Use for questions about the history, teachings, doctrine, or practices of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly called Mormons. The LDS faith recognizes as canonical several books (such as the Book of Mormon) that are not generally accepted among most other Christians and believes in modern-day prophethood and revelation.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was organized on the 6th of April 1830 in Fayette, New York. Joseph Smith is considered to be the instrument for the restoration of the church, and is revered as a modern day prophet of this dispensation (a period of time where the gospel is dispensed to mankind by revelation).
Joseph Smith was visited by God the Father and Jesus Christ as two separate incarnate beings, making the LDS faith unique from the trinitarian belief. Mormons thus believe in three ontologically distinct and separate beings: God the Father, Jesus the Christ, and the Holy Ghost. Joseph Smith also introduced new scripture through the translation of ancient holy writ given to him by an angel, and translated "by the gift and power of God." The resulting Book of Mormon is complementary to the Bible, and is the source of the common name for members of the church, Mormons (though it is incorrect to call the Church the Mormon Church).
Latter-day Saints believe that Jesus Christ is the Savior and Redeemer of the world, and that salvation comes only through Him. They believe in continuing revelation, which includes the revelations given to Joseph Smith as well as to his successors in the office of the presidency of the church. A collection of these revelations is published in the Doctrine and Covenants and Pearl of Great Price, both of which are also considered to be canonized scripture.
Mormons also believe in modern-day prophets and apostles. There are currently 12 apostles organized together with a prophet/president and his two counselors, who regularly communicate with the general membership of the church in messages which are also considered modern day revelation and inspired counsel.
LDS belief places distinctive emphasis on the family unit as the basic organizational structure of the church and kingdom of heaven, and on the requirement that the individual disciple seek personal revelation from the Holy Ghost. Through the Holy Ghost, one can develop a personal relationship with Heavenly Father and greater understand the Plan of Salvation, by which families can remain forever, which is a primary focus of temples.
Sharing the gospel, doing service, teaching & learning, and family history are some of the special values of the Latter-day Saints.
For more information visit either the mormon.org or lds.org websites.
