SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Mormon leaders are set to deliver guidance to their worldwide membership in a series of speeches this weekend during the religion's semiannual conference in Salt Lake City.

Leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints aren't expected to mention presidential candidates by name, but they may reiterate their push for more public civility and compassion amid a campaign marked by explosive rhetoric and bickering.

The conference kicks off Saturday morning at the faith's 21,000-seat conference center. More than 100,000 Mormons will attend the five sessions over two days, with millions more watching live broadcasts of the speeches.

The church doesn't back one party or endorse candidates, but Mormon leaders sometimes weigh in on what they consider crucial moral issues.

(Story by: Brady McCombs, The Associated Press)

 

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