Russell M. Nelson said, “It takes great wisdom and courage to make correct judgments concerning religious freedom for all people….
Societies are governed by civil and criminal statutes that must apply uniformly to all within the borders of their nations. Those statutes establish standards that protect human life, morality, decency, and dignity. They apply equally to all, irrespective of religion. Those laws not only regulate secular affairs, but they should also secure the free exercise of conscience and protection of human rights.
Man’s unending search for happiness will ever include a quest for truth, and that needs freedom to flourish. That means freedom to change one’s mind—even to change one’s religion—in response to new information and inspiration. Freedom to change one’s religion is a fundamental human right. After all, one’s religion is not imposed by others. It is not predetermined, either by parentage or geography. It is a very personal and sacred choice, nestled at the very core of human dignity. . . .
Freedom of religion is something not to be feared. It will produce finer individuals, changed for good. Their families will be stronger and more secure. They will be better citizens who honor the laws of the land, who are more charitable, more peaceful and prosperous. (“Celebration and Veneration,” Independence Day Commemoration, Midway, Utah, July 5, 2004) (Quoted form ‘Teachings of Russell M. Nelson’ Deseret Book, 2018 p.312-313)
