flds

The Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS Church) is a theocratic, fundamentalist Mormon sect that split from the LDS Church over the continuation of plural marriage. It is traditionally centered in the twin towns of Colorado City, Arizona, and Hildale, Utah, with additional settlements in other states. The FLDS has been described as a tightly governed community with a strong emphasis on obedience to church authority.

Leadership and structure: The church is led by a Prophet who is regarded as a revelator and seer, supported by a priesthood hierarchy. After the death of Rulon S. Jeffs in the early 2000s, his son Warren Jeffs became Prophet in 2002 and remained a prominent, though imprisoned, figure in the organization following his 2011 conviction on charges related to the sexual assault of minors.

Beliefs and practices: The FLDS teaches plural marriage as a divine command and upholds patriarchal family structures, with a focus on community cohesion and reverence for church leaders. Education has traditionally been administered within the community, and social norms emphasize modesty, obedience, and separation from wider secular society in areas of daily life.

Controversies and legal issues: The FLDS has faced ongoing legal scrutiny related to polygamy and allegations of abuse and underage marriages. In 2008, a law enforcement action in Eldorado, Texas, led to a high-profile child welfare investigation and the temporary removal of children. Subsequent years included legal proceedings and internal disputes regarding leadership and property rights.

Relations with broader Mormonism: The FLDS is not affiliated with the LDS Church and rejects its mainstream doctrines, maintaining distinct practices and governance while tracing its origins to early Mormon plural marriage.