The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (also known as the LDS or Mormon church) has a global presence in the CIA, with members making up at least 1.1% of the agency’s population. But what percentage of the personnel at the CIA is actually Mormon? To answer this question, we must look at the agency’s history and its current operations.
The CIA was founded in 1947 and since then has grown into a powerful and far reaching agency in the US. While the majority of the CIA personnel have no declared religion, a significant number have been affiliated with some form of religious faith. Some of these areMormons, as the church has had a long history of contribution to the CIA.
The earliest confirmed Mormon employee at the agency is William Ellison, who was hired in 1952. Over the years, Mormon agents and officers have filled various positions within the CIA, including senior executive positions. There are even some reports of Mormons claiming that they have been recruited to the CIA specifically because of their faith. This would suggest that the agency has favored LDS members over other applicants when hiring.
While it is difficult to pin down an exact number due to the secrecy of the agency and the lack of demographic information, some estimates suggest that as many as 4-7% of the CIA personnel are Mormons. This percentage is higher than the general LDS population in the US, which is estimated at 1-2%.
It is believed that the Mormon affiliation may bring advantages for the agency. For one, Mormons are well known for their commitment to family values and strong sense of loyalty. This trait could be useful when recruiting personnel for sensitive operations. Additionally, because of their strict adherence to religious practices, LDS members may be less likely to develop negative reactions to the morally questionable aspects of intelligence work.
Furthermore, the Mormon faith teaches a strict code of honesty and integrity, which could be beneficial for the agency, since it deals with confidential matters. The LDS doctrine also advocates hard work and excellence, both of which are highly important for the successful completion of agency missions.
The participation of LDS members in the CIA means that the agency may be able to tap into the vast network of Mormon missionaries, contacts and other establishments in order to gain more intelligence information. With its contacts and members spread all over the world, the church could be a valuable source of intel to the CIA.
Though the number of Mormons in the agency’s population is still uncertain, one thing is certain – they are making a notable contribution to the agency. While the exact percentage of Mormon personnel in the CIA is unknown, it is clear that their presence at the agency is significant.
Is The LDS pro-CIA?
Though it is true that some Mormons have had successful careers in the CIA, it is not necessarily the case that the LDS church is “pro-CIA,” or supportive of the agency. Rather, the church maintains a neutral stance on the matter. But in recent times, the church has expressed its concerns regarding certain policies of the CIA, including activities that go against LDS values.
For example, the church has expressed its disapproval of the use of harsh interrogation techniques, which are not in line with LDS teachings. It has also voiced its opposition to CIA actions that lead to violations of civil and human rights. Despite this, the LDS church generally has a high level of respect for the agency and the difficult work that its personnel carry out.
Do LDS Agents follow LDS Beliefs while Working in CIA?
It is important to note that LDS individuals in the CIA are expected to abide by the same laws and regulations as other personnel. This means that if they are assigned to a morally questionable task, they are expected to carry it out. However, LDS beliefs in regards to the value of human life, honesty, and integrity will play a role in influencing their decision making in such a case.
For example, if the task assigned to them would involve the use of torture techniques then an LDS agent would be likely to seek alternative ways of fulfilling the mission without resorting to such methods. This is because these methods go against the LDS beliefs of valuing human life and striving for moral integrity.
Impact of Mormon Agents in The CIA
The presence of LDS members within the CIA is likely to have a positive impact on the agency’s operations. The honesty, integrity, and commitment to family values that are part of the LDS faith are all valuable traits that can be beneficial when it comes to carrying out sensitive missions. Moreover, the extensive network of LDS missionaries and contacts across the world can give the agency valuable information to utilize for operations.
It is also believed that the presence of LDS members in the agency helps build trust and respect between the LDS church and the CIA. Though the church maintains a neutral stance in regards to the agency, this relationship is likely to have an effect on the church’s views. Additionally, it can also help spread increased understanding between the two entities.
Conclusion
Though it is difficult to determine the exact percentage of Mormons in the CIA, it is clear that their presence is significant and has a positive impact on the agency. With their strong sense of loyalty, commitment to family values, and ethical approach to operations, Mormon personnel can be a valuable addition to the agency. And while the church maintains a neutral stance on the matter, its relationship with the agency is likely to influence its views in the future.
