LDS Church updates handbook, clarifies temple rules for transgender members

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints this week updated its General Handbook to clarify that temple ordinances performed for transgender members must be consistent with a person’s biological gender assigned at birth in order to be considered valid.

The update, published Wednesday, adds language to Section 26.5.6 stating that if a temple ordinance is performed using a gender that does not match an individual’s birth sex, “that ordinance is not valid” and must be repeated. The policy specifies that approval from the church’s First Presidency is required before any such ordinance is performed again.

From the handbook:

38.2.6.6

A Temple Ordinance Does Not Match the Person’s Biological Sex at Birth

All temple ordinances are received according to a person’s biological sex at birth (see 28.2). If a person receives a temple ordinance for a gender that does not match his or her biological sex at birth, that ordinance is not valid.

When this occurs, the temple ordinance must be repeated so the person receives the correct ordinance. First Presidency approval is required before repeating the ordinance.

Church leaders noted that the clarification reinforces existing doctrine rather than introducing a new standard. Previous guidance already stated that ordinances of salvation and exaltation, including temple rites, are administered according to biological gender at birth.

The updated section also reiterates eligibility guidelines for transgender members. Individuals who identify as transgender but do not pursue medical, surgical, or social transition may receive a temple recommend and participate in temple ordinances if they are otherwise considered worthy. Those who transition and later return to living according to their biological gender at birth may also regain eligibility under the same conditions.

Broader policies outlined in Section 38.6.23 remain unchanged. The handbook persists in emphasizing that transgender individuals “should be treated with sensitivity, kindness, compassion, and Christlike love,” while also stating that gender is defined by the church as biological gender at birth. Members who transition may face restrictions on priesthood participation, temple recommends, and certain callings, though they are still encouraged to attend meetings and participate in church life.

Local leaders are instructed to counsel with higher authorities to address individual circumstances, with an emphasis on pastoral care alongside adherence to church doctrine.