What's Happening?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly known as the Mormon Church, is experiencing growth and increasing diversity in Hawaii and across the U.S. Hawaii has the highest concentration of Latter-day Saints outside of the Utah region, with
approximately 4% of the adult population identifying as members, an increase from 3% in 2014. A recent Pew Research Center report, "Tradition and Change Among Latter-day Saints in the U.S.," indicates a significant shift in the church's demographics. The proportion of white Latter-day Saints in the U.S. decreased from 85% in 2007 to 72% by 2024, while Hispanic membership doubled from 6% to 12%, and Black membership grew from 2% to 6%. Additionally, 7% of Native Hawaiians or other Pacific Islanders in the U.S. identify as Latter-day Saints. The report also notes an increase in members who are immigrants or children of immigrants, rising from 13% in 2007 to 21% in 2024. Historically, the church excluded individuals of Black African ancestry from priesthood ordination, a sentiment that historian W. Paul Reeve notes persists despite the church's efforts to address its racial past.
Why It's Important?
The demographic shifts within the Latter-day Saint church in Hawaii and the U.S. highlight evolving religious landscapes and societal integration. The increasing diversity, particularly among Hispanic and Black communities, reflects broader demographic changes in the U.S. and the church's expanding global reach. This trend could influence the church's internal policies, outreach strategies, and its role in diverse communities. The high concentration of Latter-day Saints in Hawaii, coupled with the historical context of missionary work among Native Hawaiians, underscores the unique cultural and spiritual connections within the state. The church's historical land acquisitions and establishment of institutions like Brigham Young University-Hawaii and the Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie demonstrate its significant and lasting impact on the region's development and cultural identity. The report also reveals evolving social views among members, with increased acceptance of homosexuality and women in the workforce, indicating a potential for internal dialogue and adaptation on social issues, even as views on abortion remain largely unchanged.
What's Next?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is expected to continue its global growth and diversification, with ongoing efforts to engage new members and adapt to changing social dynamics. The church's statement emphasizes a "season of spiritual vitality and growth" and increased participation among younger demographics. This suggests a continued focus on missionary work and community engagement. Internally, the church may face ongoing discussions regarding social issues, particularly as younger generations, especially women, show more liberal views on topics like politics, purity culture, and gender roles. The Pew Research Center report indicates that young women born into the faith are more likely to leave, suggesting a need for the church to address their concerns to retain membership. The church's institutions in Hawaii, such as BYU-Hawaii and the Polynesian Cultural Center, will likely continue to serve as significant cultural and educational hubs, attracting students and visitors and further solidifying the church's presence in the Pacific.
Beyond the Headlines
The growing diversity within the Latter-day Saint church raises deeper questions about religious identity, cultural assimilation, and the evolving nature of faith in a multicultural society. The historical narrative of the church's engagement with Native Hawaiians, as described by Hōkūlani Aikau, highlights the complex interplay between religious conversion, cultural preservation, and colonization. The idea that the church offered a "necessary refuge" while also being "complicit in the colonization" of Native Hawaiians underscores the nuanced historical experiences of Indigenous peoples within religious movements. The architectural and urban planning of Laie, with the temple as its central focus, symbolizes the profound influence of religious belief on physical landscapes and community development. The social trends observed, such as the increasing educational attainment of Latter-day Saint women and their more liberal stances on certain social issues, suggest a potential for internal shifts in gender roles and theological interpretations, which could have long-term implications for the church's doctrine and practices.
