The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has updated it Page on the topic “Political neutrality”. at ChurchofJesusChrist.org, with the June 1 update includes an expansion of the title to “Political Neutrality and Participation.”
The revision includes a new main paragraph, which reads:
“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 seek to elect government officials, support or oppose political parties, or generally take sides in global conflicts. The Church is neutral in matters of politics within or between the many nations, lands and peoples of the world. However, as an institution, it reserves the right to address issues it believes have significant moral consequences or directly affect the mission, teachings or operation of the Church.”
Also new to the topic page is a paragraph under a “Conclusion” subheading, which reads:
“To navigate the application of these principles of political neutrality and participation in a complex and ever-changing world, the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will continue to seek prophetic wisdom and revelation on these issues. “.
The topic page still has bulleted lists of what the Church does and doesn’t do on political matters.
Don’ts include:
Not to endorse, promote or oppose political parties, candidates or platforms. Not allowing meeting centers, membership lists, or other resources to be used for partisan political purposes, with a newly added link to the General Handbook on Appropriate Use of Church Buildings and Property. Not advising members on how to vote or directing government officials or party leaders in their duties.
The “two to do” list includes further revisions and additional material and now reads in full:
“Believing and teaching that members should be ‘subject to kings, presidents, rulers and magistrates, to obey, honor and uphold the law’ (Article of Faith 1:12).“Recognize a universal right to the ‘free exercise of conscience’ and believes that all people and institutions should be able to publicly express their opinions on the problems facing society (Doctrine and Covenants 134).“Encourage its members to play a role as responsible citizens in their communities, including informing themselves about issues and voting in elections, participating in governance processes and (if they wish) running for elected office, appointed or volunteers”. to engage in the political process in an informed and civil manner, respecting the fact that Church members come from different backgrounds and experiences and may have differences of opinion on partisan political issues. The Church also encourages its members to keep all communications (including social media) respectful and aligned with the behavior of Christ. “Ask candidates for office not to imply that their candidacy or platforms are endorsed by the Church.” Provide humanitarian assistance worldwide, including areas of international conflict. While political strife may be a factor in prompting the need for aid, the Church will generally not comment on the conflict itself. Rather, the Church seeks to live out the Savior’s two great commandments: to love God and neighbor, alleviating suffering wherever it is found, regardless of the race, nationality, tribe, political persuasion, or religious affiliation of those involved.
The full updated statement can be found at Newsroom.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
