As part of our effort to inform Idahoans about anti‑gun policies across the state, including businesses, events, and more, we are also highlighting churches in Idaho that restrict lawful firearm carry.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter‑day Saints, one of the largest religious organizations in Idaho, maintains a strict “no guns” policy for its members. Despite this prohibition, the church does not enforce the rule with security personnel, screening, or any protective measures at its doors.

For many years, the church’s handbook simply stated that firearms were “not appropriate” for worship services. However, in August 2019, the LDS Church formally changed its policy to a blanket ban on all “lethal weapons,” with the sole exception of current law‑enforcement officers, which is its right to do as a private organization.

The church does not post signage at building entrances, and many LDS members in Idaho continue to carry concealed firearms regardless of the policy. This has led some to speculate that the updated rule serves primarily as an insurance‑driven liability shield, rather than a serious attempt to regulate firearms among its congregations.

Our advice to the LDS Church is simple: stop creating gun‑free zones. Allow parishioners to protect themselves, especially when the church provides no security, no guards, and no meaningful safety measures for its flock. Why create a policy that disarms the very people who may need to defend themselves in a moment of crisis?