what is a mormon

A Mormon is a member of the religious movement known as Mormonism or the Latter-Day Saint movement, founded by Joseph Smith in 1830. Mormonism is a Restorationist Christian faith that believes Christianity had deviated from its original teachings and needed restoration. Central to Mormon belief is the Book of Mormon, claimed to be translated by Smith from ancient golden plates, alongside the Bible. Mormons believe in God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit, emphasizing faith in Jesus, repentance, baptism, and receiving the Holy Spirit. They practice unique rituals such as baptism for the dead and eternal family sealing in temples. The largest Mormon group is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS Church), which has a hierarchical structure and emphasizes family, health codes, missionary work, and tithing. Mormons consider their faith a restored and true version of the early Christian church and anticipate Jesus Christ's second coming.