Policies and Announcements

First Presidency Issues Statement on Sadat Death. Upon learning of the death of Egypt’s President Anwar Sadat on 6 October, the First Presidency issued the following statement:

“We are grieved by the assassination of President Anwar Sadat of Egypt. This lamentable and tragic act has silenced a powerful voice in the councils of world peace.”

Teaching of inactive members. The First Presidency, in a letter dated September 18, 1981, issued the following statement regarding missionary activities:

“The Council of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve has given approval for full-time missionaries, when specifically authorized by the mission president and the stake presidency, to teach inactive members at the invitation of the bishop or branch president. Such instruction is to be given only in groups and should take place in meetinghouses or homes.”

The following items appeared in the Bulletin for October 1981.

Missionary Release Date. Mission presidents, local priesthood leaders, and parents of missionaries should be aware of the policy that “no missionary is to be released more than two or three weeks early or extended more than two or three weeks beyond his [or her] release date. Any exceptions must be approved by the Missionary Department.” (Mission President’s Handbook [PBMI4287], p. 31.)

Pamphlet, Your New Baby. The pamphlet Your New Baby (PXRS1329; $.15 each) is available at the Salt Lake City Distribution Center. The pamphlet will help parents enjoy their new infant, help them understand frustrating periods, and acquaint them with the growth and development of their child at different ages. It includes an immunization chart, safety tips, and a list of activities to do with their baby during the first year.

Appropriate Attire to Enter Temples. The conduct, clothing, and grooming of temple patrons should show their reverence for the temple and its ordinances. Members should dress to enter the temple the same as they should dress to attend sacrament meeting. However, brethren should wear clean white shirts and ties when they enter the temple to witness a marriage. A suit jacket is encouraged but is optional in hot climates.