A petition for equality of all minors active in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Recent handbook changes in the LDS church state that children whose primary residence is with a couple living in a same-gender marriage will be restricted in receiving priesthood ordinances. Due to the unequal nature of this rule in which children will be left out of gospel blessings because of a decision made a third party (their parent(s)) we ask for a removal of Section 16.13.

This petition does not criticize the entire church or any of its other teachings but is only focused on the recent handbook addition of section 16.13.

Abstract of section 16.13 as stated in the handbook of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints:

Handbook 1, section 16.13: Children of a Parent Living in a Same-Gender Relationship

A natural or adopted child of a parent living in a same-gender relationship, whether the couple is married or cohabiting, may not receive a name and a blessing.

A natural or adopted child of a parent living in a same-gender relationship, whether the couple is married or cohabiting, may be baptized and confirmed, ordained, or recommended for missionary service only as follows:

A mission president or a stake president may request approval from the Office of the First Presidency to baptize and confirm, ordain, or recommend missionary service for a child of a parent who has lived or is living in a same-gender relationship when he is satisfied by personal interviews that both of the following requirements are met:

• The child accepts and is committed to live the teachings and doctrine of the Church, and specifically disavows the practice of same-gender cohabitation and marriage.
• The child is of legal age and does not live with a parent who has lived or currently lives in a same-gender cohabitation relationship or marriage.

When sufficient people have signed the petition it will be send to the apostles and first presidency of the church.