SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has publicly reasserted its position on political neutrality, civil debate, and abortion in the lead-up to the upcoming election, when multiple states across the country will vote on abortion. .
In a statement released Tuesday following a “recent investigation,” the church emphasized its long-standing policy of institutional neutrality regarding political parties and candidates.
This statement is included in full at the end of the article, along with the church’s official statements on politics, discourse, and abortion.
According to the church, “the church does not support, promote, or oppose political parties and their platforms or candidates for political office.”
Church leaders also reiterated that they encourage members to be active in civic activities.
The statement urged believers to “become active citizens by registering, exercising your right to vote, and participating in civic life, and always demonstrating Christlike love and civility in political discussions.”
The announcement comes as the U.S. approaches an election, with several states considering ballot initiatives on abortion rights in the wake of Roe v. Wade.
State to vote on abortion issue in November
Arizona Colorado Florida Maryland Missouri Montana Nebraska New York South Dakota
The church reaffirmed its unchanged position on abortion, while recognizing its members’ right to civic participation.
“As states grapple with passing abortion laws, members of the Church can choose to appropriately participate in efforts to protect life and religious freedom,” the statement said.
The Church referred to its 2021 statement, “Church leaders condemn violence and lawlessness during times of unrest” as further guidance on maintaining civility during elections.
This reaffirmation of the Church’s political neutrality and call for citizen participation is consistent with the Church’s historical approach to political issues, which emphasizes individual participation while maintaining institutional impartiality.
Remarks sourced from newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org.
Full statement
Political Neutrality, Civil Debate, and the Church’s Position on Abortion
In response to recent inquiries, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints reiterated its established institutional neutrality with respect to political parties and candidates. The Church “does not support, promote, or oppose political parties and their platforms or candidates for political office.”1 The Church also urges its members to “register, exercise their right to vote, and engage in public service at all times.” By doing so, we encourage them to become active citizens.” 2 For further guidance on civility and elections, please see the 2021 Church Statement, “Church Leaders Condemn Violence and Lawlessness in Times of Unrest.” Regarding abortion and the sanctity of life, the Church confirms that its position on abortion remains unchanged. “As nations grapple with legislation related to abortion, members of the Church have the right choice to participate in efforts to protect life and protect religious freedom.”3 See the Church’s complete official position on abortion. Please.
_________
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Position on Abortion
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believes in the sanctity of human life. Therefore, the Church opposes elective abortion for personal or social reasons and advises its members not to submit to, perform, encourage, pay for, or arrange for such abortions. The Church grants exceptions to members in the following cases: Pregnancy due to rape. or incest, or in the judgment of a competent physician that the life or health of the mother is in grave danger, or that the fetus has a serious defect that will make it impossible for it to survive after birth. Even if determined by a competent physician, these exceptions do not automatically justify abortion. Abortion is the most serious problem. It should only be considered after the person responsible has been confirmed by prayer. Members may consult with their bishops as part of this process, but the Church’s position on this issue remains unchanged. As states grapple with legislation related to abortion, members of the Church can choose to appropriately participate in efforts to protect life and religious freedom.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Position on Civil Debate
The principles of government that enable God’s children to maintain human dignity and freedom belong to all humanity. (See D&C 98:5.) We observe with great concern the political and cultural divisions in the United States and around the world. We condemn violence and lawlessness, including the recent violence and threats of further violence in Washington, DC. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is neutral on matters of partisan politics, but reminds its members, whatever their personal political views, to be united in their devotion to the Savior Jesus Christ and His teachings. As followers of God, we should treat each other and all of God’s children with respect, dignity, and love. No political or other affiliation should supersede that contract and sacred responsibility. We urge all people to remember the precious and fragile nature of freedom and peace. As Americans look forward to the inauguration of a new president, we urge our members to respect, obey, respect, and uphold democratic institutions and processes (see Articles of Faith 1:12). ).
Political Positions of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
The work of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints includes sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ, strengthening individuals and families, and caring for those in need. The Church does not elect government officials, support or oppose political parties, or generally seek to take sides in global conflicts. The Church is neutral in political matters within and between many nations, lands, and peoples of the world. However, as an organization, we reserve the right to address issues that we believe have significant moral implications or that directly impact the mission, teachings, or operations of the Church. The Church does not: Support, promote, or oppose political parties and their platforms and candidates. Allow church buildings, membership directories, and other resources to be used for political purposes. (See General Handbook 35.5.2 and 35.5.8 for more information on the proper use of church buildings and property.) Advise members on how to vote. Direct government officials or party leaders in their duties. Usually a statement concerning a conflict within or between nations, lands, or peoples. Rather, we teach the gospel of Jesus Christ with the knowledge that practicing these principles will limit conflict and hostility. The Church does the following: Members of the Church “obey and respect kings, presidents, rulers, and judges, and recognize the universal right to the “free exercise of conscience,” and that all individuals and organizations should have their own opinions on the issues facing society. We believe that members should be able to publicly express their opinions (Articles of Faith 1:12) (D&C 134) to stay informed about issues, vote in elections, participate in the governing process, and Encourage them to act as responsible citizens in their communities, including seeking election, appointment, or voluntary office (as appropriate). We encourage members to participate in: Respect that church members have diverse backgrounds and experiences and may disagree on partisan political issues, and promote the political process in an informed and civil manner. The Church also encourages its members to be respectful in all communications (including social media) and to conform to Christlike behavior. We ask candidates not to imply that their candidacy or platform is endorsed by the church. Provide humanitarian assistance locally and around the world. About international conflicts. Although political conflicts may be a contributing factor to the need for assistance, the church typically does not comment on the conflict itself. Rather, the Church fulfills the Savior’s two great commandments to love God and neighbor by alleviating suffering wherever it is, regardless of race, nationality, tribe, political persuasion or religious affiliation of those involved. We aim to put it into practice. Relations with Government Relations with Government Officials and Latter-day Saint political representatives make their own decisions. They are not expected or asked to agree with each other or even with publicly expressed church positions. The Church, like any other official or representative, can make its views known to them, but these individuals must make their own decisions according to their best judgment, taking into account the constituencies they are elected to represent. We recognize that we have to make a choice. Presiding Church Political Participation Officers In June 2011, the First Presidency of the Church restated and further clarified the Church’s position on political neutrality. This policy applies to all General Authorities, general officers, mission presidents, and temple presidents and limits personal participation in all political party activities. This policy is not intended for church employees. The policies outlined in the letter include: “General authorities and general officers of the Church and their spouses, as well as other church leaders who serve full-time, should not personally participate in political campaigns, such as promoting, fundraising, or representing candidates.” Because they are not full-time officers of the Church, Area Seventies, stake presidents, and bishops are free to donate, serve on campaign committees, and otherwise support candidates of their choice. ” They are acting only as individual citizens in a democratic process and cannot imply or imply to others that their actions or support represent the Church in any way. I understand that it is not meant to make you guess. We do not use church stationery, church-produced address lists, or churches. ” The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints continues to seek prophetic wisdom and revelation on these issues.
__________
