If you’ve ever wondered about the main practices of Mormons, then this article is for you! In this fascinating read, we’ll explore the central elements that define the faith and daily lives of Mormons. From their devotion to prayer and scripture study to their commitment to family and community, you’ll gain insight into the core practices that make Mormonism a unique and vibrant religion. So, fasten your seatbelts and prepare to embark on a journey into the world of Mormon main practices!
Worship Services
Sacrament Meeting
In the Mormon faith, Sacrament Meeting is a weekly worship service that is considered the most important meeting of the week. It is typically held on Sundays and is open to all members of the Church. During Sacrament Meeting, members gather to partake of the sacrament, which represents the body and blood of Jesus Christ. It is a time for reflection, renewal, and rededication to the principles of the Gospel. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifice made by Jesus Christ and provides an opportunity for members to renew their commitment to follow His teachings.
Sunday School
Sunday School is another integral part of Mormon worship services. It is a time for members to come together and study the scriptures in a classroom setting. The curriculum includes lessons from the Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price. Sunday School provides a forum for discussion, learning, and application of the principles taught in the scriptures. It helps members deepen their understanding of the gospel and strengthen their relationship with God.
Priesthood and Relief Society Meetings
Priesthood and Relief Society Meetings are separate gatherings for men and women, respectively. These meetings provide an opportunity for members to receive instruction, discuss important topics, and strengthen their faith. The priesthood is the authority and power given to men to act in God’s name, while the Relief Society is the largest women’s organization in the world. In these meetings, members learn about the principles of leadership, service, and discipleship. They also receive guidance on how to fulfill their roles in the family and the community. These meetings serve to empower individuals and nurture their spiritual growth.
Temple Attendance
Endowment Ceremonies
Temple attendance is a unique aspect of the Mormon faith. Temples are considered sacred places where individuals can make covenants with God and receive blessings for themselves and their families. The endowment ceremony is a sacred and symbolic ritual that represents the journey of life, death, and resurrection. It involves receiving instructions and participating in ordinances that are meant to help individuals draw closer to God and gain a greater understanding of their divine identity and purpose.
Sealings
Sealings are another important aspect of temple worship. They are ceremonies that unite couples and families for eternity. In a sealing ceremony, a man and woman are married and sealed together for time and all eternity, rather than until death. This belief in eternal families is a central tenet of the Mormon faith. Sealings not only unite individuals in mortality but also ensure their eternal bond in the afterlife. It is a source of great joy and comfort for Mormons to know that their relationships can continue beyond this earthly existence.
Baptisms for the Dead
Mormons believe in the importance of baptisms for the dead, which is a practice based on the belief that individuals who have died can still accept the gospel and receive the blessings of baptism. In the Mormon faith, members are baptized by proxy on behalf of their deceased ancestors, thus giving them the opportunity to accept or reject baptism in the spirit world. This sacred ordinance allows Mormons to perform the necessary ceremonies on behalf of their ancestors and ensure that they have the opportunity to progress in the eternities.
Family Home Evening
Family Home Evening is a weekly gathering of the family in a Mormon household. It is a time set aside for spiritual instruction, family bonding, and wholesome recreational activities. During Family Home Evening, family members come together to pray, read scriptures, share their testimonies, and engage in meaningful discussions. It provides a dedicated time for parents to teach their children about values, morals, and the principles of the Gospel. Family Home Evening strengthens family relationships and fosters unity, love, and spiritual growth within the home.
Studying Scriptures
The Bible
In the Mormon faith, the Bible is considered to be a sacred scripture and is highly valued as the word of God. Mormons study the Bible to gain a deeper understanding of the teachings of Jesus Christ and His prophets. The Bible is believed to contain the fulness of the gospel, along with the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price. Mormons rely on the Bible for guidance, inspiration, and answers to life’s questions. It is a cherished source of spiritual nourishment and a guidebook for righteous living.
The Book of Mormon
The Book of Mormon is another important scripture in the Mormon faith. It is viewed as a companion to the Bible and is considered to be another testament of Jesus Christ. The Book of Mormon tells the story of ancient American civilizations and contains teachings and prophecies of prophets who lived in the Americas. Mormons study the Book of Mormon to gain knowledge, seek guidance, and strengthen their faith in Jesus Christ. It is believed to contain the fulness of the everlasting gospel and provides additional insights into God’s plan for His children.
Doctrine and Covenants
The Doctrine and Covenants is a collection of modern revelations received by prophets in the Mormon Church. It contains instructions, commandments, and guidance given specifically to the Church in these latter days. Mormons study the Doctrine and Covenants to understand God’s will for His Church and to receive personal guidance and counsel. It provides principles and guidelines for righteous living, leadership in the Church, and the administration of the ordinances. The Doctrine and Covenants is considered to be a living document that continues to guide and inspire the Church today.
Pearl of Great Price
The Pearl of Great Price is another collection of scriptural texts in the Mormon faith. It contains the Book of Moses, the Book of Abraham, Joseph Smith’s inspired translation of the Bible, and various other revelations. Mormons study the Pearl of Great Price to gain insights into the early history of the Church, the teachings of ancient prophets, and the role of Joseph Smith as a prophet and translator. It provides additional knowledge and understanding of God’s plan for His children and the restoration of the gospel in these latter days.
Prayer
Personal Prayer
Prayer is a fundamental practice in the Mormon faith. Mormons believe in the power of prayer to communicate with God, express gratitude, seek guidance, and receive comfort. Personal prayer is an individual’s opportunity to have a direct conversation with Heavenly Father. It can be done at any time and in any place. Mormons are encouraged to have a personal relationship with God through prayer, and they believe that sincere and heartfelt prayers are always heard and answered by a loving Heavenly Father.
Family Prayer
Family prayer is another essential practice in the Mormon faith. It is a time set aside for family members to come together, kneel in prayer, and communicate with God as a family unit. Family prayers are typically held at the beginning and end of each day, and sometimes before meals. It allows family members to express their love, concerns, and thanks to God and seek His blessings and guidance as a united family. Family prayer strengthens family bonds, fosters unity, and invites the spirit of peace and love into the home.
Congregational Prayer
In addition to personal and family prayer, Mormons also participate in congregational prayers during worship services. This type of prayer is led by designated individuals and is offered on behalf of the entire congregation. Congregational prayer is a collective effort to seek blessings, guidance, and spiritual strength for the entire community of worshippers. It serves as a unifying force and a reminder of the common purpose and dedication shared by all members of the congregation.
Fasting
Monthly Fast
Fasting is a spiritual practice observed by Mormons on the first Sunday of every month. During this time, Mormons voluntarily abstain from food and drink for a designated period of time. The purpose of fasting is to draw closer to God, develop self-discipline, and seek His guidance and blessings. Mormons use the money saved from meals to donate to those in need, providing assistance to the poor and less fortunate. Fasting is considered a powerful way to demonstrate faith, humility, and generosity, and it is believed to invite spiritual growth and increased personal revelation.
Fast and Testimony Meeting
Fast and Testimony Meeting is a special worship service held on the first Sunday of every month. During this meeting, members have the opportunity to share their testimonies of Jesus Christ and the restored gospel. It is a time for individuals to express their love for God, share personal experiences, and witness to the truths they have come to know. Testimonies are often accompanied by expressions of gratitude and thanks to God for His blessings. Fast and Testimony Meeting provides a space for members to strengthen their faith, uplift and inspire one another, and feel connected as a united congregation.
Missionary Work
Proselyting
Missionary work is a core practice of the Mormon faith. Young Mormon men, and sometimes young women, are encouraged to serve as full-time missionaries for a period of 18-24 months. During their mission, these missionaries dedicate themselves to sharing the message of Jesus Christ and the restored gospel with individuals and communities around the world. They engage in proselyting activities, including teaching lessons, answering questions, and extending invitations to learn more about the Mormon faith. Proselyting is an opportunity for missionaries to share their love for God and their desire to help others find joy, peace, and purpose in life.
Service
Service is an integral part of missionary work in the Mormon faith. Missionaries are not only dedicated to teaching and sharing the gospel but also to serving the communities in which they are assigned. They engage in various service projects, including assisting with humanitarian efforts, performing acts of kindness, and providing support to those in need. Service is seen as a way to follow the example of Jesus Christ, who spent His life serving others. By offering their time, talents, and resources, missionaries hope to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals and contribute to the betterment of society.
Genealogy and Family History
Researching Ancestors
Genealogy and family history play an important role in the Mormon faith. Mormons believe in the importance of knowing and understanding their family heritage and connecting with their ancestors. They engage in genealogical research to discover their family lineage, document their family history, and learn about their roots. Researching ancestors allows Mormons to develop a deep sense of identity, strengthen bonds with their past, and ensure that their ancestors have the opportunity to receive necessary temple ordinances.
Temple Ordinances for Ancestors
Mormons believe in the importance of performing temple ordinances for their deceased ancestors. These ordinances include baptisms, endowments, and sealings, which are performed by proxy in sacred temples. Through these ordinances, Mormons believe that their ancestors have the opportunity to accept or reject the gospel in the spirit world and progress in the eternities. By performing these ordinances on behalf of their ancestors, Mormons ensure that their familial bonds can extend beyond mortality and be sealed for eternity. It is a sacred and deeply meaningful practice that brings peace, joy, and a sense of eternal connection to families.
Word of Wisdom
Abstinence from Alcohol, Tobacco, Coffee, and Tea
The Word of Wisdom is a health code outlined in the scriptures of the Mormon faith. It encourages Mormons to abstain from the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, coffee, and tea. Mormons believe that adhering to the Word of Wisdom promotes physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. By avoiding harmful substances, Mormons strive to maintain a healthy lifestyle and create a sacred space within their bodies, which are considered temples. This practice is seen as a way to show respect for the body and ensure spiritual clarity and guidance.
Healthy Living
In addition to abstaining from harmful substances, Mormons also emphasize the importance of healthy living. Mormons are encouraged to eat nutritious food, exercise regularly, get enough rest, and take care of their bodies. Healthy living is believed to promote physical and mental well-being, which in turn enhances spirituality and allows individuals to better fulfill their roles and responsibilities. Mormons strive to live balanced lives, recognizing the connection between physical health and their ability to serve God and others.
Tithing and Financial Contributions
Tithing and financial contributions are foundational practices in the Mormon faith. Mormons are encouraged to give one-tenth of their income to the Church as a way to support its worldwide mission and operations. Tithing is viewed as a sacred obligation and a means of expressing gratitude for God’s blessings. In addition to tithing, Mormons also contribute to fast offerings, which are funds used for humanitarian purposes and to assist those in need. Through financial contributions, Mormons actively participate in the work of the Church and demonstrate their commitment to building the kingdom of God on earth.
In conclusion, Mormon main practices revolve around worship services, temple attendance, studying scriptures, prayer, fasting, missionary work, genealogy and family history, the Word of Wisdom, and tithing. These practices are centered on developing a personal relationship with God, seeking spiritual guidance, strengthening family bonds, and serving others. Mormons strive to live their lives in accordance with the principles and teachings of Jesus Christ, with an emphasis on love, faith, and obedience to God’s commandments. Through these practices, they seek to find joy, fulfillment, and eternal progression in this life and in the eternities to come.