Handbook

General Handbook

Baptism Hurdle Removed for Some Gays, Lesbians, and Bisexuals

December 22, 2021 |

Previously, these individuals would need to be interviewed by a mission president before being cleared for baptism. With the new handbook, missionaries can conduct the baptismal interview as they would for any other person seeking baptism into the Church, removing a hurdle for those with past same-sex sexual relationships.

Skyler and Husband at Temple

Trans Ban Policy Anniversary

February 16, 2021 |

I discovered that being trans isn’t a social choice, but the cure for a disease of the mind and body called gender dysphoria. It wasn’t until I acted in faith by trying a new name and pronouns in a limited setting that I started to taste the relief that was in store for me. It was a small and simple act of faith, akin to reading the Book of Mormon.

Brigham Young University BYU Rainbow Pride Flag

Honor code no longer discriminates between same-sex and straight couples

February 19, 2020 |

BYU released an updated honor code, removing all references to homosexuals or same-sex relationships. Instead, the code now calls for students to, “Live a chaste and virtuous life, including abstaining from any sexual relations outside a marriage between a man and a woman.”

General Handbook

New Church handbook provides some clarity but minimizes LGBTQ identities

February 19, 2020 |

While applauding the increase in transparency and clarity the new handbook provides, Affirmation remains concerned that Church policy diminishes the lived experience of LGBTQ individuals.

Two Degrees off Center: It’s Only a Matter of Time

January 11, 2019 |

No buildings were leveled to the ground, the sun came up like it always does, students studied, teachers taught, no one was struck dumb, the visiting GA’s could drink their favorite soda in the light of day and not hide in the shadows.

Mountain Biking

Two Degrees off Center: Learning How to Break the Rules

December 14, 2018 |

God makes commandments. Man makes rules. However, instead of focusing on the actual commandments and letting the Spirit of God guide us in keeping them, many people seem to focus on man-made rules and policies, even when they seem to contradict God’s own commandments.

Dress Code Man Tying Tie

Two Degrees off Center: Dress Code

May 18, 2018 |

When did conformity become more important than the freedom that Christ paid for through his atoning sacrifice? What would Jesus say to those so wrapped up in the color of shirts worn to church? This month, Rich Keys shares some experiences and imaginings on these questions.