Joseph Smith III

Joseph Smith III (1837–1914) was the eldest son of Joseph Smith Jr., the founder of the Mormon Church (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints). He became a prominent religious leader and, in 1860, founded the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (now Community of Christ), emphasizing a more liberal and community-focused approach to Mormon theology. Smith III sought to maintain his father’s teachings while encouraging greater inclusivity and education within his church. His leadership helped shape the modern identity of the Reorganized Church, which distinguished itself from the larger mainstream LDS Church.