“Policies and Announcements,” Ensign, Mar. 2000, 79–80
Policies and Announcements
Counsel about Immigration
The First Presidency sent the following letter, dated 1 December 1999, to priesthood leaders:
In our day, the Lord has seen fit to provide the blessings of the gospel, including an increased number of temples, in many parts of the world. Therefore, we wish to reiterate the long-standing counsel to members of the Church to remain in their homelands rather than immigrate to the United States.
Experience has shown that those who relocate to the United States often encounter language, cultural, and economic challenges, resulting in disappointment and personal and family difficulties.
As members throughout the world remain in their homelands, working to build the Church in their native countries, great blessings will come to them personally and to the Church collectively. Stakes and wards throughout the world will be strengthened, making it possible to share the blessings of the gospel with an even greater number of our Heavenly Father’s children.
We are confident that members of the Church throughout the world will be blessed as they heed this counsel and work to strengthen their local Church units and communities.
New Extra-Large Scriptures Available
The First Presidency has announced the availability of a new extra-large triple combination and a new extra-large Bible for people with visual or physical disabilities. The content of the new editions is identical to the other English editions currently available and includes the new maps and color pictures. The extra-large scriptures, which measure 8.5 by 11 inches and have either soft or hard blue covers, may be ordered through Church distribution centers. Members with financial hardship may order them at reduced prices through their bishop or branch president.
The two new editions replace the extra-large editions of the Book of Mormon, Old Testament, New Testament, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price that were previously available as four separate volumes. The new volumes are printed on lightweight paper and are thinner than previous editions.