Mormon Church Updates Guidelines for Transgender Members

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) has revised its General Handbook to clarify that transgender members will only be recognized in church rituals according to their biological sex at birth. This update does not signify a formal change in doctrine but provides more explicit guidance on how gender transition impacts eligibility for temple participation. The handbook states, “Worthy members who do not pursue surgical, medical, or social transition away from their biological sex at birth may receive a temple recommend and temple ordinances.”

The Advocate

This revision follows a previous update in 2020 that indicated a tightening of the church's stance on transgender identity. Critics argue that this latest change represents a further entrenchment of exclusionary practices against transgender individuals within the church. The handbook also outlines provisions for members who have detransitioned, stating they may receive temple rituals if they return to their biological sex and are committed to adhering to church commandments.

The Advocate

The update has drawn criticism from former church leaders and LGBTQ+ advocates. Laurie Lee Hall, a former stake president who was excommunicated, described the update as “specifically focusing on a very narrow exception to the point of vindictiveness.” This sentiment reflects broader concerns among ex-Mormons who feel marginalized by the church's policies. Despite the church's assertion that “All of Heavenly Father’s children are welcome at church,” many argue that the updated guidelines create a hostile environment for transgender individuals.

The Advocate

While the LDS Church maintains that transgender individuals are welcome to participate in regular worship services, it continues to restrict access to certain rites based on gender identity. The church allows gay and lesbian members to attend and serve in some capacities but upholds the belief that same-sex marriages are sinful. The handbook encourages bishops to approach cases involving gender identity with “sensitivity and Christlike love,” promoting a case-by-case evaluation of members' situations.

The Advocate

The church's dual approach—encouraging participation while limiting access to rituals—has sparked debate within and outside the faith. Critics argue that the guidelines reinforce discrimination against transgender members, while church leaders emphasize their commitment to inclusivity in worship settings. This ongoing tension reflects the broader struggle within the LDS Church to reconcile traditional beliefs with evolving societal views on gender and sexuality.

The Advocate

• “This is specifically focusing on a very narrow exception to the point of vindictiveness, codifying the exception to the exception,” — Laurie Lee Hall, Former Stake President

The Advocate

• “All of Heavenly Father’s children are welcome at church,” — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

The Advocate

The recent updates to the LDS Church's guidelines illustrate the complexities surrounding transgender inclusion within religious contexts, highlighting the ongoing dialogue between tradition and modernity.

The Advocate