LDS leaders' stand on gay marriage unchristian

This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2013, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

Re "Leaders say Mormons cannot condone same-sex marriage," Tribune, Oct 6:

First, it's fine for Mormons to ban gay marriage inside the Mormon Church, however benighted. That's their prerogative; they may believe what they want.

But it's arrogant and wrong to tell people who believe differently what they can or can't do. That's what they did in Hawaii, Idaho, California and many other states concerning gay marriage. The Mormon desire to make everyone conform to their religious beliefs really stinks in the nose.

Second, in its perceived pursuit of holiness, the Mormon Church is turning a blind eye to the authentic human condition of homosexuality and the genuine love in gay couples that is no different than that in straight couples and which creates nurturing families.

In their attempt to follow the commandments, as Mormons understand them, when it comes to gays, they are neglecting Jesus' weightier matters of justice (including equality) and mercy.

It is ironic that in the name of the God of love, Mormons tell gays, who they now admit cannot change their sexual nature, to live lives without love. What kind of righteousness is that?

In the name of Christ they are unchristian. Sounds like much of Christian history.

Mick Travis

Park City