Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Mormons are commonly perceived as a conservative Christian church and are often identified with Protestant fundamentalists (see Fundamentalism). In theology, however, conservative Protestants and Mormons differ on fundamental questions, such as the nature of God, the concept of the church, and the definition of salvation. With respect to social issues, on the other hand, the two groups have much in common. The Mormons are lukewarm, if not hostile, to ecumenism, basically opposed to abortion, discouraging of birth control, and unreceptive to “unbiblical” practices such as women in the priesthood; like many Protestant fundamentalists, they see themselves as resisting the forces of secularism and liberal compromise. The present conservative stance of the Mormons is somewhat ironic, given their earlier history of bold social and economic innovation. In practice, however, Mormons are often more pragmatic than their reputation suggests. Birth rates, although higher than the national average, have declined considerably, and members are allowed individual discretion in the practice of birth control. Divorce, although discouraged, is not prohibited, and the divorce rate essentially follows the national trends.

For many years the Latter-day Saints refused to ordain blacks to the priesthood; this was an important issue, because all worthy Mormon males above the age of 12 receive such ordination. That policy was reversed in 1978, when the First Presidency stated that ordination would henceforth be granted “without regard for race or color.” The question of the role of women in the church is perhaps more problematic. Although Mormon women have numerous opportunities to serve on the congregational level and are encouraged to develop their talents and pursue higher education, they are not ordained to the priesthood and do not serve in the hierarchy.

An unusual combination of biblical Christianity, American pragmatism, millennialist expectations, economic experimentation, political conservatism, evangelical fervor, and international activity, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is still a dynamic, rapidly growing religion in an uneasy relationship with the surrounding culture.