The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often referred to as the Mormon Church, holds a unique and deeply significant perspective on marriage. It's viewed not merely as a social contract or a legal union, but as a sacred covenant—an eternal bond between a man and a woman, ordained of God. This belief shapes many aspects of Latter-day Saint life, impacting family structures, social expectations, and individual faith. This article explores the core tenets of Latter-day Saint beliefs on marriage, addressing common questions and providing a comprehensive overview.
What are the Latter-day Saints' core beliefs about marriage?
At its heart, the Latter-day Saint perspective on marriage centers on the idea of eternal families. Members believe that marriage, when performed correctly within the Church, can extend beyond this life into eternity. This means that families formed through temple marriage have the potential to continue their relationships with each other in the afterlife. This belief emphasizes the importance of fidelity, commitment, and mutual respect within the marriage relationship. It's not just about companionship in this life, but also about building an enduring family unit for all eternity.
How does temple marriage differ from civil marriage?
While Latter-day Saints typically obtain a legal civil marriage license, they also emphasize the importance of temple marriage. This sacred ceremony, performed in one of the Church's temples, is considered the true, eternal marriage covenant. Temple marriage is only available to members of the Church who have met specific requirements, including being worthy and committed to living according to the Church's principles. This ceremony includes specific covenants made to God, strengthening the commitment and adding a spiritual dimension not present in a civil ceremony.
What is the role of the family in Latter-day Saint beliefs?
The family is considered the fundamental unit of society in Latter-day Saint theology. Marriage provides the foundation for a strong family unit, fostering love, support, and mutual growth. Parents are seen as essential in teaching children gospel principles and raising them in righteousness. This emphasis on family extends to extended family relationships, encouraging strong bonds between parents, children, grandparents, and other relatives.
What is the Latter-day Saint perspective on divorce?
While Latter-day Saints strongly value marriage and work diligently to preserve their unions, they understand that divorce sometimes occurs. The Church teaches that divorce should be considered a last resort, undertaken only after significant efforts have been made to resolve marital difficulties. Divorce is not seen as a trivial matter and has spiritual consequences. However, the Church offers support and understanding to those who have experienced divorce, encouraging them to continue living their faith and build fulfilling lives.
Do Latter-day Saints believe in same-sex marriage?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints currently defines marriage exclusively as a union between a man and a woman. This doctrine is based on their understanding of scripture and religious tradition. While the Church strives to treat all individuals with respect and kindness, their official stance on same-sex marriage remains unchanged. This is a complex issue with varying perspectives both within and outside the Church.
What are the expectations of Latter-day Saint couples?
Latter-day Saint couples are expected to prioritize their relationship and work together to build a strong family. This includes mutual commitment, open communication, shared responsibility, and consistent effort to maintain a loving and supportive partnership. They are encouraged to seek guidance from Church leaders and resources, and to pray together regularly. The focus is always on creating a loving home where gospel principles are taught and lived.
How do Latter-day Saint beliefs on marriage influence their lives?
Latter-day Saint beliefs on marriage deeply influence many aspects of their lives, from family planning and child-rearing to career choices and social interactions. The commitment to building an eternal family motivates them in their daily actions and decisions. This strong emphasis on family unity and spiritual growth creates a unique and supportive community within the Church.
This overview provides a comprehensive understanding of Latter-day Saint beliefs on marriage. It is a complex topic with deeply held convictions, and this information aims to provide accurate and respectful insight into their perspective. For a more detailed understanding, individuals are encouraged to consult official Church resources and materials.
