Jesus Christ is central to the beliefs and lives of members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Describing the character of members of this faith Newsweek magazine wrote: “No matter where [Latter-day Saints] live, they find themselves part of a network of mutual concern; in [Latter-day Saint] theology everyone is a minister of a kind, everyone is empowered in some way to do good to others, and to have good done unto them: it is a 21st-century covenant of caring” (Elise Soukup, “The Mormon Odyssey,” Newsweek, Oct. 16, 2005). This caring is not limited to Church members alone but extends far beyond.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has more than 17 million adherents worldwide.
The founder of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Joseph Smith, wrote, “The fundamental principles of our religion are … concerning Jesus Christ, that He died, was buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended into heaven; and all other things which pertain to our religion are only appendages to it” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith [2007], 49).
In addition to the above, members of the church believe unequivocally that:
- Jesus Christ is the Saviour of the world and the Son of our loving Heavenly Father.
- Christ’s Atonement allows humankind to be saved from their sins and return to live with God and their families forever.
- Christ’s original Church as described in the New Testament has been restored in modern times.
The Church reveres the Bible as the word of God, a sacred volume of scripture. Members of the faith cherish its teachings and engage in a lifelong study of its divine wisdom. Moreover, during worship services the Bible is pondered and discussed. Members are encouraged to include the Bible in their family and personal daily scripture study. Additional books of scripture — including the Book of Mormon — strengthen and reinforce God’s teachings through additional witnesses, and they provide moving accounts of the personal experiences many individuals had with Jesus Christ. According to Church apostle M. Russell Ballard, “The Book of Mormon does not dilute nor diminish nor de-emphasize the Bible. On the contrary, it expands, extends, and exalts it” (“The Miracle of the Holy Bible,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2007, 82).
Temples existed throughout biblical times. These buildings were considered the house of the Lord (see 2 Chronicles 2:1–5). Temples are likewise considered houses of the Lord by Church members.
Temples are sacred buildings in which they are taught about the central role of Christ in God’s plan of salvation and their personal relationship with God.
In temples, members of the Church make covenants, or promises, with God to live a virtuous and faithful life. They also participate in ordinances on behalf of their deceased ancestors.
Temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are also used to perform marriage ceremonies in which the faithful are promised eternal life with their families. For members of the Church, family is of central importance.