Mormon myths

Common LDS Myths

Numerous myths have been circulated about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and some are just out and out bizarre. Here, some of the more common myths about the LDS Church will be addressed.

• Myth: None of the Church of Jesus Christ’s ministry is paid.

Answer: This is actually not true. The General Authorities are offered a living allowance because they provide full-time service. However, those who serve at a local level, such as Bishops and Stake Presidents, are not paid.

• Myth: The Mormon Church is a correct title.

Answer: This myth is as untrue as they come. The proper name for the Church is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and has been the official name of the Church since 1838. The Church actually discourages the use of the term “the Mormon Church.” While referring to a member of the Church as a Mormon is generally acceptable, most members prefer to be called or “Latter-day Saints” or "LDS."

• Myth: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is not a Christian church.

Answer: When one knows the name of the Church, it is hard to believe that they would think this myth is true. The entire focus of the Church is centered around Jesus Christ, the Atonement, and the resurrection.

• Myth: Latter-day Saints practice polygamy.

Answer: Absolutely not. The practice has been banned from the Church since 1890. Any member found practicing polygamy will be excommunicated from the Church.

• Myth: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are racist.

Answer: This is absolutely not true. In 1978, President Spencer W. Kimball stated that every “faithful, worthy man in the Church may receive the holy priesthood.” Before this time, most blacks (and even some whites) were not able to receive the priesthood, but the Church’s position toward all races has always been to embrace them. They treated Native Americans with respect at a time when they were considered sub-human, and founding prophet Joseph Smith, Jr., actually ran for President of the United States on an anti-slavery platform. Members of the Church come from all over the world, and no one is denied access to the blessings of the Church because of their race.