38.6.1

Abortion

Human life is a sacred gift from God and central to His divine plan for the spiritual progression of His children (see Moses 1:39; Abraham 3:23–26). Elective abortion for personal or social convenience is contrary to God’s plan and His commandments. The Lord declared, “Thou shalt not … kill, nor do anything like unto it” (Doctrine and Covenants 59:6). Members must not submit to, perform, arrange for, pay for, consent to, or encourage an abortion. The only possible exceptions are when:

- Pregnancy resulted from rape or incest.

- A competent physician determines that the life or health of the mother is in serious jeopardy.

- A competent physician determines that the fetus has severe defects that will not allow the baby to survive beyond birth.

Abortion is a most serious matter. Even in these circumstances, members should approach a decision with prayerful deliberation. Members may counsel with their bishops as part of this process. Discussions with members on this subject should always be conducted with love and respect.

Presiding officers carefully review the circumstances if a Church member has been involved in an abortion. A membership council may be necessary if a member submits to, performs, arranges for, pays for, consents to, or encourages an abortion (see 32.6.2.5). However, a membership council should not be considered if a member was involved in an abortion before baptism. Nor should membership councils or restrictions be considered for members who were involved in an abortion for any of the three reasons outlined earlier in this section.

A person who seeks forgiveness with “godly sorrow” (2 Corinthians 7:10; see also 3 Nephi 9:20) and “full purpose of heart” (3 Nephi 18:32) may repent and be forgiven for the sin of abortion.

Bishops refer questions on specific cases to the stake president. The stake president may direct questions to the Office of the First Presidency if necessary.