So you're wondering what do Mormons believe? Maybe you met some missionaries in white shirts, saw the "Book of Mormon" musical, or just scrolled past a temple picture. Honestly, I used to mix them up with Jehovah's Witnesses until I spent a weekend in Salt Lake City. Let me walk you through what I've learned – not from a pulpit, but from actual conversations and digging into their official sources.

The Core Stuff: Foundation of Mormon Beliefs

First off, "Mormon" is a nickname. They prefer "Latter-day Saints" or "LDS," but hey, everyone says Mormon. At its heart, it's about Jesus Christ – yes, they consider themselves Christians, though some other churches dispute that. The big difference? They believe Christianity went off track after the apostles died and needed a full restoration.

That restoration started with Joseph Smith in 1820. According to their history, 14-year-old Joseph prayed in the woods asking which church to join. He claimed God and Jesus appeared, telling him none were fully correct. Years later, he translated golden plates into the Book of Mormon. This book is crucial – they call it "Another Testament of Jesus Christ."

Here's a snapshot of their core doctrines:

I remember chatting with a seminary student in Provo who described the Plan of Salvation like a college degree: "Earth is just one semester." Interesting perspective, though I'm not sold on the pre-mortal existence part. Still, it shows how deeply this shapes their worldview.

Scriptures Beyond the Bible

When asking what do Mormons believe, their scriptures are key. They use four main texts:

• The Bible ("as far as it is translated correctly")
• Book of Mormon (their signature text covering ancient Americans)
• Doctrine and Covenants (modern revelations mostly to Joseph Smith)
• Pearl of Great Price (includes Abraham's writings)

A missionary once handed me a Book of Mormon at a train station. It reads like biblical epic – wars, prophets, resurrected Jesus visiting the Americas. Critics point out archaeological issues, but believers call it "the most correct book." Personally, I find its origin story fascinating regardless of your take.

Daily Life: How Beliefs Shape Mormon Actions

Ever noticed Mormons don't drink coffee? That's just the tip of the iceberg. Their "Word of Wisdom" health code forbids:

• Alcohol, tobacco, coffee, tea (even iced tea!)
• Illegal drugs (obviously)
• Vaping or recreational marijuana

But it's not just don'ts. They emphasize wholesome living – grains, vegetables, and moderate meat. I tried a Mormon potluck once; best jello salads ever but zero coffee. Tough for my Seattle blood!

Sunday Services and Beyond

Expect three hours of church on Sundays! Services include:

• Sacrament meeting (communion with bread/water)
• Sunday School scripture classes
• Gender-separate meetings (Relief Society for women, Priesthood for men)

No paid clergy means members rotate teaching. I attended a class where a 17-year-old taught about forgiveness – surprisingly profound. But three hours? My attention span struggled.

Controversies and Misunderstandings

Let's address the polygamy question head-on: mainstream Mormons haven't practiced it since 1890. The breakaway FLDS groups you see on TV? Not them. Still, it's part of their history – Joseph Smith had multiple wives, which even some faithful members struggle with today.

Another hot topic: LGBTQ+ policies. The church opposes same-sex marriage and considers homosexual acts sinful, though recently softened language on same-sex attraction. Frankly, this is where I disagree most. Their 2015 policy banning children of gay couples from baptism caused massive outcry and was later reversed.

When exploring what do Mormons believe about race, it's complicated. Until 1978, Black men couldn't hold priesthood. Leaders now disavow past racist theories, but the legacy stings. A Black member in my book club said: "We focus on present doctrine." Still, it's a wound.

Temples vs. Churches: What's the Difference?

This confuses everyone. Regular churches (steepled buildings) are for Sunday worship. Anyone can enter. Temples (spired granite structures) are for sacred ordinances – marriage, baptism for dead ancestors, etc. Only members with a "temple recommend" (ecclesiastic approval) can enter.

• Typical Temple Locations: Suburban areas with large LDS populations (e.g., Mesa AZ, Idaho Falls, non-Utah hubs like San Diego)
• Open House Period: After construction, temples open to public for 2-4 weeks before dedication
• What Happens Inside: Baptismal fonts on oxen statues, sealing rooms for marriages, instruction rooms with symbolic murals

I attended a D.C. temple open house. The interior feels serene but ritualistic – very different from their cheerful chapels. No cameras allowed, obviously.

Mormon Beliefs About Salvation and the Afterlife

Forget just heaven and hell. Their afterlife has three "degrees of glory":

1. Celestial Kingdom (highest): For faithful Mormons sealed in temples; live with God
2. Terrestrial Kingdom (middle): For good people who rejected Mormonism
3. Telestial Kingdom (lowest): For sinners – still nicer than traditional hell

Baptism is essential for the Celestial Kingdom. But what about people who never heard the gospel? That's where proxy baptism comes in. Mormons baptize deceased ancestors by proxy in temples. Genealogy obsession makes sense now, right? My Mormon friend spends Sundays indexing records from 1800s Norway. "Everyone deserves the chance," he says.

Catch: Only those accepting the baptism in the spirit world benefit. So no, your Jewish grandma isn't forcibly converted.

Frequently Asked Questions: What Do Mormons Believe About...

Q: Are Mormons Christian?

A: Yes, but with caveats. They worship Jesus Christ as Savior, but their view of the Trinity differs from mainstream Christianity. Nicene Creed Christians often dispute their claim.

Q: Do Mormons use crosses?

A: No. They focus on Christ's resurrection, not crucifixion. You won't see crosses on buildings – a visual clue when spotting LDS chapels.

Q: Why do missionaries pay to serve?

A: Missions cost about $400/month per missionary. It's seen as sacrificial service. Some save from childhood; others get family help. No salary – just living expenses.

Q: Can non-Mormons attend weddings?

A: Only if sealed in a temple – and you need a recommend to enter. Many couples do a ring ceremony outside for non-member friends. Tough for non-member family.

Q: What do Mormons believe about abortion?

A: Opposed except in rare cases (rape, incest, mother's health). Even then, leaders encourage consulting local bishops.

Q: How do they view other religions?

A: They respect truth in all faiths but believe only their church has full authority. Missionaries teach that all churches contain "good parts."

Personal Takeaways After Years of Research

Studying what do Mormons believe revealed surprises. Their emphasis on family is genuine – weekly home evenings, avoidance of Sunday work to prioritize family. But some policies feel exclusionary, like the temple ban for non-recommend holders.

The modern church is evolving. Recent changes: Shorter Sunday meetings (down from 3 hours!), allowing women as youth witnesses, relaxed dress codes for missionaries. Shows adaptability, though LGBTQ+ issues remain contentious.

Would I convert? Probably not. The historical issues and exclusivity doctrine give me pause. But I respect their commitment. Whether you're spiritually curious or just want to understand your neighbors, grasping what Mormons believe helps navigate an increasingly pluralistic world. And hey, next time missionaries knock? Offer them water – they can't drink coffee, but they'll appreciate the gesture.