Addressing hair coloring concerns for a temple worker in our stake

President Lundgreen,

Thank you for bringing to my attention your concerns about Leslie Hatton, of the Damascus Ward, and her hair coloring as a temple worker.

I can understand your concern as to how hair coloring can distract patrons. I visited personally with Leslie and was surprised to see that the coloring is hardly noticeable and, depending on how she combs her hair, it’s not visible at all.

You can see why she’s dug in her heels a bit over the matter inasmuch as her coloring apparently was not an issue with the previous temple presidency (or at least that we’re aware of) and now it’s one—significant enough to jeopardize her calling if she doesn’t conform. In my opinion, it’s one of those issues that we sometimes face with teenagers, who show a little “wild streak” in their dress. If we don’t react, it eventually goes away. If we react, it becomes “World War III” and eventually there are casualties.

I also understand, though, that standards are important, especially for those who serve in the House of the Lord.

Thank you for wanting to address this with Leslie's spiritual and emotional well-being in mind; especially in light of the fact that she seems to have been a very devoted ordinance worker over the past two years and has willingly and frequently substituted for other workers.

My recommendation is that you simply put her on a form of “probation” requiring her to always conceal the colored portions of her hair while serving in the temple. I believe she can do that with a few hair pins. 

If, however, you feel it is significant enough and, understandably, you don’t want to have to monitor or “police” her, then I am happy to submit the recommendation that she be released. She has had a wonderful experience serving in the temple. It has blessed her tremendously. She’ll be fine in accepting a release.

I hope this helps. If there’s anything more you’d like me to do, I’m happy to do whatever I can to help resolve this matter amicably.

We so appreciate your leadership in the temple and are thrilled about the new temple presidency. You are all mighty men and faithful matrons serving diligently in blessing all of us to enjoy the magnificent blessings of the temple. It is a joy to serve with you.

Crismon Lewis

President, Mount Hood Stake