This chapter outlines priesthood ordinance and blessing policies for stake presidents and bishops. Instructions for performing ordinances and blessings are outlined in the following publications:
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Family Guidebook, pages 18–25
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Duties and Blessings of the Priesthood, Part B, pages 42–47
Policies that pertain to temple ordinances are outlined in chapter 3 of this handbook.
16.1
General Policies
16.1.1
Worthiness to Participate in an Ordinance or Blessing
Only a Melchizedek Priesthood holder who is worthy to hold a temple recommend may act as voice in confirming a person a member of the Church, conferring the Melchizedek Priesthood, ordaining a person to an office in that priesthood, or setting apart a person to serve in a Church calling.
As guided by the Spirit and the instructions in the next paragraph, bishops and stake presidents have discretion to allow priesthood holders who are not fully temple worthy to perform or participate in some ordinances and blessings. However, presiding officers should not allow such participation if a priesthood holder has unresolved serious sins.
A bishop may allow a father who holds the Melchizedek Priesthood to name and bless his children even if the father is not fully temple worthy. Likewise, a bishop may allow a father who is a priest or Melchizedek Priesthood holder to baptize his children or to ordain his sons to offices in the Aaronic Priesthood. A Melchizedek Priesthood holder in similar circumstances may be allowed to stand in the circle for the confirmation of his children, for the conferral of the Melchizedek Priesthood on his sons, or for the setting apart of his wife or children. However, he may not act as voice.
16.1.2
Translating and Interpreting Ordinances and Blessings
If necessary, a presiding officer may ask a priesthood holder to translate or interpret orally an ordinance or blessing into a language that the recipient understands. If a priesthood holder is not available, a presiding officer may ask a woman to do the translation.
A presiding officer may also ask a priesthood holder to interpret an ordinance or blessing if the recipient is deaf or hearing impaired. If a priesthood holder is not available, a presiding officer may ask a woman to do the interpretation.
For information about translation and sign language interpretation of patriarchal blessings, see 16.12.4 and 16.12.5.
16.1.3
Records of Ordinances
When a person receives a saving ordinance or priesthood ordination, a clerk from the ward where the person’s membership record is held (1) obtains information about the ordinance or ordination and (2) ensures that this information is recorded on the person’s membership record and on the certificate.
The complete date that the following ordinances were performed should be recorded on a person’s membership record: baptism, confirmation, priesthood ordinations, temple endowment, sealing to parents, and temple sealing. For Melchizedek Priesthood ordinations, the name of the person who performed each ordination should also be recorded.
16.1.4
Performing an Ordinance or Blessing in Another Ward
To act as voice when naming and blessing a child, baptizing or confirming a person, ordaining a person to a priesthood office, or dedicating a grave, a priesthood holder who is outside his own ward should show the presiding officer a current temple recommend or a Recommend to Perform an Ordinance form that is signed by a member of his bishopric.
16.1.5
Recording the Words of Ordinances and Blessings
Patriarchal blessings are recorded and transcribed. The exact wording of other ordinances and blessings is not recorded in writing or by recording device. However, a family may record father’s blessings.
16.1.6
Photographs and Video Recordings of Ordinances and Blessings
No one should take photographs, motion pictures, or video recordings of priesthood ordinances or blessings or of baptismal services.
16.1.7
Ordinances for Adopted Children
After a legal adoption is final, adopted children receive ordinances in the surname of their adoptive parents. An older child who is adopted after baptism is not baptized again. A ward clerk changes the membership record to conform to the decree of adoption.
For information about the sealing of adopted or foster children, see 3.6.2.
16.1.8
Ordinances for Persons Who Have Intellectual Disabilities
When considering whether to perform ordinances for a person who has an intellectual disability, priesthood leaders and parents should prayerfully consider the person’s wishes and degree of understanding. Ordinances should not be withheld if the person is worthy, wants to receive them, and demonstrates an appropriate degree of responsibility and accountability.
Living persons whose disabilities cause them to have the intellectual capacity of little children are not accountable (see D&C 29:46–50). The saving ordinances do not need to be performed for these individuals. A bishop consults with his stake president if he has questions about specific persons. The stake president may direct questions to the Office of the First Presidency if necessary.
If leaders determine that a person should receive an ordinance, they help him or her understand and prepare for it.
Information about individual ordinances for persons who have intellectual disabilities is provided as follows:
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For baptism, see 16.3.5.
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For priesthood ordination, see “Brethren Who Have Intellectual Disabilities” in 16.7.4.
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For patriarchal blessings, see the fifth paragraph in 16.12.1.
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For temple ordinances, see “Members Who Have Disabilities” in 3.3.3; see also 3.7.6.
16.1.9
Ordinances and Blessings Performed by and for Persons Who Have Physical Disabilities
Persons who have physical disabilities, such as the loss of one or both arms, paraplegia, quadriplegia, deafness, or a hearing impairment, may perform and receive ordinances and blessings. Leaders make the necessary arrangements for these persons to participate in ways that their disabilities allow. If leaders have questions they cannot resolve, the stake president refers the questions to the Office of the First Presidency.
Persons who are deaf or hearing impaired may communicate through sign language when performing or receiving an ordinance or blessing. A priesthood leader who oversees an ordinance ensures that the recipient can understand it through an interpreter or by other means (see 16.1.2).
16.1.10
Procedure When an Ordinance Is Not Valid
Ordinances for Which There Is No Valid Record
For record-keeping purposes, an ordinance is not considered valid unless at least the correct year it was performed is recorded on the membership record. If the date is missing or incorrect, the ordinance can be validated by the member showing the bishop the original certificate that was issued when the ordinance was performed. The bishop then asks a clerk to record this information on the membership record.
If the member cannot provide the certificate, a ward clerk can ask for a search of Church records (available only for records submitted before 1984) by completing a Request for Ordinance Information form.
If the information cannot be found in Church records, the bishop or clerk may try to verify the ordinance by obtaining the testimony of two witnesses. The two witnesses should:
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Have been 10 years of age or older when the ordinance was performed.
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Have seen and heard the ordinance.
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Be Church members of record at the time they give their testimony.
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Give their testimony in writing, stating either (a) the complete date the ordinance was performed or (b) the year it was performed and the person who performed it.
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Sign their written testimony in the presence of a member of the bishopric or a higher Church authority.
If this testimony is obtained, the bishop may authorize a clerk to record or correct the date on the membership record. The written testimony may then be discarded.
If the ordinance is not verified by an original certificate, a search of Church records, or the testimony of witnesses, it must be performed again to be considered valid.
If the member has received other ordinances after having received an invalid ordinance, they must be ratified by the First Presidency to be considered valid. To request ratification, the stake president sends a letter to the Office of the First Presidency.
Ordinances That Were Received out of Sequence
An ordinance is not valid if a person received it out of sequence. For example, the endowment of a male member is not valid if he received it before receiving the Melchizedek Priesthood. However, the First Presidency may ratify such an ordinance. To request ratification, the stake president sends a letter to the Office of the First Presidency.
Ordinances That Were Performed before the Appropriate Age
An ordinance is not valid if it was performed before the appropriate age. For example, a baptism is not valid if it was performed before the person was 8 years old. If no other ordinances have been received based on the invalid ordinance, it should be performed again. If other ordinances, such as priesthood ordination, have been received based on the invalid ordinance, those ordinances and the invalid ordinance must be ratified by the First Presidency to be valid. To request ratification, the stake president sends a letter to the Office of the First Presidency.
Records of Ordinances That Were Performed Again
If an ordinance was performed again to become valid, a clerk records the date it was performed again on the membership record even if it will appear out of sequence with the dates of other ordinances on the membership record.
16.2
Naming and Blessing Children
16.2.1
General Guidelines
“Every member of the church of Christ having children is to bring them unto the elders before the church, who are to lay their hands upon them in the name of Jesus Christ, and bless them in his name” (D&C 20:70). In conformity with this revelation, only Melchizedek Priesthood holders may participate in naming and blessing children. Priesthood leaders should inform members of this instruction before their children are named and blessed. While preserving the sacred nature of the blessing, leaders should make every reasonable effort to avoid embarrassment or offense to individuals or families.
Children are normally named and blessed during fast and testimony meeting in the ward where the parents are members of record.
The following policies apply to blessing babies in special circumstances.
16.2.2
Babies Who Were Born out of Wedlock
Children who were born out of wedlock may be blessed during fast and testimony meeting. If a family prefers, the bishop may authorize Melchizedek Priesthood holders to bless the child in the home, with a member of the bishopric presiding.
16.2.3
Babies Who Are Critically Ill
If a newborn infant is critically ill, a Melchizedek Priesthood holder may perform the naming and blessing in the hospital or at home without previous authorization from the bishop. A person who does this notifies the bishop promptly so necessary records can be made.
16.2.4
Babies with a Nonmember Parent
When either of a child’s parents is not a member of the Church, the bishop should obtain verbal permission from both parents before the child is blessed. He explains that a membership record will be prepared for the child after the blessing. He should also tell them (1) that ward members will contact them periodically and (2) that when the child reaches age 8, the bishop or the ward missionaries will visit them and propose that the child be baptized.
16.3
Baptism and Confirmation
16.3.1
Children Who Are Members of Record
Under the direction of the presiding authority, children who are members of record should be baptized and confirmed on or as soon after their 8th birthday as reasonable. These are children for whom Church membership records already exist (see 13.6.2).
Bishops give special attention to 7-year-old children in the ward, ensuring that their parents, Primary leaders and teachers, and home teachers help them prepare for baptism and confirmation. Melchizedek Priesthood and Relief Society leaders also encourage parents to teach and prepare their children for these ordinances. When children reach age 8, the bishop makes sure they have every opportunity to accept the gospel and be baptized and confirmed.
16.3.2
Converts
The mission president holds the keys for baptizing and confirming converts. Under his direction, full-time missionaries conduct a baptism and confirmation interview for each candidate and authorize the ordinances to take place. The mission president also oversees the recording of the ordinances by the mission staff so that a membership record can be created.
The full-time missionaries coordinate closely with the ward mission leader, who is responsible for scheduling and organizing baptismal services. Bishops ensure that converts are confirmed in a sacrament meeting.
Convert baptisms are defined as baptisms of (1) persons ages 9 and older who have never been baptized and confirmed and (2) children age 8 whose parents are not members or are being baptized and confirmed at the same time as the children.
Former members who are readmitted by baptism and confirmation after excommunication or name removal are not considered converts. Missionaries may not interview them for baptism. For information about readmitting former members by baptism and confirmation, see 6.12.12 and 6.13.3.
16.3.3
Baptism and Confirmation Interviews
An authorized priesthood leader or missionary interviews each person before baptism and confirmation as outlined in this section.
Eight-Year-Old Children
The bishop or an assigned counselor conducts interviews for the baptism and confirmation of 8-year-old children who are members of record and 8-year-old children who are not members of record but have at least one parent or guardian who is a member. The full-time missionaries teach and interview 8-year-old children whose parents are not members and children who will be 9 years old or older at the time of baptism.
A bishopric member who interviews a child for baptism ensures that he or she understands the purposes of baptism. He also ensures that each child understands the baptismal covenant and is committed to live by it. As guided by the Spirit, he could ask questions similar to the first two that are asked in convert baptism interviews (see “Interview Instructions” on page 144). In asking other questions, the interviewer should bear in mind that children are accounted as sinless before God until the age of 8.
Converts
The full-time missionary district leader normally interviews convert baptism candidates (as defined in 16.3.2). The zone leader conducts the interview if the person was taught by the district leader. Missionaries are authorized to conduct these interviews by delegation of authority from the mission president.
Each prospective convert should meet with the bishop before baptism and confirmation. However, the bishop does not interview such candidates for baptism, nor does he determine their worthiness.
Authorization from the mission president is required before a prospective convert may be baptized and confirmed if the person:
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Has submitted to, performed, arranged for, paid for, consented to, or encouraged an abortion.
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Has been convicted of a serious crime (see 16.3.14).
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Has committed a homosexual transgression.
In these instances, the mission president conducts a searching interview and issues a Baptism and Confirmation Record if he determines that the person has repented and is worthy.
If necessary, the mission president may authorize one of his counselors to conduct the interview in cases of abortion. Each interview must be authorized separately. The counselor who conducts it reports to the mission president, who may then authorize or deny the baptism and confirmation.
The mission president must conduct an interview and receive authorization from the First Presidency before a prospective convert may be baptized and confirmed if the person:
Interview Instructions
The person who conducts a convert baptism and confirmation interview uses the following questions, with the guidance of the Spirit, to determine whether the candidate meets the qualifications described in D&C 20:37 (see also Mosiah 18:8–10; Moroni 6:1–4). These questions apply to all candidates but should be adapted to the person’s age and maturity.
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Do you believe that God is our Eternal Father? Do you believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and the Savior and Redeemer of the world?
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Do you believe that the Church and gospel of Jesus Christ have been restored through the Prophet Joseph Smith? Do you believe that [current Church President] is a prophet of God? What does this mean to you?
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What does it mean to you to repent? Do you feel that you have repented of your past transgressions?
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Have you ever committed a serious crime? If so, are you now on probation or parole? (For instructions if the person answers affirmatively, see 16.3.14.) Have you ever participated in an abortion? a homosexual relationship?
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You have been taught that membership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints includes living gospel standards. What do you understand about the following standards? Are you willing to obey them?
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The law of chastity, which prohibits any sexual relations outside the bonds of a legal marriage between a man and a woman.
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The law of tithing.
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The Word of Wisdom.
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Keeping the Sabbath day holy, including partaking of the sacrament weekly and rendering service to others.
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When you are baptized, you covenant with God that you are willing to take upon yourself the name of Christ and keep His commandments throughout your life. Are you ready to make this covenant and strive to be faithful to it?
After determining that a candidate is prepared for baptism, the interviewer fills out the Baptism and Confirmation Record according to instructions with the form. After a person is confirmed, the bishop and ward clerk ensure that the confirmation information is complete and correct. For more information about the Baptism and Confirmation Record, see Handbook 2, 20.3.11.
16.3.4
Baptismal Services and Baptism and Confirmation Guidelines
For guidelines on baptismal services, see Handbook 2, 20.3.4.
For guidelines on baptism and confirmation, see Handbook 2, 20.3.5 through 20.3.11.
16.3.5
Persons Who May Not Be Accountable
Persons who have intellectual disabilities and cannot knowingly repent may be considered by the bishop as not accountable. These persons do not need to be baptized and confirmed, regardless of their age. They are “saved in the celestial kingdom of heaven” (D&C 137:10; see also Moroni 8:8–12).
If a person later demonstrates an understanding of repentance and an appropriate degree of accountability and desire, he or she may be baptized and confirmed. If a person was baptized but later becomes intellectually disabled, the baptism and confirmation are still valid.
For additional guidelines, see 16.1.8. For information about the membership records of persons who may not be accountable, see 13.6.10.
16.3.6
Minors
A minor child, as defined by local laws, may be baptized and confirmed only when both of the following conditions are met:
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Consent has been given by the custodial parent(s) or legal guardian(s). The person who conducts the baptism and confirmation interview may ask for this consent to be in writing if he feels it will help prevent misunderstandings.
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The person who conducts the baptism and confirmation interview discerns that there is clear evidence that the child understands the baptismal covenant and will make every effort to keep it through obeying the commandments, including faithfully attending Church meetings.
16.3.7
Children Whose Parents Are Divorced
A child whose parents are divorced may be baptized and confirmed only with the permission of the parent(s) with legal custody. If the mother has custody and has remarried, and if the child is not formally adopted but has assumed the surname of the stepfather, the child may be baptized and confirmed in the name by which he or she will be known. However, the child’s legal name, as defined by local law or custom, should be recorded on the membership record and the baptism and confirmation certificate.
16.3.8
Adults Involved in Plural Marriage
An adult who has previously encouraged, taught, or been involved in the practice of plural marriage must receive approval from the First Presidency before he or she may be baptized and confirmed. The mission president may request this approval from the Office of the First Presidency. The request should provide information about the individual’s past involvement in plural marriage and his or her subsequent repentance and current family situation.
16.3.9
Children Whose Parents Have Practiced or Are Practicing Plural Marriage
Children of parents who have practiced or are practicing plural marriage contrary to the law must receive approval from the First Presidency before they may be baptized and confirmed. The mission president may request this approval from the Office of the First Presidency when he is satisfied that all three of the following requirements are met:
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The children accept the teachings and doctrines of the Church.
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The children repudiate the teachings upon which their parents based their practice of plural marriage.
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Minor children are not living in a home where polygamy is being taught or practiced.
16.3.10
Persons Who Are Married
A married person must have the consent of his or her spouse before being baptized.
16.3.11
Persons Who Have Been Cohabiting out of Wedlock
A baptismal candidate who has been cohabiting out of wedlock with a person of the opposite gender must either marry the person or cease living with the person before he or she can be baptized.
16.3.12
Persons Who Have Been Excommunicated or Had Their Names Removed from Church Records
Persons who have been excommunicated may be readmitted into the Church by baptism and confirmation. Instructions are provided in 6.12, particularly 6.12.12.
Persons who have had their names removed from Church membership records may be readmitted by baptism and confirmation. Instructions are provided in 6.14.4.
16.3.13
Persons Who Have Been Involved in an Abortion
See “Converts” in 16.3.3.
16.3.14
Persons Who Have Been Convicted of Crimes
Persons who have been convicted of crimes and seek baptism for the first time or baptism for readmission into the Church may not be baptized and confirmed until they complete their terms of imprisonment. Those who have been convicted of felonies or any crimes of immoral character may not be baptized and confirmed until they have also completed their terms of parole or probation resulting from their convictions (unless the First Presidency has granted an exception). They are encouraged to work closely with local priesthood leaders and to do everything they can to become worthy of baptism and confirmation.
Full-time missionaries are not to teach people who are in prison or jail.
A person who has been convicted of murder, or who has confessed to it even in private confessions to a priesthood leader, may not be baptized and confirmed unless the First Presidency gives permission. The request for permission must include all pertinent details as determined during a personal interview by the mission president (if the person is seeking baptism for the first time) or the bishop (if a former member is seeking readmission). As used here, murder does not include police or military action in the line of duty. Abortion is not defined as murder for this purpose.
16.3.15
Persons Who Have HIV Infection or AIDS
Persons who are infected with HIV or who have AIDS are treated as anyone else who expresses faith in God, repents, requests baptism and confirmation, and is living the gospel of Jesus Christ.
16.3.16
Persons Who Are Considering or Have Undergone a Transsexual Operation
A person who is considering an elective transsexual operation may not be baptized or confirmed. Baptism and confirmation of a person who has already undergone an elective transsexual operation require the approval of the First Presidency. The mission president may request this approval if he has interviewed the person, found him or her to be otherwise worthy, and can recommend baptism. However, such persons may not receive the priesthood or a temple recommend.
16.4
Sacrament
See Handbook 2, 20.4.
16.5
Consecrating Oil
See Handbook 2, 20.5.
16.6
Administering to the Sick
See Handbook 2, 20.6.
16.7
Conferring the Priesthood and Ordaining to an Office
16.7.1
Melchizedek Priesthood Offices
Stake President’s and Bishop’s Responsibilities
The stake president oversees the conferral of the Melchizedek Priesthood and ordinations to the offices of elder and high priest. However, the bishop usually initiates recommendations for these ordinations. With the approval of the stake presidency, the bishop interviews the member as instructed on the Melchizedek Priesthood Ordination Record. Before doing so, he carefully reviews the person’s membership record to verify that it does not include an annotation or a comment about an ordinance restriction or unresolved Church discipline.
After the bishop interviews the member, the stake president or one of his counselors conducts a thorough, searching interview as instructed on the Melchizedek Priesthood Ordination Record. He also makes sure the member understands the oath and covenant of the priesthood and agrees to live by it (see D&C 84:33–44).
After the interview, the stake presidency asks the high council to sustain the decision to ordain the person. A member of the stake presidency then presents the person for a sustaining vote in the general session of stake conference or in a stake general priesthood meeting (see D&C 20:65, 67). The person should stand while the congregation gives a sustaining vote. The member of the stake presidency may say:
“We propose that [name] receive the Melchizedek Priesthood and be ordained an elder [or we propose that (name) be ordained a high priest]. Those in favor may manifest it by the uplifted hand. [Pause briefly for the sustaining vote.] Those opposed, if any, may manifest it. [Pause briefly to allow for a dissenting vote, if any.]”
The person who is being presented should participate in the sustaining vote. If more than one person is being presented, they usually may be sustained as a group.
If a member in good standing gives a dissenting vote, a member of the stake presidency confers with him or her privately after the meeting. The officer determines whether the dissenting vote was based on knowledge that the person is guilty of conduct that should disqualify him from being ordained to the priesthood office.
Some brethren may need to be ordained before they can be presented in a general stake meeting. When this occurs, they are presented in their ward sacrament meetings for a sustaining vote. Their names are then presented in the next stake conference or stake general priesthood meeting to ratify the ordination.
When the necessary interviews and approvals are completed, the ordination is performed according to the instructions in Handbook 2, 20.7.1.
Elders
Worthy brethren may receive the Melchizedek Priesthood and be ordained elders when they are 18 years old or older. Based on individual circumstances, such as a young man’s testimony and maturity, school graduation, desire to continue with peers, and college attendance, the bishop determines whether a young man should be ordained an elder soon after his 18th birthday or remain with the priests quorum longer. In making this decision, the bishop consults first with the young man and his parents. By age 19, or prior to leaving home to attend college, serve in the military, or accept full-time employment, all worthy brethren should be ordained elders.
Recently baptized brethren ages 18 and older are ordained elders after they have served as priests, developed sufficient understanding of the gospel, and demonstrated their worthiness. No specific time as a member is required.
High Priests
Brethren are ordained high priests when they are called to a stake presidency, high council, or bishopric or when otherwise determined by the stake president. As an exception, bishops’ counselors in wards that are in young single adult stakes do not need to be ordained high priests (see “Leadership” in 9.1.7).
Only high priests may stand in the circle when ordaining a man to the office of high priest.
16.7.2
Aaronic Priesthood Offices
Bishop’s Responsibility
The bishop oversees the conferral of the Aaronic Priesthood and ordination to the offices of deacon, teacher, and priest. Worthy brethren should be ordained at the following minimum ages:
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Deacon: age 12
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Teacher: age 14
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Priest: age 16
The bishop or an assigned counselor interviews brethren who are to be ordained deacons or teachers to determine if they are worthy. The bishop interviews brethren who are to be ordained priests. Before interviewing a young man for priesthood ordination, a member of the bishopric obtains permission from the young man’s parents or guardians.
If a member is found worthy in an interview, the person who conducts the interview completes the Aaronic Priesthood Ordination Record. The bishop or one of his counselors presents the member in sacrament meeting for the sustaining vote of members (see D&C 20:65). This should follow the pattern for presenting brethren for Melchizedek Priesthood ordination (see 16.7.1). If a member in good standing gives a dissenting vote, a member of the bishopric confers with him or her privately after the meeting.
After the sustaining vote, the ordination is performed by or under the direction of the bishop according to instructions in Handbook 2, 20.7.1.
Young Men Whose Parents Are Divorced
A young man whose parents are divorced may be ordained to Aaronic Priesthood offices only with the permission of the parent(s) with legal custody. If the mother has custody and has remarried, and if the young man is not formally adopted but has assumed the surname of the stepfather, he may be ordained in the name by which he is known. However, the young man’s legal name, as defined by local law or custom, should be recorded on the ordination certificate.
Recently Baptized and Confirmed Brethren
Brethren ages 12 and older who have recently been baptized and confirmed should receive the Aaronic Priesthood and be ordained to the appropriate office soon after their confirmation, normally within a week. Before receiving the priesthood, they must be interviewed for worthiness and presented in sacrament meeting for a sustaining vote. Brethren ages 16 and older are ordained priests. Brethren ages 19 and older are also considered prospective elders (see 16.7.3).
Because brethren who have been recently baptized and confirmed need to be interviewed by the bishop and sustained by a vote of ward members before they are ordained to an Aaronic Priesthood office, they are not ordained on the day they are baptized or confirmed.
Baptisms of family members should not be delayed so the father can receive the priesthood and perform the baptisms himself.
16.7.3
Prospective Elders
A prospective elder is a male Church member age 19 or older who does not hold the Melchizedek Priesthood. Married brethren who are younger than 19 and do not hold the Melchizedek Priesthood are also prospective elders.
The bishop interviews prospective elders regularly and works closely with other priesthood leaders in the ward to prepare them to receive the Melchizedek Priesthood. If a prospective elder is not already a priest, he should be ordained a priest as soon as he is worthy. He does not need to be ordained a deacon or teacher first. He may be ordained an elder when he has developed sufficient understanding of the gospel and demonstrated his worthiness.
For more information about prospective elders, see Handbook 2, 7.6.
16.7.4
Unusual Circumstances
Brethren Who Have Not Lived in the Same Ward for at Least One Year
If a male member has not lived in the same ward continuously for at least one year, the bishop contacts the prior bishop to certify the member’s worthiness before approving him for Aaronic Priesthood ordination or recommending him for Melchizedek Priesthood ordination.
If a person is ordained while he is living away from home temporarily, and if his membership record is still in his home ward, the bishop of the ward where he is ordained advises the bishop of the home ward so the membership record can be updated. The ordination certificate is prepared in the ward where the ordination is performed.
Brethren in Young Single Adult Wards and Single Adult Wards
Worthy brethren ages 18 and older in young single adult wards and single adult wards should be ordained elders. Brethren who are not ordained elders are affiliated with the elders quorum as prospective elders.
Military Servicemen in War Zones or Isolated Areas
A military serviceman is normally interviewed and ordained in the ward that has his membership record. However, this may not be feasible if the serviceman is at sea for an extended time or is serving in a war zone or isolated area. In such cases, the serviceman meets with his service member group leader. If the group leader feels that the serviceman is ready to be ordained, he makes a written recommendation to the presiding officer of the Church unit that oversees the service member group. That presiding officer contacts the bishop of the serviceman’s home ward to determine if he has any concerns about worthiness.
For ordination to Aaronic Priesthood offices, the presiding officer may authorize the group leader or a Latter-day Saint chaplain to interview the person and oversee the ordination. For ordination to the office of elder, the stake or mission president may authorize a Latter-day Saint chaplain to interview the person and oversee the ordination. All ordinations should be sustained or ratified as explained in 16.7.1 and 16.7.2.
Brethren Who Have Intellectual Disabilities
Priesthood leaders decide whether brethren who have intellectual disabilities should receive the priesthood. If the member lives with his parents, priesthood leaders consult with them. To be ordained, a member who has an intellectual disability should first demonstrate an appropriate degree of accountability and an understanding of responsibility. Priesthood holders who have such disabilities should be assisted so they can participate as fully as possible.
Brethren Who Have Been Readmitted by Baptism and Confirmation
For instructions about ordaining brethren who have been readmitted by baptism and confirmation after being excommunicated or having their names removed from the records of the Church, see “Ordination after Readmission” in 6.12.12.
Members Who Have Undergone a Transsexual Operation
Members who have undergone an elective transsexual operation may not receive the priesthood.
16.8
Father’s Blessings and Other Blessings of Comfort and Counsel
See Handbook 2, 20.8.
16.9
Dedicating Graves
See Handbook 2, 20.9.
16.10
Setting Apart Officers and Teachers
See Handbook 2, 19.4.
16.11
Dedicating Homes
See Handbook 2, 20.11.
16.12
Patriarchal Blessings
Information about patriarchal blessings is provided in the following paragraphs and in these additional sources:
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Chapter 15 in this handbook
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Handbook 2, 20.12
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Information and Suggestions for Patriarchs
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Worldwide Leadership Training Meeting: The Patriarch
16.12.1
General Guidelines
Every worthy, baptized member is entitled to and should receive a patriarchal blessing, which provides inspired direction from the Lord. Church leaders and parents encourage members to prepare spiritually to obtain their patriarchal blessings.
The bishop or an assigned counselor interviews members who wish to receive patriarchal blessings. If a member is worthy, the interviewer issues and signs a Patriarchal Blessing Recommend. The recommend must also be signed by a member of the stake presidency if the blessing will be given by a patriarch who lives outside the member’s stake (such authorization may be given only as outlined in 16.12.2). A member must take the signed recommend to the patriarch to receive a blessing.
The person who issues a Patriarchal Blessing Recommend ensures that the member is of sufficient age and maturity to understand the significance and sacred nature of the blessing. Ideally the member should be young enough that many important decisions in life are still ahead, though older adults are also encouraged to receive their patriarchal blessings. Priesthood leaders should not establish a minimum age for a member to receive a patriarchal blessing.
A new convert should understand the basic doctrines of the gospel before receiving a patriarchal blessing.
If a member has an intellectual disability, the bishop may issue a recommend only when, in consultation with the parents, he believes there is a sufficient level of understanding. Members should keep in mind that a patriarchal blessing is for the recipient and not for the parents.
When possible, a missionary should receive a patriarchal blessing before beginning missionary service. If this is not possible, the missionary should obtain a recommend from a member of his or her bishopric and receive the blessing while at a missionary training center.
If a missionary arrives in the mission field without having received a patriarchal blessing, the mission president is authorized to interview him or her and issue a Patriarchal Blessing Recommend. He then contacts the stake president in the nearest stake in which a patriarch can give a blessing in a language the missionary can understand. If this is not possible, the missionary may need to wait until he or she returns home to receive a patriarchal blessing.
16.12.2
Giving Patriarchal Blessings to Members outside the Stake
A stake patriarch normally gives patriarchal blessings only to members in his stake. However, he may give blessings to members outside of his stake in the following circumstances:
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A patriarch may give patriarchal blessings to his own lineal descendants (children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren) regardless of where they live. The person receiving the blessing must have a recommend signed by a member of the bishopric. If the member lives in a different stake than the patriarch, the recommend must also be signed by a member of the stake presidency.
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A member who lives in a stake that does not have a functioning patriarch may go to a patriarch in a nearby stake. The member’s recommend must be signed by a member of the bishopric and a member of the stake presidency. A member who lives in a district may also go to a patriarch in a nearby stake. The recommend should be signed by the branch or district president and a member of the mission presidency.
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A member who speaks a language that is different from the language of the stake patriarch may go to a patriarch in a nearby stake to receive a blessing in his or her own language. The member must have a recommend signed by a member of the bishopric and a member of the stake presidency.
16.12.3
Patriarchal Blessings for Members Entering the Military
When a worthy member enters military service, priesthood leaders encourage him or her to receive a patriarchal blessing before reporting for active duty.
If it is not possible for a member to receive a patriarchal blessing before leaving, he or she can receive it from a patriarch where the temporary duty station is located. To do this, the member presents a recommend from a member of the home-ward bishopric to a member of the stake presidency where the temporary duty station is located.
If a member entering the military does not have a recommend from the home-ward bishopric, he or she may receive a recommend from a member of the bishopric of the ward where the temporary duty station is located. That bishopric member interviews the member for worthiness and contacts the home-ward bishop before issuing a recommend.
After a member of either of these bishoprics has signed a recommend, a member of the stake presidency where the temporary duty station is located interviews the person and signs the recommend if he or she is worthy.
16.12.4
Translation of Patriarchal Blessings
The Church does not provide translations of the text of patriarchal blessings. Nor are members encouraged to translate patriarchal blessings, since it is difficult to convey the inspired depth of meaning and feeling of a blessing. Nevertheless, if a member does not understand the language of the patriarch and desires to have a blessing translated into another language after it has been received, it is his or her responsibility to find a trusted and worthy member of the Church who can provide the translation. The translator should be carefully selected, skilled in the language, and capable of understanding the spiritual nature and confidentiality of the blessing. Translated copies of blessings are not filed at Church headquarters.
16.12.5
Sign Language Interpretation of Patriarchal Blessings
If a member requires interpretation by sign language to understand the blessing as it is being pronounced, it is his or her responsibility to find a trusted and worthy member of the Church who can provide the interpretation.
16.13
Children of a Parent Living in a Same-Gender Relationship
A natural or adopted child of a parent living in a same-gender relationship, whether the couple is married or cohabiting, may not receive a name and a blessing.
A natural or adopted child of a parent living in a same-gender relationship, whether the couple is married or cohabiting, may be baptized and confirmed, ordained, or recommended for missionary service only as follows:
A mission president or a stake president may request approval from the Office of the First Presidency to baptize and confirm, ordain, or recommend missionary service for a child of a parent who has lived or is living in a same-gender relationship when he is satisfied by personal interviews that both of the following requirements are met:
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The child accepts and is committed to live the teachings and doctrine of the Church, and specifically disavows the practice of same-gender cohabitation and marriage.
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The child is of legal age and does not live with a parent who has lived or currently lives in a same-gender cohabitation relationship or marriage.
Chart of Ordinations
|
Office |
Recommended By |
Approved By |
Sustained By |
Interviewed and Ordained By |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Patriarch |
Stake presidency |
Quorum of the Twelve |
Members in stake conference or stake general priesthood meeting |
A member of the First Presidency or Twelve, or the stake president with written approval from the Quorum of the Twelve |
|
High priest |
Bishop and stake presidency |
Stake presidency and high council |
Members in stake conference or stake general priesthood meeting |
Interviewed by the bishop and by the stake president or an assigned counselor; ordained under the direction of the stake president |
|
Elder |
Bishop |
Stake presidency and high council |
Members in stake conference or stake general priesthood meeting |
Interviewed by the bishop and by the stake president or an assigned counselor; ordained under the direction of the stake president |
|
Bishop |
Stake presidency |
First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve |
Ward members in sacrament meeting |
A General Authority or Area Seventy, or the stake president with written approval from the First Presidency |
|
Priest |
Bishop |
Bishopric |
Ward members in sacrament meeting |
Interviewed by the bishop; ordained under the direction of the bishop |
|
Teacher or deacon |
Bishop |
Bishopric |
Ward members in sacrament meeting |
Interviewed by the bishop or an assigned counselor; ordained under the direction of the bishop |
