The formal name of the Church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is an essential part of its global identity. It is the name given by the Savior (see Doctrine and Covenants 115:4). Because each word in the name of the Church is significant, proper use of the name can help people better understand what the Church is about (see 1.1). For more information on the Church name, see 4.2.3.
You can learn more about the significance and meaning of the name of the Church using these resources:
- Russell M. Nelson, “The Correct Name of the Church,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2018, 87–89
- Russell M. Nelson, “Thus Shall My Church Be Called,” Ensign, May 1990, 16–18
- Dallin H. Oaks, “Witnesses of Christ,” Ensign, Nov. 1990, 29–32
- M. Russell Ballard, “The Importance of a Name,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2011, 79–82
Always use the most current guidelines for using the Church name.
Carl Heinrich Bloch (1834 –1890), Christ Healing the Sick at Bethesda, 1883, oil on canvas, 100 3/4 ✗ 125 1/2 inches. Brigham Young University Museum of Art, purchased with funds provided by Jack R. and Mary Lois Wheatley, 2001.
Follow these guidelines with every Church communication:
- Always use the full name of the Church in the first reference: “The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.”
- After the full name has been used, consider the shorter terms “the Church” or “the Church of Jesus Christ.”
- Avoid using “Mormon Church,” “LDS Church,” or “Church of the Latter-day Saints.”
- “Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints” or “members of the Church of Jesus Christ” is the preferred way to refer to Church members. “Latter-day Saints” is the preferred shorter term. Using “Saints” is also acceptable. The terms “Mormons” and “LDS” should not be used.
- “Mormon” is correctly used in proper names such as the Book of Mormon and the prophet Mormon or when used in such historical expressions as “Mormon Trail.”
- The term “Mormonism” is not acceptable in describing Church doctrine and teachings. “The restored gospel of Jesus Christ” is preferred.
- When referring to current people or organizations that practice polygamy, state that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is not affiliated with polygamous groups.
- When referring to current people or organizations that have similar beliefs as the Church, state that the Church is not affiliated with these groups.