Mormon Traditions
Mormons tend to adhere to a stringent interpretation of their faith. Two-thirds prefer upholding traditional beliefs and practices over altering them.
They believe that Jesus atoned for our sins and we will receive one of three levels of glory after death: terrestrial, celestial or telestial. Additionally, they have their own distinct traditions.
1. Baptism
Baptism is an act that symbolizes spiritual rebirth and renewal. It signifies an individual’s faith in Jesus Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection while also marking their commitment to living according to his teachings.
Mormons consider baptism essential for spiritual rebirth and receiving the Holy Ghost’s indwelling presence, citing 1 Corinthians 15:29 as evidence to justify baptizing individuals on behalf of deceased family and friends who have passed on.
Before being baptized, individuals go through an extensive preparation period consisting of instruction and discussions with family, church leaders and parents in order to fully comprehend and commit to the baptismal covenant and its associated commitments. Following baptism they are confirmed members by those holding Melchizedek Priesthood who lay hands upon them to confirm them as Church members.
2. Confirmation
Mormons tend to take an extreme view when it comes to understanding and practicing their religion, preferring traditional beliefs and practices over any modifications that might alter them.
Confirmation is a straightforward ceremony in which those being confirmed sit in a chair while men who possess appropriate levels of priesthood touch them lightly with holy hands. Prior to his confirmation ceremony, children will choose who will confirm him; usually their father but this role can also be filled by another worthy male figure.
Priesthood holders deliver blessings in their chosen language before officially welcoming someone as a member of the church in Christ’s name, anointing their head with chrism, and ending the ceremony with prayer for that individual – an action reflecting how Christians view Christ’s atonement for sin as not simply atoned for it but actually became one of us, lived among us, suffered pain, and eventually rose again from death.
3. Temple Endowment
Temple endowments are at the core of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints’ membership experience, first introduced by Joseph Smith and formalized under Brigham Young. Comprised of symbolic acts designed to equip participants for priesthood ordinances as well as provide them with keys, tokens and keywords needed to pass through angelic portals into celestial room, this ritual marks an annual occasion that marks both members’ dedication to faith as well as commitment to service in a meaningful way.
At an endowment ceremony, patrons play out the roles of Adam (and Eve). This practice signifies that it’s all about them.
The endowment reviews the history and purpose of creation, mortality and atonement. It also features covenants approved by Church leaders to communicate specific teachings and principles; unlike baptism or confirmation covenants, these promises between patron and God are binding and two-way promises between us both.
4. Funerals
As soon as a member of the Mormon community passes away, their bishop will take charge in making funeral arrangements and following church tradition. He or she will contact family, friends and community members to inform them of the death as well as plan a service.
Funerals are solemn but festive events, typically featuring scripture readings, prayers, hymns and eulogies as well as open casket viewing so mourners may view the body before pallbearers close it off. Guests are encouraged to share memories about the individual while sharing any specific details that come up during these services.
Prior to 2019, endowed women (who had been ordained to the priesthood) typically covered their faces when closing the casket for its last time; this has since become optional. A graveside dedication service may take place following the funeral and should only be attended by immediate family or close friends.
5. Visitation
Mormons hold that Jesus Christ founded a restored church similar to that found in early New Testament, composed of prophets and apostles. Additionally, Mormons believe that scripture such as the Book of Mormon and other works such as Doctrine & Covenants or Pearl of Great Price serve as important scriptural sources.
Mormons hold that those seeking spiritual knowledge have access to revelation, and that God provides guidance throughout life’s challenges and decisions. Mormons depend upon this guidance when raising families, making personal decisions or fulfilling church service callings.
After the death of a Mormon, their family often gathers at their casket for what is known as a wake or viewing in order to pay their respects and seek solace from it. Subsequently they attend their funeral where surviving loved ones share memories, pray together, and listen to eulogies recollections and hear speeches delivered at funeral.
