The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’s first article of faith states, “We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost.” These three beings make up the Godhead. They preside over this world and all other creations of our Father in Heaven.
Latter-day Saints view the members of the Godhead in a manner that corresponds in a number of ways with the views of others in the Christian world, but with significant differences. Latter-day Saints pray to God the Father in the name of Jesus Christ. They acknowledge the Father as the ultimate object of their worship, the Son as Lord and Redeemer, and the Holy Spirit as the messenger and revealer of the Father and the Son. But where Latter-day Saints differ from other Christian religions is in their belief that God and Jesus Christ are glorified, physical beings and that each member of the Godhead is a separate being.
Latter-day Saints believe that the members of the Godhead are distinct beings with distinct roles, but they are one in purpose and doctrine. They are perfectly united in bringing to pass Heavenly Father’s divine plan of salvation.
God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost
God is the Supreme Being and all-powerful Father of mankind. He is the literal Father of every human spirit, and every man and woman is created in His image. God—or Heavenly Father, as He is often called—has a glorified, physical body of flesh and bone.
Jesus Christ is the firstborn Son of God and the great example for all people. He is the Savior and Redeemer of the world. Like His Father, Jesus Christ has a glorified body of flesh and bone.
The Holy Spirit, or Holy Ghost, is the final member of the Godhead. He is a messenger, revealer of truth, and witness of the Father and the Son. The Holy Ghost is also known as the Comforter; His companionship brings truth, peace, and comfort. He is able to dwell within people because He does not have a physical body and exists only as a spirit.
The True Doctrine of the Godhead was Lost
Latter-day Saints believe that the true doctrine of the Godhead was lost in the apostasy that followed the Savior’s mortal ministry and the deaths of His Apostles. This doctrine began to be restored when 14-year-old Joseph Smith received his First Vision (see Joseph Smith—History 1:17).
