The following is excerpted from the LDS Church News. To read the full article, click here.
Elder Christensen, along with fellow General Authority Seventy Elder Jack N. Gerard and Sister Lisa Harkness, first counselor in the Primary general presidency, met with the Church News on Sept. 19 to discuss the Church’s opposition to the ballot initiative.
All three of the Church leaders spoke of their empathy and compassion for people, including many children, who suffer each day with chronic and debilitating pain. They have spent time with many of them. The parents and caregivers of those in need, they added, also deserve help.
The leadership of the Church is eager for pain-ridden patients to find relief as quickly as possible. When responsible controls are in place, medical marijuana is an acceptable option for those who need it most.
“Proposition 2 is not the answer,” said Elder Gerard. “We are in favor of appropriate use of medicinal marijuana, and it’s our view that by calling upon our Legislature and local leaders, we can quickly find an appropriate resolution.”
Church leaders are in hopes the Utah Legislature will legalize safe and responsible medical marijuana use in a special session by the end of the year.
As a mother and a grandmother, Sister Harkness said she grieves for anyone who has to watch a child or loved one suffer. The Church is working to find responsible legislation that would allow patients to have legal access to appropriate dosages of cannabis under the direction of their doctors.
The Church is not alone in its rejection of Proposition 2. It is part of a broad coalition of medical professionals, educators, law enforcement officials and fellow religious leaders who are united in their opposition of the initiative.
“We are one voice in the chorus,” said Elder Gerard.
To read the full article, click here.
