University of Bahrain Essays - Latter Day Saint Movement

University of Bahrain Department of English Language Year: 2016- 2017 The Mormons Research Paper 57150033020 Taqeya Ali Saleh 20122062 Dr. Youssef Jamal Course: American Multiculturalism 411 Taqeya Ali Saleh 20122062 Dr. Youssef Jamal Course: American Multiculturalism 411 The Content The Introduction . Page (3 - 4) The Body .. Page (5 - 7) The Conclusion . Page (8 - 9) References ... Page (10) Introduction Mormons have always had a peculiar hold on the American imagination, but few know who the Mormons actually are or who they claim to be, and their story is one of the great neglected American narratives. Mormonism is a way of life that is practiced by members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Over two-thirds of the church's membership is in the United States. However, members are also located in many other countries around the world. Mormons use the Bible, the Book of Mormon, and two other books or revelations to Joseph Smith, founder of the church. These other two revelations are the Doctrine and Covenants and the Pearl of Great Price. The Mormon organization consists of a three member First Presidency and a twelve man Council of Apostles who make up the major policy-making body of the church. Mormonism's founding doctrine was based on the assumption that Christianity was corrupt and that it was necessary to restore the "true" Christian gospel. The Mormon Church sees only itself as recognized by God. Joseph Smith founded the church in New York in 1830. He said that he had visions of God and other heavenly beings that told him to establish the restored Christian Church. He was "directed" to some thin metal plates that he translated into what is now called the book of Mormons. This book describes the history, wars, and religious beliefs of a group of people who migrated from Jerusalem to America. Smith attracted a small group of followers who settled in Kirtland, Ohio, and Jackson County, Missouri. Because of persecution, the church moved to northern Missouri, then to Nauvoo, Illinois. The people of Illinois welcomed the persecuted Mormons, and Smith began to construct a temple and a hotel there. In 1843, Smith secretly instituted the practice of plural marriage among a group of his followers. This could be because he himself had 50 wives. The Mormons lived in relative peace until 1844 when a group became mad about Smith's practices. They started a newspaper called the "Nauvoo Expositor" and attacked him, accusing him of practicing polygamy. Smith denied this charge but was killed anyway. Brigham Young took over as their new leader. In 1852, polygamy was officially announced at the Mormon conference. The Body The Mormon Church Is a conservative religion focused on family values and strong participation in community service. It is an unspoken rule that all men must complete a mission during which time there sent around the world for two years to proselytize and convert others to the Mormon faith. These young boys are taken from their church and the members claim that their faith in the word and the messages received by Joseph Smith is so strong that they are willing to put their faith in the hands of young boys. While an interesting joke, church does have significantly more text than most Christian faiths. In addition to the Old Testament and the New Testament members of the Mormon Church add to their scriptures the book of Mormon, the pearl of great price, and doctrine and covenants. It is said that these additional scriptures were founded by Joseph Smith at the direction of an angel, uncovered and translated in spite of his ignorance and Illiteracy were translated after which they w ere taken back up to heaven. Mormons believe that God has a clear plan for each of us. This plan is thought to have begun before we came to earth, and which will continue after this life. Those beliefs are written in thirteen clear declarations known as: "The Articles of Faith". Many religions have a written creed that clearly establishes beliefs and practices for that religion. The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints does not have such a strict creed as a code of faith; rather they recognize the