However, the church said that it is not completely reversing its doctrine on homosexuality and still views same-sex marriage as less moral, but felt moved to alter their policies "to show more understanding, compassion and love…" and "reduce the hate and contention so common today."ĭallin H. He said such efforts to show more understanding, compassion and love should increase respect and understanding among all people of goodwill. President outlined a new policy for children of #LGBT couples and for those in same-sex marriages. "Instead, the immoral conduct in heterosexual or homosexual relationships will be treated in the same way." While we still consider such a marriage to be a serious transgression, it will not be treated as apostasy for purposes of Church discipline," leaders wrote. "Previously, our Handbook characterized same-gender marriage by a member as apostasy. Same-sex couples will also no longer be seen as “apostates,” which refers to those who have turned their back on the church. Now, they can take part in the ritual as long as their parents approve and understand that their children will learn and follow the church’s teachings. Prior to the reversal, children of LGBT parents could not be baptized until they turned 18 years old. The church outlined the surprise decision to reverse its rules implemented in 2015 and soften its treatment of LGBT members in a news release, explaining that the “very positive” changes are "effective immediately" and "should help affected families." In a stunning move, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced Thursday it was reversing its controversial policy that defined same-sex marriage as a grave sin against the church worthy of excommunication and banned LGBT parents from baptizing their children. Spires from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints temple in downtown Salt Lake City, Utah. In a stunning reversal, the church said it will also no longer call same-sex couples "apostates," softening its views "to reduce the hate and contention so common today." The mormon church will now allow same-sex couples to baptize their children.
Why mormon men love “church ball” and are scared of homosexuality.