Reorganized Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints
You’ve probably heard of the Mormons, but what about their quieter, more progressive cousin? Meet the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, or as they’ve ca...
You’ve probably heard of the Mormons, but what about their quieter, more progressive cousin? Meet the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, or as they’ve called themselves since 2001, Community of Christ. Think of it as the denomination that took the classic Latter Day Saint story and gave it a serious pacifist, inclusive glow-up.
It all started with a family feud after Joseph Smith’s death in 1844. While Brigham Young led the Saints west to Utah, Smith’s widow Emma and his son Joseph Smith III stayed behind, insisting the church should be led by direct lineage. They reorganized in 1860 in Illinois, and their vibe was always more moderate—less polygamy, more prairie peace.
Let’s get one thing straight: no polygamy, ever. That’s a big, shiny difference from the Utah-based church. Community of Christ officially rejected plural marriage from day one, making them the excellent choice for 19th-century families who wanted Joseph Smith’s theology without the marital chaos.
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Fun fact: The Reorganized Church built the Kirtland Temple in Ohio, the very first Latter Day Saint temple. While the Utah church built Salt Lake’s iconic spires, Community of Christ lovingly owns and operates that historic gem—a pilgrimage site for all restoration branches.
The Modern Vibe: Peace, Justice, and Really Good Coffee
Here’s where it gets millennial-friendly. Community of Christ’s current slogan? “Proclaiming Jesus Christ and promoting communities of joy, hope, love, and peace.” No, seriously—they’re big into interfaith work. You’ll find them at peace rallies, refugee support groups, and yes, their cafeterias serve coffee.
Unlike some Latter Day Saint groups, they affirm LGBTQ+ members and ordain women. Since 1984, women have served as priests, and today, the church even has a female president (technically called the “First Presidency”). It’s a far cry from the patriarchal roots of the 1800s.
Their headquarters is in Independence, Missouri, a town they believe is the biblical “City of Zion.” But instead of building a walled paradise, they’ve focused on community gardens, anti-poverty programs, and a stunning Temple shaped like an open seashell. Inside? A worship space that welcomes everyone, even your agnostic aunt.
Practical Tips for the Curious
Attend a service—but don’t expect a three-hour block. Community of Christ masses run about an hour, with contemporary music, prayers, and a sermon that might quote Bono alongside the Bible. Communion is open to all, no membership card required.
Church Of Jesus Christ
Read their “Enduring Principles” online. They prioritize grace, generosity, and the worth of all persons. It’s like the SparkNotes version of Christianity, but with a strong social justice filter.
Visit the Temple in Independence. Pro tip: go for the International Peace Chapel on the top floor. It’s a silent room with views of the Missouri plains—perfect for a midday reset. Plus, the gift shop sells fair-trade chocolate.
Cultural References You’ll Actually Recognize
Ever watched The Book of Mormon musical? Community of Christ is the antithesis of that over-the-top satire. They’re the denomination that says, “Yes, we have a Book of Mormon, but also, let’s talk about climate change.”
Move over, Sister Wives—this church has none. In fact, their marriage theology is so modern that they perform same-gender unions in many congregations. Reality TV producers haven’t found them interesting… yet.
In contrast to the Utah church’s vast global youth programs, Community of Christ runs a tiny but mighty Peace Camp for kids. Think less “seminary” and more “mediation skills with s’mores.”
Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints – By the Sea
Little-Known Gems
Their scripture includes the Book of Mormon, plus the Doctrine and Covenants (their version, of course) and a third text called Joseph Smith’s Inspired Version of the Bible. It’s like the Bible director’s cut.
They call their local leaders “mission center presidents”—so much cooler than “bishop.” And their highest quorum? The Council of Twelve Apostles, half of whom are now women. It’s a quiet revolution in holy robes.
Fan of organ music? Their Temple’s pipe organ has over 5,000 pipes, and they hold free concerts monthly. One reviewer called it “a spiritual spa for your ears.”
How This Connects to Your Daily Life
At its core, the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints offers a gentle reminder: faith can evolve. You don’t have to abandon your history to embrace a kinder future. They took a patriarchal 19th-century movement and slowly, deliberately, reshaped it into a feast of inclusivity.
Practical takeaway: Next time you feel stuck in an old story—family drama, a stale routine—remember Community of Christ. They reorganized their entire theology without throwing away their cherished texts. You can edit your personal narrative too.
Start with one change: unsubscribe from the guilt, ordain yourself into a hobby you love, and invite everyone—yes, everyone—to your table. That’s the “peace and justice” thing in action. And you don’t even need a temple for it.
