Letter to members emphasizing the Church's political neutrality

Surprisingly the Church had not issued its regular "political neutrality" letter prior to an election. With Mitt Romney the Republican candidate for president in 2012, the risk was even greater that the pulpit would be used to promote a single party or candidate. In fact, that did happen in one ward where a brother stood in testimony on the first Sunday in July and urged all members to support "Brother Romney." As a result, we issued a letter to be read in all sacrament meetings, at the bishops' discretion:

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

In anticipation of the upcoming political conventions and elections, we remind you that the Church does not endorse, promote or oppose any political parties, candidates or platforms. Therefore, we ask that you refrain from endorsing, promoting or opposing any candidates, political parties or platforms in Church meetings, ward newsletters or messages or when speaking over the pulpit.

The Church's long-standing policy of political neutrality does not mean we are to refrain from becoming involved personally in the political process. In fact, the Church expects each of us, in our personal lives, "to engage in the political process in an informed and civil manner, respecting the fact that members of the Church come from a variety of backgrounds and experiences and may have differences of opinion in partisan political matters."

We appreciate your help in avoiding political discussions in our worship services.

Gratefully,

Stake Presidency