Why do lds not wear crosses

Overview

The practice of not wearing crosses among members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) dates back to the early 20th century and is rooted in theological distinctions from other Christian traditions. Founded in 1830 by Joseph Smith in upstate New York, the church has grown to over 17 million members worldwide as of 2023. While early LDS history did not explicitly forbid cross usage, it became more pronounced under leaders like President David O. McKay in the 1950s, who taught that the cross symbolized death rather than Christ's resurrection. This stance contrasts with many Christian denominations, such as Catholics and Protestants, who widely use the cross as a central symbol. The LDS church instead focuses on symbols like the angel Moroni on temples, representing restoration, and personal items like CTR rings. This reflects a broader emphasis on living faith and Christ's atonement, with crosses seen as potentially distracting from the message of hope and redemption.

How It Works

The avoidance of cross-wearing in LDS culture operates through both doctrinal teaching and social norms. Doctrinally, church leaders have historically emphasized that the cross is a reminder of Christ's suffering and death, while LDS theology prioritizes his resurrection and ongoing role as a living Savior. For example, in general conferences and publications, teachings highlight symbols like the empty tomb or Christ's appearance in the Americas, as described in the Book of Mormon. Socially, this is reinforced in communities through education in Sunday School and youth programs, where members learn about alternative symbols such as CTR rings, which were introduced in the 1970s to represent moral choices. The church's architecture also reflects this: LDS chapels and temples typically lack crosses, instead featuring spires with the angel Moroni or simple designs. This practice is not a strict rule but a strong tradition, with few members wearing crosses, and it aligns with the church's focus on practical faith, such as service and family, over symbolic adornment.

Why It Matters

This practice matters because it distinguishes LDS identity within Christianity and reinforces core beliefs about Christ's nature. By not wearing crosses, LDS members signal a focus on the resurrected Christ and his atonement, which is central to their doctrine of salvation and eternal life. This has real-world impact in interfaith dialogues, where it can foster understanding or sometimes misconceptions about LDS beliefs. For instance, it helps clarify that LDS theology views Christ as a living being who appeared in ancient America, per the Book of Mormon, rather than solely through the crucifixion narrative. In daily life, it encourages members to express faith through actions like wearing CTR rings, which promote ethical behavior, contributing to community values. Overall, this symbol avoidance underscores the church's emphasis on hope and redemption, influencing how millions worldwide practice their religion and engage with broader Christian traditions.