What changed in the General Handbook

Some chapters in this handbook include instructions to contact Church headquarters or the area office. The instruction to contact Church headquarters applies to those in the United States and Canada. States. The instruction to contact the area office applies to those outside the United States and Canada. States.

Jesus Christ is central to God’s plan. Because of Heavenly Father’s infinite love for us, He sent His Son to redeem us from sin and death through His atoning sacrifice (see John 3:16). Through His Atonement, Jesus Christ ensures that each of us born on earth will be resurrected and gain immortality.

To receive eternal life, we must “come unto Christ” (Moroni 10:32). The Savior’s Atonement makes it possible for us to be cleansed from sin and have our hearts changed so we can receive eternal life and a fulness of joy. Heavenly Father wants all of His children to choose to return to Him.

Moved to 1.4: - Living the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Moved to 1.4: - Caring for those in need.

Moved to 1.4: - Inviting all to receive the gospel.

Moved to 1.4: This handbook will help you understand these four aspects of God’s work.

Covenants are central in God’s Work work of Salvation salvation and Exaltation exaltation.

In Heavenly Father’s plan, we make covenants as we receive the priesthood ordinances of that are necessary for salvation and exaltation, such as baptism (see John 3:5; see also chapter 18 in this handbook). exaltation. These covenants and ordinances are essential for us are: - Baptism. - Confirmation and gift of the Holy Ghost. - Conferral of the Melchizedek Priesthood and ordination to an office (for men). - Temple endowment. - Temple sealing. As we keep the covenants associated with these ordinances, we can become more like God and return to dwell in His presence receive the blessings of eternal life (see Doctrine and Covenants 84:19–22). 84:19–22; see also 3.5.3 in this handbook).

Jesus Christ established His Church to enable make the blessings of eternal life available to all through sacred ordinances and covenants (see 3.5.3). Through His Church He enables individuals and families to receive these blessings and to assist God in fulfilling His work of salvation and exaltation (see Ephesians 4:11–13; see also 2.2 in this handbook). To help accomplish this divine purpose, the Jesus Christ, through His Church and its leaders provide: leaders, provides:

• Priesthood authority and keys.

• Prophetic direction.

Through the priesthood, God accomplishes His work of salvation and exaltation. The priesthood authority and keys needed to offer ordinances and covenants and to direct God’s work on earth were restored to the Prophet Joseph Smith (see Doctrine and Covenants 110:11–16; 112:30; see also 3.1 in this handbook). These This authority and these keys are held by Church leaders today. These leaders call and authorize others to assist in God’s work (see Doctrine and Covenants 107:8, 65–67).

An ordinance is a sacred act performed by the authority of the priesthood. Ordinances have always been part of the gospel of Jesus Christ (see Genesis 1:28; Moses 6:64–65).

In many ordinances, individuals make covenants with God. Examples include baptism, the sacrament, the endowment, and the marriage sealing ordinance. In other ordinances such as patriarchal blessings or blessings on the sick, individuals do not make covenants, but they do can receive guidance and strength to keep covenants. Ordinances have symbolic meaning meanings that point individuals to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. In the ordinances that include covenants, the symbolism helps words, actions, and other symbolic elements of the ordinance teach individuals understand about the promises they make with God and the blessings they can receive through their faithfulness. Each ordinance allows individuals to receive rich spiritual blessings. The Lord revealed, “In the ordinances [of the priesthood], the power of godliness is manifest” (Doctrine and Covenants 84:20). Ordinances of salvation and exaltation are essential for eternal life. For more information, see 18.1. Living individuals receive the ordinances of salvation and exaltation for themselves. Where possible, they then return to the temple to perform these ordinances vicariously for those who have died. For more information about performing ordinances for the deceased, see chapter 28.

A covenant is a sacred promise between God and His children. God gives the conditions for the covenant, and His children agree to obey those conditions. God promises to bless His children as they fulfill the covenant.

Covenants are central in God’s work of salvation and exaltation (see 1.2). Members make covenants with God as they receive the ordinances of salvation and exaltation (see 18.1). 3.5.3). All who endure to the end in keeping their covenants will receive eternal life (see 2 Nephi 31:17–20; Doctrine and Covenants 14:7). 14:7; see also 1.1). Parents, Church leaders, and others help individuals prepare to make covenants as they receive the ordinances of the gospel. They ensure that the person understands the covenants he or she will make. (These covenants are explained in section 3.5.3.) After a person makes a covenant, they help him or her keep it. (See Mosiah 18:8–11, 23–26.) it (see Moroni 6:4).

In each area, a General Authority Seventy is assigned by the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles to serve as the Area President. Two counselors, who are Additional General Authority Seventies or Area Seventies, Seventies are assigned to assist serve as members of the president. Area Presidency.

The Area Presidency presides over and counsels with stake and mission presidents in the area. They also support temple presidents and matrons. In counsel with members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and the Presidency of the Seventy to whom they report, they determine how to apply general Church policy and direction to meet the needs in their area.

Members of the Area Presidency travel within the assigned area to minister to, teach, and encourage local leaders, missionaries, and Church members. They are assigned by the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles to preside at stake conferences and other meetings.

• Serve on the area council (see 5.2.3).

- Preside at coordinating council meetings (see 5.2.4). 29.4).

• Preside at stake conferences and instruct stake leaders.

• Tour missions and instruct mission leaders and missionaries.

- Serve as a counselor in member of the Area Presidency.

Area Seventies preside at all Church meetings they attend within their area unless a General Authority is present. However, they do not preside over the day-to-day work of temple, mission, or stake presidents. These presidents serve under the direction of the Area Presidency.

The Area Presidency may call members to serve in area callings to assist the Area Presidency in their responsibilities. Those serving in these positions are called and set apart by a member of the Area Presidency or an assigned Area Seventy. They are not sustained.

Examples of area callings may include area executive secretary, area auditor, area communications director, area temple and family history adviser, adviser (see 25.3.8), and area organization adviser.

Outside of the United States and Canada, States, Area Presidencies may call women to serve as area organization advisers. These advisers may help orient and instruct new stake Relief Society, Young Women, and Primary presidencies, under the direction of these leaders’ stake presidencies (see 6.2.1.6). A member of the stake presidency or an assigned high councilor participates in this orientation.

Area advisers serve under the direction of their Area Presidency. They also receive regular instruction from general organization presidencies. They typically serve for three years.

• High councilors

Members of the high priests quorum attend elders quorum meetings in their ward if they are not assigned elsewhere.

When a new stake organization presidency is called, the stake presidency shares counsel and vision to orient them in their service.

In the United States and Canada, States, the new organization presidency may also receive orientation from the general organization council (see 5.1.2). In other areas, the new presidency may also receive orientation from an area organization adviser (see 5.2.5.1). 5.2.4.1). This orientation is under the direction of the stake presidency. A member of the stake presidency or an assigned high councilor participates.

The stake president also assigns his counselors to oversee stake programs as needed. These may include:

• Meetinghouse facilities (see 35.2.4).

Members of the stake presidency meet regularly with committees, high councilors, and specialists in the programs to which they are assigned.

• With the mission president’s approval, a district president may set apart branch presidents (see 18.11). This approval must be given for each situation.

• He does not release full-time missionaries. However, he may participate with a member of the mission presidency in the release interview. If travel or time constraints make it very difficult for a member of the mission presidency to release a specific missionary, the mission president may authorize the district president to do so (see 24.8.2).

In some cases, a man may need to be ordained a patriarch before he can be presented for sustaining in stake conference. When this happens, he is presented for sustaining in a sacrament meeting in each ward in the stake. He may then be ordained. He is then presented in the next stake conference to ratify the ordination. This includes giving stake members an opportunity to sustain or oppose the action.

When authorized, the stake president ordains the patriarch. He does not delegate this responsibility to a counselor. No others should stand with him during Under the ordination. direction of the stake president, a few high priests may be invited to join the stake president in the circle. A new patriarch is first ordained to that office and then set apart to serve in a specific stake. A previously ordained patriarch who is being returned to actively serving status is not ordained again. However, he is presented to be sustained and set apart.

The ordination must be recorded in LCR before the patriarch can access the online tools for patriarchs.

An actively serving patriarch is a member of the stake high priests quorum.

A patriarch may not be called to a position of Church administration unless the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles approves the call in advance. Such positions include a member of a bishopric; high council; or stake, mission, or temple presidency. If approval is given, the patriarch is given “not actively serving” status.

A patriarch may be called to serve in other callings without approval from the Quorum of the Twelve. He may also serve as a sealer or temple ordinance worker.

• Interpretation coordinator (see 29.9)

“The bishopric is the presidency of [the Aaronic] priesthood, and holds the keys or authority of the same” (Doctrine and Covenants 107:15; see also verse 20). The bishop has the following responsibilities as the president of the Aaronic Priesthood in the ward. His counselors assist him.

• Support parents in teaching youth. Help youth serve faithfully, make and keep sacred covenants, and prepare to receive the ordinances of the temple. Help young men prepare to be ordained to priesthood offices and to serve full-time missions. If young women desire to serve full-time missions, help them prepare. The Children and Youth program can help in these efforts (see ChildrenandYouth.ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

- Oversee Aaronic Priesthood quorums and Young Women classes. age-groups. The bishop is president of the priests quorum (see Doctrine and Covenants 107:87–88). His first counselor has responsibility for the teachers quorum. His second counselor has responsibility for the deacons quorum. For more information about Aaronic Priesthood quorum leadership, see 10.3, 10.4, and 10.5.

• Counsel with the ward Young Women president. The bishop does not delegate this assignment to a counselor. He and his counselors also regularly participate in Young Women meetings, service, and activities. (See 11.3.1.)

• Coordinate efforts to assist God in His work of salvation and exaltation in the ward.

Meetings are held on the second and fourth Sundays of the month. They last 50 25 minutes. The elders quorum presidency plans these meetings. A member of the presidency conducts. The meeting begins Meetings begin with prayer. Then a prayer. A member of the presidency leads the quorum members in counseling together for five to ten minutes about relevant challenges, needs, and opportunities. Focusing on the Savior in this counseling will help quorum members build testimonies, receive temple ordinances, keep covenants, and increase discipleship. The elders quorum presidency selects topics to counsel about based on the needs of the quorum members. Sufficient time should then be given to meaningful leads gospel instruction and discussion. The focus should be based on topics in one or more talks messages from the most recent general conference. The elders quorum presidency prayerfully selects conference the messages for according to the needs of the quorum members. Quorum members counsel together about how the principles in the messages apply to discuss. They make these selections based their challenges and opportunities. Leaders and teachers ensure that the discussion focuses on members’ needs. the Savior and on helping quorum members deepen their covenant relationship with Him.

Hymns may be sung to enhance a lesson.

Meetings should end with a prayer.

The elders quorum and Relief Society may occasionally combine for a Sunday lesson. These meetings are coordinated by the bishopric and the elders quorum and Relief Society presidencies.

This member of the elders quorum presidency may fulfill the role of the ward mission leader. If the bishopric has called a ward mission leader, this presidency member oversees his work. See 23.6.1 and 23.6.3.

Melchizedek Priesthood holders support members in uniting families for eternity. This includes:

• Making covenants with God by receiving ordinances, including the temple endowment.

- Doing temple and family history work (see 1.2.4). 1.4.4).

In presidency and quorum meetings, the elders quorum presidency discusses ways the brethren can participate in these efforts.

This member of the elders quorum presidency may fulfill the role of the ward temple and family history leader. If the bishopric has called a temple and family history leader, this presidency member oversees his efforts. See 25.2.2.

The ward temple and family history leader, who may be a member of the elders quorum presidency, leader leads temple and family history coordination meetings (see 25.2.7). These meetings are held regularly. They also include the assigned member of the Relief Society presidency, an assistant in the priests quorum, a presidency member of the oldest Young Women class, and temple and family history consultants.

• Oversee quorum records, reports, and finances (see LCR.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). A secretary may help (see 8.3.4).

The stake presidency and assigned members of the high council teach the elders quorum presidency about these responsibilities. They may do this during stake priesthood leadership meetings, quorum presidency meetings, and personal visits with elders quorum presidents (see 29.3.3).

Through his service, the elders quorum president supports the bishop in focusing on the youth and on the bishop’s unique responsibilities.

• Coordinate efforts to assist God in His work of salvation and exaltation in the ward.

Meetings are held on the second and fourth Sundays of the month. They last 50 25 minutes. The Relief Society presidency plans these meetings. A member of the presidency conducts. The meeting begins Meetings begin with prayer. Then a prayer. A member of the presidency leads the sisters in counseling together for five to ten minutes about relevant challenges, needs, and opportunities. Focusing on the Savior in this counseling will help sisters build testimonies, receive temple ordinances, keep covenants, and increase their discipleship. The Relief Society presidency selects topics to counsel about based on the needs of the sisters. Sufficient time should then be given to meaningful leads gospel instruction and discussion. The focus should be based on topics in one or more talks messages from the most recent general conference. The Relief Society presidency prayerfully selects conference the messages for according to the sisters needs of the sisters. Sisters counsel together about how the principles in the messages apply to discuss. They make these selections based their challenges and opportunities. Leaders and teachers ensure that the discussion focuses on sisters’ needs. the Savior and on helping sisters deepen their covenant relationship with Him.

Hymns may be sung to enhance a lesson.

Meetings should end with a prayer.

The Relief Society and elders quorum may occasionally combine for a Sunday lesson. These meetings are coordinated by the bishopric and the Relief Society and elders quorum presidencies.

The Relief Society president assigns a member of the presidency to help lead efforts to share the gospel in the ward. She works with the assigned member of the elders quorum presidency to coordinate these efforts (see 23.6.2).

The assigned member of the Relief Society presidency participates in weekly missionary coordination meetings to coordinate inviting all to receive the blessings of the gospel. The ward mission leader, who may be a member of the elders quorum presidency, leads these meetings. Ward missionaries, an assistant in the priests quorum, a presidency member of the oldest Young Women class, and full-time missionaries attend. See 23.4. gospel (see 23.4).

Members of Relief Society support members in uniting families for eternity. This includes:

• Making covenants with God by receiving ordinances, including the temple endowment.

- Doing temple and family history work (see 1.2.4). 1.4.4).

In presidency and Relief Society meetings, the Relief Society presidency discusses ways the sisters can participate in these efforts. Presidency members also plan ways to help members increase their understanding of and desire to receive sacred ordinances and make covenants with God in the temple. They encourage sisters to worship in the temple regularly where possible.

The presidency encourages sisters to learn about their family history. They help new and returning members, new members of Relief Society, and newly called missionaries find and prepare ancestors’ names for temple ordinances.

The Relief Society president assigns a member of the presidency to help lead temple and family history efforts in the ward. She works with the assigned member of the elders quorum presidency to coordinate these efforts (see 25.2.2).

The assigned member of the Relief Society presidency participates in coordination meetings to coordinate temple and family history efforts. These meetings are held regularly. The ward temple and family history leader, who may be a member of the elders quorum presidency, leads temple and family history coordination meetings efforts (see 25.2.7). Meetings also include an assistant in the priests quorum, a presidency member of the oldest Young Women class, and temple and family history consultants.

• Oversee Relief Society activities (see 9.2.1.3).

• Help young women prepare to participate in Relief Society (see 9.4).

• Oversee Relief Society records, reports, and finances (see LCR.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). A secretary may help (see 9.3.3).

The stake Relief Society presidency teaches the ward Relief Society presidency about these responsibilities. They may do this during stake leadership meetings, ward Relief Society presidency meetings, and personal visits with Relief Society presidents (see 29.3.4). Through her service, the ward Relief Society president supports the bishop in focusing on the youth and on his unique responsibilities.

The Aaronic Priesthood quorum theme can help each young man understand his divine identity and his purpose as a priesthood holder. Young men and their leaders repeat the theme at the beginning of quorum meetings and at other quorum gatherings. The theme reads as follows:

“I am a beloved son of God, and He has a work for me to do.

The bishopric, youth quorum leaders, and advisers encourage young men and their families to learn the gospel at home. Leaders and advisers study the gospel and share with the young men what they learn. They invite quorum members to share at church what they are learning at home. Aaronic Priesthood quorums meet on Sundays to strengthen faith, build unity, strengthen families and homes, and make plans to participate in God’s work of salvation and exaltation. The bishopric and youth quorum leaders, supported by advisers, plan Sunday meetings.

Quorum meetings are held on the second and fourth Sundays of the month. They last 50 25 minutes. Meetings begin with a prayer. A member of the quorum presidency (or one of the bishop’s assistants in the priests quorum) conducts. He leads the quorum in reciting the theme and counseling together about assignments, duties, and other matters. A Meetings begin with a prayer. An adult leader or quorum member or (who may be assisted by an adult leader leader) then leads gospel instruction. Quorum leaders presidencies and the bishop’s assistants in the priests quorum counsel with advisers about who should teach. Meeting outlines are Instruction is based on topics in For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices. Additional ideas can be found in Come, Follow Me. the For the Strength of Youth magazine. Meetings should end with a prayer.

Normally, each Aaronic Priesthood quorum meets separately (see 10.1.5). Young men and young women may occasionally combine for a Sunday lesson, as coordinated by the bishopric and the Young Women presidency.

Young men are encouraged to participate in seminary (see 15.1).

For more information, see AaronicPriesthoodQuorums.ChurchofJesusChrist.org. See also JustServe.org where it is available. These resources provide service and activity ideas.

Annual Activities. In addition to regular youth activities, young men may also participate in the following each year: - A meeting for youth and their parents near the beginning of the year. It can be held for young men and young women separately or together. It can also be held at the ward or stake level. It is planned and led by the Gatherers of Light presidency and the assistants to the bishop in the priests quorum and the presidency of the oldest Young Women class. quorum. Young men turning 12 during the year may receive their emblems of belonging during this meeting (see 10.8.3). For more information, see ChildrenandYouth.ChurchofJesusChrist.org. - An Aaronic Priesthood quorum camp (see Aaronic Priesthood Quorum Camp Guide). The duration of the camp depends on local needs and resources. Where possible, leaders are encouraged to plan an annual camp that lasts long enough for young men to have spiritual experiences and build meaningful relationships. Young men may participate in additional overnight camps, events, and activities throughout the year, where feasible.

• A ward or stake youth conference or a For the Strength of Youth (FSY) conference. For information about FSY conferences, see FSY.ChurchofJesusChrist.org. For information about ward and stake FSY callings and responsibilities, see FSYLeader.ChurchofJesusChrist.org (for the U.S. and Canada) or the FSY Planning Guide (for all other areas).

• Oversee the records, reports, and finances of Aaronic Priesthood quorums.

Quorum advisers and specialists help with these responsibilities as requested (see 10.5).

• One of the bishop’s assistants in the priests quorum, the teachers quorum president, and the deacons quorum president.

- The Young Women class age-group presidents (or the entire class age-group presidency if the ward has just one Young Women class). age-group).

• The Young Women president.

The ward youth council discusses ways to help others build testimonies, receive saving ordinances, make and keep covenants, and become followers of Jesus Christ (see Moroni 6:4–5). They counsel together about the needs of the young men and young women in the ward. They may discuss activities to meet these needs. However, detailed planning of activities should happen in quorum or class age-group presidency meetings.

See 29.2.6 for more information about the ward youth council.

The Young Women organization helps young women make and keep sacred covenants and deepen their conversion to Jesus Christ and His gospel.

The purpose of a the Young Women class organization is to help young women work together to participate in God’s work of salvation and exaltation. In their classes, age-groups, young women serve others, fulfill covenant responsibilities, build unity, and learn and live doctrine.

The Young Women theme can help each young woman understand her divine identity and become converted to Jesus Christ. Young women and their leaders repeat the theme at the beginning of Sunday meetings and at other Young Women gatherings. The theme reads as follows:

“I am a beloved daughter of heavenly parents, with a divine nature and eternal destiny.

• Uniting families for eternity.

Class Age-group presidencies, supported by adult leaders, counsel together about how to help accomplish this work. For more information about God’s work of salvation and exaltation, study chapter 1.

Parents are responsible to teach their children the gospel and help them live it (see Doctrine and Covenants 68:25–28). The bishopric, adult Young Women leaders, and class age-group presidencies support parents in this responsibility as follows:

• Encourage communication between young women and their families.

Adult Young Women leaders and class age-group presidencies encourage young women and their families to learn the gospel at home. Leaders study the gospel and share with the young women what they learn. They invite class members young women to share at church what they are learning at home. Young Women classes women meet on Sundays to strengthen faith, build unity, strengthen families and homes, and make plans to participate in God’s work of salvation and exaltation. Class Age-group presidencies, supported by adult leaders, plan Sunday meetings. Class Age-group presidencies, supported by adult leaders, plan service and activities. These should help accomplish God’s work of salvation and exaltation. Service and activities should build testimonies, strengthen families, foster class unity, and provide opportunities to bless others. They should be balanced among four areas of personal growth: spiritual, social, physical, and intellectual. Class Sunday meetings are held on the second and fourth Sundays of the month. They last 50 25 minutes. Meetings begin with a prayer. A member of the class age-group presidency conducts. She leads the class in reciting the theme and counseling together about assignments and other matters. A class member or Meetings begin with a prayer. An adult leader or young woman (who may be assisted by an adult leader) then leads gospel instruction. Class Age-group presidencies counsel with adult leaders about who should teach. Meeting outlines are Instruction is based on topics in For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices. Additional ideas can be found in Come, Follow Me. the For the Strength of Youth magazine. Meetings should end with a prayer. If a ward has more than one Young Women class, they Normally, age-groups meet separately. However, they may meet together when there is a special need. need (see 11.1.3.4). Young women and young men may occasionally combine for a Sunday lesson, as coordinated by the bishopric and the Young Women presidency.

Young women are encouraged to participate in seminary (see 15.1).

For more information, see YoungWomen.ChurchofJesusChrist.org. See also JustServe.org where it is available. These resources provide service and activity ideas.

Annual Activities. In addition to regular youth activities, young women may also participate in the following each year: - A meeting for youth and their parents near the beginning of the year. It can be held for young men and young women separately or together. It can also be held at the ward or stake level. It is planned and led by the Gatherers of Light presidency and the assistants to the bishop in the priests quorum and the presidency of the oldest Young Women class. quorum. Young women turning 12 during the year may receive their emblems of belonging during this meeting (see 11.6.3). For more information, see ChildrenandYouth.ChurchofJesusChrist.org. - A Young Women camp (see Young Women Camp Guide). The duration of the camp depends on local needs and resources. Where possible, leaders are encouraged to plan an annual camp that lasts long enough for young women to have spiritual experiences and build meaningful relationships. Young women may participate in additional overnight camps, events, and activities throughout the year, where feasible.

• A ward or stake youth conference or a For the Strength of Youth (FSY) conference. For information about FSY conferences, see FSY.ChurchofJesusChrist.org. For information about ward and stake FSY callings and responsibilities, see FSYLeader.ChurchofJesusChrist.org (for the U.S. and Canada) or the FSY Planning Guide (for all other areas).

• At least one activity emphasizing the principles in For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices.

This event could include both young men and young women. Parents may also be invited.

Age Requirements. With their parents’ approval, young women may attend Young Women activities, including overnight camps, beginning in January of the year they turn 12. They may attend dances, youth conferences, and FSY conferences beginning in January of the year they turn 14. Eighteen-yearolds, including those who have been endowed, may attend Young Women activities (see 9.1.2 and 11.4). Paying for Activities. Activities, including supplies, are paid for by the ward budget. Travel and expenses should not be excessive. As an exception, if the ward budget does not have enough money to pay for multiday activities, such as camps, leaders may ask participants to help pay for them. However, a young woman should not be prevented from participating if she cannot help pay. If more money is still needed, the bishop may authorize one fundraising activity each year (see 20.6.5). The bishopric ensures that the budget and activities for young women and young men are sufficient and equitable. Budget for the young women is based on the number of young women in the ward. Budget for Aaronic Priesthood quorums is based on the number of young men in the ward.

See FSY.ChurchofJesusChrist.org for information about funding for FSY conferences.

• Share their testimonies with friends and family members.

- Minister to less-active members of their classes. age-groups.

• Invite friends to attend church or youth activities.

• Provide opportunities to serve in the Church.

- Provide opportunities to teach the gospel in class Sunday meetings and other settings.

If young women desire to serve full-time missions, parents and leaders help them prepare. This includes teaching them about the blessings and expectations of full-time missionary work.

The bishop’s foremost responsibility is to care for the rising generation in his ward. He and his counselors learn their names and understand their home circumstances. They meet with each young woman at least twice a year (see 31.3.1).

The bishop has responsibility for the ward Young Women organization. He meets regularly with the Young Women president. He reports on Young Women matters in bishopric meetings.

The bishop and his counselors regularly participate in Young Women meetings, service, and activities. If there are multiple Young Women classes, the The bishop may assign himself and his counselors to work with specific classes. age-groups.

• Submit recommendations to the bishopric for sisters to serve in Young Women.

- Teach other adult Young Women leaders and class age-group presidencies their responsibilities.

• Counsel with young women about challenges that do not require the bishop or involve abuse (see 32.3, 31.1, 31.3.1, and 38.6.2).

- Mentor class age-group presidencies in their leadership responsibilities. Each class age-group is assisted and overseen by a specific member of the Young Women presidency.

• Support young women who serve as companions to adult sisters in ministering (see 21.2.2).

• Regularly hold Young Women presidency meetings and meet with the bishop.

• Oversee the records, reports, budget, and finances of the Young Women organization.

If the unit is large enough, the Young Women president recommends to the bishop an adult sister to serve as Young Women secretary. She may have the following responsibilities:

• Help the Young Women presidency prepare agendas for presidency meetings. She attends these meetings, takes notes, and keeps track of assignments.

- Instruct class age-group secretaries and help them keep attendance records.

• Using LCR, work with the Relief Society secretary to keep attendance records for adult sisters serving in Young Women.

• Help the Young Women presidency prepare a budget and account for expenses.

Each Young Women class age-group should have a class presidency. The Young Women presidency may recommend young women to serve as class age-group presidents. Members of the bishopric prayerfully counsel together to determine whom to call. A member of the bishopric calls a young woman to serve as a class an age-group president. When there are enough young women to serve, she prayerfully considers class members young women to recommend as counselors and a secretary. The bishopric considers her recommendations and extends the callings.

Before asking a young woman to serve in any of these callings, the bishopric member asks permission from the young woman’s parents.

After extending these callings, a member of the bishopric presents the young women to their class age-group for sustaining. The bishop or an assigned counselor sets the young women apart.

A member of the bishopric announces these callings in sacrament meeting. He does not present them to be sustained.

Shortly after class age-group presidencies are set apart, a member of the bishopric should orient them to their responsibilities. See “Aaronic Priesthood Quorum and Young Women Class Presidency Orientation” at YoungWomen.ChurchofJesusChrist.org; see also chapter 4 of this handbook.

Class Age-group presidents serve on the ward youth council (see 11.3.4.4). Class Age-group presidencies also have the following responsibilities: - Lead the class’s young women’s efforts to participate in God’s work of salvation and exaltation (see chapter 1). - Get to know and serve each young woman, including those who do not attend class Sunday meetings. Be aware of their needs and circumstances. - Participate in ward efforts to share the gospel and strengthen new and returning members. A presidency member of the oldest Young Women class Gatherers of Light presidency attends coordination meetings (see 23.4). - Participate in ward temple and family history efforts. A presidency member of the oldest Young Women class Gatherers of Light presidency attends coordination meetings (see 25.2.7).

• Organize the youth to minister by welcoming visitors and members as they enter the chapel (see 29.2.1.3).

- Plan and conduct Sunday class meetings (see 11.2.1.2). - Plan and carry out class service and activities (see 11.2.1.3). - Regularly hold class age-group presidency meetings (see 11.3.4.3). When class age-group secretaries are called, they prepare agendas for meetings, take notes, and keep track of attendance. Members of the Young Women presidency regularly teach class age-group presidencies about their responsibilities (see 11.3.2). Class Young Women advisers and specialists should actively help (see 11.3.5 and 11.3.6).

Young Women class age-group presidencies meet regularly. The class age-group president conducts these meetings. The adult Young Women leaders assigned to support the class age-group presidency also attend. During these meetings, leaders counsel together and seek revelation about the Lord’s will for the young women in their class. age-group. The agenda could include discussion of the following items:

• Helping accomplish God’s work of salvation and exaltation

- Serving class members, young women, with special attention to supporting new members and reaching out to less-active members

• Reaching out to those of other faiths and beliefs

- Planning class meetings, service, and activities - Leadership instruction from adult Young Women leaders or a member of the class age-group presidency

A Sample Presidency Meeting Agenda is available on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

• One of the bishop’s assistants in the priests quorum, the teachers quorum president, and the deacons quorum president.

• The Young Women president.

The ward youth council discusses ways to help others build testimonies, receive saving ordinances, make and keep covenants, and become consecrated followers of Jesus Christ (see Moroni 6:4–5). They counsel together about the needs of the young women and young men in the ward. They may discuss activities to meet these needs. However, detailed planning of activities should happen in quorum or class age-group presidency meetings.

See 29.2.6 for more information about the ward youth council.

• Help the Young Women presidency with their responsibilities.

- Support and guide class age-group presidencies as they learn and carry out their responsibilities.

• Teach Sunday lessons as needed. Help young women who have been invited to teach a lesson to effectively prepare and teach.

- Attend class activities.

• Attend ward Young Women presidency meetings when invited.

At least two responsible adult women should be present at each class meeting and activity. Advisers must complete the training at ProtectingChildren.ChurchofJesusChrist.org (see 11.6.1).

When adults are interacting with youth in Church settings, at least two responsible adults should be present. It may be necessary to combine classes age-groups to make this possible.

All adults who work with youth must complete the children and youth protection training within one month of being sustained (ProtectingChildren.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). They repeat the training every three years thereafter.

For information about how these guidelines apply to ministering companions, see 21.2.2.

Class Age-group presidencies give special care to young women who have disabilities. For information about helping these young women, see disability.ChurchofJesusChrist.org; see also 38.8.27 38.8.28 in this handbook.

Young women receive emblems as part of the Children and Youth program. Every young woman should receive an emblem of belonging from her class age-group presidency when she becomes a member of Young Women. She also receives a copy of Personal Development: Youth Guidebook. This could be done when the class age-group presidency and adult Young Women leaders meet with her to welcome her to Young Women. It could also be done at an annual meeting for youth and their parents (see 11.2.1.3).

In January of the year a young woman turns 18, she receives an additional emblem of belonging.

Parents have the primary responsibility to teach their children about the temple and the priesthood. To support them, the Primary presidency plans a Temple and Priesthood Preparation meeting each year. The bishopric gives direction. The meeting is for children in the Valiant 10 class. Parents are invited. This meeting has the following purposes:

• Help children prepare to make and keep sacred covenants.

- Teach children the blessings and joy of participating in uniting families for eternity through temple and family history work (see 1.2.4). 1.4.4).

• Help boys prepare to receive the Aaronic Priesthood.

If a unit has few children, the meeting may be held under the direction of the stake presidency. Some or all of the wards in the stake meet together.

• Help children prepare for baptism and confirmation.

- Teach children how priesthood authority and power can bless them. Help boys prepare for priesthood ordination. (See 3.4 and 3.6.)

• Help children prepare to receive a temple recommend and temple ordinances.

Primary leaders and teachers encourage children and their families to learn the gospel at home. These leaders and teachers study the gospel and share with the children what they learn. They invite children to share at church what they are learning at home.

Sunday Primary meetings help children fulfill the purposes of Primary (see 12.1.1). A member of the Primary presidency conducts the opening. The music leader conducts singing time. Primary teachers teach children during classes.

Primary meetings for children ages 3–11 are held every Sunday for 50 55 minutes while adults and youth attend their classes. The schedule is as follows: Part of Meeting Opening (prayer, scripture or Article of Faith, and talk—all talk or testimony—all given by children) Singing time Transition to classes Classes and closing prayer Length 5 minutes 20 minutes 5 minutes 20 25 minutes

In wards with many children, Primary leaders may divide children into two groups. One group is in classes while the other group is in singing time. Then the two groups change places. Leaders adjust the time as needed.

Nursery for children ages 18 months to 3 years lasts 50 55 minutes. The following schedule may be used. Leaders adjust it according to the needs of the children.

Part of Meeting Welcome by nursery leader and opening prayer by nursery child, if possible Activity (snack, play with simple toys and games, read, and so on) Lesson from Behold Your Little Ones nursery manual Singing time Closing prayer

Length 5 minutes 25 30 minutes 10 minutes 10 minutes

Activities for All Children. Primary presidencies may occasionally hold activities for all children ages 3 to 11. These activities help children participate in God’s work of salvation and exaltation. Activities should be fun and engaging. They build testimonies, strengthen families, and foster personal growth. For general activity guidelines, see chapter 20.

Primary presidencies may also organize an annual community service activity. Where possible, this activity focuses on serving children. Valiant-age children can help plan it. The activity provides children an opportunity to invite friends and ward members to join in community service.

Valiant Activities. Beginning in January of the year they turn 8, children may begin attending Valiant activities. Most Valiant activities are usually held at times other than Sundays or Monday evenings. Adult leaders help ensure that activities are safe (see safety.ChurchofJesusChrist.org; see also 20.7 in this handbook). At least two responsible adult leaders must be present at all activities (see 12.5.1).

The following guidelines may be adapted to local circumstances:

• Valiant activities are held two times a month when possible. They can be held more or less frequently. Leaders consider family circumstances, travel distance and costs, and safety.

• Generally, children are organized by age-groups. Boys and girls normally meet separately. However, they may combine for certain activities or in locations with few children.

- Leaders may choose to plan and hold an annual day camps super activity for these children. This should be fun and engaging and could include indoor or outdoor games, service, workshops, and other activities that help children feel the joy of following Jesus together. Valiant activities, including day camps, super activities, do not include overnight stays. - Children’s devotionals may be held on a ward or stake level to give children opportunities to lead, teach, and participate. All supplies and activities, including day camps, super activities, are paid for by the ward budget. Travel and expenses should not be excessive.

The bishopric ensures that the budget and activities for boys and girls in Primary are sufficient and equitable. Budget is allocated according to the number of children.

For more information, see ChildrenandYouth.ChurchofJesusChrist.org. See also JustServe.org, where it is available. These resources provide service and activity ideas.

If a branch does not have a Primary president, the Relief Society president may help parents organize instruction for children until a Primary president is called.

To accomplish this, the Primary president may assign a member of the presidency to help parents prepare their children to be baptized and confirmed. The Primary president may assign another presidency member to help parents with temple and priesthood preparation for their children.

• Help plan baptismal services for children of record when asked (see 18.7.2).

- Plan and conduct the opening of Sunday Primary meetings. She could also consider inviting baptized children to help conduct Primary.

• Minister to individual children, teachers, and leaders in Primary.

• Oversee the records, reports, budget, and finances of Primary.

The music leader and pianist teach children the gospel of Jesus Christ through music during singing time. Music reinforces weekly study of the scriptures as outlined in Come, Follow Me. The following resources may be used:

• Come, Follow Me

• Instructions for Singing Time and the Children’s

Sacrament Meeting Program

• Children’s Songbook

• Hymns

• Primary Music Collections on

ChurchofJesusChrist.org

• “Primary Singing Time—Music Can

Teach Doctrine” (MediaLibrary.ChurchofJesusChrist.org) The bishopric must approve the use of any other music in Primary.

If a pianist or piano is not available, leaders may use recordings from the following sources:

• Gospel Library app

The music leader works with the Primary presidency to help the children prepare for the annual children’s sacrament meeting presentation (see 12.1.6).

All those who serve in Primary follow the Savior and teach with love, patience, and kindness. Hitting, threatening violence, or using physical force for discipline is never acceptable even if cultural practices allow doing so. When adults are interacting with children in Church settings, at least two responsible adults should be present. It may be necessary to combine classes to make this possible. All adults who work with children must complete the children and youth protection training within one month of being sustained (ProtectingChildren.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). They repeat the training every three years thereafter.

The bishop calls and sets apart a Melchizedek Priesthood holder to be the ward Sunday School president. They A woman or a man may be called. A man serving as Sunday School president must hold the Melchizedek Priesthood. The bishop and Sunday School president discuss whether counselors should be called. If counselors are needed, and if there are enough men to serve in these positions, the Sunday School president may recommend one or two counselors. If The counselors must be the same gender as the president. Male counselors do not need to be Melchizedek Priesthood holders. Once the bishopric approves, a member of the bishopric calls them. A member of the bishopric presents the Sunday School presidency members in sacrament meeting for sustaining by ward members. A member of the bishopric also sets them apart. In a large ward, the bishopric may call and set apart a man to be the Sunday School secretary. The Sunday School president may recommend whom to call. The secretary must be the same gender as the president and counselors. A male secretary does not need to be a Melchizedek Priesthood holder. The secretary can help the presidency keep track of assignments or attendance if desired.

The Sunday School president has the following responsibilities. If he the president has counselors, they assist him. him or her. - Serve on the ward council. He The president serves as (1) a member of the council who helps address needs in the ward and find solutions and (2) a representative of the Sunday School (see 29.2.5).

• Oversee efforts to improve gospel learning and teaching at home and at church.

• Encourage teachers to reach out to members who do not attend classes.

- Work closely with teachers to keep accurate attendance records. Report attendance quarterly to Using LCR, work with the ward clerk or Primary secretary to keep attendance records for adults serving in LCR or Member Tools. Primary. A secretary, if called, can help with this responsibility. - Support the needs of members with disabilities (see 38.8.28).

The Sunday School president may recommend members to serve as Sunday School teachers. If Once the bishopric approves, a member of the bishopric calls them, presents them in sacrament meeting for sustaining by ward members, and sets them apart.

Sunday School teachers get to know class members, including those who do not attend classes. Teachers support members in their efforts to learn and live the gospel of Jesus Christ.

To prepare to teach, Sunday School teachers use the scriptures and Come, Follow Me. They follow the principles in Teaching in the Savior’s Way and chapter 17 of this handbook.

Sunday School teachers attend quarterly monthly teacher council meetings (see 17.4).

Sunday School classes are held on the first and third Sundays of the month. They last 50 25 minutes. Classes begin and end with a prayer. With the bishopric’s approval, the Sunday School president organizes classes for adults and youth. If he the president has counselors, they assist him. him or her.

The number of classes depends on (1) how many members are in the ward and (2) the number and size of rooms that are available. Usually, smaller classes make it easier for more people to participate actively and learn. The ward council can help the Sunday School president decide how many Sunday School classes to organize.

Young men and young women typically start attending a youth Sunday School class at the beginning of the year they turn 12. They may start attending an adult class when they turn 18. The Sunday School president organizes as many youth classes as are needed. Youth should be assigned to classes according to their age. If there are few youth in an age-group, they may be combined in a class with a similar age-group. They stay in that same class until January of the next year. At least two responsible adults should be present in each youth class. The adults could be two men, two women, or a married couple. To meet this requirement, classes may need to be combined. All adults who work with youth must complete the children and youth protection training within one month of being sustained (ProtectingChildren.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). They repeat the training every three years thereafter.

In a small branch, the Sunday School president may be the only Sunday School leader and teacher. He teaches or she may teach a Sunday School class for all youth and adults in the branch.

Ward leaders are responsible for improving learning and teaching in their organizations. This includes orienting newly called teachers (see Teaching in the Savior’s Way, 40). They can ask the ward Sunday School president for help if needed.

Teacher council meetings are held quarterly monthly during one of the 50-minute 25-minute class time times on Sunday (see 17.4). Their purpose is to help improve learning and teaching. Teaching in the Savior’s Way is the main resource for these meetings.

The ward council oversees and schedules teacher council meetings. A member of the Sunday School presidency usually leads the meetings. However, the bishopric may ask another member to lead them.

For more information, see “For Leaders—Helping Teachers Succeed” in Teaching in the Savior’s Way (pages 38–40).

Parents are responsible for teaching the gospel to their children.

The ward council may organize teacher council meetings for parents during one of the 50-minute 25-minute class time times on Sunday. These meetings are led by a member of the Sunday School presidency or someone else the bishopric assigns. Teaching in the Savior’s Way is the main resource for these meetings. For more information about teacher council meetings for parents, see 17.5.

The stake president assigns one of his counselors to oversee the Sunday School in the stake. He also calls and sets apart a high councilor to be the stake Sunday School president. The responsibilities of the stake Sunday School president are outlined in 6.7.1 and 6.7.3. If counselors are called, they these brothers assist him.

• Helps leaders, teachers, and other members obtain and use these resources.

The Sunday School president consults with the resource center specialist to determine if an annual budget is needed for the resource center. He The Sunday School president then makes a recommendation to the bishopric.

The resource center specialist should attend sacrament meeting each week and other Sunday meetings regularly. If necessary, the bishopric may call an assistant to the specialist.

For more information, see “Resource Centers” at ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

As an exception, young single adult wards adults and single adult wards adults may hold Church activities on Monday nights, including in Church buildings (see 20.5.3).

Seminary is a four-year program in which youth study the gospel of Jesus Christ as found in the scriptures and the teachings of latter-day prophets. Seminary students are generally 14–18 years old.

Classes are held on weekdays when school is in session. The number of days the seminary class meets each week may be adapted to local conditions. (See Seminary Class Options for more information.) Classes or online assignments should take approximately four hours per week to complete.

The bishopric, youth leaders, and quorum and class age-group presidencies encourage every youth to participate fully in seminary. The bishopric encourages parents to register their children each year before seminary classes start. For more information, see Seminary Registration on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

A local board of education may be established where several stakes with seminary classes (including home-study classes) are in close proximity and have common concerns and challenges. See seminary.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

Classes are divided by ages 18–25 and 26–35 unless the number of participants is insufficient.

BYU Pathway students, including those over 35, All BYU–Pathway Worldwide students are required to attend institute. Pathway students participate in religion courses. Students ages 18–35 may choose to attend take online religion courses or in-person classes. attend institute in person. Students over 35 should attend take online classes. religion courses.

See Stake Institute for guidelines on the following:

In teacher council meetings, teachers counsel together about principles of Christlike teaching. They also counsel about how to improve gospel learning and teaching. They use Teaching in the Savior’s Way as a resource.

Teacher council meetings are held quarterly monthly during one of the 50-minute 25-minute class time times on Sunday. - Meetings for priesthood, Relief Society, and Young Women Women, and priesthood quorum teachers can be held on a first or third Sunday. meet while Sunday School is being held. - Meetings for Sunday School teachers can be held on a second or fourth Sunday. meet while Relief Society, Young Women, and quorum meetings are being held.

The Primary presidency counsels with a member of the bishopric to determine how to strengthen teaching in the Primary. The Sunday School president can help as needed. Some options are listed below:

The ward council may organize teacher council meetings for parents to help them improve gospel teaching in the home. Like other teacher council meetings, these are held during one of the 50-minute 25-minute class time times on Sunday.

In these meetings, parents counsel together about how to apply principles of Christlike teaching as they teach their children. They use Teaching in the Savior’s Way as a resource, including the section titled “Home and Family” (pages 30–31). They can also discuss the teaching and scripture study suggestions in Come, Follow Me, such as the section titled “Preparing Your Children for a Lifetime on God’s Covenant Path.”

Ordinances and blessings are sacred acts performed by the authority of the priesthood and in the name of Jesus Christ. As priesthood holders perform ordinances and blessings, ordinances, they follow the Savior’s example of blessing others. Priesthood ordinances and blessings provide access to God’s power (see Doctrine and Covenants 84:20). Ordinances and blessings are to be performed with faith in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and according to the guidance of the Holy Ghost. Leaders ensure that they are performed with proper approval (where necessary), with the required priesthood authority, in the proper way, and by worthy participants (see 18.3). For policies on priesthood ordinances and blessings, ordinances, see 38.2.

• Temple sealing

For information about performing these ordinances for those with intellectual disabilities, see the following:

Other ordinances and blessings make it possible for God’s children to receive His power, healing, comfort, and guidance. These ordinances and blessings are listed below:

• Naming and blessing children

Ordinance or Blessing Those who perform or participate in an ordinance or blessing must have the necessary priesthood authority and be worthy. Generally, the standard of worthiness is that associated with holding a temple recommend. However, as guided by the Spirit and the instructions in this chapter, bishops and stake presidents may allow fathers and husbands who hold the necessary priesthood office to perform or participate in some ordinances and blessings even if they are not fully temple worthy. A priesthood holder who has unresolved serious sins should not participate. Generally, only priesthood leaders and other priesthood holders who are close family members and friends participate in an ordinance or blessing. ordinance.

The person receiving the ordinance, family members, and priesthood leaders counsel together to determine who and how many will participate. This decision should be made well before the ordinance is performed.

When only one or two priesthood holders participate, each of them places both hands lightly on the person’s head. When several participate, they stand in a circle around the person receiving the ordinance or blessing. ordinance. Each one places his right hand lightly on the person’s head (or under the baby) and his left hand on the shoulder of the brother to his left. One acts as voice to perform the ordinance or give the blessing. ordinance. Performing or receiving some ordinances and blessings requires approval from a presiding leader who holds the necessary priesthood keys (see 3.4.1). As needed, approval may be given by a counselor he authorizes. See the following charts. References to stake presidents apply also to mission presidents. References to bishops apply also to branch presidents.

Which Leaders Hold Keys to Give Approval to Perform or Receive the Ordinances of Salvation and Exaltation?

Bishop and stake president Bishop and stake president

Which Leaders Hold Keys to Give Approval to Perform or Receive Other Ordinances and Blessings? Who Holds Keys Ordinances? Ordinance Naming and blessing children The sacrament Conferral of the Aaronic Priesthood and ordination to an office (for young men and men) Setting apart members to serve in callings Consecrating oil Administering to the sick Blessings of comfort and counsel, including father’s blessings Dedicating homes Dedicating graves Patriarchal blessings Who Holds Keys Bishop Bishop Bishop

See 30.8 Approval not needed Approval not needed Approval not needed

Ordinance or Blessing Dedicating homes Dedicating graves Patriarchal blessings Who Holds Keys Approval not needed The priesthood leader who presides over the service Bishop

Guidelines for obtaining approval from parents or guardians for a minor child to receive the following ordinances and blessings are provided in the sections listed below:

• For naming and blessing: 38.2.7.2 and 38.2.7.3

• For baptism and confirmation: 38.2.8.2

• For ordination to a priesthood office: 38.2.9.2

For questions about the legal rights of parents or guardians, the bishop or stake president seeks legal advice from the Church’s Office of General Counsel or from the area office (see 38.8.23). 38.8.24).

The bishop holds the priesthood keys for confirming 8-year-old members of record in his ward. The mission president holds the keys for confirming converts (for a definition of a convert baptism, see 31.2.3.2).

The bishop oversees the confirmations of 8-year-old 8-yearold children of record. These children are typically confirmed on the day they are baptized.

The full-time missionaries coordinate with ward leaders to plan the confirmation of converts as noted in 18.7.2. Converts may be confirmed at the baptismal service or in sacrament meeting in the ward where they live as soon as possible after their baptism.

New members are recognized and welcomed as a new member of the ward in the sacrament meeting after their confirmation (see 29.2.1.1).

Before a child who is a member of record is interviewed for baptism, a clerk uses LCR to prepare a Baptism and Confirmation Form. The bishop or an assigned counselor conducts the interview and signs the form. After the baptism and confirmation, a clerk uses this form to update the child’s membership record in LCR.

When a full-time missionary interviews a convert for baptism, he fills out the Baptism and Confirmation Record using the Preach My Gospel app. After the baptism and confirmation, the missionaries record the information in the app app, which creates the membership record and submit assigns it to the ward clerk electronically. ward. The ward clerk reviews the information in LCR and creates completes the membership record. member profile.

After the membership record is created, a clerk prepares a Baptism and Confirmation Certificate. This certificate is signed by the bishop and given to the person.

The name on the membership record and certificate should match the birth certificate, civil birth registry, or current legal name.

2. States that he is acting by the authority of the Melchizedek Priesthood.

3. Sets the person apart to the calling in the stake, ward, quorum, class, or class. age-group.

4. Confers keys if the person should receive them.

To seal the anointing, one or more Melchizedek Priesthood holders place their hands lightly on the person’s head. Then the one who seals the anointing:

1. Calls the person by his or her full name.

To give a blessing of comfort and counsel or a father’s blessing, one or more Melchizedek Priesthood holders place their hands lightly on the person’s head. Then the one acting as voice:

1. Calls the person by his or her full name.

A person who has received a patriarchal blessing should carefully safeguard the will receive a printed copy. However, if this copy is lost or destroyed, the after it has been transcribed. The blessing should be carefully safeguarded. A person may request access to a new one. He or she can make this request digital version at Patriarchal Blessings on ChurchofJesusChrist.org. If this is not possible, the person contacts his or her bishop for assistance. A person may also access his or her patriarchal blessing from the Home section of the Gospel Library app. To view the blessing, a member must be signed in using his or her Church account.

Office Patriarch

Recommended by Stake presidency

Interviewed and ordained by

Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Members in stake conference

Stake president after receiving approval from the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles; or a member of the First Presidency or Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Stake presidency and Members in stake high council Stake presidency and high council conference Bishop and stake presidency Elder Bishop Bishop

Interviewed by the bishop and by the stake president or an assigned counselor; ordained under the direction of the stake president

Ordained under the direction of the stake president (in a district, ordained under the direction of the mission president or the district president if assigned)

Members in sacrament meeting

The stake president after receiving approval from the First Presidency (see 30.7.2)

Bishopric

Members in sacrament meeting

Interviewed by the bishop; ordained under the direction of the bishop

Members in sacrament meeting

Interviewed by the bishop or an assigned counselor; ordained under the direction of the bishop

Recordings of Church music are available from the following sources:

• Gospel Library app

• Members may use recordings from the following sources:

◦ Gospel Library app

The following resources may also be helpful:

- A library of sheet music and music recordings for use at home and at church is available on the Sacred Music Gospel Library app and online at music.ChurchofJesusChrist.org. Listening to recordings can help members become more familiar with the hymns.

• The interactive music player on ChurchofJesusChrist.org can help those seeking to learn new music or develop music skills.

• The Basic Music Course can help members learn how to read and play music. It includes the Conducting Course Kit and Keyboard Course Kit. These resources can be purchased at store.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

Stake and ward music coordinators may organize basic music training courses for music leaders, choir directors, or accompanists. Participants could include those who currently serve in music callings and other interested adults, youth, and children. Music coordinators or specialists may teach the courses. Music coordinators may also recommend qualified instructors to provide training.

Where there are enough members, music coordinators may consult with priesthood leaders and recommend organizing stake or multistake training workshops. No fee is charged for Church-sponsored training.

• Help members participate in God’s work of salvation and exaltation (see 1.2).

Some examples of Church activities include:

• Sports and fitness.

• Celebrations of special occasions, such as holidays or Church or local historical events.

As used in this handbook, the term Church activity refers to an activity sponsored by a Church unit, quorum, or organization.

Church activities should be uplifting and emphasize what is “virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy” (Articles of Faith 1:13). Activities may not include anything that is contrary to Church teachings. Activities may not include media or other entertainment that makes anything inappropriate seem acceptable. Church activities should limit waste and use natural resources responsibly.

Substances that are contrary to the Word of Wisdom are not permitted at Church activities or on Church premises. Persons who are under the influence of alcohol or other drugs may not participate in Church activities. If such a situation occurs, leaders respond compassionately.

Members are encouraged to hold family activities on Monday or at other times. No Church activities, meetings, or baptismal services should be held after 6:00 p.m. on Mondays.

Leaders ensure that Church buildings and other facilities are closed on Monday nights. Receptions and similar activities may not be held in Church facilities on Monday nights.

As an exception, young The following exceptions may be allowed: - Young single adult wards adults and single adult wards adults may hold Church activities on Monday nights, including in Church buildings. An exception - Following the guidelines in 35.5.3, a family may also be made hold an activity in a Church building on a Monday night. - A ward or stake may hold an activity when New Year’s Eve is on a Monday (see 20.5.4).

Overnight activities at Church meetinghouses or meetinghouse grounds are not approved.

For more information, see “FAQs—What Should I Do?” “Safety and Health for Church Activities: Common Questions” on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

No Church camps, sports events, or recreational events are to be scheduled on Sunday. Nor should youth groups and others travel to or from camps or youth conferences on Sunday.

As an exception, when safety or travel costs are serious concerns, some youth or Primary activities may be scheduled immediately after Sunday worship meetings. These activities should be separate from the Sunday meeting schedule. They should be in keeping with the spirit of the Sabbath. Approval from the bishop and stake president is required.

The Church counsels members and leaders who oversee Church activities to protect themselves, where possible, by carrying reasonable amounts of liability insurance. Such insurance may be available through homeowners insurance or other policies. For more information, see “FAQs—What Should I Do?” “Safety and Health for Church Activities: Common Questions” on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

In the United States, the Church Activity Medical Assistance (CAMA) program provides secondary medical and dental assistance for injuries sustained while participating in a Church activity. It also provides funeral assistance if necessary. This program is designed to supplement, not replace, a person’s own health and accident insurance. For more information, see “FAQs—What Should I Do?” “Safety and Health for Church Activities: Common Questions” on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

If an incident occurs during a Church-sponsored event, leaders determine if CAMA might be needed. Any leader may report an incident in the Global Incident Reporting system at incidents.ChurchofJesusChrist.org. If the leader indicates that treatment beyond first aid is expected, the bishop will be notified and will receive enrollment information. The bishop considers a person’s ability to pay medical expenses by other means, such as personal insurance coverage or other resources. He may authorize the use of CAMA funds if he feels it is appropriate.

The Church is often asked to provide evidence of insurance for activities. These requests come because of rental agreements, contracts, or permits associated with activities.

In the United States and Canada, States, leaders may obtain a certificate showing evidence of insurance at InsuranceCertificates.ChurchofJesusChrist.org. Outside the United States and Canada States, leaders should contact the area office. Requests should include:

• The name and address of the organization requiring evidence of insurance.

Leaders instruct all participants in safety practices for the activity. When activities require specific physical skills or experience, it may be necessary to obtain specialized training or to use professional guides.

Leaders should be prepared for emergencies. They should also know in advance how to contact local law enforcement and emergency services. For more information, see “FAQs—What Should I Do?” “Safety and Health for Church Activities: Common Questions” on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

The stake president or bishop also reports injuries and damage involving Church facilities or property to the Church facilities manager.

For more information, see “FAQs—What Should I Do?” “Safety and Health for Church Activities: Common Questions” on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

Leaders fill out an Event and Activity Plan form for activities that involve long-distance travel.

When a Church activity for youth involves long-distance travel or staying overnight, parents or guardians must give written permission for their children to participate (see 20.7.4). Responsible adult supervision must be provided (see 20.7.1).

When feasible, Church groups should use commercial transportation for long-distance travel. It should be licensed and protected by liability insurance.

A man and a woman should not travel alone together for Church activities, meetings, or assignments unless they are married to each other or are both single.

For more information, see “FAQs—What Should I Do?” “Safety and Health for Church Activities: Common Questions” on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

• A married couple may be assigned to minister together to a person or family.

- Stake presidencies and bishoprics care for all members of the stake or ward. Because of this, they are generally not assigned as ministering brothers. The stake president determines whether high councilors and functioning actively serving patriarchs are assigned.

After the bishop has given approval, a member of the elders quorum presidency extends assignments to ministering brothers, including young men. A member of the Relief Society presidency extends assignments to ministering sisters, including young women.

In some cases, youth may be assigned as a third member of a ministering companionship. Leaders may assign the youth to help minister to some or all of the individuals and families assigned to the companionship.

Youth do not have ministering brothers or sisters assigned to them. They receive ministering care from their family’s ministering brothers. Their class age-group or quorum presidency and adult leaders also minister to them. If their parents are not members of the Church but are open to receiving ministering, the elders quorum presidency may assign ministering brothers to the family. Similarly, the Relief Society presidency may assign ministering sisters to the mother. The Church’s guideline that two responsible adults be present with youth does not apply to ministering companions. However, leaders use wisdom and seek inspiration when assigning youth as companions to adults. They also seek guidance from the bishop. When a youth is assigned to a companion who is not his or her parent, leaders confirm that the parents do not object to the assignment. Adult companions should avoid situations that might be misunderstood. They use care in one-onone situations. They help youth have a safe and rewarding experience with ministering.

Bishoprics and clerks should protect fast-offering funds from improper use. For questions or to report abuse of Church assistance or fraud, members of bishoprics or clerks in the United States and Canada can call the help line at 1-800-453-3860, extension 2-7887. Members of bishoprics or clerks outside Outside the United States and Canada States, they should call their area office.

• Oversee the gathering and accounting of fast offerings (see 34.3.2).

As the presidency of the Aaronic Priesthood, the bishopric also oversees the efforts of Aaronic Priesthood quorums and Young Women classes age-groups to serve those with temporal needs in the ward and community (see 10.2.2 and 11.2.2). These efforts are coordinated in ward youth council meetings (see 22.8) and in quorum and class age-group presidency meetings (see 10.4.3 and 11.3.4.3).

The following table summarizes the callings and roles discussed in 22.6.

Calling

Bishop

Relief Society and elders quorum presidencies Ministering brothers and sisters Ward welfare and self-reliance specialists (if called)

Teach Principles of Self-Reliance

One purpose of the ward youth council is to help youth become consecrated followers of Jesus Christ (see 29.2.6). Under the bishopric’s guidance, the ward youth council plans ways to serve those in need in their ward and community.

Specific service activities can be planned during quorum and class age-group presidency meetings. Where JustServe.org is available, it may be used to identify service opportunities in the community.

• Job training and placement services.

• Mental health services.

The following table lists Church resources that can support members’ efforts to provide for their temporal and emotional needs and build self-reliance. The Lord’s storehouse (see 22.2.1) and fast offerings (see 22.2.2) are available to bishops in every ward. The other resources listed are optional and vary by location.

• The Lord’s storehouse (members’ offerings of time, talents, compassion, materials, and financial resources)

• Fast offerings

• Bishops’ orders for food and other basic goods through a bishops’ storehouse or grocery store.*

- Bishops’ orders for clothing or household items through a Deseret Industries store.* * Bishops’ orders are placed through “Bishops’ Orders and Referrals” in LCR. Category Education and employment - Self-reliance groups (Find a Better Job, Starting and Growing My Business, Education for Better Work)

• Stake Welfare and Self-Reliance Resource Centers

• Perpetual Education Fund loans

• Training programs through Deseret Industries or Development

Emotional health

For more ideas and resources, see:

- Share.ChurchofJesusChrist.org. share.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

• “Sharing the Gospel” in the Gospel Library.

• Learn how to recognize promptings from the Spirit.

• Develop a habit of personal and family prayer and scripture study.

• An assistant in the priests quorum (or the teachers or deacons quorum president if there are no priests in the ward).

• Full-time missionaries.

• Lead the work of the ward mission leader. If this leader is not called, a member of the elders quorum presidency fills this role (see 23.6.3).

The elders quorum president and Relief Society president each assign a presidency member to help lead these efforts. These two presidency members work together. They attend weekly missionary coordination meetings (see 23.4).

• Coordinate the work of ward members and leaders, ward missionaries, and full-time missionaries. This may include coordinating teaching efforts, baptismal services, and efforts to strengthen new members. It can also include planning ways to help ward members share the gospel.

- Lead weekly missionary coordination meetings (see 23.4).

• Attend ward council meetings when invited.

Each missionary is called to assist Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ in Their work. Missionaries represent Jesus Christ and His restored Church. They selflessly serve the Lord in a labor of love among His children. Teaching and service missions assignments bless both the missionary and others. (See Matthew 16:25; 22:36–40.)

Mission calls are extended to members who desire to serve, are worthy, and are able. These members strive to serve the Lord with all their “heart, might, mind and strength.” They develop “faith, hope, charity and love.” They keep their “eye single to the glory of God.” As they do these things, the Lord will qualify them for the work. (Doctrine and Covenants 4:2, 5; see verses 1–7.)

Missionaries represent the Lord and must be called by proper authority (see Doctrine and Covenants 42:11; Articles of Faith 1:5). The call to serve a mission is generally extended by the President of the Church. For senior service missionaries, the call is extended by the stake president.

In addition to callings in their home ward or stake, members may serve the Lord as senior service missionaries. These missionaries give valuable service in Church departments, facilities, and missions (see 24.7.1). They live at home.

Men and women ages 26 and older may be called as senior service missionaries.

In addition, young men ages 18–25 and young women ages 19–25 18–29 may serve in the same capacity as senior service missionaries if they live where service missions assignments for young missionaries are not available. They may also serve if they are married or have already served as young teaching or service missionaries.

Senior service missionaries are called by the stake president. They serve under his direction. The amount of time they serve each week depends on their capacity, service opportunities in their area, and direction from the Area Presidency.

The following table summarizes the types of missionary assignments.

Is called by Is assigned by Is set apart by Lives Ecclesiastical leader Reports to

Young Teaching Missionary (see 24.2.1)

Young Service Missionary (see 24.2.2)

Senior Missionary (see 24.2.3)

Senior Service Missionary (see 24.2.4) Stake president

President of the Church

An Apostle

Stake president

Stake president

Stake president

Stake president

Away from home

At home

Mission president or historic site president

Mission president or historic site president

Mission president, through the service missionary advisers

Operation manager of the service assignment

40 or older if married 26 or older or if a single sister

Age requirements

18–25 (men) 19–29 18–29 (women) 18–25 (men) 19–29 18–29 (women)

Repentance and forgiveness of sin are gifts available to all of God’s children. These gifts are made possible through the redeeming power of Jesus Christ. Repentance requires exercising faith in Christ, having real intent, and keeping the commandments. It includes confessing and forsaking sin. For serious sins, repentance requires confession to the bishop or stake president (see 32.3 and 32.4 in this handbook).

A person who repents is forgiven and made clean through the Atonement and grace of Jesus Christ. The Lord remembers the sin no more. “How great is his joy in the soul that repenteth!” (Doctrine and Covenants 18:13; see also Isaiah 43:25; Jacob 6:5; Alma 34:15–17; Helaman 5:10–11; Doctrine and Covenants 58:42–43; and 32.1 in this handbook.)

Members who desire to serve a mission should turn to the Savior as they repent and prepare to serve. They may also seek the loving help of family members and local Church leaders. A missionary candidate must have repented of serious sin before the stake president may submit his or her recommendation (see 32.6–32.8; see also 24.4.4). The repentance process includes enough time for the person to show through righteous living that he or she has received the spirit of Christ unto the remission of sins. sins (see Doctrine and Covenants 20:37). The stake president counsels with the Area Presidency (or the Area Seventy they designate) if he has questions about the length of time needed for repentance.

A person who receives a mission call or begins missionary service without repenting of serious sin may need to remain home postpone service or return home. be released. Depending on the circumstances, he or she may serve after repenting (see 24.6.3.2).

The information in the recommendation form contributes to the revelatory process of mission calls. Leaders ensure that all information requested is fully disclosed.

If a stake president in the United States or Canada has questions, he contacts the Missionary Department (see 24.9.3). Elsewhere, he contacts the area office.

In urgent cases when the bishop or stake president is unavailable, he may authorize one of his counselors to conduct these interviews. In districts, the mission president or an assigned counselor interviews and recommends missionary candidates. District presidents do not conduct these interviews.

• The person has been a confirmed Church member for at least one year.

- The person has completed or is no longer attending high school, secondary school, or the equivalent. (This applies only to young missionary candidates who will not be 19 years old by their availability date.)

Young missionary candidates and their stake president plan for when the stake president should submit the recommendation. They may use the Submission Planning Tool and the Mission Release Date Planning Tool for help.

Missionary recommendations are usually submitted through the home ward and stake. Bishops of away-from-home wards, such as a young single adult ward, may process a missionary recommendation. They must first confer with the bishop from the home ward. The home ward should be listed as the funding ward.

Newly called missionaries are encouraged to receive the temple endowment as soon as possible and to attend the temple as often as circumstances allow (see Doctrine and Covenants 43:15–16; 105:33). This applies to teaching missionaries and to service missionaries if appropriate for their circumstances. For information on receiving the endowment, see 27.2.

Newly called missionaries who are endowed may serve as temple ordinance workers before they begin missionary service as appropriate (see 25.5).

Some teaching and service missionaries are may need to be released early for health, worthiness, or other reasons. In these situations, the missionary’s stake president (home), mission president, and Area Presidency (where the missionary is serving) counsel together to unitedly determine whether the missionary should remain in the field or be recommended to return home. Bishops and stake presidents give special support to these returned missionaries. Leaders help them work to regain health or return to service if possible. For more information about ending a releasing service mission missionaries early, see 24.7.5. For teaching or service missionaries who are ready to return to service, the stake president contacts the Missionary Department to recommend this (see 24.9.3). Some teaching missionaries who return to service may be reassigned to a different teaching mission assignment or to a service mission. assignment. When returning to service is not possible, leaders encourage the member to press forward on the covenant path as a lifelong disciple of Jesus Christ. Leaders also encourage pursuing other important endeavors, such as education or employment for young missionaries.

Service missionaries are trained and supervised at the place where they serve. They also receive day-today dayto-day supervision, help, and training about their duties from the service missionary advisers (for young service missionaries) or the manager of their service assignment (for senior service missionaries).

The stake president is the ecclesiastical leader for senior and young service missionaries. He and the bishop conduct regular worthiness interviews with young service missionaries. They also conduct interviews for temple recommends, ordination to priesthood offices, and patriarchal blessings when applicable.

Young service missionaries participate in a virtual MTC experience.

For more about training and supervision, see Missionary Standards for Disciples of Jesus Christ— Service Missions. Missionaries.

Leaders promptly give ministering assignments and callings to recently released teaching and service missionaries. This includes being considered as temple ordinance workers as appropriate (see 25.5).

Preach My Gospel: A Guide to Sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ

Missionary Standards for Disciples of Jesus Christ

Missionary Standards for Disciples of Jesus Christ— Service Missions Missionaries

Adjusting to Missionary Life

Adjusting to Service Missionary Life: Resource Booklet

Missionary recommendation interview questions

My Plan: A Guide for the Returned Missionary and Mentor

Missionary Department: Phone: 1-801-240-2222 or 1-800-453-3860, extension 2-2222

Service Mission Assignment Office: Phone: 1-801-240-4914 or 1-800-453-3860, extension 2-4914

Members determine for themselves when and how often to worship in the temple. Leaders do not establish quotas or reporting systems for temple worship.

Individual members and families who have current temple recommends may attend any temple they desire. They Members planning to perform ordinances for the deceased may schedule an appointment make a reservation with the temple. temple, or they may attend without a reservation. Members planning to receive their own ordinances must make a reservation. See temples.ChurchofJesusChrist.org for each temple’s contact information.

The bishopric consults with the stake president to determine whether to call a ward temple and family history leader. If they decide to extend this calling, the bishopric counsels with the elders quorum and Relief Society presidents in determining whom to call. This person should be a Melchizedek Priesthood holder. If this leader is not called, a member of the elders quorum presidency fills this role.

The ward temple and family history leader supports the elders quorum and Relief Society presidencies in their temple and family history responsibilities. He also has the following responsibilities:

- Coordinate temple and family history efforts with ward organization leaders, including youth quorum and class age-group presidencies.

• Conduct ward temple and family history coordination meetings (see 25.2.7).

• Invite individuals and families to learn the doctrine and blessings of participating in the work of uniting families for eternity. This work includes learning about ancestors and performing temple ordinances on their behalf.

- Support parents in teaching their children the doctrine of the work of uniting families for eternity. This includes the blessings of temple covenants and ordinances and covenants and of performing temple ordinances for their deceased ancestors.

• Teach the principles of this work regularly during Church meetings.

See chapter 26 for information about temple recommends.

• An assistant in the priests quorum (or the teachers or deacons quorum president if there are no priests in the ward).

• Temple and family history consultants.

The recommendation is next reviewed by the stake president. If the stake president approves the recommendation, he submits it to the temple president for review using the Recommend Temple Worker tool.

Members who are called or assigned as temple workers normally commit to a regular time to serve in the temple each week. Leaders should avoid issuing additional callings that would interfere with members’ ability to serve in the temple.

The Recommend Temple Worker tool also shows bishops and stake presidents a list of all members from their wards or stakes who currently serve as temple workers.

Temple workers help perform ordinances or assist with temple operations, such as office, laundry, or groundskeeping tasks. To be recommended as a temple worker, a member must meet the following qualifications:

• Reside in the temple district of the temple where he or she will serve.

After the temple president receives the recommendation for someone to serve as a temple worker, a member of the temple presidency or someone he designates interviews the person. As inspired, the person conducting the interview calls those who are able to serve as temple workers and sets them apart. Members who are called as temple workers must complete the children and youth protection training. This training is available at ProtectingChildren.ChurchofJesusChrist.org. They must repeat the training every three years thereafter.

A current temple recommend allows a member to enter all temples. Priesthood leaders ensure that members receive the correct recommend for their circumstances. There are three types of recommends:

1. Temple recommends for proxy baptisms and confirmations. These recommends are for unendowed members who are performing proxy baptisms and confirmations. They are issued to the member through Leader and Clerk Resources (LCR). The member may choose to receive either a printed or a mobile recommend. For more information, see 26.3.1.

2. Temple recommends recommend for endowed members. These recommends are for members who have previously been endowed. They authorize endowed members to participate in all temple ordinances for the deceased. They are issued to a member through LCR. The member may choose to receive either a printed or a mobile recommend. For more information, see 26.3.2. 3. Temple recommends for living ordinances. These recommends are for members receiving their own endowment or being sealed to a spouse, parents, or children. They are also for unendowed members ages 8–20 observing the sealing of their living siblings, stepsiblings, or half siblings to their parents (see 27.4.5). They are issued digitally through Ordinance Preparation in LCR. Priesthood leaders use Ordinance Preparation to submit the completed recommend to the temple where the ordinance will take place.

To enter the temple, members who will be age 12 or older by the end of the year in which the ordinance occurs must also have one of the other two types of recommends in addition to a recommend for living ordinances. If needed, priesthood leaders may issue one of those recommends and the recommend for living ordinances during the same interview. For more information, see 26.3.3.

For information about temple ordinances for the living, see chapter 27.

• Have their children sealed to them (see 27.4).

To enter the temple, members who will be age 12 or older by the end of the year in which the ordinance occurs must also have either a recommend for proxy baptisms and confirmations or a recommend for endowed members. If needed, priesthood leaders may issue one of those recommends and the recommend for living ordinances during the same interview.

Since ancient times, whenever a faithful people has been on the earth, God has blessed them with temple covenants ordinances and ordinances. covenants. He has sometimes allowed His holy ordinances to be administered outside of temples when there was no dedicated temple (see Genesis 28:12–22; Exodus 24; Exodus 25:8–9; Ether 3). But whenever the Lord has established His Church, He has commanded His people to build a house “unto [His] name.” There He reveals His ordinances and the glories of His kingdom and teaches the way of salvation. (See 2 Chronicles 3–5; 2 Nephi 5:16; Doctrine and Covenants 97:10–16; 124:29–39.) The temple is the house of the Lord. It points us to our Savior, Jesus Christ. In temples, we participate in sacred ordinances and make covenants with Heavenly Father that bind us to Him and to our Savior. These covenants and ordinances and covenants prepare us to return to Heavenly Father’s presence and to be sealed together as families for eternity. In the temple, great blessings are also made available to God’s faithful children in this life. In temple covenants ordinances and ordinances, covenants, “the power of godliness is manifest” (Doctrine and Covenants 84:20). The temple is a holy place where members can worship, learn, and receive guidance and comfort (see Doctrine and Covenants 109:13–16). Those who attend the temple can have access to God’s power to help accomplish His work (see Doctrine and Covenants 109:22–23; see also 3.5 in this handbook). Temple covenants and ordinances and covenants are sacred. The symbols associated with temple covenants should not be discussed outside the temple. Nor should we discuss the holy information we covenant in the temple not to reveal. However, we may discuss the basic purposes and doctrine of temple covenants and ordinances and covenants and the spiritual feelings we have in the temple.

Ward and stake leaders discuss the information in this chapter with members who are preparing to receive the endowment or sealing ordinances.

Members should prepare themselves spiritually to receive temple ordinances and to make and honor temple covenants. Parents have the primary responsibility to help their children prepare to receive temple ordinances. Stake and ward leaders, ministering brothers and sisters, and extended family members support parents in this role. Stake and ward leaders regularly encourage members to prepare to receive their own temple ordinances. Leaders also emphasize the importance of honoring temple covenants and remaining worthy of and having a temple recommend. Resources to help members prepare to receive temple ordinances are available at temples.ChurchofJesusChrist.org. For information about issuing temple recommends in these circumstances, see 26.1 and 26.3.3.

• Have their children sealed to them (see 27.4).

The bishop helps the member verify important information like names, birth dates, the dates of previous ordinances, and marriage dates. This is done using Ordinance Preparation in LCR.

The bishop and stake president interview the member to issue a temple recommend for living ordinances (see 26.3.3).

Members who are planning to receive the endowment should contact the temple in advance to schedule the ordinance. They may do so after they have met with their bishop (see 27.1.2). The temple will provide instructions, including information about temple clothing, when the appointment reservation is scheduled. made.

• Fulfill their divinely appointed roles as husband and wife, father and mother. Husbands promise they will preside with “gentleness and meekness, and by love unfeigned” (Doctrine and Covenants 121:41).

- Keep all the laws of the new and everlasting covenant (see Doctrine (Doctrine and Covenants 66:2; 132:6–7, 21). Church leaders encourage members to prepare to be married and sealed in a temple. Where temple marriages are not legally recognized, authorized Church leaders or others can perform civil marriages that are followed by a temple sealing (see 38.3). This pattern may also be followed when a temple marriage could cause parents or immediate family members to feel excluded because they cannot attend the temple ceremony. For information about sealing living children to parents, see 27.4.

Couples should invite only close family members and friends to a temple sealing. Accountable members Members must be endowed and have a current temple recommend to attend. attend the sealing of a husband and wife. Some members of record are not baptized due to an intellectual disability, and some are baptized but not endowed for the same reason. The As an exception, the stake president may authorize them to observe the temple sealing of their living siblings or parents or the sealing of a living sibling to a spouse if they:

• Are at least 18 years old.

• Are able to remain reverent during the ceremony.

The stake president writes a letter stating that the person is authorized to observe the sealing. This letter is presented at the temple. Members must be endowed and have a current temple recommend to observe the sealing of their parents. For information about who may attend a sealing of living children to parents, see 27.4.5.

To observe the sealing of siblings, stepsiblings, or half siblings to their parents, unendowed members under the age of 21 must be born in the covenant or sealed to their parents. In addition, children ages 8 and older must be baptized and confirmed and must have a current temple recommend.

The following table describes the recommends that members need when they observe the sealing of their siblings, stepsiblings, and half siblings to their parents. For information about these recommends, see 26.1.

Person Observing the Sealing Child younger than age 8 formation information is verified through Ordinance Preparation in LCR

Required Recommend(s)

- No recommend is needed; however, the child’s in-

Member between ages 8 and 11 who has been baptized and confirmed Unendowed member younger than age 21 and at least 11 and turning 12 the year of the ordinance

• Temple recommend for endowed members (see 26.3.2)

Some members of record are not baptized due to an intellectual disability, and some are baptized but not endowed for the same reason. The stake president may authorize them to observe the sealing of their living siblings, stepsiblings, or half-siblings to their parents. The stake president writes a letter stating that the person is authorized to be observe the sealing. This letter is presented at the temple.

• Temple sealing.

Heavenly Father knew that many of His children would not receive these ordinances during their mortal lives. He provided another way for them to receive ordinances and make covenants with Him.

In temples, ordinances can be performed by proxy. This means that a living person receives ordinances on behalf of someone who is deceased. In the spirit world, deceased persons can choose to accept or reject ordinances that have been performed for them (see Doctrine and Covenants 138:19, 32–34, 58–59).

The ordinances of salvation and exaltation are not needed or performed for those who were not accountable in this life (see 18.1, 28.3.2, and 28.3.3).

• Baptism.

If members have not prepared family names for temple work (see 28.1.1), the names of deceased persons who need ordinances will be provided at the temple.

Members may need to make an appointment a reservation before performing ordinances for the deceased. deceased, or they may attend without a reservation. See temples.ChurchofJesusChrist.org for each temple’s contact information and scheduling requirements.

• Assisting patrons.

If they wish, members who act as proxies may choose to do only baptisms or only confirmations.

Before the meeting starts, members of the congregation prepare spiritually for the sacrament. They can do this through quiet prayer and pondering. Leaders set an example of reverence.

A member of the bishopric invites Young Women class age-group presidencies to organize youth to minister by welcoming visitors and members as they enter the chapel. Youth make an effort to greet members by name. They also promote reverence by answering questions and helping people find seats as needed.

• One of the bishop’s assistants in the priests quorum and the teachers and deacons quorum presidents.

• The Young Women president.

Usually monthly.

The bishop may conduct ward youth council meetings. Or he may assign someone else to do so, such as one of his priests quorum assistants or the president of the oldest Young Women class. Gatherers of Light. Ward youth council meetings provide opportunities for youth to lead. The bishopric or other leaders can help them prepare for these meetings during quorum or class age-group presidency meetings.

Before each meeting, the bishop and the person conducting review the items to be discussed. These items could include the following:

• Efforts to reach out to youth who are less active or new members.

- Activities, including opportunities to serve those in need. Most of the planning is done in quorum or class age-group presidency meetings (see chapter 20).

• Ministering (see chapter 21).

- Orienting newly called quorum and class age-group presidencies.

To understand principles that guide council meetings in the Church, all council members should study 4.3 and 4.4.

Wards use one of the following two-hour schedules for Sunday meetings.

Plan 1

60 minutes 10 5 minutes 50 25 minutes 5 minutes 25 minutes Sacrament meeting Transition to Sunday School classes Primary, including nursery (see 12.2.1.2) Sunday School (see 13.3) Transition to quorum, Relief Society, and Young Women meetings All Sundays: Primary, including nursery (see 12.2.1.2) All Sundays: Primary, including nursery (see 12.2.1.2) First and third Sundays of the month: Sunday School (see 13.3) Second and fourth Sundays: priesthood quorum meetings Quorum (see 8.2.1.2 and 10.2.1.2), Relief Society meetings (see 9.2.1.2), and Young Women meetings (see 11.2.1.2) Fifth Sundays: meetings for youth and adults. The bishopric determines the topic and assigns teachers (usually members of the ward or stake). teachers. They also determine whether youth and adults, male and female, meet separately or together.

Plan 2

50 25 minutes 10 5 minutes 25 minutes 5 minutes 60 minutes First and third Sundays of the month: Sunday School (see 13.3) Second and fourth Sundays: priesthood quorum meetings Quorum (see 8.2.1.2 and 10.2.1.2), Relief Society meetings (see 9.2.1.2), and Young Women meetings (see 11.2.1.2) Fifth Sundays: meetings for youth and adults. The bishopric determines the topic and assigns teachers (usually members of the ward or stake). teachers. They also determine whether youth and adults, male and female, meet separately or together. Transition to Sunday School classes Primary, including nursery (see 12.2.1.2) Sunday School (see 13.3) Transition to sacrament meeting Sacrament meeting

When two wards meet in the same building and one or both have very few children or youth, it may be desirable for the children or youth to attend Sunday classes together. The wards’ Sunday meeting schedules could overlap as shown below.

• The stake Young Women presidency (and secretary if called).

- Youth from each ward in the stake when meetings or parts of meetings include matters that benefit from their involvement. Youth attend when discussions focus on strengthening youth and planning service and activities. The stake president determines the number of youth who attend. These could be youth serving in quorum and class age-group presidencies or other youth invited by the stake presidency to be members of this committee.

Additional youth could be invited to help with specific needs or events.

Purpose

Help stake, mission, and temple presidents exercise priesthood keys in unity. Counsel about and coordinate efforts to help members in their responsibilities to participate in God’s work of salvation and exaltation (see 1.2).

Participants

The Area Presidency assigns an Area Seventy to preside at the coordinating council meeting. Stake Stake, mission, and mission temple presidents in the coordinating council attend the meetings. Temple presidents are invited and When it is not possible for a president to attend when practical. the meeting, a counselor may attend on his behalf. Others may attend part or all of the meetings when needed and when invited by the Area Seventy. These other attendees could include district presidents (as determined in counsel with the mission president) and selected members of stake councils. Area Seventies consider distance, family circumstances, and travel when making these invitations. As needed, some attendees may participate virtually (see 29.7).

Frequency

Quarterly, soon after each area council meeting. Additional meetings may be held when needed.

The Area Seventy leads the meetings and meetings, facilitates the discussion. discussion, and follows up with participants. All who attend counsel together as equal participants (see Doctrine and Covenants 88:122).

In these meetings, participants:

• Seek revelation about how best to implement the teachings and direction of the First Presidency, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and Area Presidency.

• Coordinate God’s work of salvation and exaltation within their council.

- Discuss items submitted by stake presidents, the mission president, and the temple president. - Counsel together about the temporal and spiritual welfare of members and how to help them become true followers lifelong disciples of Jesus Christ. - Instruct and edify one another.

• Coordinate multistake matters.

In some cases, the bishop can arrange with morticians to provide modest, respectable funeral and burial services at cost if expenses are paid from fast-offering funds.

For information about missionaries returning home to attend a funeral, see 24.6.2.7. For guidelines about streaming and recording funerals, see 29.7.

Before the stake president can call a new bishop, he must receive written approval of his recommendation from the First Presidency. With this approval, the stake president may ordain and set apart a bishop after ward members have sustained him in a sacrament meeting. Approval of the First Presidency is also required before a stake president may release a bishop. The stake president may not delegate these responsibilities.

If a man called as bishop is not a high priest, the stake president ensures that he is ordained a high priest before ordaining him a bishop. If the man was ordained a bishop previously, he needs only to be set apart as bishop of the ward. If men called as the bishop’s counselors are not high priests, they are ordained high priests before being set apart.

After the First Presidency has approved the recommendation of a man to serve as bishop, they authorize the stake president to ordain him and set him apart. Under the direction of the stake president, a few high priests may be invited to join the stake president in the circle. The stake president:

1. Calls the man by his full name.

Calling

Bishop2

Recommended by

Approved by

Sustained by1

Called and set apart by

Ward members

Called and set apart by Stake president after receiving approval from the First Presidency (see 30.7.2) Stake president or an assigned counselor Stake president or an assigned counselor or high councilor Stake president or an assigned counselor or high councilor

Ward organization presidents (Relief Society, Young Women, Primary, and Sunday School) Counselors in ward organization presidencies Other ward Relief Society, Young Women, Primary, and Sunday School callings

Bishop Bishopric

Bishopric

Bishop or an assigned counselor

Organization president Organization presidency

Approved by First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Stake presidency and high council Stake presidency and high council Stake presidency and high council

Stake presidency and high council Stake presidency and high council Bishopric

Bishopric

Ward members Ward members

Approved by

Ward mission leader (a member of the elders quorum presidency may fill this role; if so, he does not need to be called, sustained, or set apart separately)

Bishopric (in consultation with the elders quorum and Relief Society presidents)

Bishop or an assigned counselor

Ward members Ward members

Ward missionaries

Bishopric or elders quorum and Relief Society presidents Bishopric (in consultation with the elders quorum and Relief Society presidents)

Bishop or an assigned counselor

Ward temple and family history leader (a member of the elders quorum presidency may fill this role; if so, he does not need to be called, sustained, or set apart separately)

Bishop or an assigned counselor

Ward members

Ward temple and family history consultants

Bishopric or elders quorum and Relief Society presidents Bishop (as the priests quorum president)

Bishopric

Bishop or an assigned counselor

Bishopric

Quorum members (presented in a quorum meeting by the bishop or an assigned counselor)

Calling

Recommended by Approved by

Sustained by

Young Women class age-group presidents

Bishopric (in consultation with the Young Women presidency)

Bishopric

Class Calling Age-group members (presented in a Young Women meeting by the bishop or an assigned counselor)

Bishop or an assigned counselor

Counselors in Young Women class age-group presidencies and class secretaries Class Age-group president Class Bishopric Age-group members (presented in a Young Women meeting by the bishop or an assigned counselor) Ward members Called and set apart by Bishop or an assigned counselor

Bishop or an assigned counselor

Bishop or an assigned counselor

Ward members Ward members Ward members

Ward resource center specialist if needed

Bishop or an assigned counselor

Ward music coordinator

Sunday School president Bishopric Bishopric Bishopric

Bishopric Bishopric Bishopric Bishopric Bishopric

1 Bishop or an assigned counselor 1. In rare circumstances, a ward member may need to begin service in a calling before he or she can be sustained. When this happens, a member of the bishopric presents the person for ratifying as soon as reasonable. He adapts the process described in 30.3. This includes providing an opportunity for ward members to oppose the action.

2. Active sealers in a temple should not be called to serve in bishoprics. Sealers are called under the direction of the President of the Church.

Recommended by

Approved by

Sustained by

Calling

Called and set apart by

Branch members

Stake president or an assigned counselor or high councilor (for branches in stakes); district president or a priesthood leader he assigns (for branches in missions) Stake or mission president (or the district president if assigned)

Elders quorum president

Stake, district, or mission presidency (in consultation with the branch president)

Stake presidency and high council or mission presidency (or, when authorized by the mission president, the district presidency)

Branch members

Quorum president (in consultation with the branch president)

Branch members

Stake or mission president or an assigned counselor or high councilor (or the district president or another priesthood leader if assigned) Other branch callings Branch Callings (continued) Calling Recommended by Approved by Sustained by1 Stake president2 Counselors in a new stake presidency2 Called and set apart by Calling See 30.8.1, substituting branch president for bishop and branch for ward. 1 Sustained by 1. Active sealers in a temple should not be called to serve in branch presidencies. Sealers are called under the direction of the President of the Church.

Calling Recommended by Approved by

Sustained by1

An assigned General Authority or Area Seventy

An assigned General Authority or Area Seventy

Members in stake conference

Members in stake conference

Stake presidency

Stake presidency

Members in stake conference

Stake presidency

Stake presidency and high council

Members in stake conference

High councilors

Stake presidency Stake presidency Stake presidency and high council

Stake president or an assigned counselor Stake president after receiving approval from the Quorum of the Twelve; or a member of the First Presidency or Quorum of the Twelve Stake president

Stake presidency Stake presidency and Members in stake high council conference Stake presidency and high council

Stake patriarch, including a patriarch who was already ordained in another stake

Stake presidency and Members in stake high council conference

Quorum of the Twelve

Stake Relief Society president

Stake presidency

Stake presidency and Members in stake high council conference

Called and set apart by An assigned General Authority or Area Seventy An assigned General Authority or Area Seventy Stake president after receiving approval from the First Presidency Stake president or an assigned counselor

Stake Callings (continued)

Sustained by1

Counselors in stake organization presidencies, secretaries, and others if needed

President of the stake organization (in consultation with the stake presidency or the assigned high councilor)

Stake president or an assigned counselor or high councilor Stake president or an assigned counselor or high councilor Stake president or an assigned counselor or high councilor

Stake presidency and Not sustained high council

Stake president or an assigned counselor (the stake president determines whether setting apart is needed) Stake president or an assigned counselor or high councilor

Stake communication director, assistant directors, and specialists

Stake Callings (continued) Calling Other stake callings3 1 Stake presidency Stake presidency and Members in stake high council conference 1. When, as an exception, new stake officers need to begin their service before the next stake conference, they should be sustained in sacrament meetings. These sustainings should be kept to a minimum. A member of the stake presidency or high council presents the sustainings.

In rare circumstances, a stake member may need to begin service before he or she can be sustained either in a stake conference or in sacrament meetings. When this happens, the person is presented for ratifying as soon as reasonable, adapting the process described in 30.3. This includes providing an opportunity for stake members to oppose the action.

Sustained by

Group leader

Assistants to Called and set apart by The stake or mission president, the bishop or branch president (or for a group for service member members, a Latter-day Saint chaplain, the Church Military Relations manager, or the outgoing group leader leader) Bishop or branch president and the stake or mission president (in (where the member’s home ward or branch and stake or mission) Group members membership records reside) Group members Stake president or mission president president, bishop or a designated representative (may function without being set apart if necessary) branch president, or an assigned counselor

Leaders have many opportunities to meet with members individually. For example:

- Members may ask to meet with a Church leader when they need spiritual guidance or have weighty personal problems. In some cases, the leader may feel prompted to arrange a meeting with a member. Members are discouraged from contacting General Authorities about personal matters (see 38.8.25). 38.8.26).

In order to spend more time with youth, the bishop may delegate some of these meetings to other leaders in the ward. Members of the Relief Society, elders quorum, and Young Women presidencies can be particularly helpful. However, the bishop may not delegate matters that require his role as a common judge, such as repenting of serious sin.

• The Relief Society president meets with each Relief Society member once a year. They discuss the well-being of the sister and her family. (See 9.3.2.2.)

- A member of the bishopric meets with each 11-year-old as he or she moves from Primary to the deacons quorum or a Young Women class. Women. During this meeting the bishopric member also interviews young men to receive the Aaronic Priesthood (see 18.10.2). - A member of the bishopric meets with members who are entering military service (see 38.9.2). 38.10.1.3).

• A member of the bishopric meets with each youth twice a year (see 31.3.1).

False accusations are rare but can occur. Priesthood leaders should be cautious when there is limited information besides one person’s word. For example, a member who is accused of adultery may deny the charge. The scriptures explain that “every word shall be established against him or her by two witnesses of the church” (Doctrine and Covenants 42:80). “Two witnesses” means two separate sources of information. This could include the knowledge of a participant and some other reliable source. At times a priesthood leader may need to wait to act until more information becomes available.

When a Church leader is gathering information for a membership council, he should immediately stop if he learns that law enforcement is actively investigating the member. This is done to avoid possible claims that the leader may have obstructed justice. For legal advice about these situations in the United States and Canada, States, the stake president contacts the Church’s Office of General Counsel:

1-800-453-3860, extension 2-6301 1-801-240-6301

Outside the United States and Canada, States, the stake president contacts the area legal counsel at the area office.

Normally a membership council is not held to consider conduct being examined by a civil or criminal trial court until the court has reached a final judgment. In some cases it may also be appropriate to delay a membership council until the period of legal appeal has expired or the appeal has been rejected.

If leaders keep notes or communicate with each other electronically, they safeguard access to this information. They also delete or destroy the information when they no longer need it. They do not unnecessarily share personal information.

Civil authorities might challenge the confidentiality required of a priesthood leader. If this occurs in the United States and Canada, States, the stake president seeks legal advice from the Church’s Office of General Counsel:

1-800-453-3860, extension 2-6301 1-801-240-6301

Outside the United States and Canada, States, the stake president contacts the area legal counsel at the area office.

• That he counseled with the Area Presidency and determined a membership council was not necessary

If the Church Auditing Department determines that a leader or Church employee has embezzled Church funds or property, the Office of the First Presidency generally directs that his or her membership record will be annotated. “Leader” is defined as a person holding a prominent Church position, as well as counselors, clerks, and branch presidencies. When repentance is complete, a stake president may request removal of the annotation (see 32.14.5 and 34.7.5). An annotation does not mean a membership council or other action has occurred.

• The position held by the member (see 32.6.1.4 for members holding a prominent Church position).

In some cases, the Office of the First Presidency may direct that the membership record of a person who has misused personal data be annotated. This would prevent him or her from holding callings with privileged access to personal data.

As authorized by the Office of the First Presidency, Church headquarters annotates a person’s membership record in any of the situations listed below.

1. The bishop or stake president submits a Report of Church Membership Council form indicating that the person’s membership was formally restricted or withdrawn for any of the following conduct:

When a bishop receives an annotated membership record, he follows the instructions in the annotation.

Only the Office of the First Presidency may authorize removing an annotation from a membership record. If the stake president recommends removing an annotation, he uses LCR (see 6.2.3). The Office of the First Presidency notifies him if the recommendation is approved or not.

The stake presidency calls one or more stake members to serve as stake technology specialists. The bishopric may call one or more ward members to serve as ward technology specialists. Men, women, and youth may fill these callings.

Stake technology specialists serve under the guidance of the stake clerk. Ward technology specialists serve under the guidance of the ward clerk or executive secretary, as determined by the bishop. clerk. Their responsibilities can include the following:

• Assist stake or ward leaders with technical needs.

• Ensure that (1) computers, software, and confidential information are secure and (2) data files are backed up regularly.

- Be familiar with the general policies for Church computers (see 38.8.10). 38.8.11).

As needed, stake technology specialists coordinate the work of ward technology specialists.

• A leader has embezzled or misappropriated Church funds.

The stake president or the chairman of the audit committee notifies the Church Auditing Department. He notifies the area controller if the unit is outside the United States and Canada. States.

The Church Auditing Department (or area controller) sends a loss report form to the stake president or chairman of the audit committee. Under the direction of the Church Auditing Department (or the area controller), the stake president or chairman of the audit committee ensures that the matter is properly examined. He also ensures that the loss form is properly completed and submitted.

The tax information in this section applies only in the United States and Canada. States. If priesthood leaders in the United States and Canada need more information, they should contact the Tax Administration Division:

Tax Administration 50 East North Temple Street, Room 2276 Salt Lake City, UT 84150-0022 Telephone: 1-801-240-4405 or 1-800-453-3860, extension 2-4405

Priesthood leaders outside the United States and Canada contact the area office to resolve questions on taxes.

The Church is normally exempt from paying sales, property, income, and other taxes because it is a religious organization. Church buildings and other properties are to be used for the purposes of worship, religious instruction, and other Churchrelated Church-related activities. Stake and ward leaders ensure that Church facilities are not used for political, business, or investment purposes as outlined in the examples in 35.5.6.1 and 35.5.6.3. To do so would violate laws that permit tax exemption of Church property.

It is important that stake and ward leaders follow these guidelines to preserve the Church’s tax-exempt status. If one stake or ward misuses the Church’s tax-exempt status, other Church units could be affected.

The Church strives to conserve water, energy, and other resources. Leaders encourage members to conserve energy and water in the building. For example, when members leave a room, they should turn off lights, water faucets, and heating and cooling equipment or settings used during the meeting or activity. Members report to their leaders any conditions contributing to waste.

Members may also support community-sponsored energy and water conservation projects. These efforts can reduce environmental impacts and utility costs. Leaders and members may contact the facilities manager for more information about water and energy and water use and conservation.

See 29.5 for use of meetinghouses for funerals and other services for the deceased.

• Hosting or accommodating choirs, speakers, instructors, educational groups, or other service providers who receive a fee for seminars, lessons (except for private piano or organ instruction; see 19.7.2), classes, or other activities

- Renting space for weddings or weddingrelated wedding-related events

Leaders work to increase the spiritual strength of members before proposing to create a new unit or change a unit’s boundary. New units should be created only when the existing units are sufficiently strong.

For support in the United States and Canada, States, call 1-801-240-1007. 1-801-240-1007 or email BLCCSupport@ChurchofJesusChrist.org. Outside the United States and Canada, States, call the area office.

After a stake or mission president receives approval for ward or branch changes, he generally has 90 days to present the changes to be sustained by the members. If he needs to delay longer than 90 days, he requests permission from the Office of the First Presidency.

Stake or mission presidents implement the proposal in LCR once the changes have been made. For help in the United States and Canada, States, call 801-240-6243 1-801-240-6243 or email oiservices@ChurchofJesusChrist.org. OIServices@ChurchofJesusChrist.org. For help outside the United States and Canada, States, contact the area office. Maps and units are not updated until they are recorded by Church headquarters.

• Members have special language needs.

- Members are in the military (see 38.9.4 38.10.3.1 for reasons a service member group might be created). created for service members).

• Members are in care centers, treatment programs, or prisons.

A stake president may propose creating specialized stakes, wards, and branches to serve members as outlined in this chapter. For information about creating specialized units in a mission, see 36.3.

A stake president starts a new proposal at Boundary and Leadership Proposals. If he cannot use the online system, he can download paper forms by clicking on the link. Only the First Presidency can approve the proposal.

For support in the United States and Canada, States, call 1-801-240-1007. 1-801-240-1007 or email BLCCSupport@ChurchofJesusChrist.org. Outside the United States and Canada, States, call the area office.

See 36.3 for language branches in a mission. See 36.4.2 for ward and branch naming guidelines.

For support regarding the creation of a language stake in the United States and Canada, States, call 1-801240-1007. 1-801-240-1007. Outside the United States and Canada, States, call the area office.

Groups are small authorized gatherings of members units overseen by a bishop, branch president, or mission president. Like other units, each group has a unit number. The stake or mission president may recommend creating a group in the following circumstances:

• Travel for its potential members to meet with a ward or branch is difficult.

• A small number of members speak a language other than the language of their unit, including sign language.

- Members in the military are best served by being in a group (see 38.9.4). 38.10.3.1). To propose creating creating, changing, or discontinuing a group, the stake or mission president submits starts a request to new proposal at Boundary and Leadership Proposals. If he cannot use the online system, he can download paper forms by clicking on the link. The Area Presidency. Only Presidency approves or denies the proposal. The Area Presidency must submit the approved proposal to Church headquarters for processing before the group can approve be created or changed in the request. Church’s systems.

A group must have at least two members. One must be a worthy priest in the Aaronic Priesthood or a worthy Melchizedek Priesthood holder.

In stakes, the stake president assigns a bishop or branch president to organize and supervise the group. In missions, the mission president assigns a branch president to organize and supervise it. If the group is within the mission’s dispersed members unit, the mission president oversees its organization and supervision.

Generally, a group can be created to serve members who live in one or more units within a stake or district. Group membership is limited to those who live within the boundaries of the participating unit or units. Groups do not cross stake or district boundaries.

The stake president, the mission president, bishop, or an assigned bishop or branch president (or an assigned counselor) calls a group leader and sets him apart. The group leader organizes and conducts group meetings, which include the administration of the sacrament.

A group leader does not hold priesthood keys, and he is not authorized to:

Membership records of group members are kept in the ward or branch that supervises the group.

When a group qualifies, the stake or mission president may propose for it to become a branch.

For instructions on information about creating wards, branches, and service member groups that meet on military installations, see 38.9.4. 38.10.3.1.

• Branch president

These officers may only perform a civil marriage only between a man and a woman. All of the following conditions must also apply:

• The bride or the groom is a member of the Church or has a baptismal date.

• Either the bride’s or the groom’s membership record is, or will be after baptism, in the Church unit over which the officer presides.

• The Church officer is legally authorized to officiate at a civil marriage in the jurisdiction where the marriage will take place.

Endorsed Latter-day Saint chaplains on active military duty may perform civil marriages without prior approval. when permitted under local law.

Nonmilitary chaplains who serve in the following organizations must receive prior approval from the Church’s Military Relations and Chaplain Services Division to perform a civil marriage:

• Police or fire departments

Retired Resigned or retired chaplains are not authorized by the Church to perform civil marriages in their capacity as chaplains. marriages.

Those who perform marriages acting in their callings as Church leaders or chaplains should use the guidelines in this section. They also follow all legal requirements.

Latter-day Saint chaplains are not considered presiding Church officers unless they are serving as a stake president, bishop, or branch president. When a chaplain who is not a presiding Church officer performs a civil marriage, he or she functions as an agent of the government or civilian organization he or she serves. Thus, the wording of the civil marriage ceremony is changed slightly for these chaplains as shown in 38.3.6.

Latter-day Saint chaplains may only perform a civil marriage only between a man and a woman.

Church officers and chaplains who perform civil marriages for members of the Church should provide the necessary marriage information to the ward or branch clerk. The clerk updates the membership records.

A Church officer or chaplain who performs civil marriages in a Church capacity may not accept fees.

6. If the request is approved, the First Presidency provides a letter stating that the sealing cancellation or sealing clearance has been granted.

7. After approval is granted, the member may schedule an appointment make a reservation for a temple sealing.

See 38.4.1.10.

5. If the request is approved, the First Presidency provides a letter stating that the restriction against temple sealing has been removed.

After approval is granted, the couple may schedule an appointment make a reservation to be sealed.

First Presidency approval is required before sealing a deceased couple who obtained a cancellation of their sealing in life.

Deceased Couples Who Cohabited but Were Not Married to Each Other. A deceased couple may be sealed to each other if they lived together as though they were husband and wife, even if no marriage can be documented. In any other circumstance, First Presidency approval is required before sealing a deceased couple who had no documented marriage. If either deceased person has a surviving spouse, that spouse must give written consent.

These sealings are generally done so that a couple’s children can receive the blessing of being sealed to them.

During the endowment and sealing ordinances in the temple, Church members wear white clothing. Clothing should be modest in design and fabric. Sheer fabric should be lined.

Women wear the following white clothing: a long-sleeve or three-quarter-sleeve dress (or a skirt and a long-sleeve or three-quarter-sleeve blouse) and shoes or slippers.

When possible, members with medical conditions should wear the garment the same as any other member.

Special-order garments may be purchased for members who have medical conditions or use medical devices. Members who need special-order garments may contact a clothing consultant to place an order. Contact information is available at ChurchofJesusChrist.org/tools/ help. ChurchofJesusChrist.org/tools/help.

Some medical conditions or medical devices may make it difficult for members to wear one or both parts of the garment. Members should seek the guidance of the Spirit in such situations. In some cases, it may be best to lay the garment aside temporarily and wear it again when conditions allow.

When a member cannot wear the garment because of a medical condition or device, his or her religious status is not affected. The Lord focuses on the heart and a willing mind (see Doctrine and Covenants 64:34). As long as the member remains worthy, he or she will receive the blessings associated with wearing the garment.

To dispose Before disposing of worn-out temple garments, members should cut out and destroy the marks. Members then cut up the remaining fabric so it cannot be identified as a garment. The remaining cloth can then be discarded. To dispose Before disposing of worn-out ceremonial temple clothing, members should cut it up so the original use cannot be recognized. The cut cloth should can then be discarded.

Members may give garments and temple clothing that are in good condition to other endowed members. Members should not give garments or ceremonial temple clothing to thrift stores, bishops’ storehouses, temples, or charities.

Members who have abused others should not be given Church callings and may not have a temple recommend until they have repented and Church membership restrictions have been removed.

If a person abused a child or youth sexually or seriously abused a child or youth physically or emotionally, his or her membership record will be annotated. He or she must not be given any calling or assignment involving children or youth. This includes not being given a ministering assignment to a family with youth or children in the home. It also includes not having a youth as a ministering companion. These restrictions should remain in place unless the Office of the First Presidency authorizes removal of the annotation. See 32.14.5 for information about annotations.

Circumstances vary greatly from person to person and can change over time. Members who feel their inner sense of gender does not align with their biological sex at birth or who identify as transgender, as well as the parents or guardians of minors facing such circumstances, are encouraged to seek counsel from their bishop. Bishops counsel with the stake president to address individual circumstances with sensitivity and Christlike love. Stake and mission presidents seek counsel from the Area Presidency.

National and local laws vary regarding individuals who identify as transgender. In the United States and Canada, States, stake presidents and mission presidents who have questions about legal requirements should contact the Church’s Office of General Counsel:

1-800-453-3860, extension 2-6301 1-801-240-6301

Outside the United States and Canada, States, these leaders should contact the area legal counsel at the area office.

For more information about understanding and supporting individuals who feel their inner sense of gender does not align with their biological sex at birth or who identify as transgender, see “Transgender” on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

For most Church meetings and activities, speakers and instructors should belong to the local ward sponsoring unit or stake. units. Exceptions should be rare. A guest speaker or instructor is someone who does not belong to the ward or stake. a sponsoring unit. The bishop’s approval of the sponsoring unit’s presiding leader is required before a guest speaker is invited to a ward meeting or activity. The stake president’s activity of that unit. This includes the Area President’s approval is required to invite guest speakers to stake meetings for an area or activities. multistake meeting or activity. The bishop or stake president carefully screens guest speakers or instructors. This may include includes contacting the person’s bishop. The bishop or stake president ensures Leaders ensure that:

• The presentation is in harmony with Church doctrine.

• The presentation does not include speculative topics (topics should be consistent with those addressed in general conference).

- Guest speakers Speakers or instructors are not paid a fee, do not recruit participants, and do not solicit customers or clients.

• The person’s travel expenses are not paid either with local unit budget funds or by private contributions.

• Presentations comply with the guidelines for using Church facilities (see 35.5).

When legal help is needed for Church matters, leaders should contact Church legal counsel. In the United States and Canada, States, the stake president contacts the Church’s Office of General Counsel:

1-800-453-3860, extension 2-6301 1-801-240-6301

Outside the United States and Canada, States, the stake president contacts the area legal counsel at the area office.

The bishopric or stake presidency may call a ward or stake disability specialist. The specialist helps members with disabilities and their caregivers participate in Church meetings and activities and feel included. in meaningful ways.

The specialist serves members and leaders in the following ways:

- Get to know individuals with disabilities and their families. families and help them access Church materials, meetings, and activities.

• Respond to disability-related questions and concerns from caregivers, leaders, and others.

• Identify meaningful opportunities for members with disabilities to serve.

• Identify specific needs of families and, where appropriate, identify community, ward, and stake resources.

The specialist can help members with disabilities and their caregivers share information about the disability with others.

A member of the bishopric meets oversees ward military relations and coordinates with the stake military relations specialist. He has the following responsibilities: - Meet with ward members and their families before they members leave for military service. He ensures they have an opportunity - Invite members entering the military to attend complete the Church’s military service orientation (see 38.9.3). orientation. - Encourage service members to receive a patriarchal blessing and temple recommend. - Help transfer service members’ Church records if they relocate. - Correspond regularly with deployed service members. - Support veteran reintegration. For information about the membership records for a member of members entering the military, see 33.6.9. Some The records of members are assigned to a remote or an isolated location or are deployed to a war zone. In these cases, zone typically remain in their home ward. If a deployed service member’s family moves, the bishop contacts member’s record should be sent to the family’s new ward. Church leaders may contact the Church’s Military Relations and Chaplain Services Division for guidance about membership records (see 38.9.10). Leaders in the home ward should correspond regularly with each ward member who is away in Office if they have questions. Bishops of units that meet on a military service. The bishop coordinates installation should coordinate with the senior installation’s chaplain at each military installation in the ward. or commander to facilitate worship services. Services may include sacrament meeting; elders quorum, Relief Society, Aaronic Priesthood quorum, and Young Women meetings; Sunday School and Primary classes; seminary and institute classes; and other unit activities.

Members in the military normally participate in wards located near attend their military installations. However, in the following circumstances, the assigned Church unit. The stake or mission president may organize a ward, branch, or service member group for military personnel and their families at when one of the installation: following applies: - There is no ward unit within a reasonable distance of the military installation. - Military personnel do not understand the language spoken in the local ward. unit.

• Military personnel are unable to leave the military installation because of training requirements or other restrictions.

Wards Wards, branches, and branches groups at military installations are created using the procedures outlined in chapter 37.

If Church services In militaries where religious accommodations are held on made, a military installation, the president of chaplain often oversees religious programs on military installations. When a stake where the installation Church unit is located organizes one of the following for military personnel and their families (see 38.9.4): - A ward with established at a bishopric (when authorized by military installation, the First Presidency) - A branch with a bishop, branch presidency - A service member group with a service member president, or group leader and assistants The stake president calls, sets apart, and oversees coordinates with the leaders of these units. He gives these leaders’ contact information installation chaplain to arrange the Church’s Military Relations meeting times and Chaplain Services Division. He may designate a ward to support each service member group. location for Church services. The chaplain may advertise this information. If no chaplain is assigned, the stake president works should consult with the commanding officer to determine how to provide Church services to the military members. The Church Military Relations and Chaplain Services Division to Office can provide to military leaders a letter of appointment to each certifying that a bishop, branch president, or group leader. This letter outlines his responsibilities and authorizes him leader, or service member ministry coordinator (see 38.10.3.3) is authorized to preside over the unit and conduct meetings. meetings on behalf of the Church. A copy of the letter should be given to the installation chaplain. The United States military requires that a chaplain provide administrative oversight to any religious service held on a military installation. If there is a Latter-day Saint chaplain on the installation, he normally provides such oversight to a Church unit that meets there. The chaplain does not preside at the worship services unless he is the bishop, branch president, or group leader. However, he is expected to attend and participate. A member of the stake presidency coordinates with the senior chaplain at each military installation in the stake. He ensures that bishops of wards whose boundaries encompass a military installation do the same. These leaders inform the chaplain of the ward’s meeting schedule, meeting location, and contact person. The chaplain can give this information to members at the installation.

For In many countries with mandatory military service, Church members must generally complete their military service obligation before they can serve a full-time mission. Some countries may allow the mandatory this military service to be deferred until after missionary service. Stake presidents and bishops should become familiar with their country’s requirements so they can advise members appropriately. Members serving in the Reserves or National Guard may be able to serve missions a mission after they complete basic and advanced training. training (with approval from their commander). Bishops should understand their country’s military service requirements and counsel with youth and young single adults who plan to serve a mission. Members and leaders should carefully coordinate the timing of missionary service to ensure that it does not interfere with military obligations. For more information, see the “Missionary Service and Military Obligations” section in on the Church’s Military Members page. Relations page, or contact the Military Relations Office.

• See 38.5.7. - Section 38.5.7 in this handbook

For information about membership records of service members, see 33.6.9.

For information about patriarchal blessings for service members, see 38.2.10.3.

For information about issuing temple recommends in isolated locations, see 26.3.4.