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Very interesting post.

We Mormons have a similar doctrine. We believe that the wicked who die in their sins are sent to hell to suffer the penalty for their rebellion. In the Final Judgment, the inhabitants of hell are brought forth to receive their eternal reward. The majority go on to inherit a kingdom of glory; however, the most hardened—those who willfully sin against the Holy Ghost— remain in hell (sometimes called "Outer Darkness") with Satan and his angels.

Although the Catholics say "Purgatory" and we say "hell," it appears that the two serve similar purposes. The principal difference seems to be the explanation of what happens after the Final Judgment. The catechism mentions one Heaven; we believe that there are three Heavens or degrees of glory. Those who suffer for their sins in hell may go on to the lowest degree, but are not allowed to live with God the Father and Jesus Christ in the highest.

Logophile I am asking these questions to fight my ignorance, please do not be offended if I misunderstand/misstate the LDS theology. I ask for a gentle correction if I do.

My understanding of LDS theology is that there is a particular judgment for all people. It is here that each soul finds where they spend the time until the Final Judgment. At the Final Judgment some souls will be able to reform their family groups and become the gods (small g) of other planets. Are these the people who are living in the highest degree of glory with God? I admit this is where I am most confused by the bits and pieces I have heard, so I am very open to correction.

You said that the LDS used "hell" where is sounds like Catholics use "purgatory". Do the souls who go there know they will be able to go to the lower plane of glory or is it only at the Final Judgment that the soul finds out they can leave hell for glory?

If the people who were in hell go to the lowest degree of glory what determines if a person goes to the second or third degree of glory? Does this, second and third, have anything to do with the LDS baptizing their members in the name of other people?

I am not trying to hijack this thread so if you want to answer me by pm I would not mind. Thank you very much for your time.