Living in Utah and growing up in a predominantly Mormon community, I always just assumed that most people knew the basic beliefs of the LDS or "
Mormon" religion. Now that I'm living in Texas, I meet a lot of people who either don't know what our religion teaches, or have misguided beliefs.
Because of this, I just wanted to share a few things about what the LDS church is, as well as some of the beliefs that are really close to my heart for those who aren't familiar with what we believe.
Some Fun Facts:
The LDS Church currently has over 14 million members and is found in 185 different countries.
The number of church members outside of the U.S. exceeds the number of members within the U.S.
We currently administer humanitarian aide to 179+ countries.
At the end of 2011 (a little dated, but that's the most recent data I could find), the church had over 55,000 missionaries.
There are currently 141 LDS temples, plus multiple others under construction.
We Believe...
In Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost. Some have tried to claim that we aren't Christians. Our church is called The Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I'll let that one speak for itself ;)
We believe that there are many churches and religions with very true and wonderful teachings. However, we believe that there is one
true church upon the earth today with "every piece of the puzzle" as people sometimes explain it, and that is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
We believe in the Bible. We also believe in the Book of Mormon which, like the Bible, is an ancient book written by prophets who were
inspired by God. We
do not think of The Book of Mormon as a replacement to the Bible, we think of it as a companion volume of scripture to the Bible.
We believe in a strong and
daily commitment to our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and to our beliefs. We are encouraged to live our religion at all times, and in all places.
We believe in the divinity and value of families. We also believe that
families are together forever.
We believe that Heavenly Father is the same
yesterday, today, and forever as quoted in the Bible. Because of that, we believe that Heavenly Father speaks to, gives revelation to, and guides His children today, just as He did in the days of the bible.
We believe in modern day prophets and apostles. The prophet of our church today is President Thomas S. Monson. Twice a year, our church has
General Conference which is an opportunity for the leaders of our church, including our prophet and his apostles, to speak to us in a worldwide broadcast. We believe these men are truly inspired by Heavenly Father to guide us.
My Testimony...
I have come to find that there are many who are
searching for something more. There are many who feel that they live a good life, but still don't quite know what their purpose is. There are many who feel content, but want to find true happiness.
I truly believe with my
whole heart that I have the answer, and that is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
I know that this church is true. I know that my Savior lives. I know that there isn't a trial that I couldn't face because of my knowledge of His love for me. I know that the power of prayer is real, and that Heavenly Father hears us and that He knows us
individually. I know that we have a prophet of God who speaks to us and guides us today. I know that through guidance from my Heavenly Father, I can live a life of
purpose. And I know that the knowledge of this gospel can and will bring happiness, peace, and fulfillment to anyone who earnestly seeks it.
Our 183rd General Conference is this Saturday and Sunday. I invite you to come listen and
learn more.
xo
Natasha
[Most posts on my testimony and religion
here,
here, and
here.]
