When people think of religion and space, they may immediately think of the Vatican Observatory or the various connections between astronauts and their faith traditions. However, one religious group that has developed a unique perspective on space exploration is the Mormons. For members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly known as Mormons, the idea of “mormon space” goes beyond the scientific exploration of the cosmos. It encompasses not only the physical universe but also the spiritual and metaphysical dimensions of existence.
Mormon theology offers a distinctive perspective on the nature of the universe and humanity’s place within it. Central to this perspective is the belief in a pre-mortal existence, where all human souls existed as spiritual beings before coming to earth. According to Mormon doctrine, this pre-mortal existence includes a heavenly council where God’s plan for humanity was revealed and accepted by all. This belief in a pre-mortal existence shapes the way Mormons view their earthly lives and their aspirations for the future.
The idea of “mormon space” also includes the concept of the afterlife, where faithful Mormons can progress to become like God and create worlds of their own. This celestial perspective on the universe inspires Mormons to see space exploration as not just a scientific endeavor but also a way to participate in the grand cosmic plan of God. As Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles stated, “We live on a small planet that spins through space, but we are the children of a God who created the universe. That should tell us something.”
The Mormon understanding of space is also influenced by their theological teachings about the physical world and its potential for spiritual growth. Mormons believe that the earth is a sacred place created by God for the benefit of His children. This belief in the sanctity of the earth motivates Mormons to be good stewards of the environment and to seek to understand the mysteries of the universe through scientific exploration. As Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles affirmed, “This world is not our home; we are here to learn and grow, to prepare for the life to come.”
In recent years, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has taken steps to actively engage with the scientific community and explore the possibilities of space exploration. The Church owns and operates the BYU Center for Remote Sensing, which conducts research in satellite imagery and remote sensing technologies. In addition, the Church has partnered with NASA on various projects, including the Perseverance rover that landed on Mars in 2021. These collaborations reflect the Church’s commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and understanding the cosmos.
The Mormon perspective on space also extends to the idea of colonization and settlement of other planets. Some Mormons believe that God has prepared other worlds for habitation by His children and that humans may one day travel to and populate these planets. This belief in the potential for interplanetary colonization reflects the Mormon emphasis on eternal progression and the expansion of God’s kingdom throughout the universe. As Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles declared, “We are not alone in the universe; God has prepared a place for us among the stars.”
Overall, the concept of “mormon space” offers a unique lens through which to view humanity’s relationship to the cosmos. It combines scientific exploration with a deep spiritual understanding of the universe and our place within it. For Mormons, space is not just a vast expanse of stars and planets; it is a sacred creation of God that holds deep significance for our past, present, and future. As we continue to explore the mysteries of the universe, let us remember the words of Mormon apostle Neal A. Maxwell: “There is a beauty and order to the heavens, reflecting the beauty and order of Him who created them.”
In conclusion, “Mormon space” provides a rich and complex framework for understanding the universe and our place within it. By integrating scientific exploration with spiritual insights, Mormons offer a unique perspective on space that challenges us to see the cosmos in a new light. As we ponder the vastness of the universe and the mysteries it holds, let us remember the words of Mormon prophet Joseph Smith: “The stars are no more worlds than angels are; God has created worlds for angels to dwell in.”