Story perspectives

LDS Church Updates Handbook, Restricts Transgender Ritual Participation

3/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) updates General Handbook to recognize transgender members by birth sex in rituals, without changing doctrine.
The update guides temple participation for those who do not pursue transition.
Critics view the policy as vindictive.
The church says it welcomes all members but restricts access to rites for transgender individuals and outlines a detransition process, while maintaining a stance against same-sex marriages.

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Story summary

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) updates General Handbook to recognize transgender members by birth sex in rituals, without changing doctrine.
The update guides temple participation for those who do not pursue transition.
Critics view the policy as vindictive.
The church says it welcomes all members but restricts access to rites for transgender individuals and outlines a detransition process, while maintaining a stance against same-sex marriages.