Joining The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: A Comprehensive Guide
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often referred to as the Mormon Church, welcomes all who sincerely seek to follow Jesus Christ. The process of joining is a thoughtful and spiritual journey, involving learning about the Church’s doctrines, attending services, developing a relationship with missionaries and members, and ultimately, being baptized and confirmed. This comprehensive guide provides detailed steps and instructions for those interested in becoming a member of the Church.
## Understanding the Foundation: Core Beliefs
Before embarking on the path to membership, it’s crucial to understand the fundamental beliefs of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. These beliefs form the bedrock of the faith and guide the lives of its members.
* **Jesus Christ is the Savior:** The central tenet of the Church is the belief in Jesus Christ as the Son of God, the Redeemer of the world, and the perfect example of how to live. Members strive to follow His teachings and example in all aspects of their lives.
* **The Restoration:** Latter-day Saints believe that the fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ was lost from the earth after the death of the original Apostles. They believe that God restored His Church through the Prophet Joseph Smith in the early 19th century.
* **The Book of Mormon:** This is a companion scripture to the Bible and contains a record of God’s dealings with ancient inhabitants of the Americas. Latter-day Saints believe it to be another testament of Jesus Christ.
* **Continuing Revelation:** The Church believes that God continues to reveal His will to His prophets and apostles today, just as He did in ancient times. This guidance helps the Church adapt to modern challenges while remaining true to its core principles.
* **The Importance of Family:** Family is central to God’s plan for His children. Latter-day Saints believe that families can be together forever through temple sealings.
* **The Plan of Salvation:** This doctrine outlines God’s plan for the happiness and eternal progression of His children. It encompasses pre-mortal life, mortal life, and post-mortal life.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Joining the Church
Joining The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a personal and meaningful process. Here’s a breakdown of the steps involved:
**1. Expressing Interest and Meeting the Missionaries:**
* **Making Contact:** The first step is to express your interest in learning more about the Church. You can do this in several ways:
* **Visiting the Church Website:** The official Church website (ChurchofJesusChrist.org) provides a wealth of information about the Church’s beliefs, programs, and activities. You can also request to have missionaries contact you through the website.
* **Attending a Church Service:** Visiting a local meetinghouse (chapel) is a great way to experience the Church firsthand. Services are typically held on Sundays and are open to everyone. You can find the address and times of services for a meetinghouse near you on the Church website.
* **Contacting Local Members:** If you know someone who is a member of the Church, reach out to them. They can answer your questions and invite you to Church activities.
* **Meeting with the Missionaries:** Once you’ve expressed interest, full-time missionaries (young men and women who dedicate 18-24 months of their lives to serving the Church) will likely contact you. These missionaries are called to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with others. They will arrange to meet with you in your home, at a public place, or even online, to discuss the Church’s teachings.
**2. Learning the Gospel: Missionary Discussions**
* **The Standard Discussions:** The missionaries will typically guide you through a series of lessons, often called “missionary discussions,” or “teaching visits.” These discussions cover foundational gospel principles, including:
* **The Restoration of the Gospel:** This introduces the Prophet Joseph Smith and the events surrounding the restoration of the Church.
* **The Plan of Salvation:** This explains God’s plan for our happiness, including pre-mortal life, mortal life, and eternal life.
* **Jesus Christ and the Atonement:** This emphasizes the central role of Jesus Christ and His sacrifice in our salvation.
* **The Book of Mormon:** This introduces the Book of Mormon as another testament of Jesus Christ and discusses its purpose.
* **Living the Gospel:** This covers principles such as prayer, scripture study, keeping the commandments, and following the teachings of living prophets.
* **Asking Questions and Seeking Understanding:** Don’t hesitate to ask questions during these discussions. The missionaries are there to help you understand the gospel and to answer any concerns you may have. Be honest about your doubts and seek clarification on anything you find confusing. Remember that personal revelation is a key part of the learning process. Pray for guidance and ask God to confirm the truthfulness of what you are learning.
* **Attending Church Regularly:** Attending Sunday services is an essential part of the learning process. You’ll have the opportunity to hear inspiring messages, participate in the sacrament (communion), and fellowship with members of the congregation. Observe the way members interact and participate in the service. Notice the spirit of reverence and the genuine love that is shared.
**3. Living the Principles: Applying the Gospel in Your Life**
* **Keeping the Commandments:** As you learn about the gospel, you’ll be encouraged to start living its principles. This includes keeping the commandments of God, such as:
* **Praying Regularly:** Communicating with God through prayer is essential for spiritual growth. Pray for guidance, strength, and understanding.
* **Studying the Scriptures:** Reading the Bible and the Book of Mormon will deepen your understanding of the gospel and strengthen your testimony.
* **Attending Church Meetings:** Regular attendance at Sunday services and other Church activities will help you feel the Spirit and strengthen your faith.
* **Honoring the Sabbath Day:** Setting aside the Sabbath Day as a day of rest and worship is a commandment with a promise.
* **Following the Word of Wisdom:** This is a health code that encourages members to abstain from alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs. It also encourages moderation in all things.
* **Paying Tithing:** Tithing is the principle of donating one-tenth of your income to the Church. These funds are used to build temples and meetinghouses, support missionary work, and provide humanitarian aid.
* **Living a Moral Life:** Maintaining high moral standards is essential for spiritual well-being. This includes being honest in all your dealings, treating others with respect, and avoiding pornography.
* **Service:** Look for opportunities to serve others. Service is a way to show love and compassion and to follow the example of Jesus Christ. Participate in service projects organized by the Church or find other ways to help those in need in your community.
* **Developing a Personal Testimony:** A testimony is a spiritual witness of the truthfulness of the gospel. It comes through prayer, scripture study, and living the principles of the gospel. Seek to develop your own personal testimony through sincere effort and faith.
**4. Preparing for Baptism:**
* **Meeting with the Missionaries and Bishop:** Before you can be baptized, you’ll need to meet with the missionaries and the bishop (the leader of the local congregation). They will ask you about your understanding of the gospel, your commitment to living its principles, and your desire to join the Church.
* **Answering Questions:** Be prepared to answer questions honestly and sincerely. The bishop and missionaries want to ensure that you understand the commitment you are making and that you are prepared to live as a member of the Church.
* **Repentance:** Repentance is a key part of preparing for baptism. It involves acknowledging your sins, feeling sorrow for them, and forsaking them. Through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, we can be forgiven of our sins and become clean before God. The Bishop will help guide you through this process if needed.
* **Understanding the Covenants:** Baptism is a sacred covenant, or promise, between you and God. By being baptized, you promise to take upon yourself the name of Jesus Christ, keep His commandments, and serve Him. God, in turn, promises to forgive your sins and give you the gift of the Holy Ghost.
**5. Baptism by Immersion:**
* **The Ordinance:** Baptism is performed by immersion in water by someone who holds the proper priesthood authority. Immersion symbolizes the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and the cleansing of sin.
* **The Ceremony:** The baptism ceremony is typically a simple and reverent occasion. It usually takes place in a meetinghouse or at a designated baptismal font. Family and friends are often invited to attend.
* **The Baptizer’s Words:** The person performing the baptism will say your full name and then recite the following words: “Having been commissioned of Jesus Christ, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.”
**6. Confirmation and Receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost:**
* **The Laying on of Hands:** Following baptism, you will be confirmed a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This ordinance is performed by one or more priesthood holders laying their hands on your head and conferring upon you the gift of the Holy Ghost.
* **The Gift of the Holy Ghost:** The Holy Ghost is the third member of the Godhead. He is a comforter, a guide, and a revelator. He can help you to understand the gospel, feel the love of God, and discern truth from error. This is a constant companion, when we live worthy.
* **Living Worthy of the Holy Ghost:** To retain the companionship of the Holy Ghost, you must continue to live the principles of the gospel, keep the commandments, and pray regularly.
**7. Continued Growth and Service:**
* **Becoming Active in the Ward (Congregation):** After you are baptized and confirmed, you’ll become a member of a local ward. Get to know the other members and participate in ward activities.
* **Receiving a Calling:** You may be asked to serve in a calling within the ward. A calling is a responsibility to serve in a specific area, such as teaching a class, helping with youth activities, or visiting other members.
* **Attending the Temple:** The temple is a sacred place where Latter-day Saints make covenants with God. As you continue to live the gospel, you’ll be able to qualify to receive a temple recommend and attend the temple.
* **Lifelong Learning and Growth:** Joining the Church is just the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning and growth. Continue to study the scriptures, pray, serve others, and strive to become more like Jesus Christ.
## Addressing Common Questions and Concerns
Many people have questions and concerns when considering joining The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Here are some common questions and their answers:
* **Is the Church cult?** The Church is not a cult. Cults typically exert undue control over their members, isolate them from outside influences, and demand unquestioning obedience. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints encourages independent thought, emphasizes the importance of family and community involvement, and allows members to leave the Church at any time.
* **What about polygamy?** Polygamy was practiced by some early members of the Church, but it was officially discontinued in 1890. The Church does not practice or endorse polygamy today.
* **What is the Church’s stance on LGBT issues?** The Church believes that marriage is between a man and a woman. However, the Church also teaches that all people are children of God and should be treated with love and respect, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. The Church acknowledges the complexities of these issues and encourages open and respectful dialogue.
* **Do I have to give up all my friends and family who are not members?** No, you are not required to give up your friends and family who are not members of the Church. The Church encourages members to maintain positive relationships with their loved ones, regardless of their religious beliefs. In fact, your example of living the gospel may even inspire them to learn more about the Church.
* **What if I don’t agree with everything the Church teaches?** It’s okay to have questions and doubts. Faith is a journey, and it’s normal to struggle with certain aspects of religious belief. Be honest about your concerns and seek answers through prayer, scripture study, and discussion with trusted leaders and members.
## Resources for Further Learning
* **ChurchofJesusChrist.org:** The official website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the best source of information about the Church’s beliefs, programs, and activities.
* **ComeUntoChrist.org:** This website provides resources for those who are seeking to learn more about Jesus Christ and His gospel.
* **The Book of Mormon:** You can read the Book of Mormon online or request a free copy from the Church.
* **The Bible:** The Church believes in the Bible as the word of God and encourages its members to study it.
* **General Conference Talks:** The Church holds General Conference twice a year, in April and October. The talks given by Church leaders provide guidance and inspiration.
* **Your Local Meetinghouse:** Visiting a local meetinghouse is a great way to experience the Church firsthand and meet members of the congregation.
## Conclusion: A Journey of Faith and Growth
Joining The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a significant decision that should be made prayerfully and thoughtfully. It’s a journey of faith, learning, and growth. As you learn about the Church’s teachings, attend services, and develop relationships with missionaries and members, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the gospel and the blessings that come from following Jesus Christ. If you feel a prompting from the Holy Ghost to be baptized, embrace that feeling and take the next step on your path to eternal life. The Church welcomes all who sincerely seek to follow Jesus Christ and live according to His teachings. Remember, the process is about more than just joining an organization; it’s about making a covenant with God and embarking on a lifelong journey of discipleship.