"A child needs both a mother and father who provide love, support, and all the blessings of the gospel. Every effort should be made in helping those who conceive out of wedlock to establish an eternal family relationship. When the unwed parents are unable or unwilling to marry, they should be encouraged to place the child for adoption, preferably through LDS Social [Family] Services. . . .

"Unwed parents who do not marry should not be counseled to keep the infant as a condition of repentance or out of an obligation to care for one's own. In many instances, an unwed parent is not able to provide the stable, nurturing environment so essential for the baby's well-being" (First Presidency letter, Feb. 1, 1994).

"When marriage is not possible, experience has shown that adoption, difficult though this may be for the young mother, may afford a greater opportunity for the child to live a life of happiness. Wise and experienced professional counselors and prayerful bishops can assist in these circumstances" (Gordon B Hinckley, "Save the Children," Ensign, Nov. 1994, 53).

"Because the family is the basic unit of society, parents have the foremost responsibility to teach their children values of honesty, decency, responsibility, spiritual awareness, and accountability. These values, acquired best in the home through the family, fortify society against the onslaught of immoral teachings and evil practices.

"Adoption is a positive and loving way to build families and provide children with the blessings of family life that may not otherwise be available to them. We commend those who participate in the adoption process.

"May all citizens recognize and support the importance of strong, united, happy families in which both the individual and society are strengthened" (First Presidency statement, "First Presidency Lauds Family, Adoption Week," Church News, Nov. 10, 1990, 3).

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