Gay lds men

The site “does not offer a comprehensive explanation of everything related to same-sex attraction,” he adds, “but it does reflect the feelings of Church leaders as to how we should treat each other as part of the human family.”

In addition to firsthand narratives, the new site includes encouraging comments from Elder L.

Whitney Clayton of the Presidency of the Seventy.

The Church acknowledges that Latter-day Saints experience same-sex attraction in a variety of ways. You have great talents and abilities to offer God’s kingdom on earth, and we recognize the many valuable contributions you make.”

What the Church Believes About Same-Sex Attraction

Visitors to the website can find outlines of official Mormon beliefs about same-sex attraction and key concepts, themes and vocabulary to help Latter-day Saints engage in healthy conversations about this topic.

Key beliefs include the following:

• We should love everyone.

• Feelings of same-sex attraction are not a sin, and we can choose how to respond.

• People who live God's law can fully participate in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The belief section also includes information about God's plan, Christ's infinite capacity to change hearts, and our eternal and core identity as God's children.

Materials on Mormonandgay.lds.org make it clear that it is possible to be both gay and Mormon and that God loves those who are.

The attraction itself is not a sin, but acting on it is. Resources include helpful answers to frequently asked questions, tips for parents, new videos, and firsthand accounts from gay members, spouses, family, and ecclesiastical leaders

Engaging in Healthy Conversations About Same-Sex Attraction

Other portions of the website include frequently asked questions, explanations of sexual orientation, tips for parents, guidance for responding to depression and suicide, and information about self-mastery and sexual expression.

One question addresses the use of “same-sex attraction” instead of “gay.” The site says “same-sex attraction is a technical term describing the experience without imposing a label.

President M. Russell Ballard said: “Let us be clear: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believes that ‘the experience of same-sex attraction is a complex reality for many people. While one may not have chosen to have these feelings, he or she can commit to keep God’s commandments. Even though individuals do not choose to have such attractions, they do choose how to respond to them.

The parent of a child who experiences same-sex attraction or identifies as gay should choose to love and embrace that child.

Some identify as gay or lesbian while others do not.

Personal Accounts and Comments from Church Leaders

Mormonandgay.lds.org features five personal accounts from multiple perspectives — including those who experience same-sex attraction, as well as their family, friends and ecclesiastical leaders. Some strive to remain celibate and others marry.

The CIRCLE shows respect for both elders and olders.

Roshi Joan Halifax, noted elder, shaman and Buddhist teacher, reflected the GAY ELDER CIRCLE’s understanding when she stated:

“The wisdom that we need to solve our problems lies encoded in the depths of our unconscious minds—but it must be evoked by elders who reveal our potential.

We come from a wide range of backgrounds and are united in our primary purpose of being useful to younger gay men and of service to the gay and larger community.

A healthy and thriving community honors ancestors, needs elders, depends on adults and invites youth. All I am asked to do is love as God would love.'

This comment, and many others like it, is included in an updated version of 'Mormon and Gay,” an official website from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

As a Church policy says, “If members feel same-sex attraction and are striving to live the law of chastity, leaders support and encourage them in their resolve. Male Church members may receive and exercise the priesthood. An older (senior citizen, old person, golden oldy and so forth) is often a person who celebrates a birthday each year and waits for death with little sense of a larger role for himself in the community.

Speaking directly to Latter-day Saints who experience same-sex attraction or identify as gay, lesbian or bisexual, Elder Clayton says, “We want you to know we love you. They will receive all promised blessings in the eternities, provided they keep the covenants they have made with God (see Mosiah 2:41).”