What is the difference between the LDS Prophet and the Pope?

Answer 1

The Pope is the leader of the Catholic Church, which is the largest Christian group in the world with approximately 1.2 billion members worldwide.

The LDS Prophet is the leader of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (often called the "Mormon" church), which has approximately 14.5 million members worldwide.

While both are leaders of worldwide Christian organizations, the Pope is obviously much more widely known because the Catholic Church is so much more popular and widespread.

Both consider themselves to be the rightful successor and leader of the same Christian church that was organized in the New Testament, Catholics believing their church has continued since that time, and Mormons believing that church was lost and later restored to them.

The Pope is considered by followers to be infallible, while the prophet is considered to be a fallible mortal man, however both seem to revered similarly by the members of their respective churches.

Both are expected to serve until death, although a handful of Popes have resigned.

Upon the death of a Pope, the cardinals govern the church and gather together to elect the new Pope by submitting ballots. During this period, Catholics and non-Catholics excitedly anticipate the announcement and speculate who might be chosen. LDS Prophets are not elected by ballot, the next prophet is always the most senior Apostle. Upon the death of a prophet, the Apostles govern the church until each has expressed that God has revealed to them that the senior Apostle should in fact be the prophet. It is always known who the next prophet will be, and it is believed that they are selected by God by His preserving them through all their years of service.

In addition to being a major religious leader the Pope also has some political power as the leader of Vatican City, which is considered it's own nation. The Prophet has no political power today and is not allowed to hold any political office, although the first two prophets did serve in political office while serving as prophet - Joseph Smith as Mayor and Brigham Young as Governor.

Both are well provided for by their churches, which provide their apartments, living expenses, and travel expenses.

Both are considered the only person rightfully able to speak the word of God for their entire church.

The Pope is always single, as with all Catholic Priests. However, the Prophet is required to have been married (although he may be or become a widower during his service).

Following Catholic tradition, the Pope is usually seen dressed in symbolic ceremonial clothing, and many ceremonial traditions take place when he is presented to speak. The LDS Prophet is more casual, usually wearing a suit and tie. While audiences often stand in reverence and respect as he enters a room, there is no ceremony or procession that accompanies him.

In short, both are leaders of worldwide Christian groups and perform much of the same duties in that role, although in different ways.