Understanding the Different Mormon Denominations: LDS, RLDS, FLDS, and Beyond
Understanding the Different Mormon Denominations: LDS, RLDS, FLDS, and Beyond
The term Mormon is a catch-all for members of nearly 50 different splinter groups. However, it is important to note that the term Mormon derives from an outdated nickname for members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). Today, these groups are known as Latter-day Saint denominations. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the different Mormon denominations, including the LDS Church, RLDS Church, FLDS, and other notable groups.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church)
The LDS Church is the largest and most well-known branch of the Latter-day Saint movement. Founded in 1830 by Joseph Smith, the church has over 16 million members worldwide. Unlike other splinter groups, the LDS Church maintains its strict policies on polygamy and adheres to the teachings of its prophets and apostles.
The Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (RLDS Church)
The RLDS Church, now known as the Community of Christ, is the second-largest Latter-day Saint denomination. It was established in 1860 by a group who tried to reorganize the church after Joseph Smith’s death. Under the leadership of Joseph Smith III, the community moved its headquarters to Independence, Missouri. Today, it has about 250,000 members worldwide. The RLDS Church allows women to be ordained as elders and attends liberal Protestant seminaries for training.
The Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (FLDS)
The FLDS is one of the more controversial and radical splinter groups. It split from the mainstream Mormon churches in the early 20th century and continues to practice polygamy, which is illegal in many states. The group is known for its strict adherence to Joseph Smith’s teachings and is led by controversial figures such as Warren Jeffs. Warren Jeffs was convicted and is serving a life sentence for the sexual assault of a child, a crime which illustrates the group’s radical and controversial practices.
Understanding the Split Between These Groups
The division among Mormon denominations can be traced back to the succession crisis in the 1840s, following the assassination of Joseph Smith. A significant branch of the church followed Brigham Young west, while others, like Emma Smith and her children, stayed behind. In the 1860s, a group led by William Marks, who had been excommunicated by Brigham Young, reorganized the church and installed Joseph Smith III as president. Another group remained in Utah led by Brigham Young, while the reorganized church moved to Missouri.
Further Divisions and Views
After these initial splits, further divisions emerged based on the interpretation and practice of Joseph Smith’s teachings. The Fundamentalist group is known for its rigid adherence to polygamy and other practices that are not in line with the standards of the LDS Church. Their practices and leadership have often been called into question due to accusations of abuse and illegal activities.
Conclusion
Overall, the different Mormon denominations reflect the complex and sometimes controversial history of the Latter-day Saint movement. While the LDS Church remains the largest and most widely recognized, other branches such as the RLDS Church and the FLDS have carved out their own unique paths, often based on differing interpretations of Joseph Smith’s teachings. Understanding the historical and theological distinctions can help in comprehending the different perspectives and practices within the Mormon community.