The Pentagon’s recent update to its list of Christian religions has reignited a long-standing debate about the Christian identity of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Members of this faith, often called Latter-day Saints, largely view themselves as Christians. However, there’s disagreement among some Christian leaders and scholars. They point to key differences in beliefs about God, the Trinity, and reliance on scripture not found in the traditional Christian Bible.
Utah’s U.S. Senators Mike Lee and John Curtis, both Republicans and members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, voiced opposition to the Pentagon’s decision. The revised list resulted from efforts by the Department of Defense to streamline over 200 religious affiliations available to military personnel, omitting groups such as atheists, Unitarian Universalists, pagans, and Wiccans.
Senator Curtis emphasized on social media the patriotic and service-oriented nature of Latter-day Saints, who he insists are incontrovertibly Christian, as indicated by the church’s name. He expressed dissatisfaction with how the government categorizes his faith, a viewpoint that resonated with many on social media.
On Monday, the Pentagon removed the Christian designation from 20 other religious traditions, such as Catholicism, Lutheranism, and Pentecostalism, while maintaining their previous stance toward Latter-day Saints. The Department clarified that these changes aim to aid chaplains in their duties and organizing resources efficiently, not questioning the legitimacy of any religion.
Latter-day Saints’ Self-Identification as Christians
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often referred to as the Mormon Church, claims nearly 18 million followers globally, with a significant concentration in Utah. Throughout its history, the church has encouraged military service, emphasizing patriotism and chaplaincy support.
Senator Lee highlighted on social media that his Christianity is inseparable from his church membership, a sentiment shared by 17 million Latter-day Saints worldwide, regardless of Pentagon beliefs. The church describes itself as a ‘Christian Church but is neither Catholic nor Protestant.’ According to its teachings, the church reflects a restoration of Jesus Christ’s original teachings in the New Testament. Followers aim to emulate Christ through baptism, prayer, sacraments, and good deeds, affirming faith in Jesus as the sole path to salvation.
Historical Debate Over Christian Legitimacy
The ongoing debate about whether Latter-day Saints qualify as Christians traces back almost 200 years to the church’s origins. Matthew Bowman, who leads Mormon studies at Claremont Graduate University in Southern California, highlights the differences in understanding God and the Holy Trinity as major distinctions. Many Christians regard God as a spirit, whereas Latter-day Saints founders believed God was a human who achieved Godhood. Furthermore, Latter-day Saints oppose the Nicene Creed, which portrays the Trinity as a singular divine entity, instead viewing them as distinct beings in relationship.
The Catholic Church has consistently excluded Latter-day Saints from Christian recognition. In a 2012 statement, the Vatican dismissed their baptisms due to significant doctrinal differences from Catholic and mainline Christian interpretations of the Trinity.
Religious Beliefs Interweave with Politics
Religious identity debates have permeated U.S. politics for decades, creating friction between evangelical Christians and Latter-day Saints, who traditionally align with the religious right. Both groups uphold conservative views on topics like abortion and LGBTQ+ rights.
During Mitt Romney’s 2012 presidential campaign, questions surrounding Latter-day Saints’ Christian identity gained prominence. Bowman notes the mutual surprise among Latter-day Saints and evangelicals regarding each other’s perceptions. The rise of Donald Trump has further strained the relationship, with some younger Latter-day Saints perceiving evangelicals as antagonistic. Within evangelical circles, discussions about adopting a more assertive form of Christianity have emerged, including labeling Latter-day Saints as heretics.
LDS Chaplains in the Military Face Distrust
Philip McLemore, a former Latter-day Saint chaplain in the Air Force, recalls past discrimination based on faith. From 1984 to 2005, he observed promotions being withheld due to his religious beliefs, experiencing skepticism mainly from other Christian chaplains. He also noted misunderstandings about Latter-day Saint conversions within the military.
Despite these challenges, McLemore believes denominational differences hold little weight in the armed forces. Service members generally focus on practical assistance with personal or work-related issues rather than religious matters, according to his experience.
This report also included contributions from AP reporters Konstantin Toropin and Tiffany Stanley. The AP’s religion coverage is supported by collaboration with The Conversation US, funded by Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP retains sole responsibility for this content.
Leave a Reply