LDS Church does not teach that its leaders are infallible. However, the teachings of the prophet and other church leaders are regarded as authoritative and binding on members.

• Leadership seeks control over members’ activities, behaviors, and finances: Yes, the LDS Church has a hierarchical leadership structure that seeks to guide and direct the activities, behaviors, and financial contributions of its members through various church programs, teachings, and expectations.

• Requires unquestioning faith and allegiance to the leader or group: Yes, members are expected to demonstrate unwavering faith and allegiance to the teachings of the LDS Church and its leaders, including the prophet and apostles.

• Suppression of Critical Thinking: While the LDS Church encourages its members to seek personal revelation and understanding, there have been instances of criticism being discouraged or marginalized within the community, particularly concerning sensitive historical or doctrinal issues.

• Intimidation, fear, and shame are used to control members: There have been reports of social pressure and ostracism within LDS communities for members who express doubts or deviate from orthodox beliefs or practices, though the extent to which fear and shame are systematically used for control varies.

• Isolates or shuns former members, leading to loss of family connections and support: While the LDS Church officially encourages love and outreach to those who leave the faith, there have been instances where former members have experienced strained relationships with family and community members, particularly if their departure is seen as apostasy or rebellion.

• Allegations of financial abuse and lack of transparency: While the LDS Church is known for its financial transparency and welfare programs, there have been occasional criticisms regarding the use of tithes and offerings and the allocation of church funds, though allegations of widespread financial abuse are unsubstantiated.

• Allegations of sexual misconduct: There have been isolated cases of sexual misconduct involving leaders or members of the LDS Church, though the organization has taken steps to address such issues and prevent further occurrences.

Narrative:

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) was founded by Joseph Smith Jr. in 1830 in upstate New York. The church’s theology is based on Smith’s revelations, including the Book of Mormon, which Latter-day Saints regard as scripture alongside the Bible.

The LDS Church has a hierarchical structure, with a president/prophet at its head, assisted by two counselors and a Quorum of Twelve Apostles. While the prophet is considered a spiritual leader and guide, the LDS Church does not teach that its leaders are infallible.

Members of the LDS Church are expected to adhere to a strict code of conduct, including paying tithes and adhering to dietary and moral guidelines. While the church encourages personal revelation and understanding, there have been instances of criticism being discouraged or marginalized within the community.

Former members of the LDS Church may experience strained relationships with family and community members, particularly if their departure is seen as apostasy. However, the church officially encourages love and outreach to those who leave the faith.

While the LDS Church has been criticized for its historical and doctrinal teachings, as well as its practices regarding gender and sexuality, allegations of widespread abuse or misconduct are unsubstantiated. Overall, the LDS Church continues to be a significant religious institution with millions of members worldwide.