Mormon Leaders Stand Behind Rules for Gays, Their Children

The Mormon church is standing behind its new rules targeting gay members and their children that generated widespread blowback from members, while providing more explanation about them.

Church officials said in a news release Friday that the rules issued last week are intended to prevent children from being caught in a tug-of-war between teachings at home and church.

The rules from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints ban baptisms for children living with gay parents until they are 18, and make gay marriages a sin worthy of expulsion.

The church clarified that the rules apply only to children living primarily with a same-sex couple. They also are not retroactive for children who have already been baptized.

Church officials say local leaders may ask for guidance from senior leaders when situations fall outside the new guidelines.