Whereas, Policy within Community of Christ is not dictated by societal trends, but by adherence to scriptural instruction; and

Whereas, Community of Christ has been instructed in Doctrine and Covenants 163:3b to “Courageously challenge cultural, political, and religious trends that are contrary to the reconciling and restoring purpose of God;” and

Whereas, The letter by First Presidency dated May 22, 2009, addressed the church’s policies and procedures and stated that no language in the guiding documents, referenced therein, provides for same-sex marriage; and

Whereas, This letter made clear that Community of Christ priesthood members are not authorized by the church to officiate in same-sex marriages, even where it is legal to do so; and

Whereas, Due to the mobile nature of the world’s populations and the close fellowship among the various cultures and nations within the church’s membership, implementation of a regional approach to resolving this issue would prove difficult and divisive, and contribute to continued confusion among the membership and the general population; and

Whereas, The church was encouraged by the Presiding Evangelist, under the “prompting of the Spirit,” on April 3, 2004 (2004 World Conference), that “the time has come when the church must forsake deadlines that anticipate resolution of this question at each emerging World Conference and allow God to bless the church in God’s own way, in God’s own time;” therefore, be it

 Resolved, That all legislation regarding the issue of same-sex marriage, be referred without prejudice to the First Presidency so as to not hinder or limit the continuing dialogue on this issue within the church; and, be it further

Resolved, That the First Presidency develop strategies that will lead to more effective widespread dialogue throughout the church on the issue of same-sex marriage.