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The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints extends love and support to its brothers and sisters who identify as LGBT or experience same-sex attraction.
Watch a brief video or continue reading below 👇.
The Church affirms that each individual is a beloved child of Heavenly Parents, created in Their image, with infinite worth and potential. One’s identity or experiences do not diminish their value in God’s eyes or in the eyes of the Church.
It’s crucial to understand that being LGBT or having feelings of same-sex attraction is not a sin. As President M. Russell Ballard stated: “The experience of same-sex attraction is a complex reality for many people. The attraction itself is not a sin, but acting on it is.”
The Church wants to be absolutely clear: Identifying as LGBT or having same-sex thoughts or feelings is not sinful. The concern arises with sexual actions outside of marriage between a man and a woman. The Church does not recognize or perform same-sex marriages, which means that any sexual activity between individuals of the same sex is considered contrary to Church teachings.
LGBT members who live in accordance with Church teachings, including the law of chastity, can fully participate in the Church. This includes receiving callings, holding temple recommends, and receiving ordinances. For example, a gay man who follows the law of chastity can receive a temple recommend. Male members may also receive and exercise the priesthood.
The Church recognizes the unique challenges this presents for its LGBT members and admires their commitment to living the gospel. Their efforts to align their lives with God’s commandments, despite difficulties, are seen and valued by Him and by the Church.
The Church encourages its LGBT members to seek personal revelation and find peace in their relationship with God. Their path may be unique, but it is no less important in God’s plan.
LGBT members are not alone. The Church is committed to creating a welcoming environment where all members, including those who identify as LGBT, can worship, serve, and grow together in Christ’s love, while adhering to Church doctrines and practices. The Church stands with them, loves them, and most importantly, affirms that God loves them – unconditionally and eternally.
To learn more please visit: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/
Reach out for Help
There are also things you can do right now. If you want to reach out to your local church leader for guidance on this topic we’ve put together a quick suggestion guide to help you.
Approaching your local church leader about same-sex attraction can feel daunting, but here are some suggestions to help make the conversation more comfortable and productive:
1. Prepare yourself:
– Pray for guidance and strength before the meeting.
– Write down your thoughts and questions beforehand.
2. Schedule an appointment:
– Contact your bishop or branch president to set up a private meeting.
– Let them know you’d like to discuss a personal matter, so they can allocate sufficient time.
3. Be honest and open:
– Remember, church leaders are there to support you.
– Share your feelings and experiences openly.
– Be clear about what kind of support or guidance you’re seeking.
4. Ask specific questions:
– Inquire about Church resources for those experiencing same-sex attraction.
– Ask how you can stay active in the Church while navigating these feelings.
5. Discuss confidentiality:
– Church leaders are generally bound by confidentiality, but it’s okay to ask about this explicitly.
6. Be patient:
– Your leader might not have all the answers immediately. They might need time to seek guidance or additional resources.
7. Follow up:
– Arrange follow-up meetings if needed.
– Stay in communication about your progress and any additional support you might need.
Remember, your church leader is there to help and support you. They should approach the conversation with love, compassion, and without judgment. If you don’t feel comfortable with your current leader, you can also consider speaking with a member of the stake presidency.
Lastly, remember that seeking professional counseling, in addition to spiritual guidance, can be beneficial. Your church leader may be able to refer you to LDS Family Services or other appropriate counseling resources.
