Following the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling on same-sex marriage Friday, general authorities for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are sending a letter to local leaders reaffirming the Church’s stance on marriage.
Latter-day Saints believe that God has ordained marriage to be between one man and one woman. The letter, which the Twelve Apostles and First Presidency has signed, states that heterosexual marriage is central to God’s plan for His children and that man’s laws cannot change God’s moral law.
Church leaders are sending the letter to wards, but it is not to be read in sacrament meeting. Instead, it is to be shared with members and used to lead and guide discussion on the topic.
Although leaders encourage members to love and respect same-sex individuals and those with differing beliefs, the letter also informs members that ecclesiastical leaders in the Church will not be permitted to perform any same-sex marriages. In addition, the Church will not “permit its meetinghouses or other properties to be used for ceremonies, receptions or other activities associated with same-sex marriages.”
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