Church Disciplinary Councils
Bishops and branch
presidents and stake, mission, and district presidents have
a responsibility to help members overcome transgression
through repentance. The most serious transgressions, such as
serious violations of civil law, spouse abuse, child abuse,
adultery, fornication, rape, and incest, often require
formal Church discipline. Formal Church discipline may
include restriction of Church membership privileges or loss
of Church membership.
Additional Information
Formal Church
discipline begins when a presiding priesthood leader
determines that it is necessary to hold a disciplinary
council. The purposes of disciplinary councils are to save
the souls of transgressors, protect the innocent, and
safeguard the purity, integrity, and good name of the
Church.
Church discipline
is an inspired process that takes place over a period of
time. Through this process and through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, a member can
receive forgiveness
of sins, regain
peace of mind, and gain strength to avoid transgression.
Church discipline is designed to help Heavenly Father's
children in their efforts to be purified from sin through
the Atonement, return to full fellowship in the Church, and
receive the full blessings of the Church.
See also
Forgiveness;
Repentance
—See
True to the Faith (2004), 37–38
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