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SALT LAKE CITY — The LDS Democrats caucus is looking forward to its first national meeting during the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, NC next week.
Chairman of the group, Crystal Young-Otterstrom, told KSL Newsradio's Morning News on Friday that this is an exciting time.
"LDS Democrats, sometimes we feel a little isolated because we're such a minority in the church. It's so exciting to meet others from all over the country and get together, share why we're LDS Democrats," she said.
Utah Rep. Jim Matheson, a democrat who is running for reelection, will not be attending the convention. Young-Otterstrom says it doesn't bother her.
"He's focused on his campaign and that's where he should be," she said.
Other democrats from around the nation will attend, and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nevada, will highlight the gathering.
When asked whether she is happy with the Democratic platform, Young-Otterstrom said, "LDS Dems is not an issues caucus. We strive to be a home for progressive, moderate and conservative democrats. So, you don't have to be pro-gay marriage to be a member of our caucus or part of the Democratic Party, because like the Democratic Party, we're a big tent."
She encourages people to take a close look at the Democratic Party's platform.
"There is a wonderful line that talks about religions having the right to decide the religious sacrament of marriage themselves," she said. "I think that context, of thinking of marriage as a sacrament, is beautiful. I love that it's going to be part of the Democratic National Platform."
The LDS Church maintains political neutrality, telling its members that principles compatible with church teachings can be found in the platforms of both major political parties.
Indianapolis Temple Groundbreaking
A groundbreaking ceremony is set for the Indianapolis Indiana Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The Mormon Temples website says it's planned for Saturday, Sept. 29, under the direction of Elder Donald L. Hallstrom of the Presidency of the Seventy.
Church President Thomas S. Monson announced plans for the temple in October 2010.
It will be located on the southwest corner of 116th Street and Spring Mill Road in Carmel. It will be the first LDS temple in Indiana.
The church released a rendering of the temple in May.
