Defense of Marriage-Vote YES on Proposition 8!

SALT LAKE CITY
30 June 2008

The following letter was sent from the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to Church leaders in California to be read to all congregations on 29 June 2008:

"Preserving Traditional Marriage and Strengthening Families

In March 2000 California voters overwhelmingly approved a state law providing that “Only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California.” The California Supreme Court recently reversed this vote of the people. On November 4, 2 008, Californians will vote on a proposed amendment to the California state constitution that will now restore the March 2000 definition of marriage approved by the voters.

The Church’s teachings and position on this moral issue are unequivocal. Marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God, and the formation of families is central to the Creator’s plan for His children. Children are entitled to be born within this bond of marriage.

A broad-based coalition of churches and other organizations placed the proposed amendment on the ballot. The Church will participate with this coalition in seeking its passage. Local Church leaders will provide information about how you may become involved in this important cause.
We ask that you do all you can to support the proposed constitutional amendment by donating of your means and time to assure that marriage in California is legally defined as being between a man and a woman. Our best efforts are required to preserve the sacred institution of marriage. "

Please get involved NOW to defend marriage. We have less than a month and the plan is laid out here:
http://www.preservingmarriage.org/
http://www.protectmarriage.com/
http://www.whatisprop8.com/

If you're in California, contact your ward representative and consider volunteering 4 hours/week for this important cause. If you're from California and living temporarily out of state (such as students, etc) register to vote absentee.

If you're not from California, then contact all (or as many as you can) of your Californian friends. Just a simple text message, Facebook message, status update, or phone call can really open peoples' eyes as to how important this vote is.

Millions of dollars from pro-gay-marriage groups and advocates (like the Founder of Progressive Insurance) are being poured into California. Please donate your money and time to fight for marriage.

The Church of Jesus Chris of Latter-day Saints realizes the legal consequences of what is at stake for our country and our children and has asked members to be vigilant. This is your time to take a stand. The Church has joined an coalition with the Catholic Church and the Evangelical Christian churches to unite and protect marriage.

Invite friends from all faiths and especially those who hold family values and views in favor of traditional marriage. Help them know how you feel about marriage and encourage a dialogue that will get everyone out to vote and to register to vote immediately before the cutoff dates!