Leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have reaffirmed the church's policy of strict political neutrality.
Church President Ezra Taft Benson and his counselors, President Gordon B. Hinckley and President Thomas S. Monson issued a statement Tuesday that the church does not endorse political candidates or parties in elections.The statement said church members are not advised how to vote, and facilities are not used for political purposes.
"Church members should study the issues and candidates carefully and prayerfully and then vote for those they believe will act with integrity and most nearly carry out their ideas of good government," the leaders said.
Members of the LDS faith were encouraged to participate as responsible citizens in supporting measures that strengthen society morally, economically and culturally.
But political candidates were warned not to imply that their candidacies are endorsed by the church or its members. And church directories and mailing lists shouldn't be used for political purposes.