Latter-day Saints and the Cross
by John L. Smith

A number have noted that you never see a cross on a Mormon church. (You may see Moroni on a temple, or a pointed steeple – but never a cross). In addition, good Mormons never wear a cross.

I've been asked several times to discuss "the Cross" and Mormonism. Surprisingly, Bruce R. McConkie, Mormonism's outstanding writer on Mormonism's teachings, has little to say about the Cross.

In his Mormon Doctrine, (1966, pg. 172) he speaks rather sympathetically of those who would give symbolic meaning to the cross and that "In succeeding centuries, the churches which came into being through an intermingling of pagan concepts with the true apostolic Christianity developed the practice of using symbolic crosses in the architecture of their buildings and as jewelry. . . ."

Too, McConkie says nothing about the Garden of Gethsemane under that subject. It is a well-known fact that Mormons often speak of Christ's suffering in Gethsemane as though it was greater than that on the cross. On page 74 of McConkie's A New Witness for the Articles of Faith McConkie says: "The greatest suffering ever endured by man or God was in Gethsemane. . . ."

He declares on page 109 that "This sacrifice which only a [note] God could make, took place in Gethsemane. . . ." (ibid., see also D & C 19:18). This passage says "Which suffering caused myself even God, the greatest of all to tremble because of pain, and to bleed at every pore, and to suffer both body and spirit - and would that I might not drink the bitter cup, and shrink - "

Remember, Mormons believe their books (Book of Mormon, Doctrine & Covenants and Pearl of Great Price are far more dependable than the Bible. Therefore, they heed them rather than the Bible. Remember too, that they recognize only the King James Version of the Bible.

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This page last updated: October 25, 2001