key term - Church of Jesus Christ Latter-Day Saints (Mormons)

Definition

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, commonly known as the Mormons, is a religious group founded in the early 19th century by Joseph Smith. It emerged during the Second Great Awakening, a period marked by religious fervor and revivalism in the United States, emphasizing individual revelation and personal connection to God. This church is known for its unique scriptures, such as the Book of Mormon, and its focus on family, community, and missionary work.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Church was officially organized on April 6, 1830, in Fayette, New York, marking its formal establishment during a time of intense religious revival.
2. Mormons believe in continuing revelation, meaning they hold that God continues to speak to humanity through modern prophets.
3. The church's emphasis on family values includes practices such as eternal marriage and genealogy work, which are central to their faith.
4. Mormons faced significant persecution in the 19th century, leading them to migrate to Utah under the leadership of Brigham Young after Joseph Smith's death.
5. The church has grown substantially since its inception, now boasting millions of members worldwide and actively engaging in humanitarian efforts and community service.

Review Questions

• How did the Second Great Awakening influence the founding and beliefs of the Church of Jesus Christ Latter-Day Saints?
  • The Second Great Awakening played a critical role in shaping the beliefs and practices of the Church of Jesus Christ Latter-Day Saints. This revivalist movement emphasized personal conversion experiences and individual interpretation of scripture, which resonated with Joseph Smith's vision for a new church. The emphasis on direct communication with God and ongoing revelation reflects broader themes from this period, making the church a product of its time.
• Discuss the challenges faced by the Mormons in the 19th century and how these challenges shaped their community identity.
  • In the 19th century, Mormons encountered significant persecution due to their beliefs and practices, including polygamy and their communal lifestyle. These challenges forced them to band together for protection and support, leading to a strong sense of community identity centered around shared faith. The migration to Utah under Brigham Young was a direct response to this persecution, allowing them to establish a safe haven where they could freely practice their beliefs.
• Evaluate the impact of the Church of Jesus Christ Latter-Day Saints on American society since its founding in terms of cultural influence and social engagement.
  • Since its founding, the Church of Jesus Christ Latter-Day Saints has significantly impacted American society through its cultural values, strong family emphasis, and social engagement. The church has promoted humanitarian initiatives and community service projects that resonate with broader American ideals of charity and volunteerism. Additionally, its growing presence has influenced political and social discussions around issues such as religious freedom and minority rights, contributing to ongoing dialogues about diversity in America.

Related terms

Joseph Smith:

The founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints who claimed to have received divine revelations and translated the Book of Mormon.

Book of Mormon:

A sacred text of the Latter-Day Saints, which Joseph Smith claimed to have translated from golden plates revealed to him by an angel.

Second Great Awakening:

A significant religious revival movement in the early 19th century that emphasized personal faith, emotional involvement, and a new wave of religious enthusiasm across America.