Why are There No Crosses on Mormon Churches?

The question of why crosses are not typically present on Mormon church buildings often arises, leading to confusion and sometimes misunderstandings. To clear the air, it is important to delve into the beliefs and practices of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), specifically regarding the concept of the atonement and the significance of the cross.

The Significance of the Atonement

Mormon theology places a unique emphasis on the atonement, a pivotal concept that is foundational to their understanding of Christ's role and mission. This atonement is not solely seen as an event that occurred on the cross, but as a broader, ongoing process that began in the Garden of Gethsemane.

Like many Christian denominations, Mormons believe in the sacrificial nature of Christ's actions, but they emphasize a different location and context. According to Joseph Smith, the atonement actually took place in the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus sweat drops of blood as he bore the sins of the world. This emphasis shifts the focus away from the act of crucifixion and towards the act of bearing suffering and the burdens of others.

Why No Crosses?

There are several reasons why the Mormons avoid the inclusion of crosses on their church buildings:

Association with Death: For many Mormons, the cross is deeply associated with the physical death of Christ, which they do not emphasize as a central aspect of their faith. Focus on Life and Resurrection: Mormons believe that Christ's ultimate triumph was not just his death, but his resurrection, and his continuing life and mission to provide eternal salvation and exaltation. Historical and Cultural Context: The Mormon church has a unique historical and cultural background that guides its beliefs and practices. The emphasis on the atonement in the Garden of Gethsemane is a key aspect of this.

The Role of the Garden of Gethsemane

The Garden of Gethsemane holds a special place in Mormon theology and practice. It is seen as the true location where Jesus bore the sins of the world and experienced unimaginable suffering on behalf of humanity. This garden is not just a place of physical pain and sacrifice, but a symbol of spiritual transformation and divine power.

Mormons often focus on the atonement as a process that began in the Garden and continued through Christ's life, death, and resurrection. The cross, while still important in understanding Christ's sacrifice, is not the primary symbol of this process.

The True Meaning of the Atonement

Mormons believe that Christ's atonement was not just a one-time event, but a source of ongoing strength and power for all. It is seen as a demonstration of God's love and compassion, as well as a means by which we can cleans ourselves from sin and transgressions. The cross, in their view, serves as a reminder of Christ's suffering, but not the end of the story.

Instead of focusing on the cross, Mormons emphasize the cross over as a symbol of Christ's victory over death and resurrection.

Conclusion

In summary, the absence of crosses on Mormon churches is a reflection of their unique beliefs and practices regarding the atonement. The Garden of Gethsemane, rather than the cross, serves as the central location of the atonement for Mormons. This emphasis on the Garden and the ongoing spiritual power of the atonement distinguishes Mormon theology from more traditional Christian practices, and it is a significant aspect of their religious identity.