Same Sex Marriage

As church members and leaders deal with and react to the recent ruling of the United States Supreme Court in regards to same-sex marriage (specifically the letter from the church that is to be read to US and Canada membership), the MMHA would like to make the following statement:

We are concerned for the potential increased suicide risk for LGBTQ members of our congregations when the official response from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will be read out loud in the coming weeks. We encourage leaders to follow the reading of the letter with a statement clarifying that regardless of where members stand on the political issues of our time, ALL are welcome and needed in our congregations. We encourage leaders to be mindful presiders of upcoming Fast and Testimony Meetings, Sunday School discussions and any other meetings where members may make comments that could be hurtful to those struggling and take protective measures to interrupt or correct such comments in loving ways. We urge all members and leaders to familiarize themselves with the materials of the Family Acceptance Project, which is a valuable resource for families, wards and stakes in helping with education and reducing suicide risk in a way that is respectful of the Church’s stance and gospel principles.

July 4, 2015