Joseph Knight Sr. and his wife, Polly, met Joseph Smith when, as a 20-year-old, he began to work on their farm in Colesville, New York. Joseph Knight described him as the best worker he ever had. He believed Joseph Smith’s testimony about the gold plates and took Polly to visit Joseph Smith while he was translating the Book of Mormon at his home in Harmony, Pennsylvania. She immediately believed. For the rest of their lives, Joseph and Polly remained faithful to the restored gospel. More than 60 members of the Knight family joined and helped establish the Church in New York, Ohio, Missouri, Nauvoo, and eventually Salt Lake City.
Joseph Knight wanted to know how he could help in the work of the Lord. The Lord’s answer (now Doctrine and Covenants 12) applies to “all those who have desires to bring forth and establish this work” (verse 7)—including you. What does it mean to you “to bring forth and establish the cause of Zion”? (verse 6). How do the principles and attributes in verses 7–9 help you do this?
The Lord’s work is to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of his children. (Moses 1:39) Show the children a few tools or instruments used by builders, doctors, gardeners, painters, and so forth. Ask the children to tell what they know about each one, who uses it, and how it is used. What other tools do the children know of? Invite them to pretend to use a tool. Explain that just as we use instruments or tools to get things done, Heavenly Father can use us to do His work. Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020
Give the children a few minutes to make a list of everything they know about John the Baptist, and then allow them to share what they wrote. Invite the children to work in pairs to read one of the following passages and add it to their list: Matthew 3:13–17; Doctrine and Covenants 13; Joseph Smith—History 1:66–72.
How can we follow the example of Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery to find answers to our questions?
Help the children learn a song about the priesthood, such as “The Priesthood Is Restored” (Children’s Songbook, 89). Invite the children to march around the room as they sing, taking turns holding the picture from this week’s outline in
Keys of the Priesthood
“What are priesthood keys?” (February 2017 Liahona and Friend) Priesthood keys aren’t keys you can touch or hold in your hand, like car keys. A priesthood key is the authority or permission to act in Heavenly Father’s name. Priesthood keys let Church leaders direct how the priesthood is used on earth.
Put pictures of a baptism and the sacrament in a container that requires a key to open. Discuss why keys are important, and let the children use the key to open the container.
The Aaronic Priesthood “holds the keys of the ministering of angels, and of the gospel of repentance, and of baptism” (D&C 13:1). Through the exercise of this priesthood, the sacrament is prepared, blessed, and administered.
New Era May 2012 “Priesthood Keys” Priesthood holders, … 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.
Keys of the Ministering of Angels
In times of special need, He (Heavenly Father) sent angels, divine messengers, to bless His children. Occasionally the angelic purpose is to warn. But most often it is to comfort, to provide some form of merciful attention, guidance in difficult times. (Jeffrey R. Holland, “The Ministry of Angels,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2008, 29–31)
Righteous mortal men may also be called angels.
2 Nephi 32:2–32 Do ye not remember that I said unto you that after ye had received the Holy Ghost ye could speak with the tongue of angels? 3 Angels speak by the power of the Holy Ghost; wherefore, they speak the words of Christ.
To help the children learn the phrase The priesthood is God’s power, ask them to clap as they say each syllable. Show an item that needs a battery to work, and teach that, like the battery brings power to the item, the priesthood brings God’s power into our lives. Share your testimony of the blessings that have come to you because of the priesthood.
I receive blessings through the Aaronic Priesthood.
Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery read about baptism in the Book of Mormon and wanted to know more.
Show the video “Restoration of the Aaronic Priesthood” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Pause the video occasionally to ask the children questions such as “Why did Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery go into the woods?” and “How do you think Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery felt after they were baptized?”
After Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery were baptized, the Holy Ghost helped them understand the scriptures better. Invite the children to make a bookmark that they can put in their scriptures to remind them to seek the Holy Ghost’s help when they read. Perhaps they could find an inspiring phrase in Joseph Smith—History 1:74 that they could write on their bookmark.
Alma CHAPTER 13 Men are called as high priests because of their exceeding faith and good works—They are to teach the commandments—Through righteousness they are sanctified and enter into the rest of the Lord—Melchizedek was one of these—Angels are declaring glad tidings throughout the land—They will declare the actual coming of Christ. About 82 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 14 Alma and Amulek are imprisoned and smitten—The believers and their holy scriptures are burned by fire—These martyrs are received by the Lord in glory—The prison walls are rent and fall—Alma and Amulek are delivered, and their persecutors are slain. About 82–81 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 15 Alma and Amulek go to Sidom and establish a church—Alma heals Zeezrom, who joins the Church—Many are baptized, and the Church prospers—Alma and Amulek go to Zarahemla. About 81 B.C.
Alma CHAPTER 16 The Lamanites destroy the people of Ammonihah—Zoram leads the Nephites to victory over the Lamanites—Alma and Amulek and many others preach the word—They teach that after His Resurrection Christ will appear to the Nephites. About 81–77 B.C.
The people of Ammonihah considered themselves to be “after the order and faith of Nehor” (Alma 14:16). Because of this, they believed they could be saved without the Atonement of Jesus Christ, and they replaced the priesthood with a false order Alma called “priestcraft” (see Alma 1:3–4, 12, 16). To correct their false beliefs, Alma taught them how “the Lord God ordained priests, after his holy order” (Alma 13:1).
One way to help your children see how priesthood power points us to Christ is to show them pictures of ways priesthood power is used (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 103–110). (“the priesthood is the power of God.”) Your children could help you think of ways Jesus used His power (see, for example, Matthew 26:26–28; Mark 5:22–24, 35–43; Gospel Art Book, nos. 38–41). Then you could read Alma 13:2 together and talk about how priesthood power helps us “look forward to [God’s] Son” and become more like Him.`
Why did God give us priesthood ordinances? Help your children find an answer in Alma 13:16. If they need help knowing what an ordinance is, there are lists in the General Handbook, 18.1 and 18.2. Maybe you and your children could talk about your experiences receiving these ordinances. How do they help us “look forward to [Jesus Christ] for a remission of [our] sins”? A song like “When I Am Baptized” (Children’s Songbook, 103) can help your children think of other reasons to be thankful for priesthood ordinances.
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.
Turn to Alma 13:6, and explain that priesthood holders “teach [God’s] commandments unto the children of men.” Help the children think of priesthood holders they know of. How do they teach the commandments? Invite the children to draw a picture of a priesthood holder they know teaching someone God’s commandments.
Read with the children Alma 13:10 and 13, searching for traits a priesthood holder should have. Ask them to think of people they know who are good examples of these traits.
Ask the children if they know how the Melchizedek Priesthood got its name. Help them find the answer in Alma 13:14–19 and Doctrine and Covenants 107:1–4. What do we learn from Melchizedek about how the priesthood should be used?
After reading these verses together, consider ways to help your children visualize what they teach. Maybe you could wash something together. How do we feel when we are dirty? How do we feel when we become clean again? How are these feelings similar to what we feel when we sin and then repent and become clean through the Savior’s Atonement?
Show the children the white shirt you brought, and lay it on top of a spread out plastic garbage bag. Explain to the children that sin is like dirt and stains. Apply staining items to the shirt as you mention sins that stain our spirits, such as lying, stealing, hate, etc. (The garbage bag is to help prevent spills on the carpet.) Ask the children how they would feel if they had to wear the dirty shirt and how they would feel if they could never change the shirt or take a shower.
• Would it be difficult going out among people in that state? Would we feel comfortable in heaven being among spiritually clean people if we have stains of sin upon us?
Show the children the soap and explain that just like we have soap to clean our bodies and our clothes, Heavenly Father has provided a way for us to become clean from our sins. He provided a Savior for us who took upon himself our sins.
Enter Into the Rest of the Lord
Come Follow Me Kid Game: Race to see who can “cast off” the squares with sins on them the fastest. (See verse 13)
Alma and Amulek are imprisoned
Alma 14
Heavenly Father strengthens me as I have faith in Jesus Christ.
This week’s activity page could help you—or your children—tell the story in Alma 14:18–29 (see also “Chapter 22: Alma’s Mission to Ammonihah,” Book of Mormon Stories, 58–63). Emphasize that Alma and Amulek were given strength because of their “faith which [was] in Christ” (Alma 14:26). You could also talk about a time when God gave you strength “according to [your] faith.” How can we be faithful like Alma and Amulek?
Explain that Alma asked the Lord for help (see verse 26). Testify that God will strengthen us when we pray with faith.
Alma and Amulek were in prison for many days before the Lord freed them. This story can help the children learn that their trials may not have quick or easy solutions, but the Lord will strengthen them “according to [their] faith” (Alma 14:26).
Share an experience in which you showed faith in the Lord and He gave you strength to overcome or endure a trial. Encourage the children to share similar experiences they’ve had.
Alma, Amulek, and the people who believed on their words all faced terrible trials. Through faith in Jesus Christ, we can be given strength to endure opposition and adversity.
Zeezrom’s change of heart through Jesus Christ is inspiring. Consider reviewing with your children what they learned last week about Zeezrom. Then you could read together Alma 15:3–12 to discover how he changed. What do we learn from Zeezrom’s experience about the Lord’s power? (see “Zeezrom Is Healed and Baptized” , Gospel Library).
How might you describe Zeezrom’s condition, including his spiritual well-being?
What do you remember about Zeezrom that would cause him to feel this way?
All of us have experienced the pain associated with a physical injury or wound. When we are in pain, we typically seek relief and are grateful for the medication and treatments that help to alleviate our suffering. Consider sin as a spiritual wound that causes guilt or, as described by Alma to his son Corianton, “remorse of conscience” (Alma 42:18). Guilt is to our spirit what pain is to our body—a warning of danger and a protection from additional damage. (David A. Bednar, “We Believe in Being Chaste,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2013, 44)
Carefully read about Zeezrom’s healing in Alma 15:4–12. You may want to watch the video “Zeezrom Is Healed and Baptized” (2:42), available at ChurchofJesusChrist.org. As you read, pay attention to the details that contributed to Zeezrom’s healing. Consider writing notes of these details under the “Prescription” portion of your doctor’s note.
The Savior is often referred to as the Great Physician, and this title has both symbolic and literal significance. … From the Atonement of the Savior flows the soothing salve that can heal our spiritual wounds and remove guilt. However, this salve can only be applied through the principles of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, repentance, and consistent obedience. The results of sincere repentance are peace of conscience, comfort, and spiritual healing and renewal. (David A. Bednar, “We Believe in Being Chaste,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2013, 44)
Share in your own words the account in Alma 16:1–8. Emphasize that because Zoram and the Nephite armies followed the prophet Alma, the Nephites were able to rescue their friends who were being held as prisoners by the Lamanites. Share an experience when you were blessed because you followed the prophet.
Show a picture of the President of the Church, and share a few things he has taught us to do. Help the children think of ways they can follow Jesus by doing what His prophet teaches us.
Show pictures of prophets (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 6–9, 14, 18, 26–27) as you sing with the children a song about prophets, such as “Follow the Prophet” (Children’s Songbook, 110–11). Emphasize phrases in the song that teach why we should follow the prophet.
Enoch was a prophet; he taught what was good. People in his city did just what they should. When they were so righteous that there was no sin, Heav’nly Father took them up to live with him.
Noah was a prophet called to preach the word, tried to cry repentance, but nobody heard. They were busy sinning—Noah preached in vain. They wished they had listened when they saw the rain.
Moses was a prophet sent to Israel. He would lead them to the promised land to dwell. They were slow to follow, or so it appears. They were in the wilderness for forty years.
Follow the prophet, follow the prophet, Follow the prophet; don’t go astray. Follow the prophet, follow the prophet, Follow the prophet; he knows the way.
What had Alma previously prophesied would happen to the people of Ammonihah if they did not repent? (God would “utterly destroy [them] from off the face of the earth” [Alma 9:12].)
What happened to the people of Ammonihah? Alma 16:1–3
“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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
One way to help your children see how priesthood power points us to Christ is to show them pictures of ways priesthood power is used (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 103–110). (“the priesthood is the power of God.”) Your children could help you think of ways Jesus used His power (see, for example, Matthew 26:26–28; Mark 5:22–24, 35–43; Gospel Art Book, nos. 38–41). Then you could read Alma 13:2 together and talk about how priesthood power helps us “look forward to [God’s] Son” and become more like Him.`
Why did God give us priesthood ordinances? Help your children find an answer in Alma 13:16. If they need help knowing what an ordinance is, there are lists in the General Handbook, 18.1 and 18.2. Maybe you and your children could talk about your experiences receiving these ordinances. How do they help us “look forward to [Jesus Christ] for a remission of [our] sins”? A song like “When I Am Baptized” (Children’s Songbook, 103) can help your children think of other reasons to be thankful for priesthood ordinances.
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.
Turn to Alma 13:6, and explain that priesthood holders “teach [God’s] commandments unto the children of men.” Help the children think of priesthood holders they know of. How do they teach the commandments? Invite the children to draw a picture of a priesthood holder they know teaching someone God’s commandments.
Read with the children Alma 13:10 and 13, searching for traits a priesthood holder should have. Ask them to think of people they know who are good examples of these traits.
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.
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” )
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.
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.
“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.”
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?
Friend August 2024 “Sharing Her Gift” Maddie learns that priesthood blessings are not just for when you are sick, they can also be for when you need comfort or strength and guidance. Her parents were going through a hard time and were stressed and worried about money so they asked their ministering brother to give them blessings. After they were done, Maddie asked for one too. In her blessing she learns that Heavenly Father wants her to share her happiness with others, so she decides to write notes with happy words for her family to help them feel better.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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?
“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.
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).
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.
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?
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
Write the following on four sheets of paper and scatter them around the room:
Ask someone to start and stop a Church song while people walk from paper to paper.
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.
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?
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.
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).
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.
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?
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.”
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.
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.)
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.
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?
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
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” )
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
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.)
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”)
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”)
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”)
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.
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?
Friend April 2018 “The Priesthood and Me” Journal entries from a girl who wonders why only boys receive the priesthood. She learns that both boys and girls use priesthood power for their callings and responsibilities.
Receiving the Priesthood
Friend May 2017 “Awesome! Robert receives the Aaronic Priesthood and learns about the line of authority.
Friend June 2016 “Was I Ready” A boy prays to know if he is ready to receive the priesthood.
Worthiness Friend October 2017 “Worthiness Worries” Matthew can’t get the image of an immodestly dressed woman out of his head that he saw on an advertisement. He worries that he isn’t worthy to receive the priesthood. His mother helps him remember that the Savior took on himself all our difficulties and he can help us.
Duties of the Priesthood
Friend November 2015 “Priesthood Power” Bobby learns that the priesthood is about serving people.
Friend January 2016 President Monson fulfilled his deacon duties by taking the sacrament to a home bound man and by being a good secretary.
Passing the Sacrament
Friend November 2020 “Help Passing the Sacrament” Brayden was almost old enough to pass the sacrament, but he didn’t know how he was going to do it because he used a walker to help him walk. But then the other deacons volunteered to take turns pushing him in his transport chair so he could carry a tray. He was glad to be part of such a great deacons quorum!
Friend January 2023 “Representing Jesus” The older boys were going to show David and the other 11-year-old boys how to pass the sacrament. David was nervous because his autism sometimes made it hard for him to learn new things, but he practiced and had lots of help.
Father’s Blessings
Friend November 2019 “The Primary Talk” Dennis was afraid to give a talk in Primary. He prayed, prepared, and practiced but he was still nervous, so he asked his father to give him a blessing. After the blessing he was able to give the talk with only a few stutters, and he knew Heavenly Father had helped him.
Friend June 2019 “A New Chapter” Sarah’s dad died in an accident and she and her mom had to move to a new place. Sarah is sad a lot and she is also worried about not knowing anyone in church or school. She would like a blessing, but her dad isn’t there to give her one. Her mom suggests her uncle give the blessing. After the blessing, Sarah quickly makes friends at church and school.
Friend September 2017 “Moresby the Brave” Moresby is worried about starting school, so his father gives him a blessing. Moresby’s day goes well, and he is even brave enough to help someone else who is having a hard time on their first day.
Friend February 2016 “You are Special” In Emma’s blessing from her father, Emma gets a message from Heavenly Father.
Friend June 2018 “Twin Jitters” Kaylee is nervous about getting baptized. She worries about being dropped or not being able to breath. Her twin brother is also nervous. Her grandmother suggests they get a blessing from their father. Afterwards they feel much better.
Healing Blessings
Friend August 2024 “Margo and Paolo” Margo and Paulo and receive a blessing but don’t feel better afterwards. Their mother tells them to be patient, that sometimes blessings from the Lord take time, but she is sure He heard their prayers. A few days later they are healthy and strong again.
Friend October 2023 “Timeon’s Priesthood Blessing” Timeon fell and hurt his arm when playing monkeys with his friends at an empty tree hut. He was in a lot of pain, but there were no doctors close enough to visit in the dark. The elders gave him a priesthood blessing. Soon Timeon’s arm didn’t hurt so much. He felt calm and peaceful. He was even able to fall asleep. They were able to go see a doctor in the morning. Timeon was grateful for priesthood power.
Friend August 2021 “Peace through Priesthood Power” When Elder Steven R. Bangerter was a child, he had gamma globulin anemia which made it hard for his body to fight off germs, so he got sick a lot. One night he had an earache so bad that he thought his head would explode. He father gave him a blessing and he was able to sleep through the night and feel better the next day. The next few year his father continued to give him priesthood blessings. He taught him that those blessings were opportunities for Heavenly Father to speak to him.
Friend August 2021 “The Power of a Priesthood Blessing” Russell M. Nelson gave a very sick doctor a priesthood blessing when they were in Mexico and not near any medical facilities. The next morning he was feeling better.
Friend March 2020 “Hayfields and Priesthood Blessings” When Elder Gerard was a boy, he lived on a farm. The dust from the hay sometimes made him sick because of his allergies. One windy summer day there was a lot of dust in the air and he was having a hard time breathing. His mother brought him in and had two farmers who were members of church give him a priesthood blessing. As they blessed him, he felt warm, peaceful, and calm.
Friend October 2019 “Matt and Mandy” Matt hurt his arm and needs surgery. He asks to get a blessing before the surgery.
Friend February 2017 “Danger at the Ice Pond” Alice tries to help push the blocks of ice in the pond, but the ice she is standing on cracks and breaks. Her father rushes her home and gives her a priesthood blessing and she has no ill effects.
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.
Friend May 2016 “Bad Day in the Badlands” Topher and his classmates get sick on a school trip. Topher gets a priesthood blessing.
Friend May 2016
Friend April 2018 “I got sick when my dad was on a business trip. My mom called Brother Hillstrom and Brother Judkins, and they gave me a blessing. They told me that the priesthood was real and Heavenly Father could help me get better. I knew that I might not get better right away, but I would get well soon. I love the priesthood.”
Sienna P., age 8, Utah, USA
Baby Blessings
Friend June 2019 “Baby’s Blessing Day” Kate learns that a baby blessing is special when her baby sister gets blessed.
In early 1831, almost a year after the Church was organized, many people were joining the Church and gathering in Ohio, as the Lord had commanded. As the Church grew, Joseph Smith needed additional leaders to help with the work of the Church. The Church was facing many financial (money-related) challenges. Many of the Saints who gathered to Kirtland were poor. They had no land or money and little food, clothing, or other things that were necessary for them to live. The Church also needed money to build a temple and to publish written materials such as revelations and missionary pamphlets. The Prophet himself did not have a home or a way to provide for his family, and other Church leaders who were serving in the Church full-time also needed help in supporting their families.
The Prophet asked the Lord what should be done to provide for all of these needs. In February 1831 the Prophet received a revelation calling Edward Partridge, who had only been a member of the Church for two months, to serve as the first bishop of the Church. The bishop’s first responsibility was to help the Prophet provide for the physical and financial needs of the members of the Church. Joseph Smith received other revelations in the next few months that helped Bishop Partridge know what else he was to do as bishop.
Bishop Partridge was asked to help provide the needy members of the Church with food, clothing, and shelter (see D&C 42:30–31, 34). Members who had extra food or other supplies were asked to share with those who did not have enough. Bishop Partridge received and distributed these donations, keeping them in a storehouse where members in need could come.
Another duty given to Bishop Partridge was to purchase and distribute land for individual homes and Church buildings (see D&C 42:35).
Ensign April 2021 “How can we be like Edward Partridge?” Edward Partridge was the first bishop of the restored Church of Jesus Christ. With his firm testimony, he was willing to sacrifice everything he had and endure hardship after hardship, for he knew the Church to be true.
Friend March 2017 “My Dad the Bishop” Syrena was surprised when her dad was called as bishop because she thought bishops were solemn and had perfect families, but she learns that they are men with strong testimonies.
Print the pictures and labels and cut them out. Write an O on the back of each ordinance picture (baby blessing, father’s blessing, blessing the sick, baptism, confirmation/Holy Ghost, sacrament, Melchizedek Priesthood, temple marriage). Tape together three sheets of card stock along the middle edges of the back. Do the same on two sheets of card stock. Glue the Identify the Ordinances label to the three-fold board, and the Ordinances label to the two-fold board, and the Saving Ordinances label to a single sheet of card stock. For more durability, laminate the card stock, or put them in page protectors and cut off the excess plastic before taping them together.
Attach all the pictures to the three-fold board with either sticky back Velcro or non-permanent double sided tape. This will make the pictures movable from one board to the another while still being able to display them. If Velcro is used, attach the hook pieces to the pictures and the pad pieces to the three different boards as indicated in the sample picture above.
Why are temples an important and necessary part of the gospel? Because saving ordinances are performed in the temple.
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.
Activity Directions
Have the family members take turns identifying the ordinances and moving them to the two-fold board labeled Ordinances. Have them check to see if they are correct by looking at the back of the pictures for an O. Next have the family members identify the saving ordinances and move them to the page labeled Saving Ordinances. The saving ordinance answers include: Baptism, Confirmation/Holy Ghost, Melchizedek Priesthood Ordination, and Temple Marriage/Sealing.
Inform the family that there is one additional saving ordinance. It is received in the temple before going on a mission or before temple marriage. It is called the Endowment.
Look up and read D&C 95:8. “I gave unto you a commandment that you should build a house, in the which house I design to endow those whom I have chosen with power on high.”
We also receive an endowment of divine power from other sacred ordinances that we receive in our life. For example, “remission of sins is extended through the ordinance of baptism, confirmation brings with it the promise of the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost, and ordination to the Melchizedek Priesthood opens the way for “every man [to] speak in the name of God””. (Quote by Elder Dennis B. Neuenschwander of the Seventy, Ensign August 2001)
As part of these saving ordinances we also make sacred covenants with God. We promise to serve God and keep his commandments. These covenants and endowments of power are meant to help us become more like our Heavenly Father and his son Jesus Christ so that we can become worthy of and prepared for exaltation.
Note: This activity could be used for Primary sharing time if bigger pictures from the meetinghouse library are used and if bigger labels are made. Attach the pictures and labels to the chalkboard with magnets.
Ordinances of Salvation and Exaltation: The priesthood includes the authority to administer gospel ordinances that are necessary for salvation and exaltation. People make sacred covenants with God as they receive these ordinances. The ordinances of salvation and exaltation are listed below:
Baptism
Confirmation and gift of the Holy Ghost
Conferral of the Melchizedek Priesthood and ordination to an office (for men)
Temple endowment
Temple sealing
Other Ordinances and Blessings: Other ordinances and blessings make it possible for God’s children to receive His power, healing, comfort, and guidance. These ordinances and blessings are listed below:
Naming and blessing children
The sacrament
Conferral of the Aaronic Priesthood and ordination to an office (for young men and men)
Setting apart members to serve in callings
Consecrating oil
Administering to the sick
Blessings of comfort and counsel, including father’s blessings
To teach the second verse of The Holy Ghost, I used Bridgette’s flip charts to initially introduce the verse. I did change the picture on the page “by sacred priesthood power” to a picture of the Melchizedek Priesthood being restored to give the visual aids in the first part of the verse more variety and more teaching moments.
When I teach a song I like to explain each line and visual aid. When I came to the part “and with his light I’ll do what’s right”, I showed the picture of the lighthouse and explained what lighthouses do; they guide ships away from danger. Then I explained that the Holy Ghost can light the way in our lives to guide us away from spiritual and physical danger.
I told an abbreviated version of the story Turn Upside Down and Push, found in the July 2010 Friend. The story is about how the Holy Ghost helped a boy in a dangerous situation. I showed a picture of a life saver/preserver and talked about its purpose. Then I told the children they were going to do a choosing activity using lifesaver candies to help them remember that the Holy Ghost, like a life preserver, can help keep them safe from physical danger (and spiritual danger).
I had put different colored backgrounds on each picture of the flip chart. I had a baggie with eight corresponding colors of lifesavers in it. I put a blindfold on a volunteer and had the volunteer tell what color the lifesaver was by tasting it. If the child got the color right, I only covered up the words on the matching picture. If they got it wrong, I took down the picture with its words.
The children loved the activity and tried to guess the color correctly so they would at least have the picture to help remind them of the words. We sang the song each time after the words were removed. By the end they had it memorized.
I gave each of the children an individually wrapped lifesaver when we were done.
