What is the history behind Mitt Romney and his mormonism?

Answer 1

Mitt Romney's family have been faithfully practicing members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the 'Mormon' church) for several generations.

Mitt Romney was born into the faith, was baptized as a child, and served for two years as a Mormon missionary in France. Upon his return, he married his wife Ann, who had recently converted to Mormonism, in a Mormon Temple.

Mitt Romney has held many positions in the church, most notably that of a Bishop (congregation leader) and Stake President (oversees a group of several local congregations). All Mormon Church positions (including Bishop and Stake President) are unpaid and are chosen by church officials, not through campaigning or voting of membership. In these roles, Mitt Romney was expected to donate 15+ hours a week to serving those of his congregation, providing counseling and assistance to members as well as performing general administrative duties. (Bishops and Stake Presidents rarely preach in Sunday worship services, but assign that task to the general membership, who take turns giving sermons.)

Mitt Romney's sons have continued the family's long legacy of Mormonism. All have served two year missions, have been married in a Mormon Temple, and are raising their children in the faith.