El Santo Gringo from La Jolla, California:

Jesus Christ was Himself baptized in the Jordan river to provide an example for each of us. (Reflections of Christ)

Hi friend. For some serious sins, excommunication is a necessary step in the repentance process. Most sins can be confessed to God through prayer. Some sins are serious enough that confession to a bishop (a local church leader) is necessary so he can help the sinner apply Christ's atoning sacrifice. Finally, some few sins are so serious that excommunication is necessary. Basically, with excommunication the sinner's membership in the church is temporarily revoked while he repents. During this time, he should still attend church and chat with the bishop regularly. Once the repentance is complete, the excommunicated member can be rebaptized. Baptism is a cleansing ordinance that helps the repentant sinner put his sin behind him. Excommunication is rarely necessary, but it is available for those who need it.

I hope this answer helps. If you'd like to learn more about the LDS Church, I suggest you chat with Mormon missionaries or worship with us any Sunday morning (9:00) to see how we worship! Mormons love visitors.

I hope this answer helps. Please contact me if you have any more questions. I'm happy to help.

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