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m (→Abusers are have lifetime ineligiblity for some callings and assignments in the Church) |
m (→Mandatory discipline) |
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Church disciplinary action is ''required'' for a small set of sins, such as murder. Sexual abuse and incest are included in this group: | Church disciplinary action is ''required'' for a small set of sins, such as murder. Sexual abuse and incest are included in this group: | ||
− | :Incest | + | :'''Incest''' |
:As used here, ''incest'' refers to sexual intercourse between a parent and a natural, adopted, or foster child or a stepchild. A grandparent is considered the same as a parent. Incest also refers to sexual intercourse between brothers and sisters. It almost always requires excommunication. Bishops refer questions on specific cases to the stake president. The stake president may direct questions to the Office of the First Presidency if necessary. If a minor commits incest, the stake president contacts the Office of the First Presidency for direction. | :As used here, ''incest'' refers to sexual intercourse between a parent and a natural, adopted, or foster child or a stepchild. A grandparent is considered the same as a parent. Incest also refers to sexual intercourse between brothers and sisters. It almost always requires excommunication. Bishops refer questions on specific cases to the stake president. The stake president may direct questions to the Office of the First Presidency if necessary. If a minor commits incest, the stake president contacts the Office of the First Presidency for direction. | ||
− | :Child Abuse | + | :'''Child Abuse''' |
:As used here, ''child abuse'' refers to a sexual offense against a child or physical abuse of a child. If priesthood leaders learn of or suspect child abuse, they follow the instructions in 17.3.2 [see above]. If a minor abuses a child, the stake president contacts the Office of the First Presidency for direction.... | :As used here, ''child abuse'' refers to a sexual offense against a child or physical abuse of a child. If priesthood leaders learn of or suspect child abuse, they follow the instructions in 17.3.2 [see above]. If a minor abuses a child, the stake president contacts the Office of the First Presidency for direction.... |
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To see citations to the critical sources for these claims, [[../CriticalSources|click here]]
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1. Sexual crimes virtually always require excommunication from the Church, and members guilty of these serious crimes have annotations placed upon their membership record that remain even if they return to full membership. Members guilty of such crimes have a lifetime ban on service with youth, missionary service, and temple service.
2. Members who are victims of these sins are innocent of any wrongdoing. The Church encourages them to seek help, and to receive the healing available to all through the atoning blood of Jesus Christ.
The Church's handbooks emphasize that one purpose of Church discipline is to protect the innocent, especially against such crimes as predatory sexual behavior:
Likewise, victims of such crimes are innocent of sin:
Church disciplinary action is required for a small set of sins, such as murder. Sexual abuse and incest are included in this group:
Incest virtually always requires excommunication from the Church:
The First Presidency must approve any restoration of Church membership for those guilty of particularly serious sins, including:
Those guilty of abuse of a child and other serious sins which place others at risk have their Church records annotated, and this annotation remains on the record permanently (even in the event of reinstatement in the Church). Only the First Presidency can authorize the removal of such an annotation:
Even if they repent and return to full time activity in the Church, those who commit some crimes are ineligible for some types of Church service. These include:
Those who have been the victims of the unrighteous acts of others are not guilty of any sin. Latter-day Saints believe that the atonement of Christ can heal all suffering, injustices, and traumas through Christ's grace. Many articles and resources are available, and members with such concerns are encouraged to consult with their local leaders. Resources include:
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