Mormon Apostle misrepresents Church’s growth #lds #mormom #holland #latterdaysaints

Elder Holland and the Myth of Escalating Mormon Growth

The claim of the rapidly growing Mormon Church is being challenged from within and outside its community, with recent remarks by Elder Jeffrey R. Holland sparking controversy. Speaking in Dallas, he asserted that the Church is expanding more now than at any time in its history. For many, these claims are inspiring, yet an investigation into the actual growth rate suggests a different reality. A deeper look reveals that the statistics tell a story of slow growth and even decline in specific demographics, raising questions about the accuracy of such monumental claims.

Unpacking the Growth Narrative in LDS History

Historically, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) has prided itself on being a rapidly growing faith. Its membership, which began with just six followers in 1830, reached millions over the decades, setting a precedent of formidable growth. This narrative has been central to the faith’s identity, depicting it as a global force in spirituality. Yet, scrutiny suggests that current growth may not live up to the optimistic reports made by some Church officials.

Recently, John Dehlin from the Mormon Stories Podcast highlighted inconsistencies in Elder Holland's statements. Church leaders often present growth in vague terms, focusing on faith-promoting anecdotes rather than concrete numbers. Dehlin's analysis shows that while the Church has historically experienced periods of robust growth, the momentum has significantly slowed in recent years.

Where Facts Meet Fiction: Dissecting the Church’s Data