The Current Worldwide Membership of the LDS Church

In 2024, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly known as the LDS Church, boasts a membership of over 17 million individuals worldwide. This significant number underscores the global reach and prominence of the faith. One striking statistic is that more members of the LDS Church live outside the United States than within it, with notable concentrations in countries such as Brazil, Mexico, Peru, and the Philippines.

Global Distribution of Members

The LDS Church is deeply international, with members spread across every continent. Even in the most remote locations, such as Antarctica, there are Latter-day Saints, including researchers and scientists who have embraced the faith. The Church's global presence is evidenced by the fact that each of these continents hosts numerous followers.

Specific Country Breakdown

Within the United States, the Church maintains a strong presence, but it is in Brazil and Mexico where the LDS Church has the highest member counts, each surpassing one million. Additionally, Peru and the Philippines are nearing the one million mark in terms of church membership. These figures highlight the Church's significant footprint in regions with diverse cultures and values.

Membership Records and Statistics

According to the Church’s official records, the total membership count is estimated at 17 million. This figure is derived from computerized records maintained by local clergy across the globe. It is important to note that this count is dynamic, increasing daily with the addition of new members through baptism of both young children and converts. Converts are individuals who have embraced the faith either from no religious background or from previous religious affiliations.

In contrast to the growing count, there are instances where members' names are removed from the records. This typically happens upon receiving a formal written request to dissolve their membership ties. However, these cases are relatively rare, and they do not significantly impact the overall growth trend which is largely driven by new baptisms.

Accessing Official Numbers

The most accurate and up-to-date numbers can be found directly on the Homepage of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. These official figures are sourced from the records of local congregations, ensuring their reliability and accuracy.

The LDS Church's membership numbers are not just statistics; they represent a community bound by shared beliefs and a commitment to spreading their faith across the globe. As the Church continues to grow, it remains an integral part of the social and cultural fabric of many countries, embodying the idea that belief in Jesus Christ transcends geographical boundaries.