Mormon Idioms

Common and well-known phrases used in Mormonism

And it Came to Pass...

Phrase frequently found in the scriptures, especially in the Book of Mormon. It simply means "And then this happened" or "And then this other thing came about" etc. It is also the title of an LDS card game.

Be Grateful. Be Smart. Be Clean. Be True. Be Humble. Be Prayerful.

President Hinckley's six B's, from a talk given to the youth and young adults of the Church. By living by these B's the prophet promised that the challenges and temptations of these times could become manageable.

Called to Serve

This phrase can reference any sort of calling in the Church. Lay members fill all the local levels of leadership as called by their bishop or stake president. The phrase is also used frequently when talking about missionaries. Missionaries are "called to serve" in different areas around the world. The phrase is also the title of a well-known hymn, which is frequently sung in missionary contexts.

Charity Never Faileth

This is the motto of the Relief Society, the Church's organization for women. The phrase can be found in both the New Testament (1 Corinthians 13:8) and the Book of Mormon (Moroni 7:46). Since its founding, the Relief Society has always been dedicated to serving others and showing forth charity, the pure love of Christ.

Choose the Right

This motto is frequently known by its acronym, CTR, which can be found on all sorts of Mormon products such as rings, necklaces, tie tacks, ties, t-shirts, etc. It is a simple reminder that we should make good choices in this life that will enable us to return to the presence of God.

Dispensation of the Fulness of Times

A dispensation is a time period during which the gospel and priesthood authority are upon the earth. This time period, beginning with the Restoration of the gospel, is the last dispensation. It is known as the "fulness of times" because all of the keys and authority of previous dispensations have been restored for one final time before the Savior's Second Coming.

Endure to the End

This admonition is found throughout the scriptures. Matthew 24:13 reads: "But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved." After we have made baptismal and temple covenants, we must continue to "endure" by living faithfully and keeping the covenants we have made. The abbreviation ETTE (with the last E reversed) is used on rings and other Mormon jewelry.

Every Member a Missionary

Faith in Every Footstep

Fast and Testimony Meeting

Go Forth with Faith

Hold to the Rod

Lengthen Your Stride

Lengthen Your Shuffle

Many Are Called but Few Are Chosen

Put on the Whole Armor of God

Return with Honor

Stand for Truth and Righteousness

Tithes and Offerings

What E'er Thou Art, Act Well Thy Part