If you’re new to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or just curious about its practices, you might be wondering about common rules. A very frequent question is, can Mormons have coffee? This is one of the most well-known aspects of the faith’s health code, and the answer is central to understanding Mormon daily life.
The short answer is no, active members of the Church do not drink coffee. This is part of a broader health principle called the Word of Wisdom. It’s a revelation from God that guides members on what to consume and what to avoid for physical and spiritual health. Let’s look at what this means and why it’s so important.
Can Mormons Have Coffee
This question gets to the heart of a specific commandment. The official stance of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is that members should not drink coffee. This is based on the Word of Wisdom, found in Section 89 of the Doctrine and Covenants. It specifically advises against “hot drinks,” which early church leaders clarified means tea and coffee.
The rule applies to all types of coffee, regardless of how it’s prepared or served.
- Hot or Iced Coffee: The temperature doesn’t matter. Iced coffee is still coffee.
- Decaffeinated Coffee: The issue isn’t just caffeine. It’s the substance from the coffee bean itself.
- Espresso, Lattes, Cappuccinos: Any drink that uses coffee as a base ingredient is not permitted.
- Coffee-Flavored Foods: This can be a gray area for some, but items with coffee flavoring, like certain desserts or candies, are generally discouraged. Many members choose to avoid them.
What is the Word of Wisdom?
The Word of Wisdom is a health code revealed to Joseph Smith in 1833. It’s considered a commandment from God for the spiritual and physical benefit of His followers. It outlines specific substances to avoid and encourages positive health practices.
For Latter-day Saints, following the Word of Wisdom is a sign of faith and commitment. It’s a standard for full participation in the Church. To enter temples, which are sacred buildings, members must be interviewed and found worthy, which includes living the Word of Wisdom.
What is Specifically Forbidden?
The revelation names several things to avoid:
- Wine and strong drinks (alcoholic beverages)
- Tobacco
- Hot drinks (tea and coffee)
It also encourages the consumption of wholesome herbs, fruits, grains, and meat used sparingly. In modern times, Church leaders have also counseled against the use of illegal drugs, the misuse of prescription drugs, and any substance that is addictive or harmful.
Why Coffee and Tea? Understanding the Principle
Newcomers often ask why these specific drinks are singled out. The Church doesn’t provide a detailed scientific reason, but teaches it as a principle of obedience and revelation. Members believe God has given this instruction for their benefit, even if the full reasons aren’t completely understood.
Some point to the addictive nature of caffeine or other compounds. However, the Church’s position is not centered on caffeine alone, as some caffeinated sodas are not formally prohibited. The instruction focuses specifically on drinks brewed from the coffee bean and tea leaf.
What About Other Caffeinated Drinks?
This is a common point of confusion. The Word of Wisdom does not specifically mention caffeine or soft drinks. For many years, many members avoided caffeinated colas out of personal preference or caution. However, the Church has officially stated that beverages like Coca-Cola or Pepsi are not against the Word of Wisdom. The choice is left to the individual member.
So, while a Mormon won’t drink coffee, they might have a caffeinated soda. The key distinction is the source: the coffee bean and tea leaf are prohibited, not the caffeine molecule itself.
Practical Alternatives to Coffee
Many members still enjoy warm, comforting drinks in the morning or social beverages. There are many popular alternatives that fit within Church standards.
- Herbal Teas: Teas made from herbs, fruits, and flowers that contain no actual tea leaves (like chamomile, peppermint, or rooibos) are very common.
- Postum or Pero: These are traditional grain-based coffee substitutes that have a similar roasted flavor.
- Hot Chocolate: A universal favorite.
- Cereal Drinks: Warm drinks made from roasted grains like barley or dandelion root.
- Apple Cider: Especially popular in the fall and winter.
The Social and Cultural Aspects
Not drinking coffee affects social interactions. In a world where “meeting for coffee” is standard, Mormons often adapt.
- They might suggest meeting for breakfast, lunch, or a smoothie instead.
- They’ll often simply order a hot chocolate or lemonade at a cafe.
- At church gatherings, you’ll never find coffee served. Punch, water, and desserts are the norm.
This practice sets them apart, and it often leads to conversations about their faith. It becomes a daily, tangible reminder of their religious commitments.
What Happens if a Member Drinks Coffee?
People are human, and sometimes members make choices that don’t align with Church teachings. If a member drinks coffee, it doesn’t mean they are excommunicated. It is seen as a sin that requires repentance.
The process involves:
- Recognizing the mistake and feeling sincere remorse.
- Stopping the behavior.
- Confessing to God in prayer.
- If it’s a serious or ongoing issue, discussing it with a local bishop for guidance.
- Recommitting to living the commandment.
Once a person repents, they can regain their full standing in the Church. The goal is always spiritual growth and improvement, not punishment.
Health Perceptions and Modern Science
When the Word of Wisdom was given, the harms of tobacco and alcohol were not widely known. Today, science confirms many benefits of avoiding those substances. For coffee, the scientific picture is mixed, with some studies showing potential benefits and others showing risks.
Latter-day Saints believe the Word of Wisdom is divinely inspired, ahead of its time. They focus on the spiritual promise found in the revelation: better health, wisdom, and physical strength. Many members report positive health outcomes from living this law, even if that wasn’t there primary reason for following it.
Common Misconceptions to Clarify
- Myth: Mormons can’t have any caffeine. Fact: The rule is about coffee and tea, not caffeine specifically.
- Myth: It’s just about health. Fact: It’s primarily about obedience to a commandment from God.
- Myth: One sip of coffee makes you unworthy. Fact: Worthiness is based on a pattern of life and sincere repentance is always available.
- Myth: All members follow it perfectly. Fact: Like any group, individual adherence varies, but it is a clear expectation for active members.
How to Respectfully Interact with Mormon Friends
If you have friends or colleagues who are Latter-day Saints, here’s how you can be supportive:
- When offering drinks, simply provide non-coffee and non-tea options like water, juice, or soda.
- Don’t pressure them to try coffee or make a big deal out of their choice. It’s a deeply personal religious practice.
- If you’re curious, it’s okay to ask polite questions in a respectful setting.
- Choose meeting spots that have good alternative drink menus.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can Mormons drink iced coffee?
A: No. The prohibition is on the coffee itself, not it’s temperature. Iced coffee, cold brew, and frappuccinos are all made from coffee and are not permitted.
Q: Is green tea allowed for Mormons?
A: No. All tea from the tea plant (Camellia sinensis) is included in the “hot drinks” guidance. This includes black, green, white, and oolong teas. Herbal teas are fine.
Q: Can Mormons have coffee flavored ice cream or cake?
A: This is a personal decision. The Church advises avoiding substances that are harmful or addictive. Some members avoid all coffee flavoring to be safe, while others might consume a dessert with minimal coffee extract. Most would probably err on the side of caution.
Q: Do Mormons drink decaf coffee?
A: No. Decaffeinated coffee is still coffee. The teaching is to avoid the beverage from the coffee bean, not just the caffeine it contains.
Q: Why do some Mormons drink caffeinated soda if they can’t have coffee?
A: The Word of Wisdom specifically forbids drinks made from the coffee bean and tea leaf. It does not forbid caffeine. The Church has stated that caffeinated soft drinks are not against the Word of Wisdom, leaving the choice to individuals.
Q: How strictly is the no coffee rule enforced?
A> For full participation in the Church (like entering temples or serving in certain callings), members are asked in a worthiness interview if they live the Word of Wisdom. Honesty is expected. It is a core standard of the faith.
Q: Are there any health exceptions for drinking coffee?
A: The Church does not issue medical advice. A member with a unique health concern would counsel with their doctor and their local church leaders. The principle remains, but individual circumstances are considered with compassion.
Final Thoughts on a Common Question
The question “can Mormons have coffee” opens a door to understanding a key part of Latter-day Saint identity. It’s more than a dietary restriction; it’s a daily act of faith. For members, saying no to coffee is a way of saying yes to a covenant with God.
It shapes their health, their social habits, and their self-discipline. While it can be challenging, especially in social settings, millions of people around the world find spiritual strength and community in living this principle. They see it as a modern application of ancient wisdom, a way to keep their bodies and spirits clean and dedicated to their beliefs.
If you are a member struggling with this standard, reaching out to a understanding leader can help. If you are an outsider looking in, we hope this clarifies the reasons behind the practice. Respect for different religious choices makes for a more kind and interesting world.