Mormons
August 9, 2011
Filed under Mormons
Many people in the world have never heard of Mormons, and some have erroneous ideas about what a Mormon is. Some think Mormons are like the Amish, living in isolated communities and rejecting modern technology. Others equate Mormons with apostate polygamist sects, who isolate themselves and still dress in pioneer clothing. These perceptions are incorrect. Mormons live freely in the world and participate in wholesome worldly activities with everyone else in their international cultures. Therefore, you may have associated with a member of the Mormon Church, actually called The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and not realized it. The Mormon Church has over 14 million members, over half of whom live outside of the United States.
Mormons do have some distinguishing features that make them stand out, all related to being followers of Jesus Christ and trying to keep His commandments. Active Mormons are “light-brights.” They are light and happy, clean-cut. Part of this comes from living the Mormon law of health, called the Word of Wisdom. The Word of Wisdom was given by revelation to the prophet Joseph Smith in the early 1800′s. In it the Lord told us what foods and substances men should avoid and what things are good for food. The Lord forbid the use of alcohol, tobacco, and “hot drinks,” defined by later prophets as coffee and tea. Many studies have been done on Mormons in the United States, and because of the health law and the emotional support available through happy marriages and families, and a support group at church, Mormons are happier and healthier than the general population.
Mormons also tend to be modestly dressed, especially those who have made vows in the Mormon temple.
Mormons tend to be confident. The Mormon Church has a lay clergy, and everyone in the Church serves. “Callings” in the Church are mostly temporary and unpaid, and filling callings increases the talents and abilities of the membership. Even children are called to give talks in church, lead discussions, and make decisions regarding activities of their age group. Beliefs are reinforced at home, where children also take responsibility to read scriptures, pray vocally, and plan Family Home Evening lessons and activities. Many Mormon youth also serve full-time missions for the Church. Young men serve for two years, and young women for 18 months, and they pay their own way. Missionary work is demanding, but hones leadership and group performance skills. Many young people serve in third-world countries, and many must learn a foreign language while serving. Recent news articles have credited missionary service for creating some of the world’s most talented business and political leaders.
Mormons are very family oriented. In fact, Mormon doctrine teaches that marriage and family life can extend throughout eternity. Thus, active Mormons work hard to create happiness in the home. A strong work ethic and wholesome recreation are part of Mormon family life. Mormons like to have fun, and they do so without alcohol or other habit-forming substances.
Mormons believe in education. In fact, the most active Mormons are also the most educated. This is opposite from most churches. They also believe in developing their talents. Some Mormons you may have heard of include Gladys Knight, Brandon Flowers, Donny and Marie Osmond, Rick Schroeder, and David Archuleta in show business; Mitt Romney, Harry Reid, Orin Hatch, and Jon Huntsman in politics; Danny Ainge, Steve Young, and Jimmer Fredette in sports; and Stephenie Meyer, Anne Perry, Brandon Mull, Tracy Hickman, and Richard Paul Evans in writing.
Mormon "Helping Hands" clean up after a disaster
Mormons believe in being self-reliant and helping those in need. The Church has an extensive humanitarian aid program, and many Mormons take it upon themselves to participate in charitable projects. The Church also has a remarkable welfare system both for its own members and for others in need, especially after disasters.
Mormons worship on Sundays in meetinghouses, which are really rather plain. But they also worship in Mormon temples. Temples are open most days for long hours, and members attend as they are able. Temples are ornate, beautiful, peaceful places rife with symbolism. Members go to make eternal covenants to follow Jesus Christ, and also to work for the dead — to perform ordinances by proxy. Since the dead live on, they are able to choose whether to accept or reject temple work performed for them.
The following are short videos that will introduce you to some Mormons: