Finally - Plain Talk from Church Leaders on Teen Sex

Today the Religious Institute is releasing a new "Open Letter to Religious Leaders on Adolescent Sexuality." It's the first multifaith theological framework calling for religious institutions to recognize adolescent sexual rights and to assist them in discerning their readiness for mature relationships.

To download the letter, go to www.religiousinstitute.org.

The Open Letter affirms that "most adolescents are not developmentally ready for mature sexual relationships that include intercourse of any kind" but calls upon faith communities to recognize that many adolescents will become involved in sexual relationships during their teenage years. It urges religious leaders to advocate for adolescent sexual health through comprehensive sexuality education and reproductive health care.

The release of the Open Letter will be covered by National Public Radio throughout the day on Monday. The Center for American Progress features an editorial on its home page today, and Rev. Debra Haffner will be on the Lisa Birnbach Show talking about its release.