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Mormonism
Questions about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, commonly known as Mormonism.
3,455 Questions
Why did Mormons emigrate in 1847?
Because nobody else wanted to live there, and it was rumored to be uninhabitable. The Mormons wanted somewhere where they could live and practice their religion in peace without anyone coming to bother them. They thought they could do this in Utah because nobody else wanted to go there.
How do Mormons bury their dead?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the 'Mormon' church) has no policies, traditions, or guidelines regarding how long after death a burial should occur. It is a personal decision based on the desires of the family and the situation (for example, if an autopsy is required burial may be delayed).
What are regular church members called?
If the church is a congregation, they would be called congregants. If it is a parish, they are parishioners.
How many adult Mormons in Iowa?
As of January 2010 there were 24,300 baptized members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the "Mormon" church) in Iowa. This includes all members age 8 years and older. The Church does not keep membership statistics based on age, so we cannot know how many of these are adults.
Who was Brigham Youngs second child?
Brigham Young's youngest child was a daughter, Fannie Young, born to his wife Mary VanCott. She was born on January 14, 1870 when Brigham was 68 years old.
You can learn more about Fannie Young at the "Related Link" below.
How does the Mormon church feel about gay people?
The official position of the church on the matter is in the related links below.
Gay members of the LDS church are not asked to do anything that non-gay members are asked to do. That being, not to have sex out of wedlock. If someone is attracted to people of the same gender, and he or she wishes to stay in good standing with the church, it would be appropriate to seek counsel from a bishop to get guidance on how to deal with this matter.
As long as one does not act upon their impulses and have sex outside of marriage, and this assumes the individual is otherwise living by the same promised other members made at baptism, then such an individual would remain in good standing in the church.
There are several resource links below the answer box. One of them is a talk by several LDS church leaders who have responded to similar questions about same gender attraction.
Answer
Well, it depends on whether you want to diminish the same-sex attraction and overcome the homosexual behavior (as the church asks), or whether you want to effectively leave the church and engage in homosexual activities, but still have friends that were raised in the Mormon culture.
If you want to diminish the attraction and overcome you homosexual behavior, there is a good site to use as a resource link below. Evergreen International espouses the belief that this is the appropriate action. Evergreen International is one of many organizations helping people to overcome homosexual attractions and behaviors.
If you want to leave the church and pursue a homosexual lifestyle, then organizations such as LDS Reconciliation and Affirmation teach that God still loves you and understands you and accepts you just as you are, just he made you and that you shouldn't be denied a loving relationship in your life. Obviously, that would be outside the church's teachings.
Please note that engaging in homosexual activities can get you kicked out of the church, and that no one that actively pursues that lifestyle really represents the church's teachings.
God loves everyone, whether they choose to live a homosexual lifestyle or not, and whether they stay in the church or not. Everyone has to choose a direction in life, and the consequences that go along with it.
The church's stance is that being attracted to members of the same sex is a life challenge that needs to be overcome. However, I am presenting both sides so that you can get support either way.
Has the Mormon Church ever owned part or all of UPS?
No, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the "Mormon" church) is not affiliated with any shipping companies, including UPS, FedEx, or others, aside from the fact that they do use these shipping services as customers. They have never owned or operated any shipping companies.
Are there any Mormon Democrats?
Sure! Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (commonly called the "Mormon" church) can belong to any political party they choose. They are encouraged to be active in politics and to choose political candidates who have similar moral beliefs. During election seaons, the Church often sends letters to congregations affirming that all major political parties and candidates have their good and bad qualities, and should be chosen after much fasting and prayer. Other than these statements, the Church does not get involved in politics.
The Current U.S. Senate majority leader, Harry Reid, is a Democrat and a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
More about the Church's policies on politics can be seen at the "Related Links" below.
Do Mormon's believe in the rapture of the church?
No. Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the "Mormon" church) do not believe in the rapture. They believe that the rapture is an unbiblical doctrine that did not exist in original New Testament Christianity.
Instead, Mormons believe that all people will go through the tribulations of the last days. At the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, those who have died will be resurrected, and all people will be judged. The righteous (regardless of their religion) will remain on the earth for the Millennium (a thousand year reign of Jesus Christ), while the wicked will be removed from the earth and endure a thousand years of torment. Following the Millennium, there will be a final judgment in which people are assigned their eternal reward (or punishment).
You can read another Mormon's response to this question at the "Related Links" below.
Is Ancestrycom Inc in any way linked to the Mormon Church?
No. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the "Mormon" church) does not own ancestry.com, but they do own FamilySearch.org, a similar website.
See Related Links, below, for more information.
Do you have to be a member of the Mormon Church to sing in the choir?
Yes. In order to be a member of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, you must be a baptized, practicing member of the Church living within 100 miles of the Tabernacle on Temple Square in Salt Lake City. There are many other requirements as well. If you'd like to learn more about what it takes to become a member of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir you can check out the "Related Links" below.
For local Mormon choirs, generally no, you do not need to be a baptized member of the church. Many congregations have a choir which will periodically perform in worship services, in which anyone (church member or not) may participate.
What happens at Mormon Baptisms?
The same as in other Protestant baptisms. And commences in this manner:
Usually family members, invites and other interested congregational member will assemble at the church building and is generally not performed during normal services. Two talks are usually, one prior to the baptismal ordinance. One topic is on baptism and the other on "the Gift of the Holy Ghost" is given after. Both given by lay members and often by invitation. The baptismal ordinance is done by full immersion and performed by one whom has priesthood authority. There is a stance taken by both people and the priesthood holder's arm is held at a "square" to symbolize the authority and by practice of ordinance. A basic statement is declared as part of the ordinance and the baptismee is submersed. After the ordinance and the second talk given to the attendees, there is a special blessing given by those holding the "Melchizedek" priesthood authority by laying their hands upon the persons head. Calls their name and asks for the Gift of the Holy Ghost to be received. Which signified by the symbol of the dove in the New Testament. Is the promise of the constant companionship by the Holy Ghost contingent upon the holders righteousness and obedience to the laws and ordinances of the gospel. In stark contrast to the "Power of the Holy Ghost" which is an intermittent affectation by the Holy Ghost, which in Mormon beliefs is a sentient and separate spirit being that is part of the polytheistic godhead that comprises of God the Father, his Son Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost.
The blessing also conveys anything as so inspired by the spirit for the future and personal benifit of the new convert. The convert is also declared a member of the church. The new member is added to the membership roster.
The baptism of a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints" is concidered sacred and a turning point by which sins are remmited and and new covenants are made that is looked upon later as a pennical moment in their conversion. We do things a little different. We don't sprinkle water on babies. Members of our church get baptised at the age of 8, if they were born into the church. If they weren't they get baptised at whatever age they are when they convert. Instead of sprinkling water, we submerge the person who is getting baptised in water.
How many words are in the doctrine and covenants?
Book of Mormon 6607 verses
Doctrine and Covenants 3654 +3.5 pages of text not found in verse format
Pearl of Great Price 635 + a little more than a page of text not in verse format
Where do Mormons believe they came from?
Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (commonly called the "Mormon" church) believe in the Biblical account found in Genesis, which says that the first man and woman, Adam and Eve, lived in the Garden of Eden. After eating the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, they were cast out of the Garden.
Joseph Smith said in 1832 that the land where Adam and Eve lived after being cast out of the Garden was called Adam-ondi-Ahman (roughly translated to mean "Adam with God" or "Adam in the valley of God"). In 1838 the location of Adam-Ondi-Ahman was revealed as a place then called Spring Hill (or Wight's Ferry) in Missouri. After the Mormons were kicked out of Missouri it was renamed Cravensville.
Now, most of the site that Joseph said was Adam-ondi-Ahman is owned by the Church and is used as farmland and a visitor site. It is about 3000 acres and is located on the bluffs above the Grand River in Daviess County, Missouri. You can learn more about the site at the "Related Links" below.
What are three adjectives that describe Mormons?
It is about impossible to find adjectives to cover an entire group, because everyone is different. Some adjectives that describe some of their beliefs may be:
- modest
- chaste
- humble
- forgiving
Can a Mormon have their nose pierced?
Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (commonly called "Mormons") follow what the Apostle Paul said in 1 Corinthians 3:16-17 which says "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are."
Since Church members respect their bodies as a creation and temple of God, they dress modestly and avoid tattoos and piercings. If women desire to have their ears pierced they are advised to have only one piercing in each ear and stick to wearing 'modest' earrings. Not all members follow this council, and that is their choice, but for the most part church members frown upon tattoos and piercings.
The wealthiest Mormons are:
R. Earl Holding
Jon M. Huntsman (father of former presidential candidate with same name)
James Sorenson family
Bill Marriott
Kevin Rollins
Nolan Archibald
Today there are nearly 15 million members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the "Mormon" church) living all around the world. They do not live in 'groups' but out in regular society.
Historically, Mormons did tend to live in more of a group or community settings. This is because they had faced much opposition from outsiders. Most of these communities were in the western United States, and area which still has a high concentration of Mormons.
Can i tell a Mormon Missionary that i love her?
No, not while she is serving her mission. She needs to be free from any distractions, plus mission rules do not allow a missionary, male or female, to engage in romantic physical contact with anyone.
Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (commonly called the "Mormon" Church) adhere to a health code called the "Word of Wisdom". This health code prohibits the use of strong drinks, saying alcohol is to be used for cleaning, not drinking. If members desire to attend temple worship services (seperate from Sunday worship services) they must be striving to live this health code. If a Church member does drink alcohol regularly, they will not be admitted into temple worship services but may continue to participate Sunday worship services and other congregation activities. In order to qualify for baptism into the church, you must abstain from alcohol for a certain period of time.
To learn more about the "Word of Wisdom", the Mormon health code, see the "Related Links" below.
Do Mormons have to marry other Mormons?
No. Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the "Mormon" church) are encouraged to marry those of the same religion because having similar values and beliefs in the home typically promotes a more peaceful and cohesive environment in the home. It is not a requirement to marry someone in the Church, but is strongly encouraged.
If a Mormon marries someone who is not a member of the Church, they may have a church wedding or a secular wedding, but they cannot marry in the temple. Temple marriages are very important to Mormons, as it is believed that Temple marriages last throughout eternity, but church and secular weddings are only 'until death do us part.'
You can learn more about Mormons and marriage at the "Related Links" below.
This is a matter of opinion, but surveys have shown that most people who know a Mormon (thats a nickname for a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints) think so. Mormons tend to be quite conservative, deeply religious people that are very family and community oriented. They tend to be very friendly and honest.
If you'd like to learn more about Mormons or meet some in your area to see for yourself if they are "good people", you can check out the "Related Links" below.
Who is celebrity member of Mormon church?
Some of the more well known members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints include: (for a larger list, check out www.famousmormons.net)
Music:
Gary Allen (country singer)
Chrstian Jacobs and Chad Larson of The AquaBats (ska band)
David Archuleta (2nd place on American Idol's 7th season)
Alex Boye (pop and gospel singer)
Scot Alexander of Dishwalla (alternative rock band)
Arthur "Killer" Kane of The New York Dolls (70's glam rock band)
Brandon Flowers of The Killers (modern rock band)
Gladys Knight (gospel, soul, and pop singer)
Donny and Marie Osmond (rock, pop, country singers)
Brendon Urie of Panic! At the Disco (rock band)
Brook White (top 5 finalist on American Idol season 7)
Reality T.V.:
Derek and Julianne Hough (Dancing with the Stars)
Todd Herzog (winner of Survivor China)
Fab Five (America's Got Talent season 5)
Carmen Rasmusen (American Idol season 2)
Julie Stoffer (Real World, New Orleans)
Benji Schwimmer, Lacey Schwimmer, and Heidi Groskreutz (So You Think You Can Dance?)
Actors/Actresses:
Amy Adams (Enchanted) [no longer practicing]
Corbin Allred
Wilford Brimley
Eliza Dushku [no longer practicing]
Aaron Eckhart
Jon Heder (Napoleon Dynamite)
Katherine Heigl [no longer practicing]
Rick (Rickey) Schroder
Paul Walker [no longer practicing]
Media:
Glenn Beck
Jane Clayson
Ken Jennings (biggest winner in Jeopardy game show history)
Jill Stevens (America's Choise semi finalist in Miss America 2007)
Sports:
Danny Ainge (baseball and basketball)
Harmon Killebrew (baseball)
Ty Detmer (football)
Steve Young (football)
Johnny Miller (golf)
Mike Reid (golf)
Thurl Bailey (basketball)
Shawn Bradley (basketball)
Authors:
Stephen R. Covey
Orson Scott Card
Richard Paul Evans
Stephanie Meyer
Did Matt stone go on an LDS mission?
No. Matt Stone, creator of South Park, could not have served as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the "Mormon" or "LDS" church) because he has never been a Mormon. The Mormon Church only allows baptized members to serve as missionaries, and Matt Stone has never been a baptized Mormon. Matt Stone has said that he considers himself ethnically Jewish, but that he grew up agnostic, has never been a member of any organized religious group, and currently identifies himself as an atheist.
Do Mormons believe in original sin?
One of the Articles of Faith of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the "Mormon" church) says, "We believe that men will be punished for their own sins and not for Adam's transgression."
Mormons believe that because Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit, mankind became subject to sin and death. Therefore, all mankind has need of a Savior, Jesus Christ, to atone for their sins and allow them to enter into the presense of God. Mormons believe that the atoning power of Jesus Christ will cover this transgression of Adam for those who hear and accept it, those who never hear it, and little children who are too young and innocent to understand it. (Book of Mormon, Mosiah 3:11-17) Only those who hear and reject the gospel of Jesus Christ are at risk of not being covered by the atonement of Christ.
This is slightly different from the traditional Calvinist doctrine of Original Sin, which states that men inherit guilt from the sins of Adam and are guilty from the moment of conception.
