Why do Mormons use water instead of wine or grape juice for Communion?

Answer 1

In the Mormon church, we use water for the Sacrament (that's what we call it rather than "Communion.") It's because of a revelation from God to the prophet that explained that it didn't matter what liquid was used for the ceremony. The church had some opponents that had poisoned or otherwise tainted the wine / grape juice used by the early members.

Then there is also the Word of Wisdom. We believe the Word of Wisdom to be inspired revelation from God to a prophet (just like in the times of The Bible) that tells us not to drink anything with alcohol, coffee, or smoke, do drugs, etc. The revelation tells us that it is adapted to the weakest people, so even though some people might be able to drink in moderation, it's best for everyone to not partake, in order for everyone to stay safe from addictions.

FYI the real name of our church is called The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. "Mormon" is just a nick name people call us since we believe the Book of Mormon and the Bible to be the words of God. Mormon is actually a prophet in the Book of Mormon who abridges the story of his people into what we now call the Book of Mormon.

Answer 2

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (commonly called the "Mormon" church) does use water in place of wine or Grape Juice for the Sacrament (similar to Communion, Eucharist, Lord's Supper, etc). Wine was used by the early members of the church, and was seen occasionally up until about 100 years ago. There are many reasons why the change was made:

-A revelation given to Joseph Smith in the Doctrine and Covenants states that "it mattereth not what ye shall eat or what ye shall drink when ye partake of the sacrament, if it so be that ye do it with an eye single to my glory" (27:2) So, wine is not essential.

-A revelation in the Doctrine and Covenants states that wine used for the sacrament should be "of your own make" (89:6) and that wine should not be purchased from our enemies (27:3). Making our own wine and distributing it to congregations may be feasible now, but was not for a long time. Since a previous revelation stated that anything could be used, water was an appropriate substitute.

-wine and grape juice are more expensive, less accessible, and are more likely to stain church carpets and people's "Sunday best" than water. For practicality reasons alone, water is an inexpensive, easy to find, easy to clean substitute.

-Many people now feel that water increases the symbolism of the rite. Jesus said that he was the "living water" and the "bread of life" so water and bread bring thoughts of Him. We were baptized in water and renew our baptismal covenants as we partake of the sacramental water. Additionally water is pure and clean, as we may become through Jesus.