Mormons vs. LDS: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Published on February 23, 2024
Mormons are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), a Christian restorationist church; "LDS" is the abbreviation of the church's name.
Key Differences
"Mormons" is a term commonly used to refer to members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This term is derived from the Book of Mormon, a sacred text in their religion. The term "LDS" is an acronym for Latter-day Saints, part of the church's full name, emphasizing its belief in a restoration of original Christianity.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
While "Mormons" is often used in a cultural and religious context to describe the people within the church, "LDS" is typically used in reference to the church's organization or its doctrine. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints encourages the use of its full name or the abbreviation "LDS" to avoid confusion and to align with its focus on Jesus Christ.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
The term "Mormons" has a historical context, as members of the church have been called Mormons since the early 19th century due to their belief in the Book of Mormon. Conversely, "LDS" is a more formal and recent term, used officially by the church in various capacities, such as in its websites and official documents.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
In everyday conversation, "Mormons" is often used informally to refer to the members and culture of the LDS Church. On the other hand, "LDS" is used more formally and institutionally, often in official church communications and when referring to church doctrine and practices.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
Regarding perception, "Mormons" can sometimes carry cultural or historical connotations, whereas "LDS" tends to be seen as a more neutral and official term, focusing more on the religious aspect than the cultural identity.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Full Form
Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Abbreviation for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
Usage in Sentences
Refers to the people of the church
Refers to the church and its doctrines
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
Syllable Count
Two syllables: Mor-mons
Three syllables when spelled out: El-Dee-Es
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
Mormons and LDS Definitions
Mormons
Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The Mormons in her neighborhood are known for their community service.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 20, 2024
LDS
Abbreviation for a major Christian restorationist denomination.
She attended an LDS seminary for religious education.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 20, 2024
Mormons
People who follow the LDS Church's beliefs and practices.
The Mormons he met were very family-oriented.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 20, 2024
LDS
Describing the practices and culture of the Latter-day Saints.
LDS missionaries are known for their two-year service missions.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 20, 2024
Mormons
Followers of the teachings in the Book of Mormon.
Mormons regard the Book of Mormon as a sacred text.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 20, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
LDS
Referring to the global organization of the Latter-day Saints.
The LDS Church has members all around the world.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 20, 2024
Mormons
Individuals part of a Christian restorationist church.
Mormons celebrate major Christian holidays like Christmas.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 20, 2024
LDS
Pertaining to the doctrines of the Latter-day Saints.
LDS teachings emphasize family and community values.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 20, 2024
Mormons
A religious group primarily based in the United States.
Many Mormons are concentrated in Utah.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 20, 2024
LDS
Relating to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The LDS Church has a significant presence in Salt Lake City.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 20, 2024
Mormons
An ancient prophet believed to have compiled a sacred history of the Americas, which was translated and published by Joseph Smith as the Book of Mormon in 1830.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 19, 2024
Mormons
Of or relating to the Mormons, their religion, or the Mormon Church.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 19, 2024
Mormons
Church founded by Joseph Smith in 1830 with headquarters in Salt Lake City, Utah
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 19, 2024
Repeatedly Asked Queries
What does LDS stand for?
Latter-day Saints, part of the church's full name.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
Is there a difference between Mormons and LDS?
Not in membership; "Mormons" refers to members, "LDS" to the church and its doctrines.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
What are the core beliefs of LDS?
Beliefs in Jesus Christ, family values, and modern-day revelation.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
Do Mormons practice polygamy?
The LDS Church officially discontinued polygamy in the late 19th century.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
What are Mormons?
Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
What is the LDS Church's stance on same-sex marriage?
The LDS Church teaches that marriage should be between a man and a woman.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
What is the purpose of LDS missions?
To spread the church's teachings and provide service.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
Can anyone visit an LDS temple?
Temples are open to the public during open houses; otherwise, they are reserved for worthy church members.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
How do Mormons view the afterlife?
They believe in a spirit world after death and the potential for eternal life.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
Do Mormons celebrate Christian holidays?
Yes, they celebrate holidays like Christmas and Easter.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
What are the dietary restrictions in LDS teachings?
The Word of Wisdom, a health code, discourages alcohol, tobacco, and hot drinks like coffee and tea.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
How many Mormons are there worldwide?
Several million, primarily in the United States.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
What is the role of a Mormon prophet?
He is considered the spiritual leader and president of the LDS Church.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
What is a Mormon stake?
A stake is an administrative unit composed of multiple congregations.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
How are Mormon bishops chosen?
They are appointed from the local congregation and serve voluntarily.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
What is the significance of the Book of Mormon?
It is considered another testament of Jesus Christ.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
Do Mormons believe in the Trinity?
They believe in the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost as separate entities.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 23, 2024
Share this page
Link for your blog / website
HTML
Link to share via messenger
About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
Hifza Nasir
Shumaila Saeed
