“What is the Church’s position on gambling?” New Era, January 2016, 41
What is the Church’s position on gambling?
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Photo illustration by Welden C. Andersen
The Church is against all gambling of any kind, including lotteries (see Handbook 2: Administering the Church [2007], 21.1.19). The reason we’re counseled not to waste our time and money on it is simple: “Gambling is wrong. … It is addictive and can lead to lost opportunities, ruined lives, and broken families. It is false to believe that you can get something for nothing” (For the Strength of Youth [2011], 41).