Critics’ View: LDS Church Abuse 

Critics View: 

In the show Surviving Mormonism, Heather Gay speaks with two sisters (Jennie and Lizzy) who claim that reports of abuse made to local Church leaders were ignored. 

Factual Response: 

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints condemns abuse in any form. Every Church leader, at every level, is counseled to take such reports seriously and follow both law and Church policy to protect victims and help them heal. Abuse of any kind is tragic and must never be dismissed. 

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints states that abuse is forbidden by the commandments of God. The Church teaches members to practice the protection and care for others, as taught by Jesus Christ. The Church also teaches the Savior’s strong condemnation of abuse: “Whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea” (Matthew 18:6). 

Offenders are accountable to both civil law and God’s law. Regardless of whether the abuser is convicted, offenders are subject to Church discipline, including loss of membership.

Zero-Tolerance Policy for Abuse 

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints maintains a zero-tolerance policy for abuse.
If abuse is reported, Church leaders are to act immediately to ensure safety and cooperate with civil authorities in the reporting and investigation of the abuse. 

Here’s how the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints approaches abuse:

Preventing Abuse 

The Church continuously seeks to strengthen its efforts to prevent abuse and protect members, especially children and youth.

1. Teaching and Training: Members and leaders are clearly taught that abuse is never acceptable. Training materials are provided to help leaders recognize and prevent abuse.
   
2. Two-Adult Policy: At least two responsible adults are required to be present at any activity involving children or youth.
   
3. Membership Safeguards: Church membership records identify former abusers
4. Congregational Oversight: Members are encouraged to look out for one another.
5. Personal Interviews: Local leaders meet frequently with members, providing opportunities for discussion, counsel, and support.
6. Serving with Children: Assignments to serve with children are approved by the entire congregation.
   

Report Abuse 

When abuse is discovered or suspected, the Church’s first priority is the safety and care of the victim.

1. 24-Hour Help Line: Church leaders have access to a 24-hour helpline staffed by professionals who ensure that victims are protected and that all civil reporting laws are followed. Leaders are then instructed on how to address the victim and the perpetrator.
   
2. Clear Guidance: Members are given clear information on how to report abuse to civil authorities and are strongly encouraged to report immediately when they become aware of abuse.
   
3. Leadership Awareness: When necessary, local leaders are informed so they can remain vigilant and provide protection and support within the congregation.
   

Response Abuse 

When abuse occurs, the Church acts to care for victims.

1. Ongoing Support: Leaders meet regularly with victims to offer counsel and help with healing.
2. Professional Counseling: The Church encourages and often provides access to licensed professional counselors to assist in recovery.
   
3. Cooperation with Civil Authorities: The Church supports investigations, counseling, and prosecution of abusers.
   
4. Church Discipline: Abusers face serious Church discipline.
5. Restrictions on Serving with Children or Youth: Even after repentance, no one with a history of abuse may ever work with children or youth.
   
6. Flagged Records: Membership records of abusers are flagged to identify their history.