Baptism (Latter Day Saints)

In Mormonism, baptism is recognized as the first of several ordinances (rituals) of the gospel.

Much of the theology of Mormon baptism was established during the early Latter Day Saint movement founded by Joseph Smith. According to this theology, baptism must be by immersion and is for the remission of sins (meaning that through baptism, past sins are forgiven), and occurs after one has shown faith and repentance. Mormon baptism does not purport to remit any sins other than personal ones, as adherents do not believe in original sin. Mormon baptisms also occur only after an "age of accountability" which is defined as the age of eight years. The theology thus rejects infant baptism. According to the account in Joseph Smith–History 1:68, the first Mormon baptisms occurred on May 15, 1829, when Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery baptized each other in the Susquehanna River near Harmony, Pennsylvania shortly after receiving the Aaronic priesthood from John the Baptist.

In addition, Mormon theology requires baptism only be performed a priesthood holder. The minimum required priesthood level to perform a baptism in Mormonism is Priest, who is a worthy male members at least 16 years old, and the rite is presided by a Bishop. Because the churches of the Latter Day Saint movement operate under a lay priesthood, children raised in a Mormon family are usually baptized by a father or close male friend or family member.

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