*Latter-day Lingo

I am a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We are sometimes called LDS or Mormons. We believe in Christ as our one true Savior. 

We sometimes use words that may be confusing to those outside of our faith. I want what I write to be understood by everyone. So here is a list of definitions of some of our crazy vocabulary. Some of them are linked for more information.

Ammon--A person in The Book of Mormon that is known for being an amazing missionary. He is characterized by his faith, courage, and zeal. 

Baptism- Baptism by immersion in water by one having authority is the first saving ordinance of the gospel and is necessary for an individual to become a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and to receive eternal salvation. All who seek eternal life must follow the example of the Savior by being baptized and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Bishop--The lay minister that presides over our wards. 

Companion--This is usually used in reference to a mission. Missionaries are assigned to areas in companionships -two or three missionaries serving together. LDS missionaries are instructed to never be alone.

Enrichment- A monthly meeting of the Relief Society Sisters.

Father's blessing- a preisthood blessing that is given to a child by their father. Usually at a time of growth or a need for direction or comfort.

General Conference- General Conference is the bi-yearly meeting of all of the members of the church. The prophet of God, apostles and other leaders of the church speak to the world concerning God's will and message for this day at this time. You can find old recording of General conference or watch live sessions on the first Saturday and Sunday of April and October at www.lds.org.

High Council- Twelve high priests who sit as a council under the direction of a stake presidency and minister in teaching, training, and supervising stake personnel or programs. The high council also convenes as a disciplinary council in cases of serious personal transgression.

Home Teacher-A home teacher is a man who is assigned to watch over and help fellow members in his Latter-day Saint ward or branch. Two home teachers are assigned to each person or family in the congregation; these two priesthood holders visit their assigned individuals and families each month to help and support them in their efforts to live the principles taught by Jesus Christ.

Mission trainer--The missionary you are assigned to live/serve with as a new missionary. 

Nursery--The Sunday School class for children 18 months to 3 years old. 

Patriarchal blessing--A special blessing received that gives insight into God's plan for you. It is recorded for future reference and guidance. 

Priesthood- The Priesthood is the authority and power that God gives to man to act in all things for the salvation of man.

Prompting (of the spirit)- An impression or a feeling that is God's way to communicate with you. As LDS members, we believe that God can communicate with us through the Holy Ghost. We believe that He loves us and wants to teach and communicate with us. Many times promptings entice us to act.  

Primary--The Sunday School group for children 3-12

Relief Society- The society for the women of the LDS church. 

Sacrament-The Sacrament is the LDS version of communion. 

Stake-- A stake is a geographical grouping of several wards. 

Stake President- The lay minister that presides over a stake (several wards.)

Ward--A local congregation. 

I will add to the list when I use a word that I feel may be unfamiliar. Feel free to make suggestions or ask what a word means. 

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