Patheos Guide to Mormonism

Called a "quintessentially American" religion, Mormonism has developed into a world religion that has attracted the attention of academia and media in new ways. From its early 19th-century beginnings to its high profile position in the early 21st century, Mormonism has built a 180-year history of institutional growth and has entered the mainstream of American culture and the larger religious community. Mitt Romney's candidacy for U.S. President has brought new attention to the religion, and invited multiple questions about what the Church of Latter-day Saints believes, practices, and values. In the Patheos Guide to Mormonism, readers will be introduced to the beginnings of the Church, including the role of Joseph Smith, and the ways it developed; beliefs, rituals, practices, and the life of the community are carefully explained. Study questions follow each section so that students can use the text as a guide to learning.