What Visitors Need to Know Before Attending a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Service

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (often referred to as the LDS Church or simply the Church) welcomes visitors to its meetinghouses. However, there are specific expectations and guidelines for individuals who choose to visit. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide for visitors, ensuring a respectful and positive experience at one of its services.

Do's

Sit Still: Find a seat and remain seated for the duration of the service. This shows respect for the proceedings.

Look Pretty and Be Silent: Dress appropriately for the occasion, and refrain from speaking unless it is your turn to speak or if you are addressing a question posed by the facilitator. Silence is a key component of respect in this setting.

Dress Appropriately: Wear business formal attire. Barely wearing anything less than business attire will be frowned upon and may make you feel uncomfortable. This rule is particularly emphasized for women and girls, who should pay extra attention to modesty.

Address Individuals Properly: Greet middle-aged or older men with the title "Brother" and older women or girls with "Sister." In many cases, older male members will respond to the respectful title "President." These interactions should be polite and formal.

Don't's

Immodest Clothing for Women and Girls: Women and girls are strictly prohibited from wearing anything deemed immodest. For instance, young women showing up in shorts and a tank top would be immediately sent home. Such attire is a serious issue within the Church community.

Partake in the Sacrament: The sacrament is for members who have made the appropriate covenants. Non-members should not partake, as it is considered a grave offense. If you are an unbaptized child, your parents may be disciplined for allowing you to take part.

Question Church Claims: Asking challenging questions during meetings can result in disciplinary action, including restrictions on privileges, disfellowship, or excommunication. The Church adheres strictly to its beliefs and does not tolerate skepticism or challenges.

Share Deep Biblical Insights: Refer only to the King James version of the Bible, as most members are accustomed to this version. Sharing insights or references to other versions can lead to confusion or disapproval.

Express Deep Struggles: The Church culture emphasizes perfection and success. If you express sadness or struggle, it might be perceived as a sign that you are not living a righteous life.

Trans Individuals and LGBTQ Community: The Church may not be safe for trans individuals or members of the LGBTQ community. Their policies openly discriminate against these groups, and meetinghouses are often hostile environments for them.

Stand or Kneel During Services: Stand only if instructed to do so, and never kneel during the service. The Church follows a specific protocol for these actions.

Clap or Cheer: Do not clap or cheer, even if you are thoroughly impressed by the musical numbers or speeches. This behavior is not encouraged or expected.

Ask for Fractional Offerings or Question Cleanliness: The Church is financially very successful. They only ask for 10% of your paycheck after you are baptized. Meetinghouses are often less than pristine, with a mix of odors and disarray. It is not expected that they be spotlessly clean.

Wear Facial Hair: Facial hair is not favored. While the images of the Church emphasize beards, having facial hair is frowned upon. Pornstaches, or short facial hair, are acceptable.

In conclusion, while the Church welcomes visitors, it is imperative to follow these guidelines to ensure a respectful and inclusive experience. Understanding these dos and don'ts will help you participate in the service with the appropriate level of respect and etiquette.