Reorganized Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints
Understanding the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (RLDS) – A Simplified Overview
The Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (RLDS), now known as the Community of Christ, holds a unique place in the history of Latter Day Saint movements. While sharing origins with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (often called the LDS Church or Mormon Church), it diverged significantly in theology and practice following the death of Joseph Smith, the founder of Mormonism. This article will explore the key beliefs and practices of the Community of Christ, clarifying common misconceptions and providing a clear understanding of this distinct religious community.
I. The Schism and the Rise of the RLDS:
The death of Joseph Smith in 1844 led to a significant power struggle within his burgeoning movement. Different factions emerged, with varying interpretations of his teachings and leadership succession. The RLDS Church traces its origins to Joseph Smith III, the eldest son of Joseph Smith Sr., who claimed to inherit his father's prophetic mantle. This claim was contested by other groups, leading to a major split within the Latter Day Saint community. Think of it like a family business splitting into separate companies after the founder's death – different branches retaining aspects of the original business, but ultimately going in distinct directions.
II. Key Theological Differences from the LDS Church:
One of the most significant differences lies in the interpretation of scripture and prophetic authority. While the LDS Church maintains a strong emphasis on modern-day revelation through prophets and apostles (with its current leadership centered in Salt Lake City), the Community of Christ emphasizes a more inclusive and evolving understanding of scripture, viewing it through a lens of historical and cultural context. They believe in continuing revelation but don't attribute the same level of absolute authority to their current leaders as the LDS Church does to its President and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
Another key difference is the role of polygamy. The LDS Church discontinued the practice of polygamy in 1890, but the RLDS Church never officially practiced it. This was a significant factor in the schism and continues to be a point of distinction between the two churches. Essentially, the Community of Christ explicitly rejected polygamy from the beginning of their separate existence.
III. Emphasis on Social Justice and Global Community:
A defining characteristic of the Community of Christ is its strong commitment to social justice and global peace. Their theology actively promotes equality, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship. They actively engage in humanitarian work, advocating for human rights and working towards a more just and equitable world. For example, Community of Christ congregations around the world participate in projects aimed at poverty reduction, disaster relief, and environmental protection. This focus differs from the LDS Church's strong emphasis on family and temple ordinances, though both churches engage in significant charitable work.
IV. Structure and Practices:
The Community of Christ is organized similarly to other Christian denominations, with a global structure encompassing local congregations, regional conferences, and a World Church leadership. Unlike the LDS Church’s highly structured hierarchical system, the Community of Christ operates with a more collaborative and consultative governance model. This means that decisions are made through a process of discussion and consensus building rather than through a top-down approach. Ordination to the priesthood is open to all members regardless of gender.
V. Modern Community of Christ:
The Community of Christ continues to evolve and adapt to the changing world. It embraces diversity in its membership, encompassing people from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds. The church actively engages in interfaith dialogue and strives to build bridges between different religious communities. They aim for a more inclusive and less doctrinally rigid faith, which sometimes leads to internal debate, but ultimately strengthens their commitment to ongoing revelation and adaptation.
Actionable Takeaways:
The Community of Christ (formerly RLDS) offers a distinct perspective within Latter Day Saint traditions.
Its emphasis on social justice, inclusivity, and ongoing revelation distinguishes it from the LDS Church.
Its governance structure is more collaborative and less hierarchical.
The Community of Christ is actively involved in global peace and humanitarian work.
Understanding this diversity enriches our comprehension of religious history and contemporary faith expressions.
FAQs:
1. Is the Community of Christ Mormon? While sharing a common origin with the LDS Church, the Community of Christ holds distinct theological beliefs and practices, making it a separate entity.
2. Do they believe in Joseph Smith? Yes, the Community of Christ reveres Joseph Smith as a prophet, but their interpretation of his teachings and prophetic legacy differs from the LDS Church’s.
3. Do they have temples? No, the Community of Christ does not have temples in the same way the LDS Church does. Their places of worship are generally referred to as meetinghouses or chapels.
4. What is the role of women in the Community of Christ? Women hold equal priesthood authority and leadership roles within the Community of Christ.
5. How can I learn more? Visit the official Community of Christ website for detailed information, resources, and contact information for local congregations.
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