LDS vs. Scientology

Attribute	LDS	Scientology
Founder	Joseph Smith	L. Ron Hubbard
Scripture	Book of Mormon	Scientology Scriptures
Belief in God	Yes	Yes
Belief in Afterlife	Yes	Yes
Worship Practices	Church services, temples	Auditing, training courses

Beliefs

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), commonly known as the Mormon Church, believes in the Bible as well as the Book of Mormon, which they consider to be another testament of Jesus Christ. They believe in the existence of God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit as separate beings in the Godhead. They also believe in the concept of eternal families and the potential for humans to become like God.

On the other hand, Scientology was founded by L. Ron Hubbard and is based on his teachings and writings. Scientologists believe in the existence of a Supreme Being, but their beliefs are more focused on the idea of spiritual enlightenment and self-improvement through a process called auditing. They believe that humans are immortal spiritual beings called thetans who have forgotten their true nature.

Practices

LDS members participate in regular worship services on Sundays, where they partake of the sacrament, listen to sermons, and participate in various religious ordinances. They also believe in the importance of family and community service, as well as missionary work to spread their beliefs to others. LDS temples are considered sacred places where special ordinances, such as marriages and baptisms for the dead, are performed.

Scientologists engage in a practice called auditing, which involves a form of counseling to help individuals overcome past traumas and negative experiences. They also participate in courses and training programs to advance their spiritual knowledge and abilities. Scientology churches, known as orgs, provide a place for members to gather and participate in religious services and activities.

Leadership

In the LDS Church, leadership is hierarchical, with a prophet serving as the highest authority. The prophet is considered to be a modern-day revelation and is believed to receive guidance from God. Below the prophet are other leaders, such as apostles, bishops, and stake presidents, who oversee various aspects of the church's operations.

Scientology is led by a group of officials known as the Sea Organization, who oversee the church's operations and policies. The most prominent figure in Scientology is the Chairman of the Board of the Religious Technology Center, who is responsible for ensuring the purity and accuracy of the church's teachings and practices.

Membership

LDS membership is open to anyone who accepts the church's teachings and is willing to abide by its standards of conduct. Members are expected to pay tithing, attend church services regularly, and participate in temple ordinances. LDS missionaries are also encouraged to share their beliefs with others and invite them to join the church.

Scientology membership is more exclusive, as individuals must undergo a series of courses and training programs before they can become full-fledged members. Members are expected to adhere to the church's ethical guidelines and participate in auditing sessions regularly. Scientology also has a strong emphasis on recruiting new members and expanding its influence worldwide.

Conclusion

While both the LDS Church and Scientology are considered to be relatively new religious movements, they have distinct beliefs, practices, and organizational structures. The LDS Church places a strong emphasis on traditional Christian beliefs and values, while Scientology focuses more on spiritual enlightenment and self-improvement. Both religions have faced criticism and controversy over the years, but they continue to attract followers and influence the lives of their members in profound ways.