Policies and Announcements

Temple Clothing

The First Presidency sent the following letter, dated 1 November 1999, to be read aloud in sacrament meetings in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand.

Response to the encouragement for all endowed members to have their own temple clothing and to use it when performing temple ordinances has been significant. In some cases, attempts to purchase temple clothing have been unsuccessful because of depleted inventories. These inventories are now restocked. Those members who have been waiting patiently for the backlog to subside may now make their purchases at Church distribution outlets.

We are grateful for the desire of Church members to procure their own temple clothing. The preparation and care of one’s own temple clothing will enhance the feeling of reverence and gratitude for this sacred work. In addition, as members continue to purchase their own clothing, the need for rental clothing will decrease.

Church Agency Renamed LDS Family Services

The Church’s General Welfare Committee has approved a name change for LDS Social Services. The agency is now identified as LDS Family Services.

“This name change will help us emphasize our goal to strengthen families through our adoption and family counseling programs,” says Harold C. Brown, managing director of the Church’s Welfare Services Department and chairman of the board of trustees for LDS Family Services. “The name LDS Family Services is more descriptive of the services we deliver and the philosophy we embrace as we work with ecclesiastical leaders and members. More important, it furthers our focus on helping clients adhere to gospel principles and covenants that pertain to the eternal nature of the family.”