Key Differences Between The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and Community of Christ

Explore how two major religious traditions, both originating from the early Latter Day Saint movement, developed distinct paths in theology, leadership, and practice.

By Garret Merkley · Explainer · Jun 15, 2026

Branched from The Origins of Mormonism: A Brief History

Quick take

Both churches originated from the teachings of Joseph Smith Jr. in the 19th century, following his death.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) followed Brigham Young to Utah; Community of Christ (originally RLDS) followed Joseph Smith III.
Key differences include leadership succession, temple ordinances, views on the Godhead, and social stances.
LDS is known for its strong proselytizing and unique temple rituals; Community of Christ emphasizes peace, justice, and community building.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) and Community of Christ are two distinct religious organizations that share a common origin in the Latter Day Saint movement, founded by Joseph Smith Jr. in the 1830s. Following Smith's death in 1844, disagreements over leadership succession and doctrinal interpretation led to a schism, resulting in the formation of various factions, with these two becoming the largest and most prominent today.

Divergent Leadership and Authority

The most fundamental difference stems from the question of succession after Joseph Smith Jr.'s assassination. The majority of Latter Day Saints, led by Brigham Young, followed him westward to the Utah territory, establishing what is now The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They believe authority passed to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, with Young as its president. In contrast, the group that would become Community of Christ (originally the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, or RLDS) maintained that leadership should remain within Smith's family line, eventually recognizing Joseph Smith III, Smith's eldest son, as their prophetic leader. This foundational disagreement shaped each church's governance and theological development.

Distinctive Doctrines and Practices

Over time, both churches developed unique theological interpretations. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints emphasizes a distinct view of the Godhead, with God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost as three separate, embodied beings. Central to LDS practice are temple ordinances, including endowments and sealings, which are seen as essential for exaltation. They continue to use the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price as scripture. Community of Christ, however, aligns more closely with traditional Trinitarian theology, viewing God as a unified being. They do not practice the same temple ordinances as the LDS Church, instead focusing on sacraments such as baptism and communion, and emphasizing mission initiatives centered on peace, justice, and human dignity. While they also use the Book of Mormon and a different version of the Doctrine and Covenants, they place greater emphasis on the Bible and ongoing revelation through their prophet-president.

Evolving Social and Cultural Stances

The two churches have also diverged significantly on social and cultural issues. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints maintains generally conservative stances on marriage, gender roles, and LGBTQ+ issues, and is known for its global missionary program. Its culture often emphasizes strong community ties and a unique lifestyle code. Community of Christ has adopted more progressive positions, including the ordination of women to the priesthood since 1984 and welcoming LGBTQ+ individuals into full fellowship, including marriage and ordination. Their global focus is often on community building, interfaith dialogue, and pursuing "the peace of Christ."

Understanding these distinctions is crucial for anyone seeking to comprehend the diverse landscape of American religious history and the enduring legacy of the Latter Day Saint movement. It illustrates how initial disagreements over authority can lead to vastly different theological, social, and cultural expressions within a shared heritage. For individuals with connections to either faith, or those studying religious identity and change, recognizing these core divergences offers clarity and insight into the unique paths each church has forged.

Are both churches considered "Mormon"?

The term "Mormon" is primarily associated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. While Community of Christ originated from the same movement, they generally do not use the term "Mormon" to describe themselves, preferring their official name.

Do they both use the Book of Mormon?

Yes, both churches consider the Book of Mormon to be scripture. However, they use slightly different editions, and their interpretations and emphasis on the Book of Mormon within their broader scriptural canon can vary.

What about polygamy?

Polygamy was practiced by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the 19th century but was officially discontinued in 1890. Community of Christ (then RLDS) consistently rejected polygamy from its inception and has never practiced it. This was a significant early point of divergence.

Can members of one church attend services at the other?

Yes, individuals are generally welcome to attend services at either church as visitors. However, full membership and participation in specific ordinances or leadership roles are exclusive to members of that particular church.

Do they share the same temples?

No. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has numerous temples worldwide for specific sacred ordinances. Community of Christ does not have similar temples or practices; their main worship spaces are called meetinghouses or church buildings. They do have a temple in Independence, Missouri, dedicated to peace, reconciliation, and learning, but it is not used for the same type of ordinances as LDS temples.

Sources

Information on the history and doctrines of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from official church publications and historical accounts.
Information on the history and doctrines of Community of Christ from official church publications and historical accounts.