Mormon Church: We’re happy with Boy Scouts of America’s gay compromise

The Boy Scouts of America’s decision to suggest lifting the ban on gay youth members, but maintaining a ban on gay adult leaders is a compromise welcomed by the Mormon Church.

Last Friday, the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) announced it would propose the compromise to members of its National Council at a meeting in Texas next month.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints issued a statement on Thursday saying: “(We) are satisfied that BSA has made a thoughtful, good-faith effort to address issues that, as they have said, remain ‘among the most complex and challenging issues facing the BSA and society today.’”

The Mormons have more scouts than any other religious denomination in the US.

BSA issued a statement in response saying that the organisation is deeply appreciative of its long-standing relationship with the Mormon Church and pleased to hear it is satisfied with the proposal. “Scouting is successful because of strong relationships with chartered organisations like the Mormon Church”, the statement said.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day teaches its members that marriage is between a man and a woman and that same-sex relationships are sinful.

Meanwhile, the Unitarian Universalist Association, which supports gay equality, has condemned BSA for continuing with its ban on gay adult scout leaders.

Peter Morales, president of the UUA said last week: “This resolution further illustrates how the BSA remains out of touch and inconsistent with their own values of respect and kindness, but also with the changing attitudes of the American public.”

• Dec 01 2023

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