Why are fewer people joining the LDS / Mormon Church than ever before?

Question

These convert baptism numbers were reported in general conference (year, church population total, convert baptism total, percent growth):

1981-- 4,936,000-- 298,000-- 6.0%
1991-- 8,120,000-- 360,000-- 4.4%
2001-- 11,394,522-- 325,661-- 2.9%


2005-- 12,560,869-- 285,047-- 2.3%

from http://ldspatriot.wordpress.com/2006/02/13/lds-church-growth-facts-stats/

Answer 1

The Internet has had a major impact because it allows converts and members easy access to tons of info about the LDS. What they do with it is their own business. But recruitment has fallen sharply lately especially here in the states.

Answer 2

I think that you should look at the church's website for this info. Here's a link. This is the official church record, so it's probably more accurate then other sites.

Here's a question for you: Why is it that church membership has grown to over 12 million since the founding of our church? Don't you think if there wasn't some truth to it that it would have died out when Joseph Smith died? Hmm.. something to think about...

Also.. look at Acts 5: 38-39: 38 And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought: 39 But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God. If there wasn't something to this church, then it would have been overthrown long before now!!

Also, the state of the world has a lot to do with the decline in conversion. If you look into other church statistics- that is, if they will show you stats- you will find the same thing happening all over the world. People are more interested in have fun and doing what they want then subscribing to religion. I know this sounds like a generalization, it's not meant to, but merely the truth.

Answer 3

By the same mathematical reasoning I challenge you to find a religion that is growing faster.

I also challenge you to compare the growth rate of The LDS Church to that of other major religions. Perhaps you will find similar trends across the board. Let's be fair now.

Answer 4

It is all relative. The growth in one year is more than the total membership a hundred years ago.

Living the Gospel is too hard for many. Remember that Gideon had to send away soldiers to get to the 300 God wanted.

Answer 5

Yeah having over 12 million members means fewer people are joining.

gw

Answer 6

because theres less people to convert (i thought that the numbers were riseing!)

Answer 7

Is it a numbers game?

Answer 8

Perhaps because they don't believe God was a man living on another planet and if you wear magic underwear and do everything the church tells you then you too can have your own planet and be a God!

And if you are a woman you might not be too happy that women only receive salvation through their Mormon husbands so you better hope he calls out your name, and must remain pregnant for all eternity too!

If you come from a Christian background you might not agree with them that Jesus was really Lucifer's brother in the spirit world, and it was only due to a "heavenly council" vote that Jesus became our redeemer instead of Satan!

So is it any wonder their membership is declining?

Answer 9

I believe you have a bad source. Try LDS.org next time to get accurate results.

Answer 10

Well, I can't answer for everyone, but we didn't join because my boyfriend and I would have to get married. We just don't want to be married, we are happy just living together. Plus, they do not believe in smoking or drinking.