Four-fold Mission of the Church
The three-fold mission of the Church was to perfect the saints, proclaim the gospel, and redeem the dead. Hence, the three-fold mission of the church began with self (Alma 60:23) and worked outwardly toward others and finally to deceased ancestors. Handbook 2, a guide for members of ward and stake councils, states that the original "three applications were part of one great work, stating: 'The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was organized by God to assist in His work to bring to pass the salvation and exaltation of His children' (see Moses 1:39)."
The Church of Jesus Christ now proclaims a four-fold mission, having added caring for the poor and needy as its fourth main purpose.
Perfect the Saints
An integral part of the Church's work is to help its members attain salvation through "coming unto Christ." The various meetings of the Church including Sabbath services and others, such as General Conference, are aimed at teaching gospel doctrine (or the plan of salvation).
Members of the Church are known for aiding one another in this respect through what is known as the Visiting Teaching and Home Teaching programs, in which members visit one another and share lessons as well as offer needed assistance.
Proclaim the Gospel
Members of the Church are also known for their missionary zeal. Many Latter-day Saints volunteer 18 months to two years, without pay, to their Church to share the gospel of Jesus Christ in foreign lands or other areas away from home. It is also common for members to share their beliefs with friends.
Redeem the Dead
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints also constructs many Mormon temples and practices in them holy ordinances as in ancient times. However, ordinances and practices relating to the Law of Moses are no longer practiced, as the Law of Moses was fulfilled by Christ.
The doctrine of the Church is that at death the physical body is discarded, and the spirit moves on to a place called the Spirit World. Spirits in the Spirit World have the same personality characteristics, desires, and freedom of choice as embodied, mortal beings. In the Spirit World, all have the opportunity to accept or reject the Savior Jesus Christ, and to accept or reject ordinances, such as baptism, that might be performed for them vicariously on earth. These ordinances are performed in Mormon temples and include Baptism for the Dead, the Temple endowment, and eternal marriage.
Care for the Poor and Needy
Through its vast welfare and humanitarian aid programs as well as the personal service of its individual members, the Church of Jesus Christ is well-known for its outreach and help to those afflicted in any way, from temporary joblessness or illness to disasters that cause acute suffering.
