"The pursuit of a game of chance may seem like harmless fun. But there attaches to it an intensity that actually shows on the faces of those who are playing. And in all too many cases this practice, which appears innocent, can lead to an actual addiction. The Church has been and is now opposed to this practice. If you have never been involved in poker games or other forms of gambling, don't start. If you are involved, then quit now while you can do so" (Gordon B. Hinckley, "Gambling," Ensign, May 2005, 61).

" 'The purchase of just one lottery ticket.' This is more subtle than other addictions. You may not think gambling is an addiction because it is not a substance taken into the body, but as someone recently wrote, 'Those who gamble risk more than just money. Their lives and families are at stake too' " (James E. Faust, "It Can't Happen to Me," Ensign, May 2002, 47).

"We have opposed gambling and liquor and will continue to do so. We regard it as not only our right but our duty to oppose those forces which we feel undermine the moral fiber of society" (Gordon B. Hinckley, "Why We Do Some of the Things We Do," Ensign, Nov. 1999, 54).

"Gambling is seeking wealth without work. We hope faithful Latter-day Saints will not use the playing cards which are used for gambling, either with or without the gambling. As for the gambling, in connection with horse racing or games or sports, we firmly discourage such things" (Spencer W. Kimball, The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed Edward L. Kimball *#91;1982], 355).

"From the beginning we have been advised against gambling of every sort. The deterioration and damage comes to the person, whether he wins or loses, to get something for nothing, something without effort, something without paying the full price" (Spencer W. Kimball, The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. Edward L. Kimball *#91;1982], 355-56).

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