A Christian-based religious community emphasizing the restoration of the biblical priesthood of Aaron, with distinctive practices blending Mormon and Christian beliefs.
Religion: Christianity
Denomination: Latter Day Saint movement
Founder: William Bishop Crow
Founded: 1942
Location: Eskdale, Utah, United States
Size: 100 members
Website: houseofaaron.org
The House of Aaron, also known as the Aaronic Order or The Order of Aaron, is an American religious sect that originated in 1943, founded by Maurice L. Glendenning. This group asserts that its members are descendants of Aaron, the brother of Moses, and thus hold a special priesthood lineage. Based in Eskdale, Utah, the sect has additional branches in Partoun and Murray, Utah, with an estimated membership between 1,500 and 2,000 members.
The sect emerged from the Latter-Day Saint movement, although it does not consider itself part of it. This classification is due to its founder’s background and excommunication from the LDS Church, the LDS origins of most of its founding members, and its practices and beliefs which have parallels with those of Mormonism’s founder, Joseph Smith. The House of Aaron has established its unique identity, with a significant focus on biblical teachings rather than LDS-specific scriptures.
Currently led by John M. Conrad, the House of Aaron centers its ministry on Jesus Christ, aiming to prepare for his second coming by promoting unity among the followers of Christ and adherence to Biblical teachings. They emphasize the restoration of the Biblical, Levitical ministry, focusing on reconciliation within the Body of Christ. Unlike the mainstream LDS Church, the Aaronic Order has distinctive beliefs regarding the Godhead and priesthood, with a unique interpretation that members of the priesthood were predestined and need not be ordained in this life.
The community initially settled in Eskdale, Utah, in 1955, adopting an isolationist stance with specific uniforms to signify membership. Over the years, however, this community has integrated more openly with its local environment, moving away from its strict dress codes. They observe the Seventh Day Sabbath and have had to clarify their stance on plural marriage, strongly denying any practice or belief in polygamy, in contrast to what some publications have claimed.
image via Wikimedia Commons
