"We put together an organization that could be called upon if the coalition wants us to do that. We realize that we're getting closer to the election — it's about a month away. So far, the coalition hasn't asked us to do that, but we have prepared, just in case."

Elder Clayton said besides the doctrinal beliefs for the LDS Church and other religions to support Proposition 8, there are societal and legal "consequences that will flow from same-gender marriage, if that's allowed to become the law of the land."

LDS Church leaders see long-term ripple effects being consequences affecting children and freedoms of speech and religion, he said, adding "those are the kinds of issues that worry us."

The LDS Church is firm in sustaining doctrine of marriage while being aware of others with differing views, Elder Clayton said.

"Our doctrine is such that marriage should be between a man and a woman — we're unchanging on that point," he said. "We're concerned for people's feelings and we want to treat them with love and respect and kindness always."

California Mormons, especially young adults, can take swift action in raising awareness about Proposition 8, they were told in a satellite broadcast Wednesday. Read the story.

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E-mail: taylor@desnews.com