Facts and Statistics

Apostle John Taylor was called on a mission to France in October 1849. The first congregation of six members was organized in April 1850 in Boulogne-sur-Mer. By July 24, 1853, nine branches (small congregations) had been formed with 337 members including 289 from the Channel Islands.

After World War II, as reconstruction had begun and Church humanitarian relief efforts had been mobilized, missionaries were once more sent into France and membership began to increase. In 1955, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir made its historic tour of Europe, performing in the Palais de Chaillot in Paris. At the time, Church membership in the nation was only about 1,500. France's first meetinghouse was completed in Nantes in 1962. By 1974, 29 French members were serving as missionaries for the Church.

Membership in 1975 was 10,000, and in 1985 it was 16,500. Today, members total more than 30,000, many of them second, third, and fourth generation Latter-day Saints. Church members in France are organized into seven stakes (dioceses) that meet in 115 meetinghouses. These meetinghouses serve as the location for Church activities of all kinds. In addition to sacrament meetings, Primary classes for children, religious education programs for youth and young adults, and meetings for women and youth groups, there are sport activities, such as table tennis, basketball, and volleyball. Additionally, there are cultural events, such as dancing, musical, and theatrical performances.

High ideals are taught with strong emphasis on family life, abstinence from alcohol and tobacco, and commitment to high moral principles that characterize Latter-day Saint beliefs. Converts come from a wide age range and from all socioeconomic groups. The famed Mormon Tabernacle Choir performed in Strasbourg in 1991 and in Marseille in 1998.

Humanitarian services totaling millions of dollars have been given worldwide. Relief without regard to race, nationality, or religion is given. Food, clothing, medical supplies, and economic aid continue to alleviate the suffering of deprived people. European nations, and more recently, Eastern Europeans receive special assistance.

For Journalist Use Only

Dominique Calmels
Collegien,
France
Phone:  +33-1-603-59764
Fax:  n/a
Mobile:  +33-607-350-164