Gay Mormons request meeting with Pres. Monson

A group of gay Mormons is seeking a peaceful reunion with the church — asking a new church president to meet and begin a conversation to change the way the LDS Church supports and counsels its gay members and their families.

The invitation from the group, Affirmation, was sent by overnight letter to President Thomas S. Monson on Wednesday — three days after he became leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints following the death of President Gordon B. Hinckley.

"Although there are many areas of hurt and disagreement that have separated us, there are many more areas on which we can find agreement, and in doing so, become a blessing in the lives of many of the Saints, both straight and gay," the organization's leaders wrote.

Such a meeting with President Monson and his counselors would be unprecedented, said David W. Melson, the group's assistant executive director. Affirmation, with more than 2,000 gay, lesbian and transgender members, is not recognized by the LDS Church.

"This was something we've talked about for a while," he said.

Church spokeswoman Kim Farah could not confirm receipt of the letter. "Any correspondence with the First Presidency is private."