Called to Run

“When members engage in service outside of the Church and reach out to their own communities, the blessings will follow.”
President M. Russell Ballard
Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

The Church does not endorse political candidates or parties in elections nor does it advise its members how to vote. However, Church leaders and scripture alike have long advised members to be actively engaged in their communities and politics.  In the General Handbook, we are instructed that “Church members are encouraged to consider serving in elected or appointed public offices in local and national government” General Handbook 38.8.35.

 

The Doctrine and Covenants teaches that “we believe that governments were instituted of God for the benefit of man; and that he holds men accountable for their acts in relation to them, both in making laws and administering them, for the good and safety of society” D&C 134:1.


We have compiled some quotes from Church leaders about political and community service to serve as a starting off point as you ponder and pray about whether a run for office is right for you.  

“… Teach those for whom you are responsible the importance of good civic manners. Encourage them to become involved, remembering in public deliberations that the quiet voice of substantive reasoning is more persuasive than the noisy, screaming voice of protest. In accepting such responsibilities our people will bless their communities, their families, and the Church”
-President Gordon B. Hinckley
“A person could get so caught up in making civic contributions to his community that he could lose his family. By the same token, one cannot readily save his family in an environment in decay. Thus we have obligations to contribute to the civic betterment of the communities in which we live”
-Elder Neal A. Maxwell
“To worship the Lord is to stand valiantly in the cause of truth and righteousness, to let our influence for good be felt in civic, cultural, educational, and governmental fields, and to support those laws and principles which further the Lord’s interests on earth”
-Elder Bruce R. McConkie
“Our experience in Church leadership prepares us for effective public activity. We learn how to organize events and delegate responsibility. Natural concern for our families encourages us to try to improve the areas in which we live.”
-Ensign, The Visiting Teacher, 1993
“When members engage in service outside of the Church and reach out to their own communities, the blessings will follow.”
-President M. Russell Ballard
“The most dangerous threat of all comes from the disinterested—that great group of otherwise intelligent people who shrug off any responsibility for public affairs”
-President Ezra Taft Benson
“The daily practice of our faith is not confined solely to religious rites. We reach out to aid the communities in which we live. For example, parent-teacher associations, public schools, and similar worthy civic activities receive our support.”
-President Russell M. Nelson
“The … happiness of any community goes hand in hand with the knowledge possessed by the people.”
-Joseph Smith
“Church members are encouraged to consider serving in elected or appointed public offices in local and national government.”
-General Handbook 38.8.35
“Let us seek to take an active part in our local, state, and national affairs. We are commanded by the Lord to do so. It is as binding on us as any of the Lord’s commandments”
-President Ezra Taft Benson
“We must become involved in civic affairs. As citizens of this republic, we cannot do our duty and be idle spectators.”
-President Ezra Taft Benson
“We believe that governments were instituted of God for the benefit of man; and that he holds men accountable for their acts in relation to them, both in making laws and administering them, for the good and safety of society.”
-Doctrine and Covenants 134:1
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