This is for people who do not know what Mormonism is or what they believe. I intend to show the most truthful information to my knowledge and what I can find. I do not want to get into any discussion of religious bashing or heated talks about religion. I only intend for this to be about facts of Mormonism and what it is and comes from.
What are Mormons?
Mormons actually do not like to be called Mormons they prefer to be called members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. They believe in Jesus Christ and believe that founder of the church Joseph Smith received revelation from Jesus Christ and God to restore the church back to how it was organized under Jesus Christ when he lived on earth. You can read more about it here
Mormons are polygamists: some true and some not true
Mormons do not currently practice polygamy, but it was something that was practiced at one point by the original founders. The original members did practice polygamy, it was something that was decided upon by Joseph Smith to be permitted by God for certain periods of time. It was practiced in the church from 1840 until 1890 when the United States government made it illegal to practice polygamy. The Mormon church president Wilford Woodroof ended polygamy on October 6th, 1890. Any members who still practice polygamy are called FLDS because they do not represent the current church. You can read the church presidents declaration to end polygamy here.
Members cannot drink alcohol, coffee, tea, and chew or smoke tobacco: true
Yes this is true it was given as revelation from God by church founder Joseph Smith. Members at the time were drinking too much and using these substances too much so they came up with the word of wisdom is what members call it to protect them from the evils of the world. You can read the full law here
Mormons are a cult: not true
While it is true that some people say that Mormonism is a cult, it just isn't true though. Most cults force their members to do acts and things that they do not want to do, Mormons ask their members to do things but do not force it upon every member. Members of the LDS church are free to do whatever they want they are not forced.
Mormons have a prophet: true
It is true that Mormons believe that they have a real prophet here on earth today that receives revelation from Heavenly Father. The prophet is the leader of the church who is the president of the church.
Mormons were persecuted: true
When the church was founded in the 1830's in Fayette, NY other church leaders from different denominations were furious at the idea that the LDS church was the only true church and had a new prophet appointed by God. They persecuted the church leaders and chased them to Kirtland, Ohio where they would build their first temple. Joseph Smith was later murdered on June 27th 1844, the remaining church leaders and members later moved to Salt Lake City, Utah where they would establish a strong presence and make it their home town.
Mormons are required to pay 10% for tithing: true
The LDS church requires members to pay 10% of their income to be able to enter into the temples. The temples are supposed to be sacred and holy and to show that they are dedicated to the lord they are to give 10% every year and required to keep the commandments.
The LDS church builds their temples all over the world they have 150 temples and counting.
Thank you!!!