Bad Mormon

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, commonly known as the Mormon Church, is a global Christian denomination with over 16 million members. Founded in 1830 by Joseph Smith in upstate New York, the church is based on Smith’s teachings, which he asserted were revealed to him in a divine vision. One of the church’s defining texts is the Book of Mormon, which Smith claims he translated from ancient golden plates given to him by an angel named Moroni. Church members consider the Book of Mormon to be a companion to the Bible, offering another testament of Jesus Christ.

Central to the Mormon Church’s belief system is the idea of continuing revelation from modern prophets like Joseph Smith and the church’s current leader, Russell M. Nelson. Worship in the Mormon Church includes weekly Sunday services, called sacrament meetings, in which members pray and ingest bread and water in remembrance of Jesus Christ’s death. The church also operates temples, which are distinct from regular churches and used for special services, including the endowment ceremony, marriages, and baptisms for the dead.

In addition to its spiritual teachings, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints places a strong emphasis on lifestyle choices it claims to promote physical and spiritual health. One key aspect of this is the Word of Wisdom, a health code revealed to Joseph Smith in 1833. The code advises against the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, and caffeinated beverages like coffee and tea. Members who have participated in an endowment ceremony are also encouraged to wear sacred temple garments, sometimes referred to as “Mormon underwear.” These garments are worn under clothing and serve as a reminder of the wearer’s spiritual commitments.

As the title suggests, Bad Mormon focuses heavily on author Heather Gay’s struggles to maintain Mormon orthodoxy throughout her life. Although born and raised in the Mormon church, Gay is no longer a member, and the memoir offers harsh criticisms of the church and its practices.