Church Emphasizes Its Official Name

Church leaders have called on members, news organizations, and others to use the Church’s full and correct name—The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—and to avoid use of the terms “Mormon Church” or “LDS Church.”

A letter from the First Presidency was sent to more than 25,000 congregations worldwide in March asking members to “use the full name whenever possible.” A similar press release was sent to news media worldwide.

The letter reminded members that use of the revealed name of the Church “is increasingly important in our responsibility to proclaim the name of the Savior throughout all the world.” The name was revealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith in April 1838.

The term “Mormon” is still acceptable, the letter said, in some titles such as “Mormon Tabernacle Choir” and “Mormon Trail.” The term “Mormonism” is acceptable in describing the doctrine, culture, and lifestyle unique to Church members. When referring to members, the term “Latter-day Saints” is preferred.