Mormonism in Belize

Introduction

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) was first officially established in Belize in 1980. Steady growth has occurred throughout the Church’s presence in Belize although missions that administer to Belize have frequently changed over the years. Nearly all cities with at least 5,000 inhabitants have an LDS presence today.

History

The Honduras Tegucigalpa Mission president visited Belize in 1980 to begin formal LDS proselytism (Stewart and Martinich 2013). Mission leadership rapidly opened several cities to proselytism. By year-end 1980, branches operated in Belize City, Corozal, Dangriga, Orange Walk, and San Ignacio. The first district opened in 1981. Church membership totaled 452 in 1983.

Rapid LDS growth occurred during the 1980s and 1990s. Annual membership growth rates generally ranged from 7% to 25%. Church membership increased to 900 in 1987, 1,800 in 1995, and 2,605 in 1999. The number of congregations also steadily increased from 5 in 1987 to...