Balancing Doctrine and Compassion: Real Latter-Day Saint Women Defend the Family Proclamation

Real Latter-Day Saint Women Defend the Family Proclamation of the Family

The family proclamation is a pivotal document in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, declaring that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained by God and that gender is an eternal characteristic of individual identity. Despite its doctrinal significance, there is a noticeable hesitation to discuss it openly in some church settings to avoid causing discomfort or exclusion. This often involves avoiding terms like gender and traditional marriage. Referring to the authors as old white men serves to dehumanize them and undermine the document's prophetic nature. The development of the proclamation was a comprehensive process, involving a year of prayer, thought, and multiple revisions before all apostles unanimously approved it. Introduced during a general conference, it remains a key topic in church teachings and discussions. However, varying opinions on its relevance persist, leading to moments where discussing the proclamation feels challenging. Addressing these differences openly is essential for maintaining doctrinal clarity and unity. The proclamation emphasizes the eternal nature of gender and the divine institution of marriage, encouraging members to uphold these truths amidst evolving societal norms. #conference talks #familyproclamation #church