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 are the Mormon church initials?” Let’s break the intials and common acronyms down to understand better.
LDS: Latter-day Saints
LDS stands for Latter-day Saints. This term is derived from the Church’s full name and is often used to describe the members of the Church. The term “Latter-day” refers to the belief in the restoration of the Church in the latter days, as opposed to the original Christian Church established by Jesus Christ in ancient times.
The Significance of “Mormon”
The term Mormon is a nickname that comes from the Book of Mormon, a sacred text of the Church. While commonly used, the Church in recent years has emphasized the importance of using its full name to better represent the focus on Jesus Christ.
Other Common Acronyms and Terms
- CTR: Choose the Right, a motto and a symbol found on rings worn by members, particularly children, as a reminder to make moral decisions.
- FHE: Family Home Evening, a weekly event where families gather for spiritual lessons, activities, and bonding.
- RM: Returned Missionary, referring to someone who has completed voluntary missionary service.
- GA: General Authority, leaders who have general oversight of the Church.
Understanding the Church’s Name Change Effort
In August 2018, the Church’s president, Russell M. Nelson, emphasized the importance of using the Church’s full name, rather than shorthand names or nicknames. The idea behind this change is meant to highlight the belief in Jesus Christ as the central figure of the Church.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has a distinct vocabulary that reflects its beliefs and practices. Understanding these terms helps in better appreciating the Church’s culture and teachings. While “Mormon” and “LDS” are widely recognized terms, the Church encourages the use of its full name to emphasize its focus on Jesus Christ.