Introduction
You may have heard of the FLDS Church from popular TV shows, documentaries, or news reports. FLDS stands for the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, a religious movement that originated in Utah and has since expanded to other parts of the United States and Canada. The FLDS Church is known for its controversial practices, including polygamy, child marriage, and strict adherence to patriarchal authority. However, there is much more to the FLDS Church than just these negative headlines. In this article, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the FLDS Church’s history, beliefs, impact, and challenges, and to help our audience understand and deal with the complex issues surrounding this religious movement.
Inside the Controversial World of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS)
The FLDS Church has been classified as a cult by some experts, due to its extreme isolationism, authoritarianism, and devotion to a single leader. The church’s leaders, who claim to be prophets and receive divine revelations, exercise near-total control over all aspects of members’ lives, from how they dress and speak to who they marry and how they raise their children. The church’s practices, which are based on a strict interpretation of Mormon doctrine, include polygamy (or “plural marriage”), “sealing” (eternal marriage), “blood atonement” (capital punishment for serious sins), and the “United Order” (communal living and sharing of resources).
The FLDS Church operates as a closed community, with its own schools, businesses, and social services. Members are encouraged to reject mainstream society and media, and to view themselves as a persecuted and chosen people. The FLDS Church has been accused of numerous human rights violations, ranging from child abuse and neglect to sexual exploitation and forced labor. The church’s hierarchical structure is centered around the “prophet” or leader, who is believed to have direct access to God and is granted absolute obedience and loyalty by his followers. Below the prophet are several levels of priesthood, with varying degrees of authority and responsibility.
Uncovering the Origins and Beliefs of the FLDS Movement
The FLDS Church traces its roots to the early days of Mormonism, when polygamy was an accepted and even encouraged practice among members. However, in the late 19th century, the mainstream Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS), under pressure from the US government and public opinion, renounced polygamy and excommunicated members who continued to practice it. This led to the formation of several splinter groups, including the FLDS Church, which rejected the LDS Church’s authority and continued to practice polygamy as an essential part of their religion.
The FLDS Church’s beliefs are based on a literal interpretation of the Book of Mormon and other scriptures, as well as on the teachings and revelations of its prophet. Some of the core tenets of the FLDS faith include the belief in a literal and imminent second coming of Christ, the importance of genealogy and ancestral ties, and the need for continual revelation to guide the church’s actions and decisions. The FLDS Church also places great emphasis on obedience to divine authority, self-sufficiency and preparedness, and moral purity.
Despite these similarities, there are significant differences between the FLDS and mainstream LDS Churches. One of the most notable is the use of polygamy, which is strictly prohibited by the LDS Church and considered a grave sin. Additionally, the FLDS Church believes in the practice of “one-man rule” or a single, infallible leader, whereas the LDS Church operates on a more decentralized and democratic model of leadership. There are also differences in the interpretation of certain scriptures, such as the role of women in the church and the nature of God.
The Legal Battle against the FLDS Church: Understanding Its Recent History
For decades, the FLDS Church operated largely unchecked by law enforcement or government agencies, due to its relative isolation and secrecy. However, in the early 2000s, several high-profile incidents brought the FLDS Church into the public eye and sparked a wave of legal actions and investigations. One of the most significant cases was the 2008 raid on the Yearning for Zion Ranch in Texas, where hundreds of FLDS members were living in squalor and allegedly engaging in underage marriage, incest, and abuse. The raid resulted in the temporary removal of over 400 children from their families, and several FLDS leaders were later convicted on charges of sexual assault and child abuse.
Since then, the FLDS Church has faced numerous legal challenges and controversies, including battles over control of church assets, disputes over child custody and welfare, and allegations of ongoing abuse and neglect. In 2020, Warren Jeffs, the longtime prophet and leader of the FLDS Church, died in prison while serving a life sentence for child sexual assault. The future of the FLDS Church is uncertain, as many members have left or been excommunicated in recent years, and there are concerns about the potential for further abuse and harm within the remaining community.
The Impact of Polygamy: A Look at the FLDS Community in America
Polygamy has been a central feature of the FLDS Church since its inception and remains a key element of its identity and culture. However, the practice has also had profound and often negative impacts on the families and individuals involved. Children raised in polygamous households may face a range of challenges, including limited educational opportunities, lack of personal autonomy, and emotional and psychological trauma. Women in polygamous marriages may experience extreme competition, jealousy, and isolation, as well as physical and sexual abuse. Men may face pressure to provide for and control multiple wives and children, and may struggle with emotional and mental health issues.
Despite these challenges, many members of the FLDS Church view polygamy as a divine commandment and a path to spiritual enlightenment. They see themselves as part of a larger community of Sainthood or Zion, whose ultimate goal is to create a utopian society based on the principles of faith, family, and freedom from worldly corruption. However, the reality of life in polygamous communities can be far from idyllic, and many members struggle to reconcile their religious beliefs with the harsh realities of daily existence.
Breaking Down Misconceptions: Separating Fact from Fiction about the FLDS
There are many misconceptions and stereotypes surrounding the FLDS Church, fueled in part by sensationalized media coverage and popular culture. Some of the most common myths include the belief that all FLDS members are brainwashed cultists, that polygamy is inherently abusive and exploitative, and that FLDS members are all victims of a repressive and authoritarian regime. However, these portrayals do not reflect the complexity and diversity of the FLDS community and do not take into account the agency and choice that many members exercise in their daily lives.
To break down these misconceptions, it is important to look at the facts and reality of the FLDS Church, without sensationalism or bias. While there are certainly valid concerns and criticisms to be made of the FLDS Church, it is also important to recognize the positive aspects of the community, such as its emphasis on family values, self-sufficiency, and charitable works. Many FLDS members are dedicated and loving parents, loyal and supportive friends, and passionate and creative individuals who simply happen to live a different lifestyle than mainstream society.
Escaping the FLDS Community: One Woman’s Journey to Freedom
For those who do not fit in or do not want to participate in the FLDS lifestyle, leaving the community can be a daunting and difficult process. There are numerous barriers and challenges to overcome, including emotional and psychological trauma, social isolation, financial instability, and legal complications. However, there are also many resources and support networks available for those seeking to leave and build a new life outside the FLDS Church.
One example is the story of Carolyn Jessop, a former FLDS member who escaped from the group with her eight children and went on to write a bestselling memoir about her experiences. Jessop’s story highlights the resilience and courage of those who are able to break free from the constraints of the FLDS Church and build a new life for themselves and their families. It also underscores the importance of education, empowerment, and community support in helping survivors of cults and abusive groups reclaim their lives and identities.
Conclusion
The FLDS Church is a complex and controversial religious movement that has had significant impacts on its members, surrounding communities, and society at large. While there are many challenges and concerns associated with the FLDS Church, it is important to approach the topic with nuance and respect, and to recognize the agency and diversity of the individuals involved. By understanding the history, beliefs, impact, and challenges of the FLDS Church, we can better address the issues and provide support and resources for those affected by them.
If you or someone you know is struggling with issues related to the FLDS Church or other abusive groups, there are resources available to help. Please reach out to national or local organizations that provide support and advocacy for survivors of cults and violent religious groups.