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Who Is Next in Line to Be Prophet? (After Dallin H. Oaks)

In The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, leadership transitions don’t involve campaign trails or secret ballots. There’s no “wait and see” drama. Instead, the Church follows a rock-solid principle that has provided stability for over a century: apostolic seniority. But with recent changes in the Quorum of the Twelve, the “line of succession” […]

What is Durfing? (Explained by a Mormon)

Ah yes…. Durfing. A unforgettable BYU past time. Before we talk about durfing, allow me to introduce myself. Hi, I’m Max Pond. I’m an active mormon, or member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Here’s a picture of me shortly before I graduated from BYU in 2015. It would be fair to […]

How Many Temples In Idaho? (List)

Temple

Idaho is home to six operating temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with four additional temples under construction or announced. Operating Temples in Idaho: Idaho Falls Idaho Temple: Dedicated on September 23, 1945. Boise Idaho Temple: Dedicated on May 25, 1984. Rexburg Idaho Temple: Dedicated on February 10, 2008. Twin Falls […]

How Many Temples Are In Nevada? (List)

Nevada is home to two operating temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with two additional temples under construction and one announced. Operating Temples in Nevada: Las Vegas Nevada Temple: Dedicated on December 16, 1989. Reno Nevada Temple: Dedicated on April 23, 2000. Temples Under Construction: Elko Nevada Temple: Groundbreaking occurred on […]

How Many Temples Are There In California? (List)

California is home to eight operating temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with four additional temples announced or under construction. Operating Temples in California: Los Angeles California Temple: Dedicated on March 11, 1956. Oakland California Temple: Dedicated on November 17, 1964. San Diego California Temple: Dedicated on April 25, 1993. Fresno […]

Women Prophetesses in the Bible – Who Were They & Their Significance

While the bible often focuses on male figures, it rightly also highlights the profound impact of several women prophetesses. These women not only played crucial roles in biblical narratives but also left lasting legacies that resonate through history and theology. In this post we’ll explore who these prophetesses were, their significance, and the scriptures and […]

Giants in the Bible? – What Do We Know?

The Bible is no question replete with fascinating stories and characters, and among the most mind bending are the giants. These “larger-than-life” beings have sparked curiosity and debate for centuries. But what do we actually know about the giants mentioned in the Bible? Let’s delve into the scriptural accounts and explore the various references to […]

LDS Prophet Succession List

Quorum of the 12 apostles LDS church

In The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), the process of calling a new prophet follows a well-defined pattern primarily based on seniority. This process, often referred to in terms of a prophet succession list, dictates that when a prophet passes away, the longest-serving member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles is […]

Mormon Church Initials: What Does LDS Mean?

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is often referred to as the LDS Church or Mormon Church. It’s a global Christian faith with a rich history and a unique terminology. Because people are more familiar with the term Mormon than the actual name of the church, a common question that arises is, “what […]

Which LDS Prophet Served The Longest?

Historical Context and Importance of Prophets in LDS The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, also sometimes known as the Mormon Church, was founded in the 19th century. Prophets in this church are more than religious leaders; they are considered God’s messengers, guiding the church through revelations and teachings. Their impact on the […]

Who Will Be the Next LDS Prophet? (After President Nelson)

President Nelson

Updated Status of Church Leadership On September 28, 2025, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced that President Russell M. Nelson passed away at the age of 101. As of now, the Church is in transition as it follows its established procedures for naming a new prophet and president. About Russell M. Nelson […]

Do Mormons Celebrate Easter? (Mormon Easter Do’s & Dont’s)

Do Mormons Celebrate Easter?  When it comes to religious holidays, Easter stands out as one of the most significant for Christians worldwide. It’s a time to reflect on the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the hope it brings. But how do Mormons, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, approach this sacred […]

LDS Apostles By Seniority (List + Years Served)

Current Living LDS Apostles. The first presidency and quorum of the 12

The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles is a governing body in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (often referred to as the LDS Church or Mormon Church). These twelve men are called to be special witnesses of Jesus Christ and hold a unique position in the Church’s leadership hierarchy. One aspect that often […]

How Many LDS Temples in Hawaii? (List)

LDS Temple

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) has a significant presence in the beautiful islands of Hawaii. The Aloha State, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich culture, is also home to several LDS temples that serve as spiritual sanctuaries for the members residing there. How Many Temples Are In Hawaii?  As […]

66 Hilarious & Cheesy LDS Pickup Lines

Guy using lds pick up lines on girl at high school

Get ready to laugh, or cringe, with these 67 hilariously cheesy LDS-themed pick-up lines! Please proceed with caution, these lines may induce excessive eye-rolling or uncontrollable giggles. And remember, it’s always wise to deploy these zingers under the watchful eye of good-humored friends who can vouch for your usual charm. May the odds be ever […]

15 Examples of LDS Spiritual Thoughts

Image of a hand in the forest indicating a person worshiping

Welcome to this compilation of spiritual thoughts, inspired by stories from the scriptures and early Church history. These reflections invite us to explore deep themes—like faith, service, choice, and remembrance—through the experiences of biblical characters, Book of Mormon heroes, and stalwart pioneers of the Restoration. As you read, I hope you find renewed inspiration, insights, […]

What’s a Jack Mormon? Jack Mormon Defined

In the fascinating world of religion, you’ll sometimes stumble across unusual labels that provoke a head scratch. “Jack Mormon” is one such term, and if you’re thinking it has something to do with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, you’re spot on. But the story behind this term is a twisty ride through […]

How Many LDS Temples Are There In Utah? (List)

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) has a long history in Utah, and its presence is reflected in the number of temples located in the state. Little-known fact: The St. George Temple was the first LDS temple to be completed and dedicated in Utah, in 1876 and 1877, respectively. Since then, the […]

LDS Sacrament Prayers

BLESSING ON THE BREAD O God, the Eternal Father, we ask thee in the name of thy Son, Jesus Christ, to bless and sanctify this bread to the souls of all those who partake of it, that they may eat in remembrance of the body of thy Son, and witness unto thee, O God, the […]

What Does God Look Like?

Well it depends who you ask. That’s for sure. If you look at thousands of paintings produced by western culture, you’ll find a number of stereotypes arising. God is often depicted as… What Does God Look Like? (According to AI) In hopes of producing an unbiased answer to the question, “What does God look like?” […]

What Does LDS Mean? | LDS Explanations

Family in front of LDS temple

What Does LDS Mean? LDS stands for “Latter-day Saints,” which is a nickname that has been given to members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Latter Day Saints are a Christian denomination that believe themselves to be a restored version of the original church established by Jesus Christ during his mortal ministry. […]

How many LDS Temples are in the Philippines?

LDS Temple

As of October 2023, there are seven operating temples of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) in the Philippines. They are located in the following cities: Manila Temple (opened in 1984) Cebu City Temple (opened in 2010) Urdaneta Temple (opened in 2015) Cagayan de Oro Temple (opened in 2018) Davao Temple […]

Brigham Young vs Joseph Smith

Painting of Brigham Young & Joseph Smith

The relationship between Joseph Smith and Brigham Young was, at times, tumultuous. The two were key figures in the early years and assembly of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). Joseph Smith, who founded the LDS Church in 1830, led the organization through its early years and oversaw the publication of […]

Why Do Mormons Go On Missions?

Two sister Mormon missionaries

Mormons, or members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), go on missions as a way to serve others and share their beliefs with others. Missionaries serve voluntarily, typically for a period of 18 months (normal length of assignment to women) to 2 years (normal length of assignment to men). Missionaries […]

Why Was Oliver Cowdrey Excommunicated?

Oliver Cowdery was a key figure in the early history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) and played a significant role in the translation of the Book of Mormon. However, he was excommunicated from the church in 1838 for what were considered to be serious transgressions against the teachings of […]

What Is A “Mormon Gazing Party”? | LDS Explanations

AI generated image depicting what a mormon gazing party at BYU might look like

There is an old wive’s tale about students who attended BYU or BYU Idaho holding what is now referred to as a “Mormon gazing party.” The story exists in different varieties but the core details suggest that a “Mormon gazing party” would hypothetically go as follows: 1. Members of opposing sexes form two distinct lines […]

Why Don’t Mormons Drink Tea? | LDS Explanations

cup of tea

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, sometimes known as the Mormon church, advises its members to abstain from consuming “hot drinks,” which are defined as tea and coffee. This practice is based on the church’s Word of Wisdom, a code of health and dietary guidelines that are believed to have been revealed to […]

Why Don’t Mormons Drink Coffee? | LDS Explanations

Overhead image of Scattered Coffee Beans

Mormons, also known as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, abstain from drinking coffee as part of their commitment to follow the “Word of Wisdom,” a set of dietary and health guidelines that are considered revelation from God. According to this revelation, which is recorded in the Doctrine and Covenants, a […]

Why Is Marriage Ordained of God? | LDS Explanations

A man and a woman holding hands in wedding clothes

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints teaches that marriage is ordained of God because it is considered a sacred covenant between a man, a woman, and God. Members of the LDS Church believe that the purpose of marriage is to provide a stable and loving environment in which to rear children and to […]

Why Was Cain’s Offering Rejected?| LDS Explanations

Painting of Cain Killing Abel

According to the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Cain’s offering was rejected by God because it was not given in faith and was not offered in the proper way. In the Old Testament, Cain and his brother Abel both made offerings to God. Abel’s offering was accepted by God, but […]

What To Say in an LDS Blessing | LDS Explanations

Joseph Smith Receiving Priesthood From Peter James and John

In the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, blessings can be given by those who hold the Melchizedek priesthood. A few examples are, but are not limited to, ordained leaders called patriarchs or bishops. Blessings are given for a variety of purposes, including the naming and blessing of newborn children, the blessing of the […]

Who Was Enoch? | LDS Explanations

Enoch and his followers being translated into heaven

According to the doctrine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (also nicknamed the LDS Church or Mormon Church), Enoch was a righteous man who lived in the biblical land of Eden. He was a prophet of God who lived in the early days of humanity, and he is mentioned in the Old […]