The Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS) is a group that often captures the public’s imagination due to its distinct beliefs and practices, particularly its adherence to polygamy and its separation from mainstream Mormonism.
Founded in the early 20th century by those who sought to preserve what they viewed as the original teachings of the Latter-Day Saints, the FLDS has a rich and complex history that continues to intrigue scholars, journalists, and the general public alike.
From its unique governance structure to the daily lives of its members, the FLDS presents a compelling case study of faith, community, and resilience.
In this article, we will delve into some of the most fascinating facts about the FLDS, shedding light on its beliefs, practices, and the challenges it faces in the modern world.
History of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
FLDS originated in the 1950s as a splinter group from the mainstream Mormon Church, which had officially renounced polygamy in 1890.
The FLDS was founded by Leroy S. Johnson and has been characterized by its strict adherence to polygamous practices, believing that multiple wives are necessary for entering the celestial kingdom.
Over the years, the church has faced legal challenges and internal strife, particularly under the leadership of Warren Jeffs, who became the prophet in 2002 and was imprisoned in 2006 for sexual offenses.
Membership has declined significantly, from around 10,000 to approximately 3,000 today, as many members remain isolated and wary of outsiders.
With that said let’s have a look at some fascinating facts about Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints;
1. The FLDS was founded in the early 1950s as a splinter group from the mainstream Mormon Church.
2. The church emerged in response to the LDS Church’s 1890 renouncement of polygamy.
3. Leroy S. Johnson, known as “Uncle Roy,” was the first prophet of the FLDS.
4. Warren Jeffs became the FLDS prophet in 2002 after Johnson’s death.
5. Jeffs was placed on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted list in 2006.
6. He is currently serving a life sentence plus 20 years for sexual offenses.
7. The FLDS community is primarily located in Colorado City, Arizona, and Hildale, Utah.
8. Membership has declined from around 10,000 to approximately 3,000 in recent years.
9. The FLDS is known for its practice of polygamy, with some men having multiple wives.
10. Warren Jeffs is believed to have had as many as 84 wives.
11. Members are often referred to as “Lost Boys” if they are excommunicated or leave the church.
12. The church promotes a strict lifestyle, including modest dress codes for women.
13. Women typically wear pastel-colored dresses that cover their bodies completely.
14. Red and black clothing is forbidden, as these colors are associated with evil.
15. FLDS teachings emphasize that women should bear children and obey their husbands.
16. The church believes that men need a minimum of three wives to reach the celestial kingdom.
17. Many young men are expelled from the community due to the polygamous structure.
18. The church has its own educational system, with teachings that differ from public schools.
19. FLDS schools reportedly teach that Warren Jeffs is the President of the United States.
20. The church discourages contact with the outside world, including media and entertainment.
21. Members are required to pray for Warren Jeffs regularly, even while he is in prison.
22. The FLDS has a history of child marriages, with underage girls often forced into unions.
23. The church was involved in a high-profile raid in Texas in 2008, leading to numerous arrests.
24. The FLDS maintains a strict hierarchy, with the prophet holding ultimate authority.
25. Members believe in a form of communal living known as the United Order.
26. The church does not have an official website, reflecting its isolationist beliefs.
27. The FLDS accepts the Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price as scripture.
28. Members are taught that the mainstream LDS Church has strayed from true teachings.
29. The church’s leadership has been accused of financial mismanagement and fraud.
30. Many former members have written books detailing their experiences within the FLDS.
31. The church has been the subject of various documentaries and television shows.
32. FLDS members often live in large, communal homes with multiple families.
33. The church has a network of tunnels used for various purposes, including hiding.
34. FLDS women are taught not to cut their hair, believing it is sacred.
35. The community is known for its strict rules against alcohol and tobacco use.
36. The FLDS has faced numerous legal challenges related to its practices.
37. Many members believe that leaving the church results in eternal damnation.
38. The church has been criticized for its treatment of women and children.
39. FLDS members often live in fear of excommunication and social ostracism.
40. The church has a unique system of marriage, where the prophet decides who marries whom.
41. Members are encouraged to have large families, often with 10 or more children.
42. The FLDS community has its own set of laws and rules, separate from state laws.
43. The church has been involved in various land disputes and property issues.
44. Many FLDS members are skilled in agriculture and self-sufficient living.
45. The church has a history of secrecy and distrust of outsiders.
46. Members often refer to their community as “The Creek.”
47. The FLDS believes in a literal interpretation of the scriptures.
48. The church has faced scrutiny from law enforcement for its practices.
49. Many former members describe their upbringing as oppressive and controlling.
50. The FLDS has a complex system of governance, with leaders chosen based on lineage.
51. The church promotes a doctrine of “righteousness” that dictates members’ behavior.
52. FLDS members often participate in communal work projects and service.
53. The church has been linked to various charitable activities, though these are often internal.
54. Many members live in poverty, relying on communal support.
55. The FLDS has a history of internal conflict and schisms.
56. The church’s teachings emphasize the importance of faithfulness and obedience.
57. Despite its controversies, the FLDS continues to maintain a devoted following.
Conclusion
FLDS represents a unique and often controversial segment of the broader Latter-Day Saint movement.
With its roots deeply embedded in the early teachings of Mormonism, the FLDS continues to uphold practices such as polygamy and communal living, which set it apart from mainstream Mormonism.
The church’s strict hierarchical structure, coupled with its isolationist tendencies, creates a complex environment that both fascinates and perplexes outsiders.
As we have explored, the FLDS is marked by its rich history, distinctive beliefs, and the challenges it faces in the modern world.
From the leadership of Warren Jeffs to the experiences of its members, the FLDS encapsulates a narrative of faith, control, and resilience.
While the church grapples with legal issues and declining membership, its impact on the lives of its adherents remains profound.
Understanding the FLDS is essential for grasping the broader dynamics of religious freedom, cultural identity, and the ongoing dialogue about the role of faith in contemporary society.
As the FLDS navigates its future, the stories of its members—both those who remain and those who have left—will continue to shed light on the complexities of belief and community in a rapidly changing world.
