Apr 24 2016

Priesthood: Lesson Ideas

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What is the Priesthood

“We sometimes overly associate the power of the priesthood with men in the Church. The priesthood is the power and authority of God given for the salvation and blessing of all—men, women, and children.

“A man may open the drapes so the warm sunlight comes into the room, but the man does not own the sun or the light or the warmth it brings. The blessings of the priesthood are infinitely greater than the one who is asked to administer the gift.”

—Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, “Power in the Priesthood,” Liahona, Nov. 2013, 92.

For the Strength of Youth August 2021 “The Priesthood of God”

One term we use in the Church in two ways is priesthood. The term refers to the total power and authority of God. However, we also use priesthood in a more limited way—to refer to “the power and authority that God gives to ordained priesthood holders to act in all things necessary for the salvation of God’s children.”1

The priesthood conferred upon man is not all of God’s power. The following chart illustrates this point.

GOD’S TOTAL POWER

  • By this power the worlds are created.
  • By this power God knows and loves each of us.
  • By this power God guides and directs us through the Holy Ghost.
  • By this power God hears and answers our prayers.

Conferred Priesthood

  • By this power and authority we are baptized.
  • By this power and authority a bishop presides in a ward.
  • By this power and authority we are sealed as families.
  • By this power and authority the sacrament is blessed and passed.
  • By this power and authority priesthood blessings are given.

Latter Day Kids “What is the Priesthood? “ Lesson ideas to go with video

“Lesson 33: Elijah Uses the Priesthood,” Primary 6: Old Testament To help the children have a greater understanding of how the priesthood blesses their lives.

Priesthood holders are called of God. (Jr)

Hebrews 5:4

Hebrews 5:4 is an important verse because it clarifies that priesthood holders must be called by God. The same is true of anyone who is called to serve in the Lord’s Church.

Read Hebrews 5:4 to the children. Ask a priesthood holder to explain what the priesthood is. He could also share how he serves others as he fulfills his duties. Also ask a sister in the ward to share her experience being set apart to a calling in the Church. Encourage her to share how the Lord blessed her with the power to fulfill her calling. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“ )

Help the children memorize phrases from the fifth article of faith. Bear your testimony that people who are called to do God’s work are called by God through revelation.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“ )

  • “Article of Faith 5” (May 2011 Friend) Number pictures relating to how a person receives a calling in the right order.

Priesthood holders are called of God. (Jr)

Hebrews 5:1–4

Hebrews 5 provides an opportunity to discuss what priesthood is—the power and authority to act in God’s name—and how it is received.

Show the picture Moses Gives Aaron the Priesthood (Gospel Art Book, no. 15) while a child reads Hebrews 5:4. Explain that the Aaronic Priesthood was named after Aaron. Help the children think of duties Aaronic Priesthood holders perform (such as baptizing, blessing and passing the sacrament, and inviting others to come unto Christ; see Doctrine and Covenants 20:46–48, 59). (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“ )

Media Library

Help the children think about different ways in which people receive authority. For example, how does a teacher, doctor, or political leader receive authority? How does God give His authority? Invite the children to think about this question as they read Hebrews 5:4 and the fifth article of faith. Help the children think of people in the ward who have authority from God—including priesthood holders, as well as men and women who have been set apart to serve in specific callings.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“ )

  • “Article of Faith 5” (May 2011 Friend) Number pictures relating to how a person receives a calling in the right order.

How Do We Receive the Priesthood

The priesthood is a priceless gift from God.

Acts 8:9–24

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Acts 6-9” Satan promotes the message that material things bring us happiness. How can you use the story of Simon to help the children value spiritual things such as the priesthood and its blessings?

Summarize the story of Simon, found in Acts 8:9–24 (see also “Chapter 58: Simon and the Priesthood,” in New Testament Stories, 152–53, or the corresponding video on ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

Why can’t we receive the priesthood by buying it? How does someone really receive priesthood authority? (see Articles of Faith 1:5).

  • “Article of Faith 5” (May 2011 Friend) Number pictures relating to how a person receives a calling in the right order.

Show pictures of the sacrament, a temple (representing temple blessings), a baptism, and other blessings we receive through the priesthood. Explain that these gifts from God cannot be bought with money. Why are they more valuable than anything we could buy? How do we receive these blessings?

  • Friend August 2021 “The Power of a Priesthood Blessing” Heavenly Father’s priesthood power blesses our lives in many ways. The cards below show some of the blessings we can all have because of the priesthood. Cut them out and put them face down. Then take turns choosing one and telling how it has helped you or will help you someday!

Priesthood Ordinances Help Me Prepare to Live with Heavenly Father Again.

Doctrine and Covenants 84:4–5, 18–28, 30

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 84”

Do the children you teach know the purposes of the priesthood? In Doctrine and Covenants 84, the Lord reveals one purpose: to help us return to Heavenly Father. (To learn more, see Gospel Topics, “Priesthood,” topics.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.)

  • Read Doctrine and Covenants 84:20, and ask the children to stand when they hear the word “ordinances.” To help them understand what an ordinance is, display pictures of several priesthood ordinances, such as Gospel Art Book, nos. 103–8, and ask the children to describe what is happening in each picture (see also Guide to the Scriptures, “Ordinances,” scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Explain that Heavenly Father has given us these ordinances to help us return to live with Him.
  • Let the children color the activity page. As they do, explain the various priesthood ordinances shown on the page and why you are grateful for those ordinances.

As they get older, the children you teach will be able to participate in more priesthood ordinances, including baptisms and confirmations for the dead in the temple. How can you help them understand the purposes and power of priesthood ordinances?

  • Write Aaronic Priesthood and Melchizedek Priesthood on the board. Read together Doctrine and Covenants 84:18, 26–28, 30, and help the children list truths they learn about the Aaronic Priesthood from these verses. Then read together Doctrine and Covenants 84:18–25, and list truths about the Melchizedek Priesthood.
  • Invite the children to list the priesthood ordinances they have participated in or witnessed, such as baptism, confirmation, priesthood blessings, or the sacrament. Ask them to share their experiences with these ordinances. Read Doctrine and Covenants 84:20 together (help them understand unfamiliar words). Why does the Lord invite us to participate in ordinances? How does the priesthood help us return to Heavenly Father?
  • Create a puzzle out of a picture of a temple. Read with the children Doctrine and Covenants 84:5, and ask them to listen for what the Lord commanded the Saints to build. Give each child a piece of the puzzle, and ask them to share something they can do to prepare to enter the temple.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 84”

After reading about how Moses received his priesthood authority, a priesthood holder in your family or a ministering brother could share his experience of being ordained to a priesthood office. If possible, he could share and discuss his priesthood line of authority. Why is it important that we can trace priesthood authority in the Church today back to the authority of Jesus Christ? To request a priesthood line of authority, send an email to lineofauthority@ChurchofJesusChrist.org.Doctrine and Covenants 84:20–21.

When has your family experienced “the power of godliness” being manifested through an ordinance such as baptism or the sacrament? Perhaps you can talk about how these ordinances bring God’s power into our lives. You could also display a picture of a temple and discuss how the ordinances of the temple give us additional power to become like the Savior. You may want to sing a song about the priesthood, such as “The Priesthood Is Restored” (Children’s Songbook, 89), and discuss what this song teaches about the priesthood.

Doctrine and Covenants Coloring Book “Priesthood Authority”

 Many different ordinances are performed throughout a person’s life, some are for comfort and guidance, but others are essential to salvation. (Do the activity below to identify the ordinances and the saving ordinances.) Hint: Ordinances are sacred ceremonies or acts that are performed by the proper priesthood authority.  

Click on image to see a lesson that explains what the priesthood is and how priesthood holders got this authority to perform ordinances. It also includes a fun activity at the end of the lesson.

For additional teaching ideas see Priesthood and Ordinances and Resources for Teaching Children “Priesthood”

Primary 4: Book of Mormon ““Lesson 30: Nephi Receives Great Power” Begin your class with the lights turned off. Ask the children if they have noticed something unusual. Ask someone to turn on the lights. Talk about the power of electricity that gives light. Discuss what things in the children’s homes run on electricity (stove, refrigerator, fans, tools, and so on). Explain that this lesson is about a different kind of power, a power stronger than electricity: the power of the priesthood of God.

  • Tell the children you are thinking of a word. Ask them to listen to the following descriptions and raise their hand when they know the word.
    • It is the power of God.
    • Through this power the Lord blesses his children and his church.
    • Those who hold this power represent the Lord Jesus Christ.
    • Those who hold this power are appointed to do the things the Savior wants done.
    • What is the name of this power? (The priesthood.)

New Era April 2014 “The Gate and the Path”

I am blessed by the ordinances of the Aaronic Priesthood.

Matthew 3

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 3; Mark 1; Luke 3” John the Baptist held the Aaronic Priesthood, so reading about him in Matthew 3 is a good opportunity to teach the children about the Aaronic Priesthood. Help them recognize the blessings and power that come to us through this priesthood.

  • Invite the children to make a list of Aaronic Priesthood duties, using Doctrine and Covenants 20:46, 58–60; 84:111. Ask the children to look in Matthew 3 for examples of John fulfilling some of these duties. How can all of us invite others to come unto Christ, as John did?
  • Display some pictures of Aaronic Priesthood holders performing the ordinances of baptism and the sacrament (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 103–4, 107–8). Discuss how these ordinances prepare us to receive Jesus Christ and the blessings of His Atonement.
Media Library

Friend May 2017 “Making the Sacrament Special” Fill in the missing words of the sacrament prayer for the bread. Then cut out the colored card and keep it in your scriptures to help make the sacrament special to you every Sunday!

  • Read together Doctrine and Covenants 13:1, and testify that John the Baptist restored the Aaronic Priesthood to Joseph Smith. Ask the children how they have been blessed because the Aaronic Priesthood was restored.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 12–13; Joseph Smith—History 1:66–75: “Upon You My Fellow Servants”

The priesthood can help us in many ways. (Jr)

Hebrews 7:1–6

Briefly explain who Abraham was, and then use Hebrews 7:1–6 to teach that Abraham paid tithing to Melchizedek (see also Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 14:36–40 [in the Bible appendix]). Explain that Melchizedek held the priesthood, which is God’s power, and Melchizedek used it to bless Abraham. The children may enjoy acting out the story with simple props, like a crown and a tithing envelope. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 7-13” )

Invite an Aaronic and a Melchizedek Priesthood holder to visit the class and tell the children how they have used the priesthood to bless others. Then show the children pictures of different priesthood ordinances (for examples, see pictures 103–8 in the Gospel Art Book). Help the children determine which priesthood is required for each ordinance and give that picture to the appropriate priesthood holder to hold. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 7-13” )

The Priesthood Blesses Everyone

Friend October 2023 “The Priesthood Blesses Everyone”

Friend April 2018 “What’s on Your Mind” Is the priesthood only for men and boys?

Ensign April 2018 Boys and men hold the priesthood but women use priesthood authority to perform their callings.

Friend August 2021 “The Power of a Priesthood Blessing” Heavenly Father’s priesthood power blesses our lives in many ways. The cards below show some of the blessings we can all have because of the priesthood. Cut them out and put them face down. Then take turns choosing one and telling how it has helped you or will help you someday!

Patriarchal Blessing

A Patriarchal Blessing Can Give Me Inspired Guidance.

Doctrine and Covenants 124:91–92

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 124”If you have received a patriarchal blessing, review it before teaching the children about these blessings. Why are you thankful for your patriarchal blessing? How will you inspire the children to prepare to receive theirs?

  • Invite one of the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 124:91–92, and invite the class to listen for what the Lord called Hyrum Smith to do. What do the children know about patriarchal blessings? If you have received a patriarchal blessing, show the children what it looks like. (Remember that the specific content of your patriarchal blessing is sacred.) Explain that patriarchal blessings are special blessings we get from patriarchs. These blessings can help us learn more about ourselves and what Heavenly Father wants us to do.
  • Consider inviting a parent or sibling of one of the children you teach to share with the class why they are grateful for their patriarchal blessing. Ask them to share how they decided they wanted to get their blessing. Bear your testimony of patriarchal blessings.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 124” Would your family benefit from a discussion about patriarchal blessings? Family members who have received their patriarchal blessing could share what it was like to receive one and how it has blessed them. You could also review “Patriarchal Blessings” (Gospel Topics, topics.ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

Hyrum Smith: Gospel Media

“A Blessing for Katy” (January 2014 Friend) Beth learns about patriarchal blessings when her older cousin Katy gets one. Her mom tells her that “Katy’s patriarchal blessing will be like a map that shows Katy how to get back to Heavenly Father. It will tell her about good choices she should make and warn her about things that might be harmful. It will tell her about wonderful blessings she will receive when she follows Heavenly Father’s commandments. It will guide Katy through her whole life.”

See also New Era March 2004 “About Patriarchal Blessings” and Family Home Evening Resource Book “Lesson Thirty-one: Receiving a Patriarchal Blessing

The Work of the Priesthood

Friend April 2018 “What’s on Your Mind” How we can help with the work of the priesthood.

Priesthood Blessing

Friend October 2017 “Family Night Fun”

Here are some tips to help you feel the Holy Ghost when you get a priesthood blessing.

● Turn off electronics so you won’t be distracted.
● Say a prayer before you receive your blessing to help you clear your mind and focus on the Spirit.
● Listen carefully to the words of the blessing. How do they make you feel?

Liahona March 2023 “Priesthood Blessings” Article tells about the different kinds of blessings that can be given.

Priesthood Blessings Help Me.

Genesis 48:8–9

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 42–50”Jacob blessed his sons and grandsons (see Genesis 48–49). Today we can receive priesthood blessings that give us comfort, healing, guidance, and spiritual strength.

  • Show the children a picture of Jacob blessing his sons or other pictures of priesthood blessings (see the pictures in this outline; see also Gospel Art Book, no. 12). Let the children describe what is happening in the pictures.
  • Read to the children Genesis 48:8–9. Explain that Israel, also called Jacob, was Joseph’s father and that he wanted to give Joseph’s children a priesthood blessing. If any of the children have received a priesthood blessing, invite them to tell about their experience. Or share an experience of your own.

Friend February 2016 “You are Special” Emma gets a father’s blessing.

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  • Help the children think of reasons they might ask for a priesthood blessing. Also help them name priesthood holders they could ask, such as a father, grandfather, or ministering brother.

Friend January 2023 “How Siedeh Became Brave” Siedeh skipped a grade because she was doing so well, but it was hard at first. Her father gave her a priesthood blessing. She felt that her dad’s words were what Heavenly Father wanted her to hear.

Jesus has the power to heal me.

Matthew 9:18–30; Mark 5:22–43

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 9–10; Mark 5; Luke 9” The Savior repeatedly showed His power to heal those who had faith in Him. You can help the children you teach build their faith in His healing power.

  • Tell the children the story of the daughter of Jairus (see Mark 5:22–23, 35–43). At the appropriate point in the story, read Jesus’s words “I say unto thee, arise” (verse 41), and invite the children to stand up. Help the children understand that Jesus has the power to heal people and give us eternal life.

Friend June 2017 “Jesus Healed People” Story of Jarius’s daughter being raised from the dead, and the story of the women with an issue of blood being healed when she touches the hem of Jesus’s robe.

  • Show a picture of the account in Matthew 9:20–22 as you read these verses. Help the children memorize the phrase “Thy faith hath made thee whole” (verse 22). To do this, you could assign each child a word, and then have the children say their words in order several times. How did the woman show that she had faith in Jesus Christ? What can we do to show that we have faith in Christ?

Friend February 2023 “Jesus Heals a Woman”

  • Ask the children to close their eyes and listen as you read from Matthew 9:27–30. When you read about Jesus healing the blind men, invite the children to open their eyes. Invite the children to talk about how they would feel if Jesus had healed them.

Friend June 2005 “Faith in Jesus Christ” Two blind men came to Jesus Christ and asked Him to heal them. Jesus asked if they believed that He could restore their sight. The men said, “Yea, Lord.” Then Jesus touched their eyes and said, “According to your faith be it unto you.” When they opened their eyes, they could see. (See Matt. 9:27–30.)

  • Use this week’s activity page to help the children learn the story of the Savior raising Jarius’s daughter from the dead.

Friend March 2023 “Come, Follow Me Activities for Little Ones”

Gather first-aid items and explain how they are used to heal us. Then explain that Jesus Christ’s power to heal is even greater. Describe one of the miracles in Matthew 9.

Latter Day Kids “Jesus Has Power to Heal Us” Lesson Ideas

Jesus has the power to heal me.

Matthew 9:18–30; Mark 5:22–43

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 9–10; Mark 5; Luke 9” Reading the accounts of the Savior healing people can help the children you teach build their faith in Him. These accounts can also help them feel His compassion and love.

  • Read together the accounts of Jesus healing people found in Matthew 9:20–22, 27–30 and Mark 5:22–23, 35–43 (or show the videos “Jesus Heals a Woman of Faith” and “Jesus Raises the Daughter of Jairus” on ChurchofJesusChrist.org). How did the people in these stories show their faith in Jesus Christ? What do we learn about the Savior from these stories?

New Testament Seminary Student Manual (2023) “Mark 5:24–34; Matthew 9:20–22” Read Mark 5:30–34, looking for the Savior’s response to this woman’s act of faith. The word virtue in verse 30 means “power” or “strength” (Mark 5:30, footnote a).

“This faithful, focused woman needed to stretch as far as she could to access His power. Her physical stretching was symbolic of her spiritual stretching. …When you reach up for the Lord’s power in your life with the same intensity that a drowning person has when grasping and gasping for air, power from Jesus Christ will be yours. When the Savior knows you truly want to reach up to Him—when He can feel that the greatest desire of your heart is to draw His power into your life—you will be led by the Holy Ghost to know exactly what you should do [see Doctrine and Covenants 88:63]. When you spiritually stretch beyond anything you have ever done before, then His power will flow into you. (Russell M. Nelson, “Drawing the Power of Jesus Christ into Our Lives,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2017, 41–42)

  • Invite the children to share experiences when they or someone they know received a priesthood blessing for the healing of the sick. How were they healed or blessed? Explain that sometimes a miraculous healing is not the Lord’s will, but we can still be blessed by His love and comfort.

Friend July 1988 “Power of Prayer” A pioneer father is inspired that something was wrong at home. When he arrives he finds that his daughter has fallen into the fireplace. He gives her a blessing and every promise is fulfilled.

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Friend March 2023 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Miracle Guessing Game

Story: Jesus Christ performed many miracles. He healed a man who couldn’t walk. He brought a dead girl back to life. He healed blind men. (See Matthew 9.) What other miracles did Jesus do?

Song: “Tell Me the Stories of Jesus” (Children’s Songbook, 57)

Activity: Write down some of Jesus’s miracles on slips of paper and put them in a bowl. Pick a paper, read the miracle on it, and draw a picture of it. The others can guess which one it is!

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 9–10; Mark 5; Luke 9” Why the emphasis on physical healing? Certainly one obvious message is that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, with power over all things, including our physical pains and imperfections. But another meaning is found in His words to the skeptical scribes: “That ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins” (Mark 2:10).

“Lesson 16: Jesus Christ Performed Miracles,” Primary 7: New Testament Lesson ideas

We Must Be Righteous to Have the “Powers of Heaven.”

Doctrine and Covenants 121:34–46

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 121-123”

In what seemed like a powerless condition in Liberty Jail, Joseph was given revelation about power—not the political or military power that had been exerted over the Saints but “the powers of heaven.” As you read Doctrine and Covenants 121:34–46, what do you learn about God’s power? How is it different from worldly power? For example, look at the words the Lord uses in verses 41–43 to describe “power or influence.” What do they teach about how God maintains His “power or influence”? Perhaps these verses could inspire you to ponder your life and what you can do to be an influence for good in your relationships with others.

  • Perhaps an analogy would help your family understand “the powers of heaven.” For example, you could compare God’s power to electrical power; what might prevent an electrical device from receiving power? What does this analogy, along with verses 34–36, 41–45, teach us about how to increase our spiritual power? Maybe family members could share stories from the Savior’s life that exemplify these attributes.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 121-123”

  • Draw a line with the words high power at one end and low power at the other. Draw an arrow pointing at the middle of the line. Choose several words or phrases from Doctrine and Covenants 121:34–46 that teach how we decrease or increase heavenly power in our lives (such as “cover our sins,” “pride,” “gentleness,” and “love”). Invite the children to take turns picking a word, deciding if the word leads to a decrease or increase in power, and moving the arrow accordingly. Talk with the children about people they know who have been a good influence on others because they follow the Lord’s counsel in these verses.
  • Read Doctrine and Covenants 121:41–42, 45, and ask the children to list qualities in these verses that the Lord wants us to have. Help them define any words they don’t understand. Assign each child one quality, and help them think of a way that they can show it. Once they have all shared, ask them to read verses 45–46 and list the blessings they will receive if they develop those qualities.
  • Read together the first line of Doctrine and Covenants 121:46. How can the Holy Ghost be our “constant companion”? Sing together “The Holy Ghost” (Children’s Songbook, 105) or another song about the gift of the Holy Ghost. What does the song teach us about why we want the Holy Ghost to be our constant companion?

Liahona October 2021 “How Do We Draw Upon the Powers of Heaven”

Priesthood Keys

The First Presidency Holds “The Keys of the Kingdom.”

Doctrine and Covenants 90:2, 5, 14–16

The Lord’s instructions about the First Presidency in 1833 (Joseph Smith, Sidney Rigdon, and Frederick G. Williams) can help the children strengthen their testimony of today’s First Presidency.

  • Invite the children to search Doctrine and Covenants 90:14–16 and write down some of the things the Lord asked the First Presidency to do. Show the children a picture of the current First Presidency, and share something about them. (You can read their biographies under “Living Prophets and Church Leaders” at ChurchofJesusChrist.org.) Share your testimony of their divine callings and the blessings you have received from following their counsel.
  • Review with the children something that a member of the First Presidency has taught. Then read together Doctrine and Covenants 90:5. Point out that “oracles” are revelations or the prophets who receive them. What does it mean to “receive the oracles … as a light thing”? How can we show that prophets and the things they teach are important to us?

Review recent messages from members of the First Presidency. How do their words “unfold the mysteries of the kingdom” to you? (verse 14). How do they “set in order all the affairs of this church and kingdom”? (verse 16).

Friend October 2019

New Era May 2012 “Priesthood Keys”

With a set of keys, you can do a lot of things that you wouldn’t otherwise be able to do—enter buildings, drive cars, and open trunks, among other things. Keys, basically, mean authority and access.

The same is true of priesthood keys. They control access to the blessings and ordinances of the priesthood.

Members of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles hold all the keys necessary for governing the Church. Only the President of the Church has the right to exercise all of those keys. He delegates these keys to others who preside in the Church—temple presidents, mission presidents, stake presidents, district presidents, bishops, branch presidents, and quorum presidents, including deacons and teachers quorum presidents.

So, for instance, although the Church has many worthy priesthood holders, they need authorization from someone holding keys before performing most ordinances. For example, if Aaronic Priesthood holders hear about a homebound ward member who would like to receive the sacrament at home, they cannot simply go and administer the sacrament to that member because they believe it’s the right thing to do. They must be authorized by the bishop, who holds the keys over the Aaronic Priesthood. And a father who holds the priesthood cannot simply baptize his 8-year-old daughter or ordain his 12-year-old son to the Aaronic Priesthood without first being authorized by the bishop to do so.

Friend February 2017 “What are Priesthood Keys?”

For the Strength of Youth “Fun Stop: You Hold the Key”

Priesthood Ordinances

Point Us to Jesus Christ

Alma 13: 1-19

Game: On pieces of paper, write some statements from Alma 13 about the priesthood. Let the children guess what these statements refer to.

Explain that all priesthood ordinances point us to Jesus Christ. (See “Ordinances” in True to the Faith, 109–10.)

New Era July 2014 “What Do You See?” This New Era article explains how priesthood ordinances are full of signs and symbols that can point us to Jesus Christ.

Friend October 2012 “Coloring Page: We receive the ordinances of salvation through the priesthood.”

Importance of Ordinances

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 1–6: “To Keep Them in the Right Way”

Because of the Great Apostasy, many people today are confused about religion, including how ordinances must be performed—and even whether they are needed at all. Moroni had seen our times (see Mormon 8:35). This may be why he gave clarifying details about the sacrament, baptism, conferring the gift of the Holy Ghost, and the blessings of gathering with fellow believers to “keep [each other] in the right way.

Ensign December 2020 “Family Study Fun“

Moving with Moroni: Moroni wrote about several ordinances (or sacred acts performed by someone with priesthood authority). Use this activity to review the scriptures below.

  1. Write the following on four sheets of paper and scatter them around the room:
  2. Ask someone to start and stop a Church song while people walk from paper to paper.
  3. When the music stops, everyone goes to the nearest paper. Whoever touches a paper last should read the scripture and say one reason that ordinance is important. Then start and stop the music for the next round.
  4. Keep playing until all four ordinances have been discussed.

Discussion: What can we do to treat these ordinances as sacred? How do these ordinances bless our family?

Friend October 2023 “The Priesthood”

Priesthood Organization

SECTION 107

This section was associated with the organization of the Quorum of the Twelve in February and March 1835. The Prophet likely delivered it in the presence of those who were preparing to depart May 3, 1835, on their first quorum mission.

1–6, There are two priesthoods: the Melchizedek and the Aaronic; 7–12, Those who hold the Melchizedek Priesthood have power to officiate in all offices in the Church; 13–17, The bishopric presides over the Aaronic Priesthood, which administers in outward ordinances; 18–20, The Melchizedek Priesthood holds the keys of all spiritual blessings; the Aaronic Priesthood holds the keys of the ministering of angels; 21–38, The First Presidency, the Twelve, and the Seventy constitute the presiding quorums, whose decisions are to be made in unity and righteousness; 39–52, The patriarchal order is established from Adam to Noah; 53–57, Ancient Saints assembled at Adam-ondi-Ahman, and the Lord appeared to them; 58–67, The Twelve are to set the officers of the Church in order; 68–76, Bishops serve as common judges in Israel; 77–84, The First Presidency and the Twelve constitute the highest court in the Church; 85–100, Priesthood presidents govern their respective quorums.

Doctrine and Covenant Stories “Chapter 37: Priesthood Leaders”

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 106-108”

At first glance, Doctrine and Covenants 107 might seem to be only about organizing priesthood offices into a leadership structure for the Lord’s Church. Indeed, by the time this revelation was published, Church membership was already outgrowing the capacity of the few leaders it had in place. So outlining the roles and responsibilities of the First Presidency, the Quorum of the Twelve, the Seventy, bishops, and quorum presidencies was surely needed and helpful. But there’s so much more to the divine instruction in section 107 than just how to organize priesthood offices and quorums. Here the Lord teaches us about an ancient priesthood order that was “instituted in the days of Adam” (verse 41). Its purpose from the beginning has been to make it possible for God’s children—including you—to receive the saving ordinances of the gospel and enjoy “all the spiritual blessings of the church—to have the privilege of receiving the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, [and] to have the heavens opened unto them” (verses 18–19).

See “Restoring the Ancient Order,” Revelations in Context,208–12.

I Am Blessed Because of the Priesthood.

Doctrine and Covenants 107:18–20, 42–56

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 106-108”

  • Draw on the board a picture to represent “the heavens [being] opened unto [us]” (Doctrine and Covenants 107:19) because of the priesthood (such as light rays shining through a cloud). Give the children pictures representing blessings that come from the priesthood, such as baptism, the sacrament, and the temple. Invite them to share why they are thankful for the blessing in their picture, and let them put their picture in the light rays on the board. Bear testimony that we can have these blessings because Heavenly Father restored the priesthood.
  • Make a path on the floor, and give the children pictures of priesthood ordinances they will need so they can follow the path back to Heavenly Father (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 103–8, 119–20). Help the children put the ordinances in order on the path.
  • Show a picture of Adam and Eve with their family (see this week’s activity page or Gospel Art Book, no. 5). As children look at the picture, ask them how Adam and Eve seem to feel about their family. Use Doctrine and Covenants 107:53–56 to share with the children what Adam did to show he loved his family. Bear your testimony about how the priesthood has been a blessing to you and your family.
  • Name the family members Adam ordained to the priesthood, according to Doctrine and Covenants 107:42–50, and ask the children to count how many people he ordained. Help them understand why Adam would want all his family members to have the priesthood. Invite the children to talk about times when they or their families have received blessings through the priesthood.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 106-108”

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 84”

“Blessings of the Priesthood Are Available to All” (October 2012 Liahona and Friend)
An explanation of priesthood ordinances. Includes a fill-in-the-blank activity and a coloring page.

Friend July 2021 “Heavenly Father’s Plan of Happiness”

The Priesthood Will Help Me Return to Heavenly Father.

Doctrine and Covenants 107:1–8, 13–14, 18–20

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 106-108”

The Melchizedek and Aaronic Priesthoods were restored to help bring God’s children back to Him. Help the children you teach understand what the different priesthood duties are and how they help us return to God.

  • Invite the children to search Doctrine and Covenants 107:1–8, 13–14, 18–20 for important words and phrases that teach them about the priesthood. What responsibilities do priesthood holders have? How does the priesthood help us return to God?
  • Write questions that could be answered in Doctrine and Covenants 107:1–8, 13–14, 18–20, such as “What is another name for the Melchizedek Priesthood?” Give the children a few minutes to find answers in the verses to as many of the questions as they can. Share with the children the blessings you have received through the priesthood.
  • Read with the children about Melchizedek below or in the Bible Dictionary or Guide to the Scriptures (scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). What do we learn from his life about what it means to exercise priesthood authority?

Friend April 1994 “Melchizedek”

As a child, Melchizedek lived surrounded by very wicked people. They “waxed strong in iniquity and abomination; yea, they had all gone astray; they were full of all manner of wickedness.” And yet Melchizedek was filled with faith; “he feared God, and stopped the mouths of lions, and quenched the violence of fire.” He eventually became not only the high priest to his people but also their king, ruling under his father.

As a result of his own worthiness, Melchizedek was able to exercise great power in teaching his people to turn to righteousness, to change their lives. As they listened to his words, their hearts were softened and they repented. He “did preach repentance unto his people. And behold, they did repent; and Melchizedek did establish peace in the land in his days.”

Their city was called Salem, which comes from a Hebrew word that means “peace” or “perfection,” and Melchizedek became known as “the prince of peace.” In Hebrew his name means “King of Righteousness.”

Melchizedek was a great high priest “after the order of the Son of God.” Those ordained to this order of the priesthood have a most important work to do. We know, for example, that Melchizedek received tithes and offerings from the faithful, such as Abraham; that he kept “the storehouse of God,” where the “tithes for the poor” were held; that he gave blessings, preached repentance, and administered the ordinances of the gospel to his people so that they could repent and receive a remission of their sins. He did this work with such faith and such goodness that of all God’s ancient high priests, “none were greater.”

Old Testament Stories “Abraham and Sarah”

Up to the time of Melchizedek, the priesthood he held was called “the Holy Priesthood, after the Order of the Son of God.” But to avoid using God’s sacred name too frequently, and to honor this faithful high priest, it became known from his time forth as the Melchizedek Priesthood.

Doctrine and Covenants 107:99–100.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 106-108”

Give a family member written instructions for a household task, and invite him or her to choose how to do the task: diligently, slothfully, or without reading the instructions. Let the rest of the family watch him or her do the task and guess which approach the family member chose. Then let other family members have a turn. Why does the Lord need us to both learn our duties and do them with all diligence? (See Becky Craven, “Careful versus Casual,” Ensign or Liahona,May 2019, 9–11.)

The Lord’s Chosen Servants Lead His Church.

Doctrine and Covenants 107:21–26, 33–35, 65–66

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 106-108”

  • Display on the board a picture of the General Authorities and Officers from a recent conference edition of the Ensign or Liahona. As the children read Doctrine and Covenants 107:21–26, 33–35, 65–66, invite them to write on the board what they learn about the responsibilities of some of these leaders. Why are we grateful for their guidance? Share with each other how you gained a testimony of prophets and apostles.

2021 Chart of General Authorities and General Officers

  • Write the words confidence, faith, and prayer on the board. Ask the children how we can uphold the First Presidency of the Church with our confidence, faith, and prayer (see Doctrine and Covenants 107:22). Why is it important to sustain the Lord’s chosen servants?

Liahona March 2021 “What does “common consent” mean in the Church?”

When members receive callings or priesthood ordinations in the Church, we have the opportunity to formally sustain them by raising our right hands as a show of support. The principle of demonstrating public support and agreement is called common consent. As President Gordon B. Hinckley taught, “The procedure of sustaining is much more than a ritualistic raising of the hand. It is a commitment to uphold, to support, to assist those who have been selected” (“This Work Is Concerned with People,” Ensign, May 1995, 51).

Sustaining is a chance to show and give our support and to acknowledge the will of God

Church leaders follow the Savior. (Sr)

Hebrews 7:1–4

Those who are called to serve in the Lord’s Church are to be faithful and serve others as He did.

Help the children list things they know about the two great leaders Abraham and Melchizedek. They can find help in Hebrews 7:1–4; Abraham 1:1–2; and Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 14:25–40 (in the Bible appendix). What Christlike qualities did these men have that helped them honor the priesthood? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 7-13“)

Friend April 1994 “Melchizedek” Story of Melchizedek

Old Testament Scripture Stories “Abraham and Sarah”

Ask the children to read Hebrews 7:1–2 and look for the titles used to describe Melchizedek. How do these titles remind us of Jesus Christ? Help them think of ways in which Jesus was a “King of peace.” Invite them to talk about other priesthood holders who are also an example of following the Savior. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 7-13” )

New Era July 2015 “Jesus Christ—Our Prince of Peace” Russel M. Nelson explains how Jesus is the prince of peace

Friend October 2023 “Cover”

Joseph Smith Translation, Hebrews 7:3, 21: Those who are ordained to the Melchizedek Priesthood “are made like unto the Son of God” and are “[priests] forever.”

Share an experience in which your faith in the Savior was strengthened because of the service of a righteous priesthood holder. Help the children think of ways the priesthood has blessed them. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 7-13” )

  • Friend August 2021 “The Power of a Priesthood Blessing” Heavenly Father’s priesthood power blesses our lives in many ways. The cards below show some of the blessings we can all have because of the priesthood. Cut them out and put them face down. Then take turns choosing one and telling how it has helped you or will help you someday!

OFFICIAL DECLARATION 2

The Book of Mormon teaches that “all are alike unto God,” including “black and white, bond and free, male and female” (2 Nephi 26:33). Throughout the history of the Church, people of every race and ethnicity in many countries have been baptized and have lived as faithful members of the Church. During Joseph Smith’s lifetime, a few black male members of the Church were ordained to the priesthood. Early in its history, Church leaders stopped conferring the priesthood on black males of African descent. Church records offer no clear insights into the origins of this practice. Church leaders believed that a revelation from God was needed to alter this practice and prayerfully sought guidance. The revelation came to Church President Spencer W. Kimball and was affirmed to other Church leaders in the Salt Lake Temple on June 1, 1978. The revelation removed all restrictions with regard to race that once applied to the priesthood

Doctrine and Covenants Coloring Book “Priesthood for All Worthy Men”

Priesthood Holder Duties

Primary 4: Book of Mormon ““Lesson 30: Nephi Receives Great Power” 

  1. Display the following wordstrips: “Deacon,” “Teacher,” “Priest,” “Elder,” “Twelve,” “Fourteen,” “Sixteen,” “Eighteen.”Read the following descriptions to the children, one at a time, and invite them to find the two wordstrips that fit the description and post them on the chalkboard. It would be more challenging for older children if the descriptions were read out of order. (The descriptions for Aaronic Priesthood duties are taken from Doctrine and Covenants 20:46–59. The description for the office of an elder in the Melchizedek Priesthood is taken from Doctrine and Covenants 20:38–45; 107:11–12.)
    1. I have had the Aaronic Priesthood conferred on me. I pass the sacrament. I may serve as a messenger for priesthood leaders. I collect fast offerings. I help care for Church buildings and grounds. What am I? How old am I when I can be ordained? (Wordstrips: “Deacon,” “Twelve”)
    2. I hold the Aaronic Priesthood. I have all the duties and powers of a deacon, and I prepare the bread and water for the sacrament. I may be assigned to be a home teacher. What am I? How old am I when I can be ordained? (Wordstrips: “Teacher,” “Fourteen”)
    3. I hold the Aaronic Priesthood. I have all the duties and powers of a deacon and teacher, and I can administer (bless) the sacrament. I have the authority to baptize, help with ordinations of other Aaronic Priesthood holders, and take charge of meetings when there are no Melchizedek Priesthood holders present. I help Church members live the commandments. What am I? How old am I when I can be ordained? (Wordstrips: “Priest,” “Sixteen”)
    4. I hold the Melchizedek Priesthood. I may serve a full-time mission. I am called to teach, expound, exhort, baptize, and watch over the Church. I may give the gift of the Holy Ghost, conduct meetings, bless little children, administer to the sick, and bless family members. What am I? How old am I when I can be ordained? (Wordstrips: “Elder,” “Eighteen”)Ask the children to name one thing they have learned about the duties of these four priesthood offices.

Song Idea


Friend April 2018 “With Priesthood Power”  Sing-Along Video

And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. The sun and glittering stars and moon shone bright. With priesthood power, He made the earth and sea. And with His power, He blesses you and me.

Our Savior raised a young maiden from the dead. He spoke, and thousands of hungry souls were fed. With priesthood power, He made the blind man see. And with His power, He blesses you and me. God shares His power with us in latter days. To guide, to lift, and to heal in wondrous ways.

Each priesthood ordinance helps me clearly see, That with His power, He blesses you and me. The God who created the universe and ev’ry tiny flow’ Delights to bless me lovingly through sacred priesthood pow’r.

Priesthood and Girls

Friend August 2021 “What’s on Your Mind” A girl who’s brother just became a deacon asks the Friend, “What does the priesthood have to do with me as a girl?” The Friend explains that priesthood is God’s power to bless and help all of His children on earth. Women and men are equally important in God’s plan. Girls and women are given priesthood authority to serve in callings like class president in Young Women or Primary president or teacher. No matter who you are, you have a big work to do!

These girls are serving in their Young Women class presidency. Can you spot eight differences between the pictures?

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