Department of Defense Policy Excludes LDS Church from Christian Classification

The Department of Defense has implemented a new policy that does not classify The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a Christian denomination. This decision has prompted reactions from various groups, including military veterans and elected officials. Republican Representative Mike Kennedy from Utah criticized the Pentagon's decision, stating that it misrepresents the church's identity as Christians. Senator John Curtis also expressed his discontent, emphasizing that church members are patriotic and service-oriented individuals. Eric Biggart, chair of the LDS Dems Caucus, noted that the change aligns with a broader political context influenced by the Trump administration. The Pentagon's policy aims to streamline the list of recognized faiths from over 200 to 31, consolidating some religions into broader categories. Defense Department official Sean Parnell defended the change, stating it is intended to assist chaplains in serving members of various religions. Critics, including retired General John Compere and Rev. Paul Raushenbush, argued that the policy undermines religious freedom and creates a hierarchy of faiths. The Pentagon has not provided a comment on the backlash, and the LDS Church has declined to comment on the matter.