• The Mormon Church is also known as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and began in America in 1830.  They follow a very strict health code known as the Word of Wisdom.
  • They believe that God, Christ and Holy Ghost are separate personages, although united in purpose.  They believe in continuing revelation and that there is a living prophet, a man who received revelations from God and directs the churches here on earth.
  • They believe that we are living in a time just before the Second Coming of Christ and that the Gospel should be taken, through Missionary work, to the whole world.  Mormons between the ages of 19 and 22 mainly do missionary work.
  • Mormons believe in self-sufficiency, in honouring, upholding and sustaining the Law and in being of service to the community.
  • Family unity has great importance for Mormons.
  • Mormons who have undergone a special Temple ceremony wear a sacred undergarment. This intensely private item will normally be worn at all times, in life and in death. It may be removed for hygiene purposes and laundering. It may also be removed for surgical operations but it must at all times be considered private and treated with respect.
  • Mormons try to take care of their body, take proper rest and exercise and eat a healthy diet.
  • Mormons drink neither tea nor coffee as there is concern over the effects of stimulants including caffeine. Some will avoid all hot drinks. Water, milk, or fruit juice is acceptable.
  • They are not usually vegetarians but will eat meat sparingly.
  • Alcohol and tobacco are forbidden.
  • Death, if inevitable, is regarded as a blessing and a purposeful part of eternal existence. There are no rituals for dying but spiritual contact is important and active members of the church will know how to contact their Bishop who will give blessings and minister to the sick.
  • “Home teachers” will visit and support church members in hospital.
  • Routine last offices are appropriate. The sacred garment must be replaced on the body following last offices.
  • There is no religious objection to post mortems or organ transplants/donation. Members are counselled and the decision is one for individuals and families to make.
  • There is no religious objection to blood transfusions.
  • The Bishop will offer solace and help with funeral arrangements. Burial is preferred.
  • The Relief Society, a women’s organisation, will help with the practicalities of a funeral.