Despite differing in many respects now from its earlier teachings and practices, the LDS Church still has much in common with fundamentalist Mormons (which is founded in early Mormonism).

Both groups share a belief in the same set of scriptures - the Bible, the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price.

They revere many of the same prophets, including Joseph Smith, Brigham Young and John Taylor. They accept their teachings notwithstanding the LDS Church’s later denunciation of many of those teachings. They both believe in the necessity of Priesthood authority.

Fundamentalist Mormons are not one homogeneous group, but are comprised of many smaller groups, or independents who are not affiliated with any group (or church). These groups/independents have their own beliefs/practices which differ from each other, similar to the various Christian denominations (i.e. Catholic, Baptist, Protestant, Episcopalian, Protestant, Lutheran) that all consider themselves “Christian”. For further explanation, refer to our page explaining the different groups:

Diversity of fundamentalist Mormons

Fundamentalist Mormons

*They can be found in every level of society and in almost all communities. They include doctors, dentists, teachers, lawyers, accountants, nurses, secretaries and college professors.

* Many celebrate public holidays, serve in their respective military services and actively interact with and respect those of other beliefs and faiths.

* Many wear regular modern clothing and have contemporary hairstyles, while others wear distinctive clothing (just as do other religious groups such as the Hutterites or Amish). In either case, most fundamentalist Mormons adhere to high standards of modesty.

Family

* Fundamentalist Mormonism teaches that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God, and that a man’s having more than one such marriage is ordained of God.

* The majority of fundamentalist Mormons do not believe in arranged marriages, and those groups who do recommend possible spouses to their members still ultimately leave the decision to the individual. The decision of whom to marry is an individual choice.

* Men and women are co-equal in their relationship. There are, however, divine patriarchal and matriarchal roles as emphasized in the standard works of scripture.

* Child and spousal abuse are seen as serious sins, and are not tolerated by the doctrines of fundamentalist Mormonism or amongst the majority of those who consider themselves fundamentalist Mormons.

Polygamy

* Contrary to the assertions of the LDS Church, one can be a polygamist and a Mormon. Joseph Smith, the first president of the Church was a polygamist and arguably the first ‘Mormon’, as were his successors, Brigham Young, John Taylor, and the next three successive Church presidents. Joseph Smith taught that, if a Hindu or Muslim converted to Mormonism, he would be welcome, along with his wives. Sadly, the LDS Church now excludes such families from fellowship and the saving ordinances of God.

* The standard doctrine of the Church has evolved into monogamy, and yet the Church still embraces polygamy for the after-life. LDS men can be sealed to more than one woman in the temple, with the expectation that they will have multiple wives after this life. In fact, some of the current LDS general authorities have been sealed to multiple women (Apostle Dallin Oaks among them).

* Fundamentalist Mormons practice polygamy today in much the same way Mormons practiced polygamy in 19th-century Utah. Women still choose whom they wish to marry, when to marry or not, and are entirely free to leave. The majority of fundamentalist Mormons are actually not living polygamously at all (hence, they are not polygamists), and most who do practice polygamy have only two wives.

Education

* Fundamentalist Mormonism teaches that adherents should seek out both spiritual and secular knowledge. However, spiritual knowledge is considered of greater value.

* Fundamentalist Mormons take full part in public and private education, both at the school and university level. Some fundamentalist Mormons also home-school their children (as do some LDS Church members) to ensure a high level of education is imparted and that good values are taught.

* Fundamentalist Mormon communities own and/or operate private schools, charter schools and colleges. Some of these are notable for their academic achievements.

* Many fundamentalist Mormon groups offer scholarships and assistance where possible to students.

Church Government

* Historically there is a great deal of affiliation between members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) and fundamentalist Mormons. The majority of Fundamentalist Mormons trace their ancestors to Mormon pioneers.

* Some fundamentalist Mormon groups are governed by a lay clergy at the congregational level.

* Fundamentalist Mormon groups have governing councils which seek inspiration from God to serve their fellow members.

* Several Fundamentalist Mormon groups have women’s organizations and youth groups.

Community Involvement

* Fundamentalist Mormons living in the United Stated believe in the Constitution and Bill of Rights, and endeavor to uphold its ideals and protections.

* Fundamentalist Mormons may exercise their personal convictions independent of a group, or work together in groups, to promote industry and morality, and they advocate civil rights.

* Fundamentalist Mormons have run for various political offices, and have served as mayors, city councilors, judges, firemen and police officers.

Service

* Fundamentalist Mormons believe in being good Samaritans and in helping those in need.

* Many fundamentalist Mormons have volunteered their assistance, resources and skills in times of disaster.

* Fundamentalist Mormons have also made monetary and other donations to a variety of non-profit organizations (worldwide), charities and other good causes, for the relief of suffering of God’s children around the world.

We regret that others would - in an attempt to try and distance themselves from fundamentalist Mormons - promote misconceptions about them.

We acknowledge the good the LDS Church does. Its members remain our fellow Mormons, and we their brothers and sisters in the Gospel.