Understanding the Records Kept by Members of the Latter-day Saints

The term 'Mormons' is a historical reference that has fallen out of favor among members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which is officially known as the Latter-day Saints (LDS). It's important to use the correct terminology when discussing this faith community to show respect for their beliefs and practices.

Records Kept by Latter-day Saints

Latter-day Saints maintain detailed records of various aspects of their religious lives. These records are kept for personal reference, family history purposes, and are sometimes used for mission-related tasks. Users may include personal financial records, such as payments made and bills owed, but these are not specific to religious activities. For religious and church-related activities, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints keeps comprehensive records that include:

Baptisms and Ordinations

Every Latter-day Saint is baptized as a symbol of their faith and commitment. The Church records these baptisms meticulously, ensuring that they are documented for each individual member. Ordinations, such as priesthood ordinations, are also recorded, as they are essential in the hierarchical structure of the Church.

Temple Ordinances and Endowments

Members have the opportunity to partake in temple ordinances and receive endowments, which are sacred rituals performed in Temple Emacs. These records are kept securely and are only accessible to those who have the proper authority and permissions. They are considered private and confidential.

Callings and Service

Members of the Church hold various callings and responsibilities. These callings can include serving as a bishop, teacher, or in youth leadership positions. The Church records these callings to ensure clear communication and management of responsibilities. Official documents and records are kept for these positions to facilitate organization and coordination within the congregation.

Genealogical Records

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is renowned for its genealogical research and preservation of historical records. Genealogical records are stored in the heavily guarded Granite Mountain Records Vault. These records are not limited to living members but extend to deceased ancestors, as the Church believes in honoring and connecting with family members who have passed.

Privacy and Confidentiality

While the Church maintains a vast array of records for its members, strict privacy and confidentiality guidelines are in place to protect personal information. Only authorized individuals, such as church leaders and family members with a direct connection, can access these records. This ensures that sensitive information remains secure and is used solely for appropriate and authorized purposes.

Why the Change from 'Mormons'?

The term 'Mormons' is no longer widely used by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The term has historical origins but is not preferred by many within the faith community. Instead, members prefer to be called 'Latter-day Saints.' This change reflects a desire to align the Church's public image with its official name and to avoid any negative connotations that the term 'Mormon' may carry. The Church has taken steps to educate its members and the public about the proper terminology to use.

Conclusion

Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or 'Latter-day Saints,' keep a wide range of records that are crucial for their religious practices and family history research. These records are meticulously documented and maintained, with strict privacy and confidentiality measures in place. Understanding the terminology and the importance of these records can help bridge the gap between the faith community and the broader public.

Keywords: Latter-day Saints, Church of Jesus Christ, Genealogical Records