MORMON BELIEFS

The Godhead

The Prophet Joseph Smith wrote thirteen statements, which have become known as the Articles of Faith. These statements summarize some of the basic doctrines of the Mormon Church but in no way give a complete summary of Church doctrine. The Church continues to be guided today by living prophets through revelation and inspiration.

The first Article of Faith states that: "We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost."

Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost make up the Godhead. 'They preside over this world and all other creations of our Father in Heaven.'1 The members of the Godhead are three separate beings. The Doctrine and Covenants clarifies that 'Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ have tangible bodies of flesh and bones, and the Holy Ghost is a personage of spirit.'2

Even though the three members of the Godhead are distinct beings with distinct roles, they are one in purpose. Meaning they are united in bringing to pass Heavenly Father's divine plan of salvation.

In the Mormon Church God is referred to as Heavenly Father because he is the Father of our spirits. Just as our earthly Father loves us, our Heavenly Father loves us and knows us individually. He desires for us to have joy and peace in this life and yearns for us to return to Him. God is perfect, all-powerful and all wise. He is merciful, kind, loving and just and he created man in His own image.3 Revelations received in these latter-days confirms these teachings from the Bible. God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ appeared to the Prophet Joseph Smith.4

Mormons believe that Jesus Christ is our Heavenly Father's Son. He created the earth under the direction of His Father. He led a perfect life and He taught by word and especially by example how we should live and serve others. He is our advocate with the Father; He is the one that suffered for each of our sins. Because of Him, if we truly repent, we can be forgiven of those sins and return and live with our Father in Heaven.5

The belief in the Mormon Church is that the Holy Ghost is a personage of spirit, without a body of flesh and bones. He is referred to as the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of God, the Spirit of the Lord, or the Comforter. He testifies of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. He reveals the truth, comforts, teaches and guides.6 The gift of the Holy Ghost is conferred upon one after the completion of baptism into the Mormon Church. Only through the power of the Holy Ghost can one receive a testimony of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. 

For more information on the Mormon Church please see the following websites:

Mormon Church

Basic Beliefs