Comparing Catholicism and the LDS Church
Historical Background
Origins of the Roman Catholic Church
The Roman Catholic Church traces its origins to the time of Jesus Christ and the apostles, particularly Saint Peter, whom Catholics consider the first pope. The term “Catholic” means “universal,” signifying its mission to spread the teachings of Christ worldwide.
The Church established its foundation in Rome, where it grew in influence and structure over the centuries. Key events in its history include the Edict of Milan in 313 AD, which granted religious tolerance for Christianity, and the Great Schism in 1054, which separated Eastern Orthodoxy from Western Catholicism.
Origins of the Mormon Church
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was founded by Joseph Smith in the early 19th century. According to Mormon belief, Smith received visions from God and was directed to translate the Book of Mormon, a text that Mormons consider a companion to the Bible.
The Church was officially established on April 6, 1830, in Fayette, New York. Smith’s revelations and leadership laid the foundation for a new religious movement distinct from mainstream Christianity.
What is Restoration in Mormon Theology?
Mormon theology emphasizes the concept of “restoration,” which is the belief that the true Church of Jesus Christ, with its original doctrines and authority, was lost after the deaths of the apostles and needed to be restored through Joseph Smith.
This restoration includes the re-establishment of the priesthood authority and the introduction of additional scriptures.
What Does Papal Authority Mean in Catholicism?
Papal authority in Catholicism refers to the Pope’s supreme and universal power over the entire Church. The Pope is considered the successor of Saint Peter, entrusted with the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven.
This authority includes the power to define doctrine, govern the Church, and maintain unity among its members. The Pope’s teachings are considered infallible when proclaimed ex cathedra on matters of faith and morals.
Catholic and Mormon Beliefs: Similarities and Differences
Do Mormons Believe in the Trinity?
Mormons do not believe in the traditional Christian doctrine of the Trinity, which defines God as one being in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Instead, they view God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit as three distinct beings united in purpose but not in substance. This belief is referred to as “social trinitarianism.”
What is Jesus’ Relationship to Satan in Mormonism?
In Mormon theology, Jesus and Satan (Lucifer) are considered spirit brothers, both created by God the Father. Jesus chose to follow God’s plan for humanity’s salvation, while Satan rebelled and was cast out of heaven.
This concept highlights the pre-mortal existence and the moral agency given to all beings.
What is the Magisterium in Catholicism?
The Magisterium is the teaching authority of the Roman Catholic Church, exercised by the Pope and the bishops in communion with him. It is responsible for interpreting and preserving the teachings of the Church as found in Scripture and Tradition.
The Magisterium ensures doctrinal continuity and guides Catholics in matters of faith and morals.
Differences Between the Bible and the Book of Mormon
Catholic Scriptures
Catholics regard the Bible as the inspired word of God, consisting of the Old and New Testaments. They also include the Deuterocanonical books (referred to as the Apocrypha) as part of their canon. Additionally, Catholic doctrine places significant importance on Sacred Tradition and the teachings of the Church Fathers, councils, and popes.
Mormon Scriptures
In addition to the Bible, Mormons hold three other texts as scripture: the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price. The Book of Mormon is believed to be a historical record of ancient American civilizations and their interactions with God.
The Doctrine and Covenants contains revelations given to Joseph Smith and other leaders, while the Pearl of Great Price includes writings attributed to Abraham and Moses, among other texts.
What Are the Golden Plates in Mormonism?
The golden plates are the source from which Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon. According to Smith, he was directed by an angel named Moroni to a hill in New York where the plates were buried.
The plates were inscribed with a language referred to as “Reformed Egyptian,” which Smith translated through divine assistance. The plates were subsequently returned to the angel and are not available for public viewing.
Contrasting Catholic and Mormon Practices
Worship Services
Roman Catholic Worship
Catholic worship centers around the Mass, a liturgical service that includes prayers, readings from Scripture, a homily, and the Eucharist (Holy Communion). The Eucharist is considered the true body and blood of Christ, transformed through transubstantiation.
Catholics also participate in other sacraments such as Baptism, Confirmation, Confession, Anointing of the Sick, Matrimony, and Holy Orders.
Mormon Worship
Mormon worship services include Sunday Sacrament Meetings, where members partake of bread and water in remembrance of Jesus’ sacrifice. These services also feature prayers, hymns, and talks by members of the congregation.
Additional meetings include Sunday School and auxiliary organization meetings such as the Relief Society for women and the Priesthood meetings for men.
Comparing the Catholic and Mormon Views of the Sacraments
Roman Catholic Sacraments
Catholics recognize seven sacraments instituted by Christ: Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, Penance (Confession), Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony. These sacraments are viewed as means of grace, essential for spiritual growth and salvation. The Eucharist, or Communion, is celebrated daily in many churches and is the central act of Catholic worship.
Mormon Ordinances
Mormons perform ordinances that they believe are necessary for salvation, including Baptism, Confirmation, the Sacrament (similar to Communion but with bread and water), and temple ordinances such as Endowment and Sealing (eternal marriage).
Baptism is performed by immersion and is required for membership in the Church. Temple ordinances are considered sacred and are performed in specific temple buildings.
10 Key Events in Catholic and Mormon History
Key Events in Catholic History
- Edict of Milan (313 AD): Legalized Christianity in the Roman Empire.
- Council of Nicaea (325 AD): Defined the doctrine of the Trinity.
- Great Schism (1054 AD): Split between the Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic Churches.
- Fourth Lateran Council (1215 AD): Established important Church doctrines and practices.
- Council of Trent (1545-1563 AD): Addressed the Protestant Reformation and reformed Church practices.
- Vatican I (1869-1870 AD): Defined the doctrine of papal infallibility.
- Vatican II (1962-1965 AD): Modernized many aspects of Church doctrine and practice.
- Assumption of Mary (1950 AD): Dogma declaring that Mary was assumed body and soul into heaven.
- Establishment of the Vatican State (1929 AD): Recognized the Vatican as an independent state.
- Canonization of John Paul II (2014 AD): Recognized one of the most influential popes as a saint.
Key Events in Mormon History
- First Vision (1820 AD): Joseph Smith’s initial vision of God the Father and Jesus Christ.
- Translation of the Book of Mormon (1827-1830 AD): Publication of the foundational scripture.
- Establishment of the Church (1830 AD): Formal organization of the LDS Church.
- Move to Kirtland, Ohio (1831 AD): Early gathering place for Mormons.
- Nauvoo Period (1839-1846 AD): Flourishing of the Church in Illinois.
- Martyrdom of Joseph Smith (1844 AD): Assassination of the founding prophet.
- Exodus to Utah (1847 AD): Led by Brigham Young, Mormons migrated to the Salt Lake Valley.
- Official Declaration 1 (1890 AD): End of the practice of polygamy.
- Missionary Work Expansion (20th Century): Significant growth in global missionary efforts.
- Official Declaration 2 (1978 AD): Revelation extending priesthood to all worthy male members, regardless of race.