Exploring “For the Strength of Youth” from 1990-2022

Written By Amy

The LDS church updated its pamphlet “For the Strength of Youth” in October 2022. With softer language and the removal of some explicit rules, the changes have been much lauded.

What the church did not include in the rollout, however, was an apology or even a simple acknowledgement of the harm the pamphlet’s previous editions wrought on generations of us.

Table of contents

Introductory stuff

Backstory
Why this matters
Some notes before you begin
Has anyone seen Satan?


”For the Strength of Youth” side by sides

First Presidency message
Table of contents
Introduction on agency
Dating
Chastity
Homosexuality
Dress and appearance
Media
Word of Wisdom
Repentance

Backstory

When I was 16, my bishop put me on a nine-month disciplinary probation period. I’ve written about this here, so I won’t repeat the story. But I will say that this pamphlet was the number one weapon wielded against me in those interviews. If my bishop wasn’t quoting it, my Young Women leaders were. I had a crinkled copy in my scripture case. It went everywhere with me, and I took that 2001 version to heart. I nearly killed myself for those standards.

So when I saw the changes come through, it kicked me in the guts.

Here is a softer, gentler guide! Look at the removal of tattoo and piercing language! Look how it says same-sex attraction isn’t a sin—if you don’t act on it. How wonderful that my 11 niblings in believing families won’t have to suffer like I did.

But is nobody going to mention Gordon B. Hinckley’s reign of terror over gen-x and millennial youths? We’re not going to talk about how homosexuality was called a grievous sin in this pamphlet for 32 years? How I was told tattoos were “defiling” and “disfiguring” my body? What about church leaders making girls kneel on the ground before church dances, to make sure their skirts are modest?

It was a confusing reaction. I was both glad for the changes but so, so angry for myself—that it was all made up anyway. Of course it was. I’ve been out of the church for twelve years, I know this—but even still. It cut deep, this one. I cried for a long time about it. It was like my teen self had risen from the grave, food tube dangling out of her nose, to ask, “What was it all for?”

In all my years since leaving, nothing made me feel the way this did.

So I wanted to study it. I wanted to lay out each edition, side by side, to compare the language. Mostly as validation for myself—that this really happened and I didn’t make it up. But also because I don’t think the guide has really changed all that much. The masters of propaganda know what they’re doing.

Why this matters

This pamphlet is the only place some of these standards exist in writing. It’s given to all 12-18 year olds. The adults teach the standards, enforce the standards. I used the pamphlet to discern when I needed to make an appointment to tell an adult male sexual details about myself, by myself. My bishop used it to justify discipline. It’s oft-quoted and ubiquitous.

I guess my question is—will this guide continue to serve those purposes?

Through that lens, I worry about the new guide being subtitled “A Guide for Making Choices.” We know the church tows the finest line between pleasing progressive and orthodox Mormons. How does opening church standards up to “choice” aid that goal?

Consider that as you review the new material. Are these new standards softer? Or are they intentionally vague, to shift all responsibility back to the individual, in true neoliberal form, so the corporation just keeps flourishing?

Some notes before you begin

  • This comparison isn’t comprehensive. I pulled what I felt were the major tenets (sex, dating, modesty, porn, etc.) and left out the more generic stuff (honesty, education, etc.). I regret leaving out “friendshipping,” but maybe I’ll add it later.

  • In some sections you’ll see 60-second videos, because church media disseminated these standards too. These aren’t comprehensive either—just videos I’ve made so far as part of the larger archival project. I’ll add more as I go—and when I find a better video embed solution (sorry for all the scrolling).

  • Some like to say “this was never doctrine.” I included video sources at the end of each section, because I believe it illustrates that it was, in fact, enforced for decades.

  • This reflects my experience with the guide, and I don’t mean it to be universal. Rather, it’s an offering for those who were also harmed by the culture around this pamphlet. Maybe it’s a monument to our pain, maybe it’s something to take to therapy—I don’t know. But I offer it humbly as an archive, if nothing else.

Has anyone seen Satan?

I didn’t see Satan anywhere in the 2022 guide. He’s everywhere in the other versions. What’s the move? Are we focusing more on Jesus, less on Satan now? Is the idea no longer to threaten but empower?

My sense is the church PR department is saying “Satan wants to destroy you” is out, and “You’ve got a friend in Jesus” is in!

First presidency message

  • Our beloved young men and women,

    We want you to know that we love you. We have great confidence in you. Because of that, we talk to you frankly and honestly. We desire everything in this world for you that is right and good. You are not just ordinary young men and women. You are choice spirits who have been held in reserve to come forth in this day when the temptations, responsibilities, and opportunities are the very greatest. You are at a critical time in your lives. This is a time for you not only to live righteously but also to set an example for your peers. As you seek to live the standards of the Church, you will be able to reach out and lift and build your brothers and sisters.

    God loves you as He loves each and every one of His children. His desire, purpose, and glory is to have you return to Him pure and undefiled, having proven yourselves worthy of an eternity of joy in His presence.

    Your Father in Heaven is mindful of you. He has given you commandments to guide you, to discipline you. He has also given you your agency—freedom of choice—"to see if [you] will do all things whatsoever [He] shall command" (Abraham 3:25). Freedom of choice is a God-given, eternal principle that carries with it moral responsibilities for the choices made.

    We counsel you to choose to live a morally clean life. The prophet Alma declared, "Wickedness never was happiness" (Alma 41:10). Truer words were never spoken!

    You cannot do wrong and feel right. It is impossible! Years of happiness can be lost in the foolish gratification of a momentary desire for pleasure. Satan would have you believe that happiness comes only as you surrender to his enticement to self- indulgence. We need only to look at the shattered lives of those who violate God's laws to know why Satan is called the "father of all lies" (2 Nephi 2:18).

    You can avoid the burden of guilt and sin and all of the attending heartaches if you will but heed the standards provided you through the teachings of the Lord and His servants.

    We bear witness of the truth of these principles and promise you the blessings of the Lord as you keep the standards outlined in the scriptures and emphasized in this pamphlet. Among those blessings will be the constant and calming companionship of the Holy Ghost and the feelings of peace and happiness that you will experience.

    We pray that you—the young and rising generation—will keep your bodies and minds clean, free from the contaminations of the world, that you will be fit and pure vessels to bear triumphantly the responsibilities of the kingdom of God in preparation for the second coming of our Savior.

    The First Presidency

  • Our beloved young men and women, we have great confidence in you. You are choice spirits who have come forth in this day when the responsibilities and opportunities, as well as the temptations, are the greatest. You are at the beginning of your journey through this mortal life. Your Heavenly Father wants your life to be joyful and to lead you back into His presence. The decisions you make now will determine much of what will follow during your life and throughout eternity.

    Because the Lord loves you, He has given you commandments and the words of prophets to guide you on your journey. Some of the most important guidelines for your life are found in this pamphlet. We testify that these principles are true.

    We promise that as you keep these standards and live by the truths in the scriptures, you will be able to do your life's work with greater wisdom and skill and bear trials with greater courage. You will have the help of the Holy Ghost. You will feel good about yourself and will be a positive influence in the lives of others. You will be worthy to go to the temple to receive holy ordinances. These blessings and many more can be yours.

    We pray for each of you. May you keep your minds and bodies clean from the sins of the world so you can do the great work that lies before you. We pray that you will be worthy to carry on the responsibilities of building the kingdom of God and preparing the world for the Second Coming of the Savior.

    The First Presidency

  • OUR DEAR YOUNG MEN AND YOUNG WOMEN, we have great confidence in you. You are beloved sons and daughters of God and He is mindful of you. You have come to earth at a time of great opportunities and also of great challenges. The standards in this booklet will help you with the important choices you are making now and will yet make in the future. We promise that as you keep the covenants you have made and these standards, you will be blessed with the companionship of the Holy Ghost, your faith and testimony will grow stronger, and you will enjoy increasing happiness.

    In all that you do, stay focused on the temple. In the temple you will receive the greatest of all the Lord's blessings, including marriage for time and all eternity. Keeping the standards in this booklet will help you be worthy to attend the temple, where you can perform sacred ordinances for your ancestors now and make essential covenants for yourself in the future.

    Our Father in Heaven has placed great trust in you. He has a work for you to do. Seek His guidance in prayer, and counsel with your parents and leaders. The decisions you make now will set the course for much of what will follow during your mortal life and throughout eternity.

    We testify that God lives. It is our fervent prayer that you will remain steadfast and valiant throughout your lives and that you will trust in the Savior and His promises. As you do this, you will be an influence for good in helping to build the kingdom of God and prepare the world for the Second Coming of the Savior.

    The First Presidency

  • Our dear young brothers and sisters,

    We love you and we have confidence in you. You are truly among Heavenly Father's choice spirits, sent to earth at this time to do important things.

    There may be times when you don't feel strong or capable. That's normal. Especially in those moments, turn to the Savior. He is the "strength of youth."

    This guide will help you build a solid foundation for making choices to stay on the covenant path. It will help you prepare to make sacred covenants in the temple, prepare to serve a mission, and find joy in following Jesus Christ throughout your life. We hope you feel that you belong in the Savior's Church and have power from Him to fulfill His purposes for you.

    We know God lives. It is our prayer that you will stay firmly on the covenant path that leads back to your Father in Heaven. As you do, you will be an influence for good, sharing the gospel joyfully and preparing the world for the Second Coming of the Savior.

    The First Presidency

My notes

This remains mostly the same, though the 2022 edition is the first to include missions specifically. It also no longer emphasizes worthiness, like the previous editions.

Table of contents

  • Why standards?
    Dating
    Dress and appearance
    Friendshipping
    Honesty
    Language
    Media: Movies, television, radio, videocassettes, books, and magazines
    Mental and physical health
    Music and dancing
    Sexual purity
    Sunday behavior
    Spiritual help
    Repentance
    Conclusion: Worthiness and service

  • Message from the First Presidency

    Agency and Accountability

    Gratitude

    Education

    Family

    Friends

    Dress and Appearance

    Entertainment and the Media

    Music and Dancing

    Language

    Dating

    Sexual Purity

    Repentance

    Honesty

    Sabbath Day Observance

    Tithes and Offerings

    Physical Health

    Service to Others

    Go Forward with Faith

    The Living Christ

    The Family: A Proclamation to the World

  • Agency and Accountability

    Dating

    Dress and Appearance

    Education

    Entertainment and Media

    Family

    Friends

    Gratitude

    Honesty and Integrity

    Language

    Music and Dancing

    Physical and Emotional Health

    Repentance

    Sabbath Day Observance

    Service

    Sexual Purity

    Tithes and Offerings

    Work and Self-Reliance

    Go Forward with Faith

    Appendix

  • Message from the First Presidency

    Make inspired choices

    Jesus Christ will help you

    Love God, love your neighbor

    Walk in God's light

    Your body is sacred

    Truth will make you free

    Find joy in Christ

My notes

Note how the 2022 edition is reorganized around generic principles, rather than specific topics.

Introduction on agency

  • Standards for the Youth of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

    Why Standards?
    Standards are rules or guidelines given to help you measure your conduct. Why has the Lord given standards? He wants all his children to return to live with him one day. However, he knows that only those who are worthy will be able to live with him. Standards help you know how well you are preparing to live with your Father in Heaven. Your entire lives on earth are intended to give you the opportunity to learn to choose good over evil, service over selfishness, kindness and thoughtfulness over self-indulgence and personal gratification. By comparing your behavior and thoughts with your Father's standards, you are in a better position to govern yourselves and make the right choices. God's commandments (standards) are constant, unwavering, and dependable. As you adhere to them, you will receive countless blessings from heaven-including the gift of eternal life.

  • AGENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    "Wherefore, men . . . are free to choose liberty and eternal life, through the great Mediator of all men, or to choose captivity and death" (2 Nephi 2:27).

    Your heavenly father has given you ageney, the abilly to choose right from wrong and to act for yourself. You have been given the Holy Ghost to help you know good from evil. While you are here on earth, you are being proven to see if you will use your agency to show your love for God by keeping His commandments.

    While you are free to choose for yourself, you are not free to choose the consequences of your actions. When you make a choice, you will receive the consequences of that choice. The consequences may not be immediate, but they will always follow, for good or bad. Wrong choices delay your progression and lead to heartache and misery. Right choices lead to happiness and eternal life. That is why it is so important for you to choose what is right throughout your life.

  • Agency and Accountability

    Wherefore, men are free to choose liberty and eternal life, through the great Mediator of all men, or to choose captivity and death. 2 Nephi 2:27

    Heavenly Father has given you agency, the ability to choose right from wrong and to act for yourself. Next to the bestowal of life itself, the right to direct your life is one of God's greatest gifts to you. While here on earth, you are being proven to see if you will use your agency to show your love for God by keeping His commandments. The Holy Ghost can guide you in using your agency righteously.

    You are responsible for the choices you make. God is mindful of you and will help you make good choices, even if your family and friends use their agency in ways that are not right. Have the moral courage to stand firm in obeying God's will, even if you have to stand alone. As you do this, you set an example for others to follow.

    While you are free to choose your course of action, you are not free to choose the consequences. Whether for good or bad, consequences follow as a natural result of the choices you make. Some sinful behavior may bring temporary, worldly pleasure, but such choices delay your progress and lead to heartache and misery. Righteous choices lead to lasting happiness and eternal life. Remember, true freedom comes from using your agency to choose obedience; loss of freedom comes from choosing disobedience.

    You are also responsible for developing the talents and abilities Heavenly Father has given you. You are accountable to Him for what you do with your talents and how you spend your time. Choose to do many good things of your own free will.

    Matthew 25:14-29; Moroni 7:15-19; Doctrine and Covenants 58:27-28

    Are my choices leading me toward lasting happiness?

  • Make inspired choices

    In For the Strength of Youth, you will find the teachings of Jesus Christ and His prophets. With these truths as your guide, you can make inspired choices that will bless you now and throughout eternity.

    Jesus Christ is the way to eternal joy. As you use your freedom to choose to follow Jesus Christ, you are on the path that leads to eternal happiness. Make Jesus Christ your standard, your rock-solid foundation. Build your life on His teachings, and measure your choices by them. The covenants you make at baptism, during the sacrament, and in the temple are the building blocks of your firm foundation in Christ. You'll still face struggles and temptations, but Heavenly Father and the Savior will help you through them all.

    You are a beloved spirit child of God. His great plan of happiness makes it possible for you to grow spiritually and develop your divine potential. This is why He sent Jesus Christ to be your Savior.

    Your Father in Heaven trusts you. He has given you great blessings, including the fulness of the gospel and sacred ordinances and covenants that bind you to Him and bring His power into your life. With those blessings comes added responsibility. He knows you can make a difference in the world, and that requires, in many cases, being different from the world. Seek your Heavenly Father's guidance as you make choices. He will bless you with inspiration through the Holy Ghost.

    The purpose of For the Strength of Youth is not to give you a "yes" or "no" about every possible choice you might face. Instead, the Lord is inviting you to live in a higher and holier way—His way. This guide will teach you about His way. It explains truths He has revealed. Make these truths your guide for making choices-big choices, such as making covenants in the temple and serving a mission, as well as daily choices, such as how to treat people or how to spend your time.

    While others can help you, your spiritual growth is personal. It's between you and the Lord. He knows your heart, and only He can be the ultimate Judge. Do your best to improve each day, keep God's commandments and honor your covenants, and help others come closer to the Savior.

My notes

First, the 1990 edition says “God’s commandments (standards) are constant, unwavering, and dependable.”

Second, the focus on choice has always been here. All versions include agency up front, before any standards are presented.

In 2022 they call it “making inspired choices.” It’s not about giving you a “yes” or “no” about every choice—instead, you’re invited to live a “higher and holier way.” 

But the false dilemma remains—two choices presented when in fact, there could be many. Wielding choice this way strikes me as the fear arousal portion of totalitarianism.

I’ve always wondered: If god’s approval, eternal life, and my sense of safety and belonging within community all depend on making the right choice … where is the choice? Especially with nervous systems that register disruption of belonging as a threat to survival.

Agency as historically presented in church media

  • Video 1
    🎞️ Man’s Search for Happiness, 1986
    📼 Come Unto Me, 1990

    📼 The Plan of our Heavenly Father: Discussion 1, 1989

    📀 Book of Mormon DVD Presentations 1-19, 2005
    🎞️ The Mediator, 1995
    🎞️ Act for Themselves, 1993

    Video 2
    🎞️ The Consequences of Our Choices (The Pump), 1988
    📼 Family Home Evening Supplement 1, 1987/2000

    Video 3
    📼 The Way to Eternal Life, 1991

    Video 4
    🎞️ The Commandments Are for Our Protection
    📼 Family Home Evening Supplement 1, 1987/2000

    🎞️ Blessings of Following Prophets, 2003
    📀 Old Testament Visual Resource DVDs, 2007

    📀 D&C and Church History Visual Resources DVD, 2010
    🎞️ Those Tithed Not Burned at His Coming, 1979
    🎞️ Windows of Heaven Open to Obedient, 1995

    🎞️ Standards of Worthiness
    📀 First Worldwide Leadership Training Meeting, 2003

    Video 5
    🎞️Satan Seeks to Deceive Us, 2004
    📀 D&C and Church History Visual Resources DVD, 2010

    🎞️Light and Truth: Part 2, 1999
    📼D&C and Church History Video Presentations 13-22, 1998

    📼 Our Heavenly Father’s Plan, 1986

    🎞️ He Knows Me
    📀 Come, Follow Me Video Resources for Youth Volume 1, 2013

    Video 6
    📀 Old Testament Visual Resource DVDs, 2007
    🎞️ Sin Results in Suffering, 1990

    🎞️ Living the Gospel
    📀 Gospel Lessons for Family and Personal Use: Volume 4, 2009

    🎞️ Spiritual Crocodiles, 1993
    📀 Book of Mormon DVD Presentations 1-19, 2005

    🎞️ Watch Your Step
    📀 Come, Follow Me Video Resources for Youth Volume 1, 2013



Dating

  • Dating

    Begin to prepare now for a temple marriage. Proper dating is a part of that preparation.

    In cultures where dating is appropriate, do not date until you are sixteen years old. Not all teenagers need to date or even want to. Many young people do not date during their teen years, because they are not interested, do not have opportunities, or simply want to delay forming serious relationships. Good friendships can be developed at every age.

    When you begin dating, go in groups or on double dates. Avoid pairing off exclusively with one partner. Make sure your parents meet and become acquainted with those you date. Later the time will come for choosing just one. You may occasionally want to invite your dates to activities with your family.

    Plan positive and constructive activities when you are together. Do things that help you get to know each other. Be careful to go to places where there is a good environment, where you won't be faced with temptation.

    Because dating is a preparation for marriage, date only those who have high standards, who respect your standards, and in whose company you can maintain the standards of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

  • DATING

    "The Lord has made us attractive one to another for a great purpose. But this very attraction becomes as a powder keg unless it is kept under control. . . . It is for this reason that the Church counsels against early dating" (President Gordon B. Hinckley).

    In cultures where dating or courtship is acceptable, dating can help you develop lasting friendships and eventually find an eternal companion. Date only those who have high standards and in whose company you can maintain your standards. A young man and a young woman on a date are responsible to help each other maintain their standards and to protect each other's honor and virtue. You must honor the sanctity of the priesthood and of womanhood.

    Do not date until you are at least 16 years old. Dating before then can lead to immorality, limit the number of other young people you meet, and deprive you of experiences that will help you choose an eternal partner. Not all teenagers need to date or even want to. Many young people do not date during their teen years because they are not yet interested, do not have opportunities, or simply want to delay forming serious relationships. However, good friendships can and should be developed at every age.

    When you begin dating, go in groups or on double dates. Avoid going on frequent dates with the same person. Make sure your parents meet those you date. You may want to invite your dates to activities with your family. Plan dating activities that are positive and inexpensive and that will help you get to know each other. Do things that will help you and your companions maintain your self-respect and remain close to the Spirit of the Lord.

    2 Corinthians 6:14

  • Dating

    Virtue loveth virtue; light cleaveth unto light. Doctrine and Covenants 88:40

    A date is a planned activity that allows a young man and a young woman to get to know each other better. In cultures where dating is acceptable, it can help you learn and practice social skills, develop friendships, have wholesome fun, and eventually find an eternal companion.

    You should not date until you are at least 16 years old. When you begin dating, go with one or more additional couples. Avoid going on frequent dates with the same person. Developing serious relationships too early in life can limit the number of other people you meet and can perhaps lead to immorality. Invite your parents to become acquainted with those you date.

    Choose to date only those who have high moral standards and in whose company you can maintain your standards. Remember that a young man and a young woman on a date are responsible to protect each other's honor and virtue.

    Plan dating activities that are safe, positive, and inexpensive and that will help you get to know each other. Go only to places where you can maintain your standards and remain close to the Spirit.

    Young men generally take the initiative in asking for and planning dates. Always be kind and respectful when you ask for a date or when you accept or decline one. While on a date, be courteous as you listen to others and express your own feelings.

    As you enter your adult years, make dating and marriage a high priority. Seek a companion who is worthy to go to the temple to be sealed to you for time and all eternity. Marrying in the temple and creating an eternal family are essential in God's plan of happiness.

    1 Corinthians 11:11, Doctrine and Covenants 46:33

    What can I do to be a righteous influence on those I date?

  • The best way to get to know others is through genuine friendship. While you are young, build good friendships with many people. In some cultures, youth get to know members of the opposite sex through wholesome group activities. For your emotional and spiritual development and safety, one-on-one activities should be postponed until you are mature—age 16 is a good guideline. Counsel with your parents and leaders. Save exclusive relationships for when you are older. Spend time with those who help you keep your commitments to Jesus Christ.

My notes

The biggest difference is age 16 used to be hard and fast—in 2022, they call age 16 a “good guideline.” And instead of saying only date those with your standards, it’s “spend time with those who help you keep your commitments to Jesus Christ.”

On that note, I’m noticing a lack of marriage language altogether in 2022.

Dating as historically presented in church media

  • Video 1
    🎞️ A brand new year 2010: dating
    📀 Come, Follow Me Video Resources for Youth Volume 1, 2013

    Videos 2 and 3
    🎞️The Importance of Proper Dating, 1988
    📼 Family Home Evening Video Supplement 2 (1990)

    Videos 4 and 5
    📼 On the Way Home, 1992

    Video 6
    📀 Come, Follow Me Video Resources for Youth Volume 1, 2013
    🎞️ A brand new year 2010: dating
    🎞️ Guardians of Virtue, 2011

    Video 7
    🎞️ How Do I Love Thee?, 1965
    📼 Videocassette 24

Chastity

  • Sexual Purity

    Our Heavenly Father has counseled that sexual intimacy should be reserved for his children within the bonds of marriage. The physical relationship between a husband and a wife can be beautiful and sacred. It is ordained of God for the procreation of children and for the expression of love within a marriage: "Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh" (Genesis 2:24).

    Because sexual intimacy is so sacred, the Lord requires self-control and purity before marriage as well as full fidelity after marriage. In dating, treat your date with respect, and expect your date to show that same respect to you. Never treat your date as an object to be used for your own lustful desires or ego. Improper physical contact can cause a loss of self-control. Always stay in control of yourself and your physical feelings.

    The Lord specifically forbids certain behaviors, including all sexual relations before marriage, petting, sex perversion (such as homosexuality, rape, and incest), masturbation, or preoccupation with sex in thought, speech, or action (see A Parent's Guide, pp. 36-39).

  • SEXUAL PURITY

    "The sacred powers of procreation are to be employed only between man and woman, lawfully wedded as husband and wife" ("The Family: A Proclamation to the World")

    Physical intimacy between husband and wife is beautiful and sacred. It is ordained of God for the creation of children and for the expression of love between husband and wife. God has commanded that sexual intimacy be reserved for marriage.

    When you obey God's commandment to be sexually pure, vou prepare yourself to make and keep sacred covenants in the temple. You prepare yourself to build a strong marriage and to bring children into the world as part of a loving family. You protect yourself from the emotional damage that always comes from sharing physical intimacies with someone outside of marriage.

    Do not have any sexual relations before marriage, and be completely faithful to your spouse after marriage. Satan may tempt you to rationalize that sexual intimacy before marriage is acceptable when two people are in love That is not true. In God's sight, sexual sins are extremely serious because they defile the power God has given us to create life. The prophet Alma taught that sexual sins are more serious than any other sins except murder or denying the Holy Ghost (see Alma 39:5).

    Before marriage, do not do anything to arouse the powerful emotions that must be expressed only in marriage. Do not participate in passionate kissing, lie on top of another person, or touch the private, sacred parts of another person's body, with or without clothing

    Do not allow anyone to do that with you. Do not arouse those emotions in our own body.

    In cultures where dating or courting is acceptable, always treat your date with respect, never as an object to be used for your lustful desires. Stay in areas of safety where you can easily control your physical feelings. Do not participate in talk or activities that arouse sexual feelings.

    If you are tempted to commit sexual transgressions, seek help from your parents, your bishop, and friends you can trust. Pray to the Lord, who will help you resist temptation and overcome inappropriate thoughts and feelings.

    If you have committed sexual transgressions, begin the process of repentance now so vou can find inner peace and have the full companionship of the Spirit. Seek the Lord's forgiveness. Talk with your bishop. He will help you obtain the forgiveness available to those who truly repent.

  • Sexual Purity

    The sacred powers of procreation are to be employed only between man and woman, lawfully wedded as husband and wife. "The Family: A Proclamation to the World"

    Physical intimacy between husband and wife is beautiful and sacred. It is ordained of God for the creation of children and for the expression of love between husband and wife. God has commanded that sexual intimacy be reserved for marriage.

    When you are sexually pure, you prepare yourself to make and keep sacred covenants in the temple. You prepare yourself to build a strong marriage and to bring children into the world as part of an eternal and loving family. You protect yourself from the spiritual and emotional damage that come from sharing sexual intimacy outside of marriage. You also protect yourself from harmful diseases. Remaining sexually pure helps you to be confident and truly happy and improves your ability to make good decisions now and in the future.

    The Lord's standard regarding sexual purity is clear and unchanging. Do not have any sexual relations before marriage and be completely faithful to your spouse after marriage. Do not allow the media, your peers, or others to persuade you that sexual intimacy before marriage is acceptable. It is not.

    In God's sight, sexual sins are extremely serious. They defile the sacred power God has given us to create life. The prophet Alma taught that sexual sins are more serious than any other sins except murder or denying the Holy Ghost (see Alma 39:5).

    Never do anything that could lead to sexual transgression. Treat others with respect, not as objects used to satisfy lustful and selfish desires. Before marriage, do not participate in passionate kissing, lie on top of another person, or touch the private, sacred parts of another person's body, with or without clothing. Do not do anything else that arouses sexual feelings. Do not arouse those emotions in your own body. Pay attention to the promptings of the Spirit so that you can be clean and virtuous. The Spirit of the Lord will withdraw from one who is in sexual transgression.

    Avoid situations that invite increased temptation, such as late-night or overnight activities away from home or activities where there is a lack of adult supervision. Do not participate in discussions or any media that arouse sexual feelings. Do not participate in any type of pornography. The Spirit can help you know when you are at risk and give you the strength to remove yourself from the situation. Have faith in and be obedient to the righteous counsel of your parents and leaders

  • Sexual feelings are an important part of God's plan to create happy marriages and eternal families. These feelings are not sinful—they are sacred. Because sexual feelings are so sacred and so powerful, God has given you His law of chastity to prepare you to use these feelings as He intends. The law of chastity states that God approves of sexual activity only between a man and a woman who are married. Many in the world ignore or even mock God's law, but the Lord invites us to be His disciples and live a standard higher than the world's.

    Keep sex and sexual feelings sacred. They should not be the subject of jokes or entertainment. Outside of marriage between a man and a woman, it is wrong to touch the private, sacred parts of another person's body even if clothed. In your choices about what you do, look at, read, listen to, think about, post, or text, avoid anything that purposely arouses lustful emotions in others or yourself. This includes pornography in any form. If you find that situations or activities make temptations stronger, avoid them. You know what those situations and activities are. And if you aren't sure, the Spirit, your parents, and your leaders can help you know. Show your Father in Heaven that you honor and respect the sacred power to create life.

    Living the law of chastity brings God's approval and personal spiritual power. When you are married, this law will bring greater love, trust, and unity to your marriage. Obeying this law will make it possible for you to progress eternally and become more like your Heavenly Father. Your confidence will grow as you live as a disciple of Jesus Christ.

My notes

Masturbation is mentioned explicitly only in 1990.

In 2011, they were still saying sexual sin is next to murder.

And in 2022, it’s slightly more sex positive, saying “sexual feelings are an important part of god’s plan.” But they’re still shared only between a married man and woman.

Also, we’re still saying things like “obeying the law of chastity brings god’s approval.” So my safety and belonging are still threatened if I don’t make the choice expected of me.

Even at its most generous—even if your safety and belonging are never actually threatened because Jesus will always forgive you—it’s still suggesting I organize my life around a never-ending cycle of self-flagellation/confession/relief.

Chastity as historically presented in church media

  • Video 1
    🎞️ I Choose to Be Pure
    📀 Come, Follow Me Video Resources for Youth Volume 1, 2013

    Video 2
    🎞️ What Are the Limits?
    📀 Come, Follow Me Video Resources for Youth Volume 1, 2013

    Video 3
    🎞️ Stay Within the Lines
    📀 Come, Follow Me Video Resources for Youth Volume 1, 2013

    Videos 4 and 5
    🎞️ Morality for Youth, 1982
    📼Come Unto Me (1990)

    Video 6
    🎞️ True Confidence
    📀 Come, Follow Me Video


Homosexuality

  • Homosexual and lesbian activities are sinful and an abomination to the Lord (see Romans 1:26-27, 31). Unnatural affections including those toward persons of the same gender are counter to God's eternal plan for his children. You are responsible to make right choices. Whether directed toward those of the same or opposite gender, lustful feelings and desires may lead to more serious sins. All Latter-day Saints must learn to control and discipline themselves.

  • Homosexual activity is a serious sin. If you find yourself struggling with same-gender attraction, seek counsel from your parents and bishop. They will help you.

  • Homosexual and lesbian beahvior is a serious sin. If you find yourself struggling with same-gender attraction or you are being persuaded to participate in inappropriate behavior, seek counsel from your parents and bishop. They will help you.

  • I am attracted to people of my same sex. How do these standards apply to me?

    Feeling same-sex attraction is not a sin. If you have these feelings and do not pursue or act on them, you are living Heavenly Father's sacred law of chastity.

    You are a beloved child of God and a disciple of Jesus Christ. Remember that the Savior understands everything you experience. Through your covenant connection with Him, you will find strength to obey God's commandments and receive the blessings He promises. Trust Him and His gospel.

My notes

I don’t want to say this change won’t help anything. However, if we’re really considering this update as progress, this thread from Matt Easton comes to mind.

What does saying “it’s not a sin until you act on it'“ do to shift the heteropatriarchy oppressing and endangering queer LDS kids? If they do act on it, it’s ok because Jesus is here to forgive? The threat remains—you are safe only if you hide yourself. You are safe only if you deny companionship.

We’re just going to let you read between the lines and say it for us now??

The church’s stance on homosexuality and gender as historically presented in church media

  • Video 1
    🎞️ Strengthening the Home, 1972
    📼 Videocassette 3, 1986

    🎞️ Marriage is Essential to His Eternal Plan
    📀Worldwide Leadership Training Meeting: Supporting the Family, 2006

    🎞️The importance of the family part 2
    📼 D&C and Church History Video Presentations 13-22 (1998)

    🎞️ The Family: A Proclamation to the World
    📀 Gospel Lessons for Family and Personal Use, 2011

    Videos 2, 3, and 4
    🎞️ A Heaven-inspired Program
    📀 Come Follow Me Video Resources for Youth (2013)

    🎞️ Preparing for the Second Coming
    📀D&C and Church History Visual Resource DVDs (2010)

    🎞️ Family and Temple
    📀 First Worldwide Leadership Training Meeting (2003)

    🎞️ The Family: A Proclamation to the World
    📀 Gospel Lessons for Family and Personal Use (2011)

    📀Worldwide Leadership Training Meeting: Supporting the Family (2006)
    🎞️ A Solemn Responsibility to Care for Each Other
    🎞️ Marriage is Essential to His Eternal Plan

    🎞️ Challenges Facing the Family📀 Worldwide Leadership Training Meeting: The priesthood and the auxiliaries (2004)

    🎞️ The importance of the family parts 1 and 2
    📼 D&C and Church History Video Presentations 13-22 (1998)

    📼 Teach One Another, 1990

    📼 Together Forever, 1988

    🎞️ Strengthening the Home, 1972📼 Videocassette 3, 1986

Dress and appearance

  • Servants of God have always counseled his children to dress modestly to show respect for him and for themselves. Because the way you dress sends messages about yourself to others and often influences the way you and others act, you should dress in such a way as to bring out the best in yourself and those around you. However, if you wear an immodest bathing suit because it's "the style, sends a message that you are using your body to get attention and approval, and that modesty is not important.

    Immodest clothing includes short shorts, tight pants, and other revealing attire. Young women should refrain from wearing off-the-shoulder, low-cut, or revealing clothes. Young men should similarly maintain modesty in their dress. All should avoid tight fitting or revealing clothes and extremes in clothing and appearance.

    As Latter-day Saint youth, you can also show respect for the Lord and yourselves by dressing appropriately for Church meetings and activities, whether on Sunday or during the week. If you are not sure what's appropriate, ask for guidelines from your parents, advisers, and bishop.

  • DRESS AND APPEARANCE

    "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? … The temple of God is holy, which temple ye are" (1 Corinthians 3:16-17).

    Your body is God's sacred creation. Respect it as a gift from God, and do not defile it in any way. Through your dress and appearance, you can show the Lord that you know how precious your body is. You can show that you are a disciple of Jesus Christ.

    Prophets of God have always counseled His children to dress modestly. The way you dress is a reflection of what you are on the inside. Your dress and grooming send messages about you to others and influence the way you and others act. When you are well groomed and modestly dressed, you invite the companionship of the Spirit and can exercise a good influence on those around you.

    Never lower your dress standards for any occasion. Doing so sends the message that you are using your body to get attention and approval and that modesty is important only when it is convenient.

    Immodest clothing includes short shorts and skirts, tight clothing, shirts that do not cover the stomach, and other revealing attire. Young women should wear clothing that covers the shoulder and avoid clothing that is low-cut in the front or the back or revealing in any other manner. Young men should also maintain modesty in their appearance. All should avoid extremes in clothing, appearance, and hairstyle. Always be neat and clean and avoid being sloppy or inappropriately casual in dress, grooming, and manners. Ask yourself, "Would I feel comfortable with my appearance if I were in the Lord's presence?"

    Someday you will receive your endowment in the temple. Your dress and behavior should help you prepare for that sacred time. Do not disfigure yourself with tattoos or body piercings. If girls or women desire to have their ears pierced, they are encouraged to wear only one pair of modest earrings.

    Show respect for the Lord and for yourself by dressing appropriately for Church meetings and activities, whether on Sunday or during the week. If you are not sure what is appropriate, ask your parents or leaders for help.

  • Dress and Appearance

    Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? … The temple of God is holy, which temple ye are. Corinthians 3:16-17

    Your body is sacred. Respect it and do not defile it in any way. Through your dress and appearance, you can show that you know how precious your body is. You can show that you are a disciple of Jesus Christ and that you love Him.

    Prophets of God have continually counseled His children to dress modestly. When you are well groomed and modestly dressed, you invite the companionship of the Spirit and you can be a good influence on others. Your dress and grooming influence the way you and others act.

    Never lower your standards of dress. Do not use a special occasion as an excuse to be immodest. When you dress immodestly, you send a message that is contrary to your identity as a son or daughter of God. You also send the message that you are using your body to get attention and approval.

    Immodest clothing is any clothing that is tight, sheer, or revealing in any other manner. Young women should avoid short shorts and short skirts, shirts that do not cover the stomach, and clothing that does not cover the shoulders or is low-cut in the front or the back. Young men shouldalso maintain modesty in their appearance. Young men and young women should be neat and clean and avoid being extreme or inappropriately casual in clothing, hairstyle, and behavior. They should choose appropriately modest apparel when participating in sports. The fashions of the world will change, but the Lord's standards will not change.

    Do not disfigure yourself with tattoos or body piercings. Young women, if you desire to have your ears pierced, wear only one pair of earrings.

    Show respect for the Lord and yourself by dressing appropriately for Church meetings and activities. This is especially important when attending sacrament services. Young men should dress with dignity when officiating in the ordinance of the sacrament.

    If you are not sure what is appropriate to wear, study the words of the prophets, pray for guidance, and ask your parents or leaders for help. Your dress and appearance now will help you prepare for the time when you will go to the temple to make sacred covenants with God. Ask yourself, "Would I feel comfortable with my appearance if I were in the Lord's presence?"

    Genesis 1:27; Alma 1:27

    How does my testimony of the gospel influence my choice of clothing?

  • Treat your body—and others' bodies—with respect. As you make decisions about your clothing, hairstyle, and appearance, ask yourself, "Am I honoring my body as a sacred gift from God?" Heavenly Father wants us to see each other for who we really are: not just physical bodies but His beloved children with a divine destiny. Avoid styles that emphasize or draw inappropriate attention to your physical body instead of who you are as a child of God with an eternal future. Let moral cleanliness and love for God guide your choices. Seek counsel from your parents.

    Your respect for yourself and others will increase as you honor your body through your behavior, appearance, and dress.

    What is the Lord's standard on dress, grooming, tattoos, and piercings?

    The Lord's standard is for you to honor the sacredness of your body, even when that means being different from the world. Let this truth and the Spirit be your guide as you make decisions—especially decisions that have lasting effects on your body. Be wise and faithful, and seek counsel from your parents and leaders.

My notes

From 1990-2011 we were warned about how our bodies could affect others—sending inappropriate messages and influencing others’ behavior. Dressing for attention and approval from others.

In 2022, we don’t even use the word “modesty.” We’re simply guided to ask, “Am I honoring my body as a sacred gift from god?”

Specifics about clothing are gone, replaced with “Avoid styles that emphasize or draw inappropriate attention to your physical body instead of who you are as a child of god with an eternal future.”

Yes it’s softer, yes it appears to place the decision-making power with me. But when a temple recommend is on the line, and the bishop has to make a call—who’s actually making the decisions about my clothing, hairstyle, and appearance? Is it not like this for gen-z? I hope so!

Then there’s tattoos. I’d almost argue that they’re still illegal—that mention of “decisions that have lasting effects on your body” is a passive aggressive hint, like making someone guess what you mean instead of just telling them what you mean. I could be wrong, and I hope I am. I am curious how this one will play out.

This section is probably the biggest change to the 2022 version. To me, it is a crumb. A symbolic change to quell appetites for systemic change.

Dress and appearance rules as historically presented in church media

Note: These two Gordon videos could have gone under media or Word of Wisdom, too, but I put them here for tattoos and piercings.

  • Video 1
    🎞️ 195 Dresses
    📀 Come, Follow Me Video Resources for Youth Volume 1, 2013

    Videos 2 and 3
    📼President Gordon B. Hinckley Speaks to Parents and Youth, 2000
    🎞️ Address given at special youth fireside November 12, 2000
    🎞️ Address given at the Priesthood Session of General Conference october 7, 2000

    Video 4
    🎞️ I’m Trying to Be Like Jesus
    📀 Stand in the Light, 2004

Media

  • Media: Movies, Television, Radio, Videocassettes, Books, and Magazines

    Our Heavenly Father has counseled us as Latter-day Saints to seek after "anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy" (Articles of Faith 1:13). Whatever you read, listen to, or watch makes an impression on you. Public entertainment and the media can provide you with much positive experience. They can uplift and inspire you, teach you good and moral principles, and bring you closer to the beauty this world offers. But they can also make what is wrong and evil look normal, exciting, and acceptable.

    Pornography is especially dangerous and addictive. Curious exploration of pornography can become a controlling habit leading to coarser material and to sexual transgression. If you continue to view pornography, your spirit will become desensitized, and your conscience will erode. Much harm comes from reading or viewing pornography. It causes thoughts within you that weaken your self-discipline.

    Don't attend or participate in any form of entertainment, including concerts, movies, and videocassettes, that is vulgar, immoral, inappropriate, suggestive, or pornographic in any way. Movie ratings do not always accurately reflect offensive content. Don't be afraid to walk out of a movie, turn off a television set, or change a radio station if what's being presented does not meet your Heavenly Father's standards. And do not read books or magazines or look at pictures that are pornographic or that present immorality as acceptable.

    In short, if you have any question about whether a particular movie, book, or other form of entertainment is appropriate, don't see it, don't read it, don't participate.

  • ENTERTAINMENT AND THE MEDIA

    "If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things" (Articles of Faith 1:13).

    Whatever you read, listen to, or look at has an effect on you. Therefore, choose only entertainment and media that uplift you. Good entertainment will help you to have good thoughts and make righteous choices. It will allow you to enjoy yourself without losing the Spirit of the Lord.

    While much entertainment is good, some of it can lead you away from righteous living. Offensive material is often found in web sites, concerts, movies, music, videocassettes, DVDs, books, magazines, pictures, and other media. Satan uses such entertainment to deceive you by making what is wrong and evil look normal and exciting. It can mislead you into thinking that everyone is doing things that are wrong.

    Do not attend, view, or participate in entertainment that is vulgar, immoral, violent, or pornographic in any way. Do not participate in entertainment that in any way presents immorality or violent behavior as acceptable.

    Pornography in all its forms is especially dangerous and addictive. What may begin as a curious indulgence can become a destructive habit that takes control of your life. It can lead you to sexual transgression and even criminal behavior. Pornography is a poison that weakens your self-control, changes the way you see others, causes you to lose the guidance of the Spirit, and can even affect your ability to have a normal relationship with your future spouse. If you encounter pornography, turn away from it immediately.

    Depictions of violence often glamorize vicious behavior. They offend the Spirit and make you less able to respond to others in a sensitive, caring way. They contradict the Savior's message of love for one another.

    Have the courage to walk out of a movie or video party, turn off a computer or television, change a radio station, or put down a magazine if what is being presented does not meet Heavenly Father's standards. Do these things even if others do not. Let your friends and family know that you are committed to keeping God's standards. You have the gift of the Holy Ghost, which will give you strength and help you make good choices.

  • Entertainment and Media

    If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things. Articles of Faith 1:13

    You live in a day of marvelous technologies that give you easy access to a wide variety of media, including the Internet, mobile devices, video games, television, movies, music, books, and magazines. The information and entertainment provided through these media can increase your ability to learn, communicate, and become a force for good in the world. However, some information and entertainment can lead you away from righteous living. Choose wisely when using media, because whatever you read, listen to, or look at has an effect on you. Select only media that uplifts you.

    Satan uses media to deceive you by making what is wrong and evil look normal, humorous, or exciting. He tries to mislead you into thinking that breaking God's commandments is acceptable and has no negative consequences for you or others. Do not attend, view, or participate in anything that is vulgar, immoral, violent, or pornographic in any way. Do not participate in anything that presents immorality or violence as acceptable. Have the courage to walk out of a movie, change your music, or turn off a computer, television, or mobile device if what you see or hear drives away the Spirit.

    Pornography in all forms is especially dangerous and addictive. What may begin as an unexpected exposure or a curious exploration can become a destructive habit. Use of pornography is a serious sin and can lead to other sexual transgression. Avoid pornography at all costs. It is a poison that weakens your self-control, destroys your feelings of self-worth, and changes the way you see others. It causes you to lose the guidance of the Spirit and can damage your ability to have a normal relationship with others, especially your future spouse. It limits your ability to feel true love. If you encounter pornography, turn away from it immediately.

    If you are involved in pornography, cease now. Seek the help you need. Your parents and bishop can help you take the steps necessary to repent and rid yourself of this destructive habit.

    Take care that your use of media does not dull your sensitivity to the Spirit or interfere with your personal relationships with others. Spending long periods of time using the Internet or a mobile device, playing video games, or watching television or other media can keep you from valuable interactions with other people. Be careful that your use of social media does not replace spending time with your family and friends.

    Guard your safety and the safety of others by taking great care about what personal information and images you share through technology. Do not communicate anything over the Internet or through texting that would be inappropriate to share in person. Obey the laws that govern sharing music, movies, and other copyrighted items.

    If you are not sure whether something is appropriate to watch or listen to, talk to your parents and other adult leaders. The Holy Ghost will give you strength to make correct choices.

    Moroni 10:30: Doctrine and Covenants 121:45

    How does my choice of media influence my thoughts and actions?

  • Seek that which uplifts, inspires, and invites the Spirit. As you make choices about what to watch, read, listen to, or participate in, think about how it makes you feel. Does it invite good thoughts? Stay away from anything that mocks sacred things or that is immoral. Don't participate in anything that dulls your judgment or sensitivity to the Spirit, such as violence, alcohol, and harmful drugs. Have the courage to turn off a video or game, walk out of a movie or a dance, change your music, or turn away from anything that is not consistent with the Spirit.

    Use social media to uplift. Social media can be a powerful communication tool. If you use it, focus on light, faith, and truth. Don't compare your life to what other people seem to be experiencing. Remember that your worth comes from being a child of heavenly parents, not from social media.

    Seek wholesome experiences and real and lasting relationships. Be careful that your use of technology and media does not replace spending in-person time with family and friends. Social media and other technology can take much of your time without giving a lot of value in return. Take a break from the virtual world, and connect with people in real life.

    What is pornography? Why should I avoid it?

    Pornography is a representation, in pictures or words, that is designed to arouse sexual feelings. Pornography comes in many forms, including videos, pictures, books, and music. It can also be messages or images sent between friends. Pornography treats things that are sacred—our physical bodies and sexual feelings—with disrespect. You may come across pornography without meaning to. Whether you come across pornography intentionally or not, turn away immediately. You may also want to talk with a parent or other trusted adult.

    Intentionally viewing pornography is sinful and harms your ability to feel the Spirit. It weakens your self-control and distorts the way you see yourself and others. Jesus Christ has the power to help you resist pornography and repent. Turn toward Him; turn away from darkness. Your bishop can help you receive strength and forgiveness through the Savior.

My notes

These feel somewhat consistent to me. Social media first appears in 2011, along with caution about spending too much time on the internet, sexting, and music and movie copyrights.

The big difference I spot? Satan appears in 2001 and 2011, but in 2022, it’s just “turn away from darkness.”

Media dangers as historically presented in church media

  • Video 1
    🎞️ The Gift of Repentance, 1984
    📼 Family Home Evening Video Supplement 1, 1987

    Video 2
    🎞️ Can You Imagine?, 1993
    📀 Book of Mormon DVD presentations 1-19, 2005

    Video 3
    🎞️ To Look Upon
    📀 Old Testament Visual Resources DVD, 2007

    🎞️ Missionaries to Match Our Message
    🎞️ Watchmen on the Tower, 1999
    📀 D&C and Church History Visual Resources DVD, 2010

Word of Wisdom

  • Mental and Physical Health

    The Lord has commanded that you keep your body, mind, and spirit healthy. The Apostle Paul said: "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are" (1 Corinthians 3:16-17). Nutritious meals, regular exercise, and appropriate sleep are necessary for a strong body, just as consistent scripture study and prayer strengthen the mind and spirit. Even those who are challenged by some physical limitations will be physically and spiritually benefited by observing proper health habits.

    Hard drugs, wrongful use of prescription drugs, alcohol, coffee, tea, and tobacco products—such as cigarettes, snuff, chewing tobacco, cigars, and pipe tobacco—destroy your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Tobacco can enslave you, weaken your lungs, and shorten your life.

    Any form of alcohol, including beer, is harmful to your spirit and your body. Drinking will dull your conscience, is expensive, and could lead to alcoholism, which is self-destructive, dangerous, and deadly.

    When you observe the Word of Wisdom (see D&C 89) and other good health practices, you remain free and have control over your life. You gain the blessings of an undefiled body, an alert mind, and the ability to receive help and support from your Heavenly Father through the Holy Ghost.

  • PHYSICAL HEALTH

    "All saints who remember to keep and do these sayings . . shall receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones; and shall find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures; and shall run and not be weary, and shall walk and not faint" (D&C 89:18-20).

    The Lord has commanded you to take good care of your body. To do this, observe the Word of Wisdom, found in Doctrine and Covenants 89. Eat nutritious food, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep. When you do all these things, you remain free from harmful addictions and have control over your life. You gain the blessings of a healthy body, an alert mind, and the guidance of the Holy Ghost.

    Never use tobacco products, such as cigarettes, snuff, chewing tobacco, cigars, and pipe tobacco. They are very addictive and will damage your body and shorten your life. Also, do not drink coffee or tea, for these are addictive and harmful.

    Any form of alcohol is harmful to your body and spirit. Being under the influence of alcohol weakens your judgment and self-control and could lead you to break the law of chastity or other commandments. Drinking can lead to alcoholism, which destroys individuals and families.

    Any drug, chemical, or dangerous practice that is used to produce a sensation or "high" can destroy your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. These include hard drugs, prescription or over-the-counter medications that are abused, and household chemicals.

    Never let Satan or others lead you to think that breaking the Word of Wisdom will make you happier or more attractive.

  • Physical and Emotional Health

    All saints who remember to keep and do these sayings … shall receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones; and shall find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge. Doctrine and Covenants 89:18-19

    Your body is a temple, a gift from God. You will be blessed as you care for your body. Choose to obey the Word of Wisdom (see D&C 89). When you are obedient to this law, you remain free from harmful addictions and have control over your life. You gain the blessings of a healthy body, an alert mind, and the guidance of the Holy Ghost. You will be prepared to serve the Lord. Never let Satan or others deceive you into thinking that breaking the Word of Wisdom will make you happier, more popular, or more attractive.

    To care for your body, eat nutritious food, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep. Practice balance and moderation in all aspects of your physical health. Also, avoid extremes in diet that could lead to eating disorders. Do not intentionally harm your body. Avoid dangerous activities that put your body at risk of serious injury.

    Do not drink coffee or tea. Never use tobacco products or any form of alcohol; they are addictive and harmful to your body and spirit. Being under the influence of alcohol weakens your judgment and self-control. Drinking can also lead to alcoholism, which destroys individuals and families.

    Avoid any drink, drug, chemical, or dangerous practice that is used to produce a "high" or other artificial effect that may harm your body or mind. Some of these include marijuana, hard drugs, prescription or over-the-counter medications that are abused, and household chemicals. Use of these substances can lead to addiction and can destroy your mind and your body.

    Addictions harm your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. They damage relationships with family and friends and diminish your feelings of self-worth. They limit your ability to make choices for yourself. If you are struggling with any type of addiction, seek help from your parents and your bishop now.

    Your emotional health is also important and may affect your spiritual and physical well-being. Disappointment and occasional sadness are part of this mortal life. However, if you have prolonged feelings of sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, or depression, talk with your parents and your bishop and seek help.

    In all aspects of your life, seek healthy solutions to problems. Do all you can to safeguard your physical and emotional health so that you can fulfill your divine potential as a son or daughter of God.

    Daniel 1:3-20: Alma 53:20

  • Your body is an amazing gift from your Heavenly Father. He gave it to you to help you become more like Him. Having a body gives you increased power to exercise your freedom to choose. The restored gospel of Jesus Christ can help you see your body from God's perspective. And that makes a big difference in your choices about what to do with your body and how to care for it.

    Eternal truths

    Your body is in the image of God-the most glorious, majestic being in the universe. The scriptures compare our bodies to a holy temple, a place where the Spirit can dwell.

    Of course, your body is not perfect now. But the experiences you're having with your body can help you prepare to receive one day a perfect, resurrected, glorified body.

    Your soul is made up of your body and your spirit. For this reason, physical health and spiritual health are closely connected. The Savior revealed the Word of Wisdom to teach principles of caring for your body—and to promise physical and spiritual blessings.

    Do things that will strengthen your body—nothing that will hurt or damage it. Enjoy with gratitude the many good things God has provided. But remember that alcohol, tobacco, coffee, tea, and other harmful drugs and substances are not for your body or your spirit. Even helpful substances, like prescription drugs, can be destructive if not used correctly.

    The Lord has promised great treasures of knowledge to those who keep the Word of Wisdom. A healthy body, free from addiction, also increases your ability to receive personal revelation, think clearly, and serve the Lord.

My notes

In 2011 they specifically mention eating disorders, which is interesting. I did not know they added that, but it doesn’t appear in 2022.

They also mention mental health for the first time in 2011, and they’ve expanded on it somewhat in 2022. I’ll take it, though I do wonder how helpful messages like this are, when they’re not considering the toxic family systems and codependent behaviors this church encourages.

I would also ask how helpful it is to suggest we love our bodies because they’re made in god’s image, and they can be perfect someday through him. I’d like to love my body because it’s mine, and because it’s imperfect. Keeping ableist language around perfection in any sense isn’t a win.

The Word of Wisdom as historically presented in church media

  • Video 1
    🎞️ The Word of Wisdom
    📼 D&C Stories, 1987

    Video 2
    📼 Together Forever, 1988

    Video 3
    📼 The Prodigal Son, 1990

    Video 4
    🎞️ Addiction vs. Freedom
    📼 Family Home Evening Video Supplement 2, 1990

Repentance

  • Repentance

    Some people knowingly break God's commandments. They plan to repent before they go on a mission or receive the sacred covenants and ordinances of the temple. Repentance for such behavior is difficult and painful and may take a long time. It is better to not commit the sin. Certain sins are of such gravity that they can put your membership in the Church and your eternal life at risk. Sexual sins are among those of such seriousness.

    Where choices have already led to sexual impurity, repentance is the way back. Talk to your parents and your bishop. They love you and will explain to you how to repent and put your life in order again. Follow their counsel.

    The miracle of forgiveness is real, and true repentance is accepted by the Lord. Full repentance of some sins requires that we not only confess and resolve them with the Lord but that we also do so with the Church. The bishop and stake president have been appointed by revelation to serve as judges in these cases.

    Only the Lord can forgive sins, but these priesthood leaders can assist the transgressor in the process of repentance. In serious cases of transgression, Church disciplinary action could be required and disfellowshipment or excommunication could result.

    These actions are taken only when they are necessary in the repentance process. If you have sinned, the sooner you begin to make your way back, the sooner you will find the sweet peace and joy that come with the miracle of forgiveness.

    As you follow these guidelines, you will feel and experience the power of the Spirit of the Lord, you will come to know the truth, and you will gain confidence in yourself and the Lord. The Savior taught, "The truth shall make you free" (John 8:32). As you grow in that truth and freedom, you will experience the peace of the Lord Jesus Christ, a peace that brings great strength.

  • REPENTANCE

    "He who has repented of his sins, the same is forgiven, and I, the Lord, remember them no more" (D&C 58:42).

    The Savior gave His life for us and suffered for our sins. This great sacrifice is called the Atonement. Through the Atonement, you can receive forgiveness and be cleansed from your sins when you repent. When you do what is necessary to receive forgiveness, you will know for yourself the power of the Atonement and the love God has for you. You will feel the peace of the Lord Jesus Christ, which will bring you great strength.

    Satan wants you to think that you cannot repent, but that is absolutely not true. The Savior has promised you forgiveness if you will do what is required. The sooner you repent, the sooner you will find the blessings that come from forgiveness.

    Some people knowingly break God's commandments, expecting to repent before they go to the temple or serve a mission. Such deliberate sin mocks the Savior's Atonement and invites Satan to influence your life. Repentance for such behavior is difficult and can take a long time. If you sin in this way, you may lose years of blessings and spiritual guidance. You may become trapped in the sinful behavior, making it difficult to find your way back.

    You always need to confess your sins to the Lord. You should also confess your sins to those you have wronged. If you have committed serious sins, such as immorality, you need to confess them to your bishop.

    Alma 36:6-24

  • Repentance

    By this ye may know if a man repenteth of his sins—behold, he will confess them and forsake them. Doctrine and Covenants 58:43

    The Savior suffered for our sins and gave His life for us. This great sacrifice is called the Atonement. Through the Atonement, you can receive forgiveness and be cleansed from your sins when you repent.

    Repentance is more than simply acknowledging wrongdoings. It is a change of mind and heart. It includes turning away from sin and turning to God for forgiveness. It is motivated by love for God and the sincere desire to obey His commandments.

    Satan wants you to think that you cannot repent, but that is absolutely not true. The Savior has promised you forgiveness if you will humble yourself and make the effort that repentance requires. If you have sinned, the sooner you repent, the sooner you begin to make your way back and find the peace and joy that come with forgiveness. If you delay repentance, you may lose blessings, opportunities, and spiritual guidance. You may also become further entangled in sinful behavior, making it more difficult to find your way back.

    Some people knowingly break God's commandments, planning to repent later, such as before they go to the temple or serve a mission. Such deliberate sin mocks the Savior's Atonement. To repent, you need to confess your sins to the Lord. Then seek forgiveness from those you have wronged, and restore as far as possible what has been damaged by your actions.

    As you strive to repent, seek help and counsel from your parents. Serious sins, such as sexual transgression or use of pornography, need to be confessed to your bishop. Be completely honest with him. He will help you repent. If you have a question about what should be discussed with the bishop, talk with your parents or with him.

    When you do what is necessary to repent and receive forgiveness, you will know for yourself the power of the Atonement and the love God has for you. You will feel the peace of the Lord Jesus Christ, which will bring you great strength, and you will become more like Him.

    Alma 36:6-24; Doctrine and Covenants 58:42; 88:86

    How can I bring the power of the Atonement into my life?

  • Even when you try to do your best to make good choices, sometimes you will make mistakes. You'll do things you wish you hadn't. Everyone does. When that happens, it is easy to feel discouraged or wonder if you will ever be good enough But there is good news-wonderful, hopeful news! Because God loves you, He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, who took upon Himself your sins so you can repent and keep progressing.

    Eternal truths
    Jesus Christ can strengthen you. He can help you change your desires, your thoughts, and your actions. When you are worried, afraid, or struggling in any way, He will comfort you. He will help you in all aspects of your life.

    Repentance isn't punishment for sin; it is the way the Savior frees us from sin. To repent means to change—to turn away from sin and toward God. It means to improve and receive forgiveness. This kind of change is not a one-time event; it's an ongoing process.

    Invitations
    Repent. Turn to the Lord with the desire to improve. When you've done something wrong, honestly admit it before God and, as needed, to your bishop and anyone you may have harmed. Do your best to make things right.

    Rejoice in the gift to do better and be better. Even when it is not easy and takes longer than you'd like, never stop trying. Keep working and trusting in the Lord. The Savior will help you every step of the way.

    Promised blessingsJesus Christ will forgive and heal you as you repent. He will replace your guilt with peace and joy. He will remember your sins no more. In His strength, your desire to keep His commandments will increase.

    He will change your heart and your life. Little by little, you will grow and become more like Him. Your covenant connection with Him will bring you greater access to His power.

    Questions and answers
    How do I know if God has forgiven me?

    God promises He will forgive those who repent. When you feel comfort from the Spirit, you can know that the Savior's atoning power is working in your life.

    When do I need the help of the bishop to repent?

    Your bishop holds priesthood keys and spiritual gifts to help you repent. You can seek his help and counsel at any time. If you have made serious mistakes, such as breaking the law of chastity, meet with your bishop. He won't condemn you. He is a representative of Jesus Christ and will help you know how to fully repent and receive the Savior's healing and strengthening power.

    I'm trying to repent, but I keep making the same mistakes. What should I do now?

    It takes time to develop good habits and break bad ones, so don't give up. Turn toward Christ. His grace is sufficient. Try again. You are never alone in your efforts to progress. Jesus Christ is always with you.

My notes

The 2022 update absolutely softened the language on repentance. I will admit. It’s very validating—we all make mistakes, it’s ok! Also, “Repentance isn’t punishment for sin; it is the way the savior frees us from sin.”

Yes, it’s a linguistic improvement, especially over the 1990 edition. Yes, it encourages more than shames. It doesn’t use the word “confess” anywhere.

But the entire idea of “sin” and self-surveillance remains. And it still suggests that I owe disclosure to adult men. I don’t, I never did, and kids today don’t either.

If we were teaching kids about centered accountability within community, maybe some conflict navigation, reparations—now that would be something to celebrate.

  • Video 1
    🎞️ Man’s Search for Happiness, 1986
    📼 Come Unto Me, 1990

    🎞️ Getting Ready for the Church of Jesus Christ
    📼 D&C Stories: Volume 1 (1987)

    📼 The Plan of our Heavenly Father: Discussion 1, 1989

    🎞️ Morality for Youth, 1982
    📼 Come Unto Me , 1990

    🎞️ Watch Your Step
    📀 Come, Follow Me Video Resources for Youth Volume 1, 2013

    Video 2
    🎞️ Repentance: It’s Never Too Late, 1987
    📼 Family Home Evening Video Supplement 2, 1990

    Videos 3, 4, and 5
    🎞️ Godly Sorrow, 1992
    📼 New Testament Video Presentations, 1997

    Video 6
    🎞️ The Whole Armor of God, 1992
    📼 New Testament Video Presentations, 1997

Conclusions

I don’t have any! I just needed to put this together to make sense of what happened to me.

It’s easy to disregard this stuff as adults—it wasn’t so easy to ignore as kids, when our brains were still gooey, and these threats to our safety felt very, very real. Adults we trusted—our neighbors!—said these things to us in authoritative settings.

I’ve spent most therapy sessions unpacking all the ways young me perceived these church standards, and how it affected my relationships. And I know so many of us could swap stories for hours about how scared we felt then and the shame we carried. In many ways, I still carry it.

It would be excellent if these updates protected kids from that. I hope it does. I’ve been gone for 12 years and don’t know shit about what it’s like to be a teen in the church right now. I would love to be wrong.

But my body still caries these older versions, so I’ll hold this space for anyone else similarly harmed.



Amy
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Totalist systems and control