“What is the Church’s position on gambling?” New Era, January 2016, 41
What is the Church’s position on gambling?
Photo illustration by Welden C. Andersen
The Church is against all gambling of any kind, including lotteries (see Handbook 2: Administering the Church [2007], 21.1.19). The reason we’re counseled not to waste our time and money on it is simple: “Gambling is wrong. … It is addictive and can lead to lost opportunities, ruined lives, and broken families. It is false to believe that you can get something for nothing” (For the Strength of Youth [2011], 41).