18 Things You Thought You Knew about Mormons (but Probably Don’t)

With over 16 million members worldwide, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has become one of the fastest-growing religions in America.¹ Yet, despite its rapid expansion, Mormonism remains shrouded in misconceptions.

A 2012 Pew Research study found that 62% of Mormons believe the American public is uninformed about their faith, while 46% report facing significant discrimination.²

But what’s fact and fiction when it comes to this often misunderstood religion? Here are 18 common misconceptions about Mormons, separating truth from tall tales.

1. Mormons Practice Polygamy

While some small breakaway groups continue the practice, they are not affiliated with the mainstream LDS Church.

Historical polygamy remains a sensitive topic for many Mormons. The church acknowledges its polygamous past but emphasizes that the practice ended over 130 years ago. Today, Mormons are as committed to monogamy as members of other faiths.

2. Mormons aren’t Christians

Mormons consider themselves Christians and place Jesus Christ at the center of their faith. The full name of their church is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They believe in the divinity of Jesus and His role as Savior.

However, some theological differences exist between Mormonism and traditional Christianity. Mormons do not accept the concept of the Trinity and believe in modern-day prophets and additional scripture.

These distinctions lead some to question Mormonism’s Christian status.

3. Mormons Can’t Drink Caffeine

The Mormon health code, known as the Word of Wisdom, prohibits alcohol, tobacco, coffee, and tea. However, it does not specifically ban caffeine. Many Mormons consume caffeinated soft drinks and energy drinks.

In 2012, the church officially clarified that caffeinated sodas are not off-limits. Some Mormons still choose to avoid caffeine, but it’s a personal choice rather than a religious requirement.

The focus is more on avoiding addictive substances.

4. Mormons Wear Magic Underwear

Mormons who have been endowed in the temple wear special undergarments as a reminder of sacred covenants. These garments are not magical but are considered sacred symbols of devotion.

They’re often compared to other religious clothing like a nun’s habit or a Jewish yarmulke. The garments are simple, white underclothes worn beneath regular clothing and serve as a personal, physical reminder of spiritual commitments.

Mormons find it disrespectful when others mock or sensationalize this private religious practice.

5. All Mormons Live in Utah

While Utah has a high concentration of Mormons, they can be found worldwide. Of the church’s 16 million members, only about 2 million live in Utah. The church has a presence in over 200 countries and territories. (ref)

Mormonism is growing rapidly in Latin America and Africa. In fact, there are now more Mormons outside the United States than within it. The faith is becoming increasingly diverse and global in its membership.

6. Mormons Don’t Believe in the Bible

Mormons consider the Bible to be scripture and use it alongside the Book of Mormon. The eighth Article of Faith states, “We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly.”

Mormons study both the Old and New Testaments.

The Book of Mormon is seen as a companion to the Bible, not a replacement. Mormons believe it contains additional teachings of Jesus Christ and ancient prophets in the Americas.

Both books are considered essential to understanding God’s word.

7. Mormons Can’t Dance or Listen to Music

Far from banning dance and music, the Mormon church encourages these activities. Many Mormon youth participate in church-sponsored dances. The church even has its own world-renowned choir, the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square.

Mormons are encouraged to seek out uplifting and wholesome entertainment. While they may avoid music with explicit lyrics or violent themes, there’s no blanket ban on genres or styles.

Many famous musicians, including Brandon Flowers of The Killers, are practicing Mormons.

8. Mormons are in a Cult

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a recognized religion, not a cult. It has millions of members worldwide and engages openly with society. Mormons are free to leave the faith if they choose, and many do so without repercussions.

While some of their beliefs and practices may seem unusual to outsiders, Mormons participate fully in their communities. They hold jobs, attend schools, and engage in civic life like members of other religions.

The church encourages education and critical thinking.

9. Mormons Don’t Believe in Modern Medicine

Mormons fully embrace modern medicine and scientific advancements. The church operates its own university with a medical school and encourages members to seek appropriate medical care when needed.

Faith healing is not emphasized over professional medical treatment.

The church’s health code, which prohibits alcohol and tobacco, aligns with many modern health recommendations. Mormons are encouraged to take care of their physical health alongside their spiritual well-being.

10. Mormon Women are Oppressed

While the Mormon priesthood is limited to men, women play crucial roles in the church. They lead organizations, teach, preach, and hold administrative positions. Mormon women are encouraged to pursue education and careers.

The church teaches that men and women are equal partners in marriage and family life. Many Mormon women find empowerment through their faith, though some critics argue more progress is needed.

The role of women in the church continues to evolve.

11. Mormons are All Republicans

While many Mormons lean conservative, there is political diversity within the faith. The church itself maintains political neutrality and encourages members to vote according to their conscience.

There are prominent Mormon Democrats and independents.

A 2016 Pew Research study found that 70% of Mormons identified as or leaned Republican, while 19% identified as or leaned Democrat. (ref) However, these numbers can shift, as seen in recent elections where some Mormons have distanced themselves from certain Republican candidates.

12. Mormons Don’t Believe in Evolution

The LDS Church has no official stance on evolution. While some members reject it, many Mormons accept evolutionary theory as compatible with their faith.

Brigham Young University, owned by the church, teaches evolution in its science classes.

The church’s focus is on spiritual matters rather than dictating scientific beliefs. Members are encouraged to seek truth through both faith and reason.

Many Mormon scientists see no conflict between their religious beliefs and scientific understanding.

13. Mormons Baptize Dead Bodies

Mormons perform baptisms for the dead, but this doesn’t involve actual corpses. Living members are baptized by proxy on behalf of deceased individuals. This is done in temples, not with physical remains.

The practice is rooted in the belief that those who died without the opportunity to accept the gospel can choose to accept it in the afterlife. Mormons see this as an act of love and service, though it has sometimes caused controversy with other religious groups.

14. Mormons Can’t Use Birth Control

The LDS Church has no official ban on birth control. Couples are encouraged to prayerfully decide how many children to have. While large families are common in Mormon culture, it’s not a requirement of the faith.

The church teaches that sexual intimacy within marriage is not solely for procreation but also for expressing love between spouses. Decisions about family planning are left to individual couples to make according to their circumstances and spiritual guidance.

15. Mormons are Racist

While the church has a complicated racial history, including a priesthood ban on black members until 1978, it now explicitly condemns all racism. The church has worked to increase diversity and inclusion in recent years.

Today, Mormonism is a global faith with members from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds. The church has issued official apologies for past racist teachings and policies.

However, some critics argue more progress is needed to address the lingering effects of historical racism.

16. Mormons are Wealthy

While some Mormons are financially successful, the faith includes members from all economic backgrounds. The church emphasizes self-reliance and education, which can lead to financial stability, but wealth is not a measure of faithfulness.

The church operates a significant welfare program to assist members in need. Tithing and other donations are used to support church operations and humanitarian efforts worldwide.

Mormons are encouraged to live within their means and avoid excessive debt.

17. Mormons Can’t Watch TV or Use the Internet

There are no blanket restrictions on media use for Mormons. While they’re encouraged to choose uplifting content, many Mormons enjoy popular TV shows, movies, and online activities. The church itself has a strong internet presence and social media outreach.

Mormons are advised to be mindful of how media affects their spirituality and to avoid pornography. But they’re not isolated from popular culture. Many Mormon influencers and content creators actively engage with social media and digital platforms.

18. Mormons are Pressured to Serve Missions

While mission service is encouraged, it’s not mandatory for church membership or participation. Young men are expected to serve if worthy and able, but many choose not to for various reasons. Women can serve missions but are not under the same expectations.

The decision to serve a mission is personal. Those who don’t serve missions can still fully participate in church life. In recent years, the church has expanded options for service, including humanitarian missions and shorter-term opportunities.

Understanding the truth behind these misconceptions not only dispels ignorance but also fosters greater religious tolerance and mutual respect.

As the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints continues to grow and evolve, it’s crucial to approach this faith, like all others, with an open mind and a willingness to look beyond surface-level assumptions.

Source:

1. Church of Jesus Christ
2. Pew Research Center