The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has updated its General Handbook, clarifying that transgender members are not eligible for temple rituals unless they detransition. The new language states that members will be recognized in religious ordinances according to their biological sex at birth.
While not a formal doctrinal shift, the update provides clearer guidance on how gender transition affects temple participation.
The handbook reads, “Worthy members who do not pursue surgical, medical, or social transition away from their biological sex at birth may receive a temple recommend and temple ordinances.” The policy also outlines a path for those who detransition. It states, “Members who have taken steps to transition and then transition back to their biological sex at birth and are worthy and committed to keeping God’s commandments may receive temple rituals.”
The handbook also encourages bishops to work with members with “sensitivity and Christlike love,” and help those with questions about their gender identity to obtain guidance from church leaders. Critics say the clarification reinforces exclusion.
