The Proclamation on the Family: A Foundational Document in LDS Doctrine

Explore the origins, core principles, and lasting impact of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' official statement on family, marriage, and gender.

By Garret Merkley · Explainer · Jun 14, 2026

Branched from What Actually Constitutes Official LDS Church Doctrine Changes and How Announcements Are Made

Quick take

The Proclamation on the Family is a statement of doctrine and principles issued by the highest leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1995.
It affirms eternal truths about marriage between a man and a woman, the divine roles of parents, and the sacred nature of family.
Serving as a foundational guide, it shapes Church policy, teachings, and members' understanding of family life.
While not canonized scripture, it holds significant authoritative weight as prophetic counsel for members worldwide.

The Family: A Proclamation to the World is a statement of doctrine and principles regarding the family, marriage, gender, and the sacred duties of parents. It was issued in 1995 by the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which are the highest governing bodies of the Church. This document outlines what the Church considers to be eternal truths regarding the structure and purpose of the family unit.

Its Origin and Authority

The Proclamation was presented by President Gordon B. Hinckley during a General Relief Society Meeting on September 23, 1995. It was the result of extensive discussion and prayer among the Church's senior leadership, who felt an urgent need to declare the Church's position on the family amidst changing societal norms. While not added to the official canon of scripture, it is considered authoritative prophetic counsel, guiding members and leaders in understanding and living gospel principles related to family life. Its issuance by the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles signifies its importance as a united declaration of doctrine.

Core Declarations and Principles

The Proclamation outlines several key principles that are central to the doctrine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It declares that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and that the family is central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children. It affirms that gender is an essential characteristic of individual premortal, mortal, and eternal identity and purpose. It also emphasizes the sacred responsibilities of parents to rear their children in love and righteousness, providing for their physical and spiritual needs, and teaching them to love and serve one another, observe the commandments of God, and be law-abiding citizens. Fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families, while mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children. Both are obligated to help one another as equal partners.

The Proclamation on the Family matters deeply because it provides a clear, concise statement of the Church's foundational doctrine regarding the family at a time when these principles are often questioned or redefined in the broader world. For members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, it serves as a guiding star for personal conduct, family decisions, and Church teachings. It acts as a benchmark against which policies, programs, and individual choices regarding marriage, parenting, and gender roles are measured. It reinforces the eternal perspective of family as central to God's plan and offers hope and direction for building strong, resilient families in any circumstance.

Is the Proclamation on the Family considered scripture?

While not formally canonized as part of the standard works (scripture), the Proclamation is considered authoritative prophetic counsel from the highest leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It carries significant weight in guiding doctrine and practice.

Can the teachings in the Proclamation change?

The principles outlined in the Proclamation are presented as eternal truths revealed from God. While specific applications or emphases in Church teachings might evolve over time, the fundamental doctrines declared in the Proclamation are considered unchanging and foundational to the Church's understanding of the family.

How does the Proclamation relate to same-sex marriage?

The Proclamation explicitly states that marriage is ordained of God as between a man and a woman. This declaration defines the Church's doctrinal position on marriage, which does not include same-sex unions.

What does the Proclamation mean by "divine roles" for men and women?

The Proclamation describes distinct, complementary roles for fathers and mothers, with fathers presiding, providing, and protecting, and mothers primarily nurturing. It emphasizes that these roles are equally vital and that parents are to work together as equal partners, assisting each other in these sacred responsibilities.

Why was the Proclamation issued in 1995?

Church leaders explained that it was issued due to a perceived global trend of eroding traditional family values and definitions. They felt a prophetic responsibility to declare the Church's stand on the family to the world, offering clarity and guidance amidst societal changes and confusion.

Sources

The Family: A Proclamation to the World, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1995.
Gordon B. Hinckley, "Stand Strong Against the Wiles of the World," Ensign, Nov. 1995, 98–101.