From time to time, Latter-day Saints are asked to clarify what the correct name of their church is, and how to appropriately refer to a member of their religion.
DOWNLOADThe correct name is "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints."
While most members of the Church do not mind being called "Mormons," a more respectful way to refer to a person who belongs to the faith is "a Latter-day Saint," or "a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints."
The nickname "Mormon" came about because of one of the Church's sacred texts, "The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ."
Latter-day Saints look to The Bible, The Book of Mormon, The Doctrine and Covenants and The Pearl of Great Price as scripture.
On some occasions media professionals and others refer to "The Mormon Church," or "The Church of Latter-day Saints," or "The LDS Church."
While these names are not offensive to members of the Church, it is appreciated when the full and correct name of the Church is used. This is because Latter-day Saints are devoted followers of Jesus Christ and having His name included in the name of the Church is important to them.
Read more about media style for journalists reporting on the Church or any of its members.
Watch a video of Latter-day Saint leader, President Russell M. Nelson, talking about the significance of the name of the Church.