The relationship between the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons) and coffee has been a long and complicated one. The church has long maintained that its members should not drink coffee, while other branches of the faith accept it. In this article, we take a look at the history of Mormonism and coffee, and the arguments for and against their use in the faith.
Background
Mormonism arose in the early 19th century out of the religious movement known as Restorationism. This movement sought to restore Christianity to its original form and practice, as it was seen in early Christianity. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints was founded in 1830 by Joseph Smith and is the largest denomination of Restorationist Christianity. Smith prohibited the use of alcohol, tobacco and coffee in the church, which has been adhered to by most of the church’s adherents since then. Today, Mormon doctrine holds that coffee is an unhealthy and addictive substance, and that it should be avoided.
The Arguments For and Against Coffee
The arguments for and against consuming coffee in the Mormon Church are diverse and complex. Some Mormons argue that coffee is not an addictive substance and that, as long as it is consumed in moderation, it carries no spiritual risk. They point out that, while not explicitly prohibited by God, the Word of Wisdom—an adaptation of the U.S. dietary code—treats the use of coffee, tea, and other stimulants as issues of personal choice. Similarly, many Mormons believe that today’s processed coffee products do not necessarily carry the same health risks as in the past, and that consuming coffee in moderation can be seen as nourishing the body and spirit. Others see coffee as a vehicle for spiritual growth and connection to God, arguing that it can be a means to creating closer bonds with the divine.
Those opposed to drinking coffee in the church generally cite the Word of Wisdom as the primary reason for abstaining from coffee. They point out that the Word of Wisdom was given to the church in 1833 and its prohibition of coffee is unambiguous. The Word of Wisdom does not explicitly mention coffee, but it does include a prohibition on “hot drinks,” which is typically interpreted as meaning coffee and tea. Church members are encouraged to abstain from all forms of coffee, and those that choose to drink coffee are encouraged to do so in moderation.
Public Perception
Despite the Church’s official stance, many Mormon individuals and families openly consume coffee. Many families have long-established customs and rituals surrounding the consumption of coffee, including family recipes and coffee-making traditions. The prevalence of coffee consumption amongst the Mormon population has caused some confusion in the public perception of the Church and its teachings. This confusion is likely due, in part, to the close relationship between Mormonism and coffee culture in the United States.
In the past few decades, the popularity of coffee culture in the United States has risen significantly, and Mormon-majority states like Utah and Idaho are increasingly home to specialized coffee shops and roasters. This trend has led to the growth of a unique “Utah Coffee” culture, with Mormon-owned coffee companies and coffee shops serving coffee in locations across the state. The increasing prevalence of coffee consumption amongst Mormons has led to the development of a unique coffee culture within the state.
Spiritual Implications
Despite the church’s official teaching on coffee, many Mormons view the consumption of coffee as a personal matter, governed by individual desires and faith rather than church decree. Some argue that as long as one drinks coffee in moderation and follows the principles of the Word of Wisdom, then the spiritual implications of coffee consumption are negligible.
Others believe that coffee consumption can have spiritual implications. They point to passages in the Bible and the Doctrine and Covenants that refer to the act of preparing and drinking coffee as a spiritual act. They argue that coffee is intrinsically tied to spiritual growth, and that the communal practice of drinking coffee can strengthen bonds between individuals and with the divine.
The Church’s Stance
While the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints officially adheres to a ban on coffee, many Mormons within the faith find ways to incorporate coffee into their lives. The practice of drinking coffee has become increasingly common amongst Mormons, particularly in the western United States, and some Mormons have developed a unique “Utah Coffee” culture. While the Church has never openly approved of coffee consumption, it has not issued official condemnation of those that choose to drink it.
Health Benefits
In addition to the spiritual implications, some Mormons point to the potential health benefits of coffee consumption. Research has found that moderate coffee consumption can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and Type 2 diabetes, and can improve mood, memory, and alertness. Coffee is also a good source of antioxidants, which can help to protect against inflammation and cell damage. Though Mormons do not consider the side effects of coffee use, many find that moderate coffee consumption can have beneficial health effects.
Individual Discretion
Ultimately, the matter of whether or not to drink coffee falls to individual members of the Church. The Church’s official policy asks members to avoid coffee and other stimulants, but does not enforce the policy. Many Mormons find ways to incorporate coffee into their lives while still adhering to the principles of the Word of Wisdom, while others hold to a strict interpretation of the Doctrine and Covenants. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to make their own decisions regarding their relationship with coffee.
Cultural Significance
Though the Church has maintained its official stance on coffee, the practice of drinking coffee in Mormonism has become increasingly common and is becoming more widely accepted. The “Utah Coffee” culture, in particular, has become a symbol of pride for many Mormons and non-Mormons alike. The communal nature of coffee drinking has also become a symbol of unity, connection and fellowship amongst members of the Church and is seen as a way to strengthen the bonds of the faith.
Conclusion
The issue of coffee consumption in Mormonism is a complex one and has been the subject of debate within the Church for decades. While the Church has maintained its official stance on the consumption of coffee, many Mormons find ways to incorporate coffee into their lives while still adhering to the principles set forth in the Word of Wisdom. As the “Utah Coffee” culture continues to grow, the Practice of drinking coffee may become more widespread in Mormonism and may even become an accepted practice within the Church.
