The Pentagon’s recent update to its list of Christian denominations has revived a long-standing debate: Is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints a Christian denomination?
Many Latter-day Saints see themselves as Christians, yet prominent religious scholars and clergy question this due to fundamental differences in beliefs about God, the Trinity, and the acceptance of texts outside the traditional Christian Bible.
Political Reactions and Responses
Utah Senators Mike Lee and John Curtis, both Republicans and Latter-day Saints, have publicly challenged the exclusion of their faith from the Pentagon’s list, which trimmed down religious categories including atheists, Unitarians, pagans, and Wiccans.
“Latter-day Saints are among the most patriotic, service-oriented individuals in our country,” stated Curtis. “They are also unequivocally Christian — just look at who is in the name of the Church.”
He further criticized the government’s approach, saying it misrepresents the church’s identity, echoing widespread disapproval on social media.
In response, the Pentagon removed the Christian label from 20 other traditions and issued a statement that the new categorization is not meant to question the legitimacy of any faith but to aid chaplains in their duties.
Latter-day Saints’ Perspective
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly known as the Mormon church, claims nearly 18 million members globally, with a strong presence in Utah. Known for its military service and patriotic teachings, the church stresses its Christian identity.
According to the church’s website, it is a “Christian Church, but is neither Catholic nor Protestant,” instead describing itself as a restoration of Jesus Christ’s original church as depicted in the New Testament.
The LDS belief in Jesus Christ is central, promoting baptism, prayer, and good deeds as paths to salvation through faith in Him.
Different Theological Views
Matthew Bowman, chair of Mormon studies at Claremont Graduate University, highlights key theological differences. These include the nature of God and interpretations of the Trinity. While most Christians see God as spirit, Latter-day Saints view God as a human who achieved divinity.
Latter-day Saints also reject the Nicene Creed, which emphasizes a singular divine being. Bowman explains that Latter-day Saints see God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit as related yet distinct.
The Vatican has maintained that Latter-day Saints’ differing beliefs on the Trinity result in their baptisms not being recognized as Christian.
Political and Social Tensions
The debate has extended into U.S. politics, creating tension between evangelical Christians and Latter-day Saints, both typically seen as part of the religious right. Social issues like abortion and LGBTQ+ rights often align their views, despite theological differences.
Bowman notes this contention became prominent during Mitt Romney’s 2012 presidential campaign, highlighting mutual misunderstandings between evangelicals and Latter-day Saints regarding Christian identity.
The rise of political figures like Donald Trump has further strained relationships, especially among younger Latter-day Saints who feel a loss of alliance with evangelicals, who have grown more assertive in their doctrinal views.
Challenges Faced by LDS Chaplains
Former Air Force chaplain Philip McLemore recalls feelings of discrimination during his service, often overlooked for promotions due to his faith.
“Other Christian chaplains and supervisors believed Mormon chaplains were not Christian,” he said, attributing such beliefs to fears of proselytism within the military.
Despite these challenges, McLemore notes that many service members were unconcerned with denominational identity and sought chaplain support for personal and professional issues rather than religious guidance.
AP reporters Konstantin Toropin and Tiffany Stanley contributed to this report. The Associated Press receives support through collaboration with The Conversation US, funded by Lilly Endowment Inc. AP maintains sole responsibility for this content.