The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints published new resources today to help people of conscience everywhere understand the importance of protecting religious freedom. These new resources include a unique animated video and other videos that stress the importance of preserving freedom of religion, a “Support Religious Freedom” Facebook page that provides news and information about religious freedom, and a topic page that lays out the principles of religious freedom and suggests ways to engage this issue.
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An introductory video features Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, who emphasizes that the “essential freedoms of conscience, embedded in religious liberty, must be diligently preserved and protected.”
Leaders of many faiths, including Mormon apostles, have expressed deep concern that religious liberty is eroding in the United States and around the world. These resources contribute to the many conversations taking place on this topic and highlight freedom of religion as a fundamental human right that protects the conscience of all people and allows them to act upon what they deeply believe. Churches, religious organizations and individuals face increasing restrictions as they participate in the public square, exercise conscience in their professions, express their beliefs or serve in society.
“It is important to become well-educated on this issue and take responsibility to pass on to future generations the religious freedom you now enjoy,” Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Church’s Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has said. “Defend religious freedom on the Internet and in your personal interactions in the neighborhoods and communities where you live.”
Religious Freedom Whiteboard Animation and Other Videos
More than a year ago, the Church posted a series of in-depth commentaries addressing religious freedom on MormonNewsroom.org. The animated video is intended to inform those who have never thought about religious freedom’s importance by providing a more immediate and engaging way to be introduced to the issue.
In the final video, experts and everyday citizens express their thoughts about why religious freedom is so important and what people can do to preserve it.
“Support Religious Freedom” Facebook Page
The new Facebook page titled “Support Religious Freedom” will regularly share news and information about religious freedom, courtesy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Religious Freedom Topic Page
The topic page lays out the principles of religious freedom and offers suggestions on how to engage this issue. Specifically, it encourages people to learn more about religious freedom, study the issues, be civil in conversations and interactions, join with others to promote religious freedom and use the Internet and social media to help others learn about this subject.