Understanding the Basics of Latter-day Saints (LDS)

## Introduction to Latter-day Saints The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly known as the LDS Church or Mormon Church, is a Christian restorationist church that represents one of the fastest-growing religious movements in modern history. With over 16 million members worldwide, it is considered by its members to be the restoration of the original church founded by Jesus Christ. ## Historical Background The LDS Church was founded by [Joseph Smith](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/gospel-topics?lang=eng) in 1830. According to church history, Smith experienced the **First Vision** in 1820, where he claimed to have seen God the Father and Jesus Christ, who instructed him to restore the true church. Subsequently, Smith published the [Book of Mormon](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/bofm?lang=eng), which he translated from golden plates revealed by an angel named Moroni. ## Core Beliefs ### The Godhead Unlike traditional Christian doctrine of the Trinity, Latter-day Saints believe in the **Godhead**, consisting of three distinct beings: God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost, united in purpose. ### Sacred Scriptures The LDS Church considers the following texts as scripture, known as the **Standard Works**: - The Bible (King James Version preferred) - The Book of Mormon - Doctrine and Covenants - The Pearl of Great Price ### Plan of Salvation The "Plan of Salvation" or "Plan of Happiness" explains: * Pre-mortal existence * The purpose of earthly life * Life after death * The potential for eternal progression ### Priesthood Authority The church's priesthood authority is divided into two categories: 1. Aaronic Priesthood (preparatory priesthood) 2. Melchizedek Priesthood (higher priesthood) ## Worship and Practices ### Temple Worship Sacred temples, distinct from regular meetinghouses, host: * Eternal marriage ceremonies * Baptisms for the deceased * Endowment ceremonies * Family sealing ordinances ### Weekly Worship Sunday services consist of three main meetings: 1. Sacrament Meeting: The main worship service 2. Sunday School: Classes for all ages 3. Auxiliary Meetings: Relief Society, Priesthood, Youth classes ## Lifestyle Standards The church promotes specific standards known as the "Word of Wisdom": > "And all saints who remember to keep and do these sayings... shall receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones." Key aspects include: * Abstaining from alcohol * Avoiding tobacco * Not consuming coffee or tea * Eating wholesome foods * Regular exercise ## Family and Community Focus ### Family Emphasis The church prioritizes family through: * Family Home Evening (weekly family gatherings) * Genealogical research through [FamilySearch](https://www.familysearch.org/en/united-states/) * Temple ordinances that seal families eternally ### Church Organization | Level | Leadership | |-------|------------| | Global | First Presidency and Quorum of Twelve Apostles | | Area | Area Presidencies | | Regional | Stake Presidencies | | Local | Ward Bishoprics | ## Service and Missionary Work ### Missionary Program The church operates an extensive [missionary program](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/callings/missionary?lang=eng) where: * Young men (typically 18-19) serve for 24 months * Young women (typically 19+) serve for 18 months * Older couples can also serve missions ### Humanitarian Efforts The church maintains extensive humanitarian programs, including: * Emergency response * Clean water initiatives * Food security projects * Immunization campaigns For more detailed information, visit the [official LDS Church website](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/?lang=eng).

Understanding the Basics of Latter-day Saints (LDS)

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