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Updates to Sacrament Guideline on Marriage


Updates to Sacrament Guideline on Marriage


6 October 2026

In response to WCR 1327 Resolution on Marriage (adopted 28 April 2023), topic.

On 1 October, the First Presidency and World Church Leadership Council released the updated Sacrament Guideline on Marriage. The updates continue to uphold our belief that "…marriage is a sacrament and sacred covenant relationship of love and equality between two people and recognized as a valued institution in the cultures of the world." (WCR 1327).

The changes clarify the requirements specific to Community of Christ and simplify the additional guidance section. Specifically, the requirement for national conference consideration of same-gender marriage has been removed for any country where same-gender marriage is legal. This aligns with the direction given in WCR 1327 to "… uphold the Worth of All Persons and foster mutuality and equality…" For most areas that already have policies in place, current practices will continue as before.

The updated Sacrament Guideline on Marriage is available in English, French, and Spanish on Our Ministry Tools under the Priesthood menu.

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