Manual 1

Stake Presidents and

Bishops

1
 is reorganized. Responsibilities of the stake
Anointings of the Stake secretary and the executive secretary are
President described in 13.3.2 and 13.3.4 .

The stakes of the Church have been established

"for defense and for refuge" for the latter-day
Saints ( D. and C. 115:6 ). The term participation 1.1 Presiding High Priest
comes from the prophecies of Isaiah, which
describe the last days of Zion as a tent or This section describes the responsibilities of the
tabernacle that would be secured by stakes (see stake president as the presiding high priest of
Isaiah 33:20 ; 54:2 ). the stake.

The stake president holds the keys of the 1.1.1 Leadership

priesthood to direct the work of the Church in the
game. He and his counselors form a stake Church members view their stake
presidency. They minister to members of the president as the primary spiritual
stake with love and concern, helping them to be leader in the game. He sets the
true followers of Jesus Christ. spiritual tone for the bonfire by doing
the Lord's work "with holiness of
The stake president has four primary heart" ( Mosiah 18:12 ). He is a
responsibilities in presiding over a stake: teacher and raises members
following the example of the Savior.
1. He is the presiding high priest.
A stake president is a faithful disciple
2. He is a common judge. and witness of Jesus Christ. He is
faithful to his covenants. He is
3. He is in charge of welfare matters.
faithful to his wife and considerate of
4. He is in charge of records, finances and her. He sets the example of justice
properties. for his children, participation, and
community. His advisors are men of
Because the stake president holds the keys of the same character.
the priesthood, he has some responsibilities that
are his alone. So that he can concentrate on his The stake president provides
duties, he delegates many other assignments to guidance and counsel to bishops
his counselors, senior counselors, stake and other stake leaders. He meets
secretary, stake executive secretary, and with the new bishoprics as soon as
assistant stake secretaries. reasonable after his calls to instruct
them. Thereafter, bishops are
If the stake president's absence, illness, or instructed and encouraged in regular
otherwise is unable to perform his or her duties, priesthood interviews, in meetings
the counselor may act in his or her place with bishoprics, and in other settings.
temporarily, except as indicated in this manual.
The counselor is to consult with a member of the The stake president helps members
Presidency of the Seventy or the area President increase their spiritual strength. It
if he or she has questions about stake president teaches them to pray, study the
duties. scriptures, and receive the
ordinances of salvation.
The stake secretary and the stake executive
secretary work closely with the stake presidency, In addition to strengthening
but they are not members of the presidency and individuals, the stake president
do not have to be released when the presidency strengthens families. He teaches that
the family is the most important
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 organization in this life and eternity. The stake president oversees the
Families are encouraged to granting of the Melchizedek
celebrate family home evening, pray Priesthood and ordinations to the
and read the scriptures together, and offices of elder and high priest (see
be considerate of others. He ensures 16.7.1 ).
that Church callings do not unduly
infringe on family responsibilities. It Aaronic Priesthood
also ensures that Church activities
support parents' efforts to raise Members of the stake presidency
righteous children. instruct bishoprics in their
responsibilities to Aaronic Priesthood
The stake president emphasizes the holders and young women.
importance of members having the
scriptures and Church magazines in The stake president assigns one of
their homes. his counselors to chair the stake
Aaronic Priesthood-Young Women
The work of salvation committee (see Handbook 2, 18.3.9).
This counselor also oversees stake
The stake president presides over Young Men and youth women's
the work of salvation at the stake. organizations.
This work includes members'
missionary work, convert retention, Stake Patriarch
activation, temple and family history
work, and gospel teaching. The The stake president presides over
responsibilities of this job are the stake patriarch and should
described in Handbook 2, chapter 5. develop a close relationship with
Some of the stake president's unique him. For information about calling
responsibilities for temple and and supervising the stake patriarch,
missionary work are also described 1.1.4 see chapter 15 .
1.1.2 in chapters 3 and 4 of this handbook.
1.1.5 Councils, Committees and
1.1.3 Priesthood Boards
Melchizedek Priesthood Councils and Committees
Members of the stake presidency The stake president presides over
preside over the Melchizedek the stake priesthood executive
Priesthood at the stake. They may committee and the stake council. Her
assign members of the stake counselors are assigned to chair the
priesthood executive committee to Aaronic Women-Young Priesthood
assist them (see Handbook 2, engagement committee, the stake
18.3.6). young single adults committee, and
the stake single adults committee
The stake president is the high
(where organized).
priests game president of the
quorum. He and his counselors Each stake president is a member of
constitute the presidency of the a coordinating council. Members of
stake high priests quorum. The stake this council meet to (1) coordinate
presidency also oversees elders the work of stakes and missions, and
quorums. (See Manual 2, 7.2.1.) (2) coordinate multi-stake issues.
Council meetings will be held under
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 the direction of the Presidency of the approval from the First Presidency.
Seventy or the Area Presidency.
Normally they appoint an Area 2.
Seventy to serve as president of the
Stake Patriarch. The Quorum of the
council. Topics for discussion at
Twelve directs the calling of stake
council meetings could include
patriarchs (see D. and C. 107:39 ).
mission work, welfare, Church
The stake president can recommend
education, family history, temple
who to call. The instructions are on
work, public affairs, activities, the
the New Patriarch Recommendation
Perpetual Education Fund (where
form. The stake president may
approved), and other matters as
interview, call, and ordain a patriarch
necessary.
after receiving written approval from
the Quorum of the Twelve (see
Meetings chapter 15 ).
The stake presidency plans the
3.
interest group meetings listed in
Handbook 2, chapter 18. The stake Bishops. The stake presidency
president presides over stake recommends brothers who are to be
meetings unless he or she attends required or released as bishops.
an Area Seventy or General Instructions are in the New Bishop
Authority. The stake president's Form Recommendation. The stake
counselors may conduct these president may call, ordain, and set
meetings and may preside if the apart a bishop, or release a bishop,
stake president is absent. after receiving written approval from
the First Presidency.
1.1.6 Calls and Premieres
4.
The stake president's responsibilities
for calls and communications are Presiding Elders Quorum. The stake
described in Handbook2, chapter 19. president calls and sets apart the
His counselors and high councilors quorum presiding elders because he
may be assigned to issue calls and is the person who is authorized to
communications as indicated in the grant the priesthood keys associated
Calling Chart in that chapter. The with their callings.
stake president, or a person of
5.
higher authority, personally extends
the following appeals: Stake Secretary Because of the
importance of the stake secretary's
1.
responsibilities and the need for him
The counselors of the stake to be a man of unquestionable
presidency. The stake president integrity, he is personally called and
recommends brethren to be called or distinguished by the stake president.
released as his counselors.
In units that use church record-
Instructions are in the
keeping software, forms for
Recommendation for the New Stake
recommending stake presidency
President Form Counselor. The
counselors, patriarchs, and bishops
stake president may interview, call
are available electronically. In other
and set aside a counselor, or release
areas, these forms are available at
a counselor, after receiving written

4
 the assigned administrative office. 1.

Auxiliaries and Programs Conduct dignity interviews as indicated in 7.1.3 .

You can also authorize your advisors to conduct
The stake president oversees Relief interviews as indicated in 7.1.4 . For instructions
Society participation. His counselors on dignity interviews, see 7.1.1 .
are assigned to oversee other stake
auxiliary organizations and 2.
1.1.7 programs. (See Manual 2, 15.1.2.)
Counsel interested members who seek spiritual
guidance, who have serious personal problems,
Public Affairs or who have committed serious transgressions,
as necessary or requested by the bishop. For
The stake presidency directs public
guidance on counselling, see 7.2 .
relations efforts at the stake.
Members of the stake presidency 3.
also have primary responsibility for
the good standing of the Church in Administer Church discipline when Church
the community and for relationships members have committed serious
with civic and community leaders. transgressions. For principles and instructions
The stake president serves as the concerning Church discipline, see chapter 6 .
primary Church spokesperson to the
media on matters concerning the
stake.
1.3 Wellbeing
The stake president has the following
The stake president or an assigned
responsibilities relating to the welfare of the
counselor may organize and
stake:
supervise a public affairs council
involvement. The stake president 1.
may also be appointed by a member
of the Presidency of the Seventy or Provide welfare leadership by teaching the
the Area Presidency to be president doctrines and principles related to welfare,
of a multistake or national public instructing bishops and other leaders in their
affairs council. Some stakes will welfare responsibilities, directing the welfare
participate in a multistake council work of the stake council, and serving as the
instead of having an independent stake president agent for Church welfare
public affairs council participation. operations when assigned.

The stake presidency may call and 2.

appoint participation from the public
affairs director, assistant directors, Supervise social assistance (a) when a bishop or
and specialists, as necessary (see members of his immediate family need
1.1.8 Handbook 2, 15.5). assistance and (b) in special circumstances that
go beyond what the bishop is authorized to
perform (see 5.1.2 ).

3.
1.2 Common Judge
Direct the stake's efforts to prepare for and
The stake president has the following respond to emergencies (see 5.1.3 ).
responsibilities as the common judge in the
game:

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For information about responsibilities and and security of the meeting house.
welfare principles, see 5.1 in this manual and
chapter 6 in Manual 2. Because the bishop holds the keys of the
priesthood, he has some responsibilities that are
1.4 Records, Finances and Properties his alone. So that he can focus on his duties, he
delegates many other assignments to his
The stake president oversees records, reports, counselors, the ward secretary, the ward
finances, and properties at the stake. You can executive secretary, the assistant ward
assign much of the work with files, reports and secretaries, and the quorum and auxiliary
finances to your directors and employees. A high leaders.
council is assigned to be the game's physical
facilities representative and to help oversee If the bishop's absence, illness, or otherwise is
properties. unable to perform his duties, the counselor may
act in his place temporarily, except as indicated
For information about records and reports, see in this manual. The counselor is to consult with
Chapter 13. For information about finances, see the stake president if he has any questions about
Chapter 14 . For information about physical serving as a bishop.
facilities, see Chapter 8 .
The ward secretary and avoid work closely with
the executive secretary of the bishopric, but are
Wards are the basic congregations of the not members of the bishopric and do not have to
Church. In the halls, members of the Church be released when the bishopric is reorganized.
worship together, take the sacrament, learn the Responsibilities of the ward secretary and the
gospel, and serve and strengthen each other. executive secretary are described in 13.4.2 and
13.4.4 .
The bishop holds the keys of the priesthood to
direct the work of the Church within the room. He
and his counselors form a bishopric, which works
under the direction of the stake presidency. They
minister to ward members with love and concern,
2.1 Presiding High Priest
helping them to be true followers of Jesus Christ.
This section describes the responsibilities of the
The bishop has five main responsibilities in bishop as the presiding high priest of the ward.
presiding over a room:
2.1.1 Leadership
1.
Ward members view their bishop as
He is the presiding high priest. the primary spiritual leader of the
ward. He sets the spiritual tone of
2. the room by doing the Lord's work
"with holiness of heart" ( Mosiah
He is the president of the Aaronic Priesthood.
18:12 ). He is a teacher and raises
3. members following the example of
the Savior.
He is a common judge.
A bishop is a faithful disciple and
4. witness of Jesus Christ. He is faithful
to his covenants. He is faithful to his
He is in charge of welfare matters. wife and considerate of her. He sets
the example of justice for his
5.
children, the neighborhood and the
He is in charge of records, finances, and the use community. His advisors are men of

6
 the same character. the high priests quorum and leader
of the group in caring for quorum and
The bishop provides guidance and group members and their families,
counsel to other ward leaders. He building strength in the quorum and
instructs them in their duties and group, and ensuring that the work of
encourages them. the priesthood is carried out. The
bishop also directs the elders as
The bishop helps members increase
president of the high priests quorum
their spiritual strength. It teaches
and group leader in overseeing
them to pray, study the scriptures,
family counseling.
and receive the ordinances of
salvation. The bishop's Aaronic Priesthood
responsibilities are described in 2.2 .
In addition to strengthening
individuals, the bishop strengthens
families. He teaches that the family
Ordinances and blessings
is the most important organization in The bishop directs the administration
this life and eternity. Families are of the following ordinances and
encouraged to celebrate family home blessings in the hall: the sacrament,
evening, pray and read the naming and blessing of children,
scriptures together, and be baptism and confirmation of children
considerate of others. He ensures 8 years of age, registration and
that Church callings do not unduly bestowal of the Aaronic Priesthood,
infringe on family responsibilities. It and ordination of the offices of
also ensures that Church activities deacon, teacher and priest.
support parents' efforts to raise
righteous children. For information on ordinances and
blessings, see chapter 16 of this
The bishop emphasizes the 2.1.4 manual and chapter 20 in Manual 2.
importance of members having the
scriptures and Church magazines in 2.1.5 Councils, Committees and
their homes.
Boards
The work of salvation
Councils and Committees
The bishop directs the work of
salvation in the neighborhood. This The bishop chairs the ward
work includes members' missionary priesthood executive committee,
work, convert retention, activation, ward council, and bishopric youth
temple and family history work, and committee. If a ward committee of
gospel teaching. The responsibilities young single adults is organized, the
of this work are described in bishop assigns a counselor to chair
Handbook 2, chapter 5. Some of the it.
bishop's unique responsibilities for
The bishop uses the ward council as
temple and missionary work are also
a resource for joint counseling and
described in chapters 3 and 4 of this
for delegating important elements of
2.1.2 handbook.
the Lord's work to priesthood and
2.1.3 auxiliary leaders (see Handbook 2,
Priesthood
chapter 4).
The bishop and his counselors direct
the work of the elders, president of
7
 Meetings values (see Handbook 2, 10.1.4). Help all youth
live the For the Strength of Youth standards.
The bishopric plans sacrament
meetings and other ward meetings 2.
listed in Handbook 2, chapter 18.
The bishopric oversees the quorums of the
The bishop presides over ward
Aaronic Priesthood and young women's classes.
meetings unless a member of the
The bishop is the president of the quorum of
stake presidency, an Area Seventy,
priests (see D. and C. 107:87-88 ).
or a General Authority attends. The
bishop's advisors may hold these 3.
meetings and may preside if the
bishop is absent. The bishop assigns one of his counselors to
supervise the Young Men's room. He also
Calls and Premieres assigns a counselor to oversee the Young
Women organization. The same advisor could
The bishop's responsibilities for calls oversee both organizations.
and communications are described
in Handbook 2, chapter 19. His
counselors may be assigned to issue
2.3 Common Judge
calls and communications as The bishop has the following responsibilities as
indicated in the Calling Chart in that the "common judge" in the ward (see D. and C.
2.1.6 chapter. 107:72-74):

Auxiliaries and Programs 1.

The bishop oversees the ward Relief Conduct dignity interviews as indicated in 7.1.5 .
Society. Its counselors are assigned You can also authorize your advisors to conduct
to oversee other auxiliary ward interviews as indicated in 7.1.6 . For instructions
organizations and programs. (See on dignity interviews, see 7.1.1 .
Manual 2, 8.3.1, 9.2.1, 10.3.1,
2.1.7 11.2.1, 12.2.1 and.) 2.

Members of the The Lawyer ward who seek

2.2 The president of the spiritual guidance, who have serious personal
problems, or who have committed serious
Aaronic Priesthood transgressions. For guidance on counselling, see
7.2 .
"The bishopric is the presidency of the [Aaronic]
priesthood, and holds the keys or authority 3.
thereof" (D. and C. 107:15). The bishop has the
following responsibilities as president of the Administer Church discipline when Church
Aaronic Priesthood of the ward. His advisors members have committed serious
assist him. transgressions. For principles and instructions
concerning Church discipline, see chapter 6 .
1.

The members of the bishopric monitor and feed 2.4 Wellbeing

the young men and women of the neighborhood.
They help young men serve faithfully, advance in The welfare effects are to help members become
the priesthood, and fulfill the purposes of the self-sufficient, care for the poor and needy, and
Aaronic Priesthood (see Handbook 2, 8.1.3). provide service. The bishop has the following
They help young women live the Young Women

8
responsibilities relating to the well-being of the Temple ordinances and covenants are sacred.
ward: Members who enter a temple must be worthy
and must understand the purposes and eternal
1. meaning of the temples. They must also
understand the solemn and sacred
Provide wellness leadership by teaching the
responsibilities they assume by participating in
doctrines and principles related to wellness,
temple ordinances and making covenants.
instructing leaders in their wellness
responsibilities, and directing the welfare work of Stake presidents and bishops help people
the ward council. prepare to receive sacred temple ordinances at
the appropriate time. Individual members in their
2.
late teens or twenties who have not received a
Seek out the poor and provide assistance to mission call or who are not engaged to be
those in need. married in a temple should not be recommended
to receive their own endowment.
3.
Temple Preparation Seminars
Direct neighborhood efforts to prepare for and
respond to emergencies. The bishop oversees temple
preparation seminars for new
For information about responsibilities and members, less active members, and
welfare principles, see 5.2 in this manual and gifted members who have not
chapter 6 in Manual 2. renewed their recommends for an
extended period of time. The
2.5 Records, Finance, and the purpose of these seminars is to help
meetinghouse members prepare to receive temple
ordinances and blessings.
The bishop oversees records, reports, finances, Instructions are provided in Manual
and the meetinghouse. He may assign much of 2, 5.4.5, and Gifted from Above:
the work with records, reports, and finances to Temple Seminar Preparation Master
his counselors and employees. You can assign 3.1.1 Manual.
one of your councilors to serve as the ward
representative, or you can call on another Temple Orientation
member to do so.
Members who are preparing to
For information about records and reports, see receive their temple endowment or
Chapter 13. For information about finances, see who are preparing to be sealed
Chapter 14 . For information about should carefully read the booklet
meetinghouses, see chapter 8 . How to Prepare to Enter the Holy
Temple. If members do not have a
Temples and Marriage copy of this booklet, the bishop gives
it to one when they receive a
A bishop should consult with his stake president
recommendation for living
if he has questions about temples and temple
ordinances. They are encouraged to
work that are not answered in this chapter. The
read it carefully before scheduling an
stake president may ask questions of the Office
interview with the stake or mission
of the First Presidency.
president. The stake or mission
president uses the base booklet for
advice and instruction when
3.1 Preparation for receiving temple 3.1.2 interviewing these members.
ordinances
3.2 Make plans to go to a temple
9
Each stake and mission is included in a temple advance to ensure that such assistance is
district. Individual members may go to any available.
temple they wish, but ward or stake organized
visits to temples outside the assigned temple 3.2.5
district are not encouraged. These visits will
Child care in temples
require the approval of the stake presidency.
The temples are equipped to serve only children
3.2.1
who come to be sealed to parents or to observe
Endowment, Marriage, or Sealing the sealings of living brothers and sisters. Other
children should not be taken to a temple.
Members who are planning to go to a temple for
their own endowment, marriage, and sealing
should contact temple officials in advance to
.3 Recommended to enter
schedule the ordinances. a temple
3.2.2 A member who is 8 years old or older must have
a valid recommend to enter a temple. A valid
Baptisms and Confirmations of the Dead
recommend admits a member of all temples. The
Before taking a group to a temple to be baptized three types of temple recommends are listed
and confirmed for the dead, the bishop or stake below:
president (or someone under his direction)
1.
makes arrangements with temple officials. The
bishop assigns at least one adult to accompany Temple recommend for members receiving their
each group. These adults must have valid own endowment and for previously endowed
temple recommends and be the same sex as the members. This recommend authorizes a
group members. If brothers are needed to member to participate in all temple ordinances.
officiate in the baptistery, they must be gifted.
They do not have to be set apart as temple 2.
ordinance workers. Priests and unendowed
elders may not officiate. I recommend it for living ordinances members
receiving their own endowment, those being
3.2.3 sealed to a spouse, and those who are married
in a one-time temple. This recommend can only
Temple Assistance Fees be used with a valid temple recommend.

Priesthood leaders encourage Members to set 3.

personal goals for temple attendance and to go
to the temple as often as circumstances permit. Limited use recommended for unendowed
However, leaders should not establish temple members (see 3.3.5 ).
attendance quotas for wards, stakes, or
individual members. Nor should leaders Children under age 8 who are to be sealed to
establish reporting systems on temple their parents or are to observe the meetings of
attendance. their brothers and sisters who live with their
parents do not need temple recommends.
3.2.4 However, the family must bring to the temple a
family group record that shows the child's
Translation Help relationship to the family.

If members will need translation assistance at a 3.3.1 Safeguard Temple

temple, they should contact temple officials in

10
 Recommend Books (1) are preparing to receive their own
endowment, (2) are planning to be
Priesthood leaders who have temple married or sealed in a temple, or (3)
recommended books must carefully have not lived in the ward or branch
safeguard them. None of the continuously for at least a year. Only
unauthorized people have access to in the most urgent cases, when the
these books. bishop is absent, can he authorize
one of his advisors to recommend
Removal that has been the matter in these circumstances.
surpassed Temple Before issuing a recommendation in
Recommends any of the three circumstances
mentioned above, the bishop
Stake, mission, and temple carefully reviews the membership
presidents (and their counselors who record to verify that it does not
are authorized to conduct temple include a comment about an
recommend interviews) must retrieve unresolved closure or restriction
expired temple recommends when ordinance or Church discipline.
issuing new recommends to worthy
members of the Church. After the interview with a member of
Recommended these expired ones the bishopric or by the branch
3.3.2 should be crushed. president, a member of the stake
presidency interviews the person
3.3.3 General guidelines for and signs the recommendation
whether the person is worthy. The
granting Recommends stake president personally interviews
those who are receiving their own
Authorized Church officials conduct
endowment and members who are
temple recommend worthiness
considering marriage or being sealed
interviews as outlined in the temple
in a temple. Because of the large
recommend book. Church officials
number of these types of interviews
do everything possible to see that no
involving young single adults, as an
unworthy person enters the house of
exception the Stake president may
the Lord.
authorize his counselors to interview
Temple recommend interview must those who are receiving their own
be private. They should not be endowment or being married in a
rushed. Interviewers should not add temple.
requirements to those outlined in the
temple recommend book. In the branches of the
Districts
In neighborhoods and
branches in the stakes In the districts, interview branch
members and branch president
The bishop, his council as authorized issues temple recommendations to
by him, or the branch president those who are worthy. Before issuing
interviews ward or branch members a recommend to a member who is to
and issues temple recommends to receive the endowment or be
those who are worthy. married or sealed in a temple, the
branch president carefully reviews
The bishop or branch president the membership record to verify that
personally interviews members who it does not include a comment about
11
a closing or restricting ordinance or one year, the bishop contacts bishop
discipline. of the Church unresolved. before certifying the member's
creditworthiness before giving him or
After the interview with the branch her a temple recommend interview.
president, a member of the mission Members of young single adult
presidency interviews the person wards and single adult wards are
and signs the recommend whether included in this policy. Members
the person is worthy. The mission seeking limited use recommends are
president personally interviews those also included, except new converts.
who are receiving their own
endowment and members who are Newly baptized members
considering marriage or being sealed
in a temple. A waiting period of at least one full
year is required after confirmation
The district president does not meet before a worthy adult can be gifted.
with temple recommend members. When issuing temple recommends to
new members who have been gifted,
In isolated areas priesthood leaders ensure that the
date the endowment was received is
A temple president may interview
at least one full year from the
and sign a recommend for a member
member's date of confirmation, not
who lives in an isolated area, which
from the date of baptism. . Only the
would require unusual travel
First Presidency may authorize
expenses or difficulty for the member
exceptions.
to meet with a member of the stake
or mission presidency. The temple Before a member has been
president is first conferred with the endowed, the bishopric may issue
stake or mission president. In these him or her a limited use recommend
cases, the bishop, an authorized in accordance with the guidelines of
counselor, or branch president 3.3.5 .
should have already interviewed the
member and signed the Members to receive their
recommendation. This policy also
applies to members of the armed
own investiture
forces who are in isolated areas and
Instructions for issuing a recommend
have been interviewed by the bishop
to a person who is receiving his own
of their home ward or the ward that
endowment are in the temple
supports their duty station.
recommend book. A man must hold
A temple president may interview the Melchizedek Priesthood to
and sign a recommend for a member receive his temple endowment.
who lives outside of a stake or
Most individual members will be
organized mission. No further
interviewed for a recommend for
interview is needed.
their own endowment when they are
called as missionaries or when they
Members who have not are about to get married in a temple.
lived in the same room for Individual members in their late
at least one year teens or twenties who have not
received a mission call or who are
If a member has not lived in the not engaged to be married in a
same room continuously for at least temple should not be recommended
12
to receive their own endowment. Endowment. Members who have
However, they may receive limited physical disabilities may receive their
use recommended for performing own endowment.
baptisms for the dead. The desire to
observe temple weddings of siblings Melchizedek Priesthood and sisters
or friends is not a sufficient reason who have intellectual disabilities may
for a young adult to be gifted. receive their own endowment if the
bishop determines that they have
Worthy individual members who acquired sufficient intellectual
have not received their endowment capacity to understand and to make
through mission or marriage may be and keep the associated covenants.
eligible to receive the endowment The bishop seeks the guidance of
when the bishop and stake president the Spirit in making this
determine that they are mature determination. If the member lives
enough to understand and keep the with his parents, the bishop counsels
sacred covenants made in a temple. with them.
Such eligibility is determined
individually for each person, and not Parental sealing. People with
by using routine criteria, such as intellectual disabilities who are 8 or
reaching a certain age or leaving older and are responsible enough
home for college or employment. must be baptized before being
sealed to their parents. Those who
A worthy member who is married to are not responsible do not need to
an unendowed spouse, whether the be baptized before being sealed.
spouse is a member or non-member, Bishops refer questions about
may receive his or her own specific situations to the stake
endowment when (1) the bishop president, who may refer questions
receives the spouse's written to the Office of the First Presidency.
consent and (2) the bishop and stake
president are satisfied that the Members over the age of 21 who do
responsibility assumed with the not have sufficient intellectual
endowment will not harm marital capacity to understand giftedness
harmony. may be sealed to parents without
being gifted.
Future Unendowed Work for the dead. Members who
Missionaries have disabilities may do temple work
for the dead if they (1) have sufficient
Bishops should not issue temple intellectual capacity to understand
recommends to young, prospective the ordinance and (2) can care for
unendowed missionaries until they themselves without assistance or are
have received a mission call from the accompanied by family or friends
President of the Church. who can provide assistance. help
they need.
Missionaries
Blind members. Blind members must
See 4.10.1 and the Mission have members of the same sex
President's Manual. accompany and assist them. Guide
dogs are not allowed in temples.
Members who have
3.3.4 Recommended Issuance in
disabilities

13
Special Circumstances ordinance of restoration of blessings
(see 6.15 ).
After divorce, separation or
Members who have
annulment
committed a serious
If a member has been divorced or transgression
legally separated or has had a
marriage annulled since the last A member who has committed a
month of receiving a temple serious infraction cannot receive a
recommend, the bishop and stake temple recommend until he or she
president may be impressed to has repented. The waiting period
carefully interview the member between the transgression and the
before the expiration of the issuance of a recommendation is left
recommend to ensure continuity. of to the discretion of the bishop. It
the dignity of the temple. The events should be enough to determine that
that led to the breakdown of the the person has genuinely repented.
marriage can be reviewed. If the
member has not committed a serious Members who have
transgression, a temple recommend undergone a Transsexual
may be withheld or renewed
according to the usual procedure. operation
A member who has undergone an
Members who have been
elective transsexual operation
readmitted by Baptism and cannot receive a temple recommend.
Confirmation after
Excommunication or Name Members whose relatives
Removal Close Belong to apostates
Groups
The members who were not gifted as
before. After baptism and Bishops and their counselors must
confirmation, these members may be take exceptional care in issuing
issued for limited use recommended recommendations to members
to make baptisms and confirmations whose parents or other close
for the dead as indicated in 3.3.5 . relatives belong to or sympathize
There is no waiting period. Brothers with apostate groups. Such
must be ordained to the priesthood members must clearly demonstrate
before they can be issued for limited that they repudiate these apostate
recommended use. religious teachings before a
recommendation can be issued.
These members may not be
recommended to receive their own 3.3.5 Limited use issue
endowment until one year after their
Recommends
baptism and confirmation.

Members who previously endowed. General Guidelines

recommends These members may
not be issued, including limited-use The bishop, his council as authorized
recommends, until their temple by him, or the branch president may
blessings are restored through the issue limited use recommends to
worthy unendowed members as
14
follows: same room continuously for at least
one year, bishop contacts bishop
1. before certifying the partner's
creditworthiness prior to interviewing
For members over 12 years old to be
the member for limited use
baptized and confirmed for the dead.
recommend.
2.
Limited use Recommended
For individual members from 8 to 20 for baptisms and
to be sealed to their parents.
confirmations of the Dead
3.
Members of 12 to 20 generally
For individual members from 8 to 20 appear as a group in a limited use I
to observe the sealings of their recommend if you go in a group to
brothers and sisters who live with be baptized and confirmed for the
their parents. dead. Group recommends are used
for a single visit to the temple. They
The same standards of dignity apply remain in the temple, where they are
to those who receive limited-use destroyed.
recommends for those who receive
other temple recommends. Male If 12 to 20 members are baptized
members over the age of 12 must and confirmed for the dead
hold the priesthood. You do not need frequently, limited-use individuals are
to have been a member for one year usually issued recommended that
to receive a limited use recommend. they keep. As an exception, if
parents bring children ages 12 to 20
When issuing a limited use to perform baptisms for the dead,
recommend, a member of the children from the same family may
bishopric or the branch president appear at one would recommend.
interviews the person individually. A
member of the presidency or stake -Limited use recommended which is
mission Presidency is not issued to unendowed members who
interviewed if the person is are 21 years or older or who are
recommended is published only for married must be single
baptisms and confirmations for the recommended. These recommends
dead. may only be used to carry out
baptisms and confirmations for the
The bishopric or branch president dead.
may issue limited-use recommends
for groups or individuals. Before a For information on scheduling
recommendation is issued for a baptisms and confirmations for the
group, each person must be dead, see 3.2.2 .
interviewed separately. When
issuing a limited use recommend, Limited use Recommended
the bishopric member or branch
for sealing children to
president crosses out or cuts to
remove blank lines in the parents
recommend so other names cannot
Individual members ages 8 to 20 are
be added.
issued limited use recommended to
If a member has not lived in the be sealed to their parents or to

15
 observe the sealing of their brothers Recorder game is assigned to.
and sisters who live with their
parents. Those under 21 years of Unworthy Recommend
age must be born in the covenant or headlines
sealed to their parents in order to
observe such meetings. Members If the bishop determines that a
who are married or over the age of member who has a current
21 cannot be sealed to their parents recommend is unworthy, he
or observe the sealing of brothers immediately requests the member's
and sisters living with their parents recommend. If the member refuses
unless they are gifted. to return it, the bishop notifies the
stake president at once. The stake
Recommendations may be issued
president cancels the recommend
for each child or for a group of
3.3.7 according to the guidelines in 3.3.6 .
children in the same family. The
same recommendations can be used
to list the children who are being
sealed and the children who are 3.4 Temple Clothing and clothing
watching. Children under 8 years old
do not need to be recommended for Clothes to wear to a temple
these purposes. However, the family
has to bring to the temple a family Members who go to a temple should
group record that shows the child's wear clothing that is appropriate for
relationship to the family. the house of the Lord. They should
avoid wearing casual clothing, sports
Approval from the First Presidency is clothing, tuxedos, and ostentatious
required to issue limited use is jewelry. See also “Appropriate Attire
recommended for children who wish 3.4.1 for a Temple Marriage” in 3.5.1.
to observe the seals of their brothers
and sisters, if the children who wish 3.4.2 Obtaining temple clothing and
to observe the seals do not live most garments
of the time in the same household as
the seals. children who are to be Deputies changing into white
sealed. clothing in a temple to participate in
ordinances. Endowed members are
Unendowed children are not allowed encouraged to purchase their own
to observe their parents' sealing. temple clothing for use when
performing temple ordinances. This
3.3.6 Loss or theft Recommend sacred clothing can be purchased
through the Church's distribution
The bishop should ask members to services. Some temples also have
notify him without delay if a temple clothing available for rent. If a
recommendation is lost or stolen. If temple does not have rental clothing,
the bishop learns of a recommend members must bring temple clothing
loss or theft, he notifies the stake with them.
president immediately. Stake
president cancels Church Temples maintain a limited supply of
recommends use of record-keeping temple clothing that full-time
software. If this software is not missionaries can wear without
available, the stake president charge when they receive their own
contacts the Temple District Temple endowment, while they are in
missionary training centers, and
16
 when they are authorized to emphasize the blessings that are
participate in temple ordinances. related to this sacred privilege.
temple, while serving on the mission These blessings are conditional on
field. dignity and faithfulness in keeping
the temple covenants.
The distribution and sale of clothing
requires authorization from the First The garment is a constant reminder
Presidency. Clothing items are of the covenants made in a temple.
available in a variety of styles and When used correctly, it provides
fabrics. They can be purchased protection against temptation and
through distribution services. evil. Wearing the garment is also an
Members who have special needs outward expression of an inward
can contact Distribution Services commitment to follow the Savior.
about special requests.
Vested members must wear the
When necessary, bishops and stake temple garment, both day and night.
presidents instruct members on how They should not be removed, either
to purchase temple clothing and in whole or in part, for yard work or
clothing. Stake and ward assistant other activities that can reasonably
secretaries can help provide this be done with clothing worn properly
instruction and assist members of underneath clothing. They should
the order. clothes. also not retire to rest at home in a
bathing suit or immodest clothing.
Making Temple Ceremonial When they have to remove the
Clothing garment, such as for swimming, they
should put it back on as soon as
Members may make their own possible.
temple aprons only if they use the
approved apron embroidery and Members must not adjust the
sewing kit. This kit is available from garment or wear it contrary to
Church distribution services. Other instructions in order to fit different
temple ceremonial clothing cannot styles of clothing. Nor must they alter
be made. Temple garments cannot the garment from its authorized
3.4.3 be made either. design. When two pieces of clothing
are used, both pieces must be worn
Clothes to wear to get married at all times .
in the temple
The garment is sacred and must be
See “Appropriate Dress for a Temple treated with respect at all times.
3.4.4 Marriage” in 3.5.1. Clothing should be kept off the floor.
They must also be kept clean and
3.4.5 Use and care of clothing patched. After garments are washed,
they should not be hung in common
Members of the Church who have
areas to dry. Nor should they be
been vested in a temple have taken
shown or exposed to the view of
upon themselves the covenant
people who do not understand their
obligation to wear it according to the
meaning.
instructions given at the endowment.
When temple issuing recommends, Members who have made temple
priesthood leaders should teach the covenants should be guided by the
importance of wearing the garment Holy Spirit to answer personal
correctly. The leaders also questions about the use of the
17
 garment for themselves. or charitable organizations.

Temple garments and clothing 3.4.9 Temple Clothing Burial

for members who have
If possible, deceased members who
disabilities
were gifted should be buried in
For members who are bedfast or temple clothing. If cultural traditions
with severe physical disabilities, or funeral practices make this
necessary adjustments can be made inappropriate or difficult, the clothing
in wearing the garment. If may be folded and placed next to the
recommended by a member's body in the coffin.
bishop, a garment that is designed
Only partners who were gifted in life
like a hospital gown is available by
can be buried in temple clothing. A
special order for those who are
gifted person who stopped wearing
bedridden.
the garment before his death may be
Shorter temple robes are available to buried in the temple clothing if the
meet the needs of members who are family requests it. However, people
3.4.6 in wheelchairs. whose blessings have not been
restored after excommunication or
The use of clothing in the name removal cannot be buried in
Armed Forces temple clothing. A person who was
gifted in life and who has committed
3.4.7 See 10.8 . suicide may be buried in temple
clothing.
3.4.8 Disposal of Confections and
Temple Ceremonial Clothing Temple clothing used for burial does
not have to be new, but must be
To get rid of worn temple garments, clean. Member's own temple clothing
members must cut and destroy the may be used.
markings. Members then cut the
remaining fabric so it cannot be Bishops and Relief Society
identified as an item of clothing. presidents should know what temple
Once the markings are removed, the clothing is available for burial and
structure is not considered sacred. how to dress a deceased member in
temple clothing.
To dispose of worn ceremonial
temple clothing, members must A member who is to be buried in
destroy the clothing by cutting it up temple clothing may be cared for by
so the original use cannot be a gifted family member of the same
recognized. sex. If a family member is not
available or prefers not to dress the
Members can give temple garments body of a gifted man, the bishop
and clothing that are in good assigns a gifted man to dress the
condition to make other members body or supervise the proper
worthy. The bishop can identify dressing. If a family member is not
those who may need such clothing. available or prefers not to dress the
Under no circumstances should body of a gifted woman, the bishop
temple clothing and ceremonial asks the Relief Society president to
clothing be given to members from assign a gifted woman to dress the
Deseret Industries, Bishop's Stores, body or supervise the proper
dressing. Leaders ensure that this
18
 assignment is given to a person who marriages as outlined in 3.5.3 .
will not be unpleasant to them.
Guidelines for dressing deceased A couple who are thinking about getting married
members are provided in Instructions must obtain a legal marriage license that is valid
for Clothing the Dead Who Have in the place where the marriage is to take place.
Received Their Endowments.
3.5.1 Marriage in the Temple
Leaders can obtain instructions from
Church Distribution Services.
The purpose of a temple marriage is
In some areas, only a licensed referred to in Scripture as "the new
funeral director or an employee of and everlasting covenant of
the director is permitted to handle a marriage" ( D. and C. 131:2 ), is to
deceased body. In these cases, a seal a marriage for time and eternity,
family member or a gifted person without prejudice to their fidelity.
who is assigned by the bishop or Only a marriage that has been
Relief Society president ensures that sealed in the temple and confirmed
the clothing has been placed by the Holy Spirit of promise can be
correctly on the body. eternal (see D. and C. 132:7 ).
Through this ordinance, the couple's
Some countries require that the children can also be part of their
deceased be dressed in eternal family.
biodegradable clothing when buried.
In such cases, biodegradable temple A man and a woman must each be
clothing is available through selected gifted before they can be married
distribution centers. and sealed in a temple. They must
each have a valid temple
The Church does not usually recommend and recommend for the
encourage cremation. However, if ordinances they live by.
the body of a gifted member is being
cremated, it should be dressed in Who performs a temple
temple clothing, if possible.
marriage
In areas where temple clothing may
Bishops and stake presidents
be difficult to obtain in time for burial,
encourage members to have temple
stake presidents should have on
sealers perform their marriages
hand at least two complete sets of
instead of asking General
medium-sized clothing, one for men
Authorities.
and one for women.

If temple clothing is not available, a Who can attend a temple

deceased gifted member is dressed marriage
for burial in the garment and other
appropriate clothing. Only members who have received
their own endowments and have
3.5 Marriage valid recommends will be able to
attend a temple marriage. Couples
Church leaders encourage members to qualify should invite only family members
for temple marriage and to be married in a and close friends to be present at a
temple. Where temple marriage is not possible temple marriage.
due to personal circumstances or legal
requirements, leaders may perform civil Appropriate Attire for a

19
Temple Marriage temple marriage ceremony.
However, couples can exchange
The bishop will discuss the following rings after the ceremony in the
guidelines with each bride and sealing room. To avoid confusion
groom well in advance of the with the marriage ceremony, couples
wedding. It is especially important to should not exchange rings at any
review the temple wedding dress other time or place in a temple or on
guidelines with each bride and her temple grounds. However, after their
parents before making or purchasing temple marriage, a couple may
the dress. The bishop also makes exchange rings at other locations . If
the following information about such a change is made, the
wedding dresses available to Relief circumstances must be consistent
Society and Young Women with the dignity of your temple
presidencies so that they can help marriage. The exchange should not
members informed of expectations appear to replicate any part of the
well ahead of actual events. marriage ceremony, and the couple
should not exchange vows.
Wedding dresses. All dresses worn
in the temple should be white in Special meeting for clients
color, long-sleeved, modest in
design and fabric, and free of
who do not have a temple
elaborate ornamentation. Sheer Recommends
curtain must be aligned. Brides'
dresses should not have a train A couple can arrange with their
unless the train can be removed for bishop to hold a special meeting for
the temple ceremony. family and friends who do not have
temple recommends. This meeting
Formal wear and flowers. tuxedos, provides an opportunity for those
dinner jackets, sashes, formal hats, who cannot enter a temple to feel
and orange blossoms and other included in the marriage and to learn
flowers are not appropriate in a something about the eternal nature
sealed room or during a sealing of the marriage covenant. The
ceremony. This applies to those meeting may include prayer and
being sealed and also to their special music, followed by comments
guests. Ceremony clothing and from a priesthood leader. No
flowers can be worn outside for ceremony is performed, and no vows
photographs after the ceremony. are exchanged.

Guests to the wedding. Couples No other marriage ceremony should

should not ask their wedding guests be performed after a temple
to wear white unless the sealing marriage.
room is to be entered through the
celestial room. Members coming to a Marriage Members
wedding directly from an endowment Needing a Sealing
session may wear temple ceremonial
clothing. Cancellation or Sealing
Liquidation
Exchanging rings after a
See "How to request a cancellation
temple marriage of Sealing or Sealing Liquidation" in
Exchanging rings is not part of the
20
 3.6.1. not last beyond mortal life.

Marriage in a temple for Civil marriages must be performed in

accordance with the laws in the
Time Only place where the marriage takes
place.
Marriage in a temple by time can
only be carried out only when all the Civil marriages and related religious
following requirements are met: ceremonies should not take place on
Sunday or at unusual hours.
1.

The man and woman are each Who can carry out a civil
already sealed to a spouse who has marriage
died.
Members who are planning a civil
2. marriage may invite any of the
following presidents of their Church
Neither the man nor the woman has
units to perform the marriage
participated in any divorce while a
ceremony, if civil law authorizes the
member of the Church.
officer to do so: stake president,
3. mission president, bishop or branch
president. An active duty LDS
The man and woman each have a military chaplain may also perform
valid temple recommend and the ceremony. Unless contrary to
recommend for the ordinances they legal requirements, a Church official
live by. may perform a marriage for a
member of his or her unit outside the
4. boundaries of that unit.

Temple marriages are legal Those who have been released from
marriages in the country where the these offices may not perform
temple is located, and the couple marriages. Other Church officials are
has a valid marriage license. not authorized to perform civil
marriages.
A temple marriage will not only be
authorized for a woman who is in the
Civil Marriage for members
process of seeking a cancellation of
sealing. of other units
For the sealing policy of a couple Church officials may not celebrate
who married in the temple for Only marriages of Church members when
Time, see “Sealing after Only Time neither marriage belongs to the
3.5.2 Temple Marriage” in 3.6.1. Church unit over which the official
presides. An exception is made for
3.5.3 Civil marriage LDS military chaplains who are on
active duty. Any other exception
If temple marriage is not possible requires the approval of the First
due to personal circumstances or Presidency, in each case.
legal requirements, leaders may
perform civil marriages as described Civil marriage for non-
in this section. A civil marriage does
members
21
Authorized Church officials may pageantry in the proceedings. When
perform marriages for non-members a wedding ceremony is held in a
without receiving special approval. Church building, a wedding march is
inappropriate. Video recorders and
Where to celebrate civil cameras cannot be used if the
marriages ceremony takes place in the chapel.
For suggestions on music for civil
Civil marriages are preferably weddings, see Manual 2, 14.9.5.
performed in a family member's
Before performing a civil marriage, a
home or in a Church building rather
Church official may counsel the
than in a commercial chapel or other
couple of the sacred nature of the
public place. Marriages in a church
marriage covenant and may add
building can be performed in the
another advocate as directed by the
chapel, cultural room, or other
Spirit. The officer must not deviate
adapted room. The person
from the following ceremony.
performing the ceremony determines
the location. To perform a civil marriage, a
Church official addresses the couple
Civil marriages that must and says, "Please take each other by
be performed by a public the right hand." Then it says, "[the
groom's full name and the bride's full
official or in a public place
name] have taken each other by the
Some areas require that a marriage right hand as a sign of the covenants
ceremony be performed by a public that are now entered into the
official. Some require that the presence of God and these
ceremony be held in a public building witnesses. "(The couple can choose
or other public place. In these cases, or name these witnesses.)
a temple sealing necessarily follows
The officer then turns to the groom
the civil marriage as soon as
and asks: "[groom's full name], do
possible (see "Sealing of Living
you take [bride's full name] as your
Members after Civil Marriage" in
lawful wife, and do you of your own
3.6.1). If the couple will not be
free will and covenant choice as your
sealed, an authorized priesthood
companion and lawfully married, a
official may perform a brief religious
husband who will be united to her
ceremony after the civil marriage. In
and no other, who will observe all the
this ceremony he gives advice to the
laws, covenants and obligations
couple and gives Church recognition
related to the holy state of marriage,
for their marriage. The instructions in
and who will love, honor and cherish
this section regarding the use of
her all the time that death separate
Church buildings and the simplicity
"?
of ceremonies must be followed.
The boyfriend answers, "Yes" or
Civil Marriage Ceremony "me."

Civil marriage ceremonies performed The Church official then turns to the
by a Church official should be bride and asks: "[bride's full name],
simple, conservative, and in do you take [groom's full name] as
harmony with the sacredness of the your lawful husband, and do you by
marriage covenants. There should your own will and choice covenant?"
be no extravagance in decorations or as his companion and legitimate wife
22
 who will join him and no one else spouse may remarry after the death
said; who will observe all the laws, of the spouse or after a divorce or
covenants and obligations related to annulment. A member's divorce
the holy state of marriage, and who process must be final in accordance
loves, honors, and appreciates it all. with the law before he or she can
How long will death separate them? remarry.

The bride answers: "Yes" or "I." Worthy members in these

circumstances may also be sealed
The Church official then addresses according to the guidelines of 3.6 .
the couple and says, "By virtue of the
authority you have in me as an elder wedding receptions
of The Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints, I declare to you, A wedding reception may be held in
[name of groom] and [name of bride], a Church building if it does not
the husband and wife, legally and disrupt the schedule of regular
legitimately married, for the period of church functions. However, these
their mortal lives. receptions cannot be held in the
chapel unless it is a multi-purpose
"May God bless your union with joy area. Receptions should not be held
in your posterity and a long life of on Sunday or Monday nights.
happiness together, and may He
enable you to hold sacred the Those in charge of the reception are
covenants He has made. These responsible for cleaning the areas
blessings I invoke upon you in the 3.5.5 they use in the building.
name of the Lord Jesus Christ,
Amen.
3.6 Sealing Policies
"You can kiss each other like
husband and wife." Sealing ordinances contain clauses that can bind
families together for eternity. These ordinances
A Church official who performs the include (1) the sealing of a husband and wife
civil marriage in his or her capacity and (2) the sealing of children to parents.
as the Church cannot accept fees.
Stake presidents contact the Office of the First
A Church official who conducts the Presidency or the temple in their temple district
civil marriage of members must send for guidance on special circumstances related to
a letter to the bishop(s) of the ward meetings that are not covered in these
of his/her house(s) of whom he/she instructions.
has married. This letter must include
all the information necessary to 3.6.1 Sealing of a husband and
update the membership registry. You wife
must also fully comply with legal
requirements for reporting and
Sealing of members living
record keeping.
after Civil Marriage
3.5.4 Marriage after the death of
A married couple who were married
a spouse or after a divorce outside of a temple can be sealed
or annulment after one full year from the date of
their civil marriage. However, this
A member who has been sealed to a one-year waiting period does not

23
apply to worthy couples in the has granted an exception. They must
following cases: bring this notice with them.

1. When expedition recommends a pair

for sealing after a civil marriage,
Both civil marriage and temple priesthood leaders must ensure that
sealing are performed in countries the civil marriage was valid.
that do not recognize a temple
marriage and require a civil Sealing of members living
marriage.
after divorce
2.
Women. A living woman can be
The couple lives in a country where sealed to only one husband. If she is
there is no temple and the country's sealed to a husband and
laws do not recognize a marriage subsequently divorces, she must
celebrated abroad. receive a cancellation of that sealing
from the First Presidency before she
3. can be sealed to another man in her
life (see "How to Request a
A couple could not marry in a temple
Cancellation of Sealing or Sealing
because one or both had not been a
Liquidation" next) .
member of the Church for one year
at the time of their civil marriage. Men. If a husband and wife have
They can receive their investitures been sealed and later divorced, the
and be sealed any time after at least man must receive a sealing
one year from the date of authorization from the First
confirmation of both members. Presidency before another woman
can be sealed to him (see "How to
In the first two cases, worthy couples
Request a Cancellation of Sealing or
should receive their endowments
Liquidation of Sealing " next). A
and be sealed as soon as possible
sealing clearance is necessary even
after their civil marriage. They may
if (1) the previous sealing has been
be sealed in any temple convenient
canceled or (2) the divorced wife is
to their circumstances.
now deceased.
Worthy couples who were married in
a civil ceremony and who have been Sealing of members living
members of the Church for at least after the death of a spouse
one year may receive their own
endowments and participate in the Women. A living woman can be
rest of the temple ordinances, sealed to only one husband.
excepting their marriage sealed at
any time within the year following the Men. If the husband and wife have
Civil marriage. been sealed and the wife dies, the
man can have another woman
Only the First Government Board sealed to him if she is not already
may grant exceptions to the previous sealed to another man. In this
policies. The stake president may circumstance, the man does not
request an exception if it appears need a clearance sealing from the
warranted. The couple should not go First Presidency unless he divorced
to a temple to be sealed unless they his previous wife before she died
are notified that the First Presidency (see the section above for policy on
24
divorce cases). Removal of a restriction
How to request a against the Sealed Temple
cancellation of Sealing or If a person commits adultery while
Sealing Liquidation married to a spouse to whom he or
she has been sealed, he or she
A woman who has previously been cannot be sealed to the partner in
sealed must receive a cancellation of adultery unless the sealing is
that sealing from the First authorized by the President of the
Presidency before she can be sealed Church. Such authorization may be
to another man in her life. A man requested after the couple has been
who has divorced a woman who was married for at least five years. The
sealed to God must receive a sealing request may be submitted as a
authorization from the First request for cancellation of sealing or
Presidency before another woman sealing authorization.
can be sealed to him (see "Sealing
of Life Members after Divorce" A couple who wishes to have a
below). above). sealing restriction removed may
request an interview with the bishop
If the bishop and stake president and stake president. If these leaders
decide to recommend that a closure feel they recommend removing the
cancellation, or sealing clearance, be restriction, they may write letters to
granted, a request will be submitted the First Presidency summarizing
to the First Presidency form. This their recommendations and
form is available electronically in commenting on the applicant's
units using Church maintenance creditworthiness and the stability of
record software. Leaders of these their marriage for at least five years.
units should not contact the Office of The couple must also write a letter of
the First Presidency to obtain a copy. request to the First Presidency. The
The form is available from the Area stake president presents all of these
Presidency in other areas. letters to the First Presidency.
Instructions are on the form. Before
filing the application, the stake Sealing after marriage in
president ensures that the divorce is the temple for Time Only
final and that the applicant is aware
of all legal requirements for spousal Couples who marry in a temple for
support related to divorce and the time only are usually not sealed
children. at a later time. For such a sealing to
occur, the woman must first receive
If a member has requested a cancellation of her previous sealing
cancellation of sealing or a clearance from the First Presidency. Such
of sealing, he or she cannot make an requests are considered only in
appointment for a temple marriage or exceptional circumstances. If a
sealing until he or she received a bishop and stake president believe
letter from the First Presidency that cancellation may be justified,
giving notice that the permission has they may submit a request to the
been granted. cancellation or First Presidency form.
liquidation. The person must present
this letter at the temple.
Sealing of deceased

25
members Children born to a couple after one
or the other has been
Women deceased. A deceased excommunicated or had their name
woman can be sealed to all the men removed are not born into the
to whom she was legally married covenant. See "Situation of children
during her lifetime. However, if she when a Sealing of annulment,
was sealed to a husband during her revocation" in 3.6.2.
lifetime, all of her husbands must
have died before she can be sealed 3.6.2 Sealing of children to
to a husband to whom she was not parents
sealed during her lifetime. This
includes ex-husbands from whom Children born in the
you divorced.
Covenant
The deceased men. A deceased
man may have all the women to Children who are born after their
whom he was legally married during mother has been sealed to a
his lifetime sealed to him if they are husband in a temple are born into
deceased or if they are living and not that sealing covenant. They do not
sealed to another man. need to receive the sealing
ordinance from the parents. Being
Deceased couples who were born in the covenant entitles children
divorced. Deceased divorced to eternal sonship, based on their
couples can be sealed by proxy. faithfulness.
These boards often provide the only
way for the children of these couples If a woman who has been sealed to
to be sealed to the parents. See a former husband remarries, children
3.7.9 for a restriction if the husband from her marriage are later born into
or wife was excommunicated or had the covenant of the first marriage,
his or her name removed from unless they were born after the
Church membership records at the sealing was canceled or after it was
time of death. Approval from the First revoked due to the excommunication
Presidency is required for the sealing or removal name.
of a deceased couple who obtained
Members who have concerns about
a cancellation of their sealing in life.
the eternal nature of these types of
relationships can find peace in
Effects of
knowing that our Heavenly Father is
Excommunication or Name loving and just. He will ensure that
Removal eternal family relationships will be
fair and right for all who keep his
After a husband and wife have been covenants.
sealed in a temple, if one of them is
excommunicated or has his name Children not born in the
removed from the Church's Covenant
membership records, his temple
blessings are revoked. However, the Children not born into the covenant
sealing blessings of the innocent can become part of an eternal family
spouse and children born in the by being sealed to their natural or
covenant are not affected. adoptive parents. These children
receive the same right to blessings

26
as if they had been born into the court decree granting legal custody
covenant. is not enough space for a seal.
There is no obligation to identify the
A child can only be sealed to two biological parents of these children.
parents, husband and wife—and not
to a single parent. Approval from the First Presidency is
necessary for a living member to be
Boys over the age of 12 must hold sealed to the adoptive parents. This
the Aaronic Priesthood before they requirement applies even if the
can be sealed to their fathers. natural parents of the foster child are
Members who are married or over not known and cannot be identified
the age of 21 cannot be sealed to through reasonable effort. These
their parents unless they are gifted. requests are made by the stake
president.
Observation Boards of the
Brothers and Sisters of Life Adopted or foster children
who have died
To observe your brothers and sisters
are sealed to their parents, in A deceased adopted person is
children under 21 years of age they normally sealed to his or her
must have been born in the covenant adoptive parents.
or sealed to their parents.
Additionally, boys ages 8 and older A deceased foster child is generally
must be baptized, and males ages sealed to his or her natural parents.
12 and older must hold the Aaronic
Priesthood. If the children do not Sealing of Child Life to the
mostly live in the same home as Natural Single Parent and
those being sealed, approval from
the First Presidency is required for a stepfather or stepmother
them to keep the sealing.
A living unmarried child under the
Members who are married or over age of 21 who was not born in the
the age of 21 must be able to covenant or previously sealed, and
observe these meetings. who has not been adopted, may be
sealed to one natural parent and one
Adopted or foster minors stepparent if the following conditions
are met:
living
1.
Living children who are born into the
covenant or have been sealed to The natural parent to whom the child
parents cannot be sealed to other was sealed has legal custody of the
parents unless agreed to by the First child and physical custody of the
Presidency. child most of the time.

Living children who are legally 2.

adopted and were born neither in the
covenant nor sealed to the former The other natural parent has given
parents may be sealed to their signed consent. A court decree
adoptive parents after the adoption. granting legal custody is not enough
A copy of the final adoption decree room for sealing. The signed consent
must be presented to the temple; A must (a) name the child and the

27
parents for which the child will be signed consent for the sealing.
sealed and (b) be presented at the
temple. 5.

If the other natural parent is The rights of the other natural parent
deceased, or if the parent is absent have been terminated by a legal
and reasonable efforts to find him or process, for example, an adoption
her have failed, consent is not proceeding.
required. The temple president may
If the child's other natural parent is
approve the sealing to be completed
missing, and if reasonable efforts to
subject to future review.
locate the parents have failed,
A gifted hall member who is 21 years consent is not required. The temple
of age or older, or who is married president may approve the sealing to
and not born into the covenant and be completed subject to future
has not been sealed to parents, may review.
be sealed to one natural parent and
one stepparent if the birth mother Children conceived by
and father They are not closed to artificial insemination or in
each other.
vitro fertilization
Children born out of Children conceived by artificial
wedlock insemination or in vitro fertilization
are born into the pact if their parents
A living child born out of wedlock are already sealed. If children are
may be sealed to both natural born before their parents are sealed,
parents without special approval they can be sealed to their parents
after the parents have been sealed after their parents are sealed to each
in a temple. other.

A living child who was born out of If a child was born to a surrogate
wedlock may be sealed to one mother, the stake president refers
natural parent and a stepparent the matter to the Office of the First
when at least one of the following Presidency.
conditions is met:
Situation of children when
1.
a Sealing of annulment,
The son gets married. revocation
2.
Children born into the covenant or
The boy reaches the age of 21. sealed to the parents remain so even
if the parental sealing is later (1)
3. canceled or (2) revoked by the
excommunication or name removal
The child's other natural father has of either parent. Children born after
died. their parents' sealing was canceled
or revoked are not born into the
4. covenant. These children must be
sealed to their parents after their
The other natural parent has given
parents' blessings are restored (if

28
 applicable) and other obstacles are Members who died within one year of
removed. baptism or civil marriage

3.7 temple ordinances for the dead If a worthy member dies within one year of being
baptized and confirmed, temple ordinances can
3.7.1 be completed when one year has passed from
the date he or she was confirmed.
General Guidelines
If a worthy member dies within one year of civil
In general, members may perform temple
marriage, the sealing of the couple can take
ordinances for persons who have died one year
place when one year has passed since the
or more after the date of death without regard to
marriage.
the person's creditworthiness or cause of death.
Bishops explain this waiting period for members 3.7.4
who plan to perform temple ordinances for
deceased relatives. Members with questions Stillborn Children (Children who die
should contact their bishop. He may ask before birth)
questions of the stake president.
Temple ordinances are not performed for
Ordinances performed for the dead are only children stillborn, but no loss of eternal blessings
effective if the deceased person chooses to or family unity is implied. The family can record
accept them and is qualified to receive them (see the name of a stillborn child in the family group
D. and C. 138:19, 32-34 ). record followed by the word stillborn in
parentheses. For more information about
For basic instructions on identifying ancestors
stillborn infants, see 17.2.10 .
and preparing their names for temple work, see
the Temple Member and Family History Manual. 3.7.5

3.7.2 Children who died before the age of eight

Members cannot go to a temple before Without baptism or endowment it is performed
death for a child who died before the age of 8. Only
parent meetings are held for these children. If
The one-year waiting period for temple the child was sealed to the parents while he or
ordinances does not apply to worthy members she was living, or if the child was born into the
who would have gone to a temple but were covenant, no vicarious ordinances are
prevented from doing so in life for reasons performed.
beyond their control. This may include children
aged 8 years or older and young people who 3.7.6
were worthy at the time of death but had not
received their endowment as they had not People died from Intellectual Disability
reached an appropriate age (see also 3.7.5 ).
However, these children and youth are not Temple ordinances for deceased persons who
buried in temple clothing. had intellectual disabilities and whose age and
mental accountability are unknown are
In order for the ordinance to be performed, family performed the same as for other deceased
members must have either the deceased persons.
person's temple recommend that was valid at the
time of death or a letter from the deceased 3.7.7
person's bishop certifying the person's solvency.
Given Dead People
3.7.3

29
Temple ordinances may be performed for a ordained to any office in the priesthood or
person who is presumed dead after 10 years endowed again, as these blessings are restored
have passed from the time of presumed or through the ordinance. For information on how to
declared death. This policy applies to (1) perform this ordinance for the living, see 6.15 .
persons who are missing in action, lost at sea, or
who have been declared legally dead, and (2) Approval from the First Presidency is required to
persons who are missing in circumstances carry out this ordinance for the dead.
where death is apparent, but no body has been
found. been recovered.

In all other missing persons cases, temple

3.9 Verification of the ordinances
ordinances cannot be performed until 110 years necessary to receive the investiture
have passed from the time of the person's birth.
For life
3.7.8
A living person whose baptism and
People who have taken their own lives confirmation are not recorded in the
Church membership register cannot
Unless they were excommunicated or had their be endowed until the baptism and
names removed from the Church membership confirmation is confirmed, ratified, or
records at the time of death, people who have performed again. Melchizedek
taken their own lives may have temple Priesthood brothers whose
ordinances for them a year or more after the ordination is not recorded must also
date. of death. have it verified, ratified, or rerun.
Procedures are described in
3.7.9 16.1.10 . That section also explains
the procedure to follow in case a
People who were excommunicated or living person is gifted without a valid
had their names removed from Church record of baptism or if a man is gifted
Records without a valid record of Melchizedek
3.9.1 Priesthood ordination.
Approval from the First Presidency is required to
perform temple ordinances for deceased For the Dead
persons who, at the time of their death, were
excommunicated or had their names removed Sometimes a deceased person's
from Church membership records. A letter must baptism that was performed while he
be written to the Office of the First Presidency. or she was living cannot be proven
No form is required. after diligent searching. If an
unverified baptism was relied upon
to make the person's endowment,
the person must be baptized and
3.8 Restoration of Temple Blessings
confirmed by proxy. It is not
(After Excommunication or Name necessary to carry out the manning
Removal) 3.9.2 and meetings again.

Gifted persons who were excommunicated (or

who had their names removed from the
membership records of the Church) and were
subsequently readmitted by baptism and
3.10 Temple Ordinance
confirmation can receive their priesthood and
temple blessings only through the ordinance of
Workers
restoration of blessings. These people are not 3.10.1 Call Process
30
 2.

Recommendations for potential Have not been divorced in the last

temple ordinance workers can come five years, unless the divorce
from a ward temple president or occurred before the member was
stake leaders, ordinance workers, baptized.
their personal knowledge and
3.
contacts, and the guidance of the
Spirit. If men and 30 years of age or older,
be married (widowers excepted).
When a temple president identifies a
Single brothers who are under 30
member he would like to consider
years of age may serve as ordinance
calling as an ordinance worker, a
workers.
confidential report is sent on the
member's proposed Temple Worker 4.
form to the bishop. If the bishop
deems the member worthy and the If you have ever been a recipient of
call would be appropriate, he formal Church discipline, you have
completes the form and sends it to been removed from parole, have
the stake president. If the stake been reinstated, or have received a
president agrees with the temple restoration of blessings at least five
president and the bishop, he signs years ago.
the form and sends it to the temple
president. 5.

After the temple president receives a They have never received formal
completed form, a member of the Church discipline for sexual abuse.
temple presidency interviews the
6.
person. When so inspired, he calls
those who are able to serve and They have never had their
differentiates them. The stake membership record noted. (The
president is notified of each vocation. bishop should print or view the
person's current membership history
The bishop and stake president
to verify this.)
should not inform members that they
are being considered for this call. 7.
Their first notification occurs when a
member of the Temple Presidency Be mature in your knowledge of the
interviews them. restored gospel.

3.10.2 Requirements 8.

To be considered for a vocation as a Be in good health.

temple ordinance worker, a member
9.
must:
Be emotionally stable.
1.
10.
Be gifted, meet temple covenants,
and qualify for a temple recommend. Be reliable.

31
 11. 4.1 The Call to Serve

Be respected in the Church and the Full-time missionary service is a privilege for
community. members who are called by inspiration by the
President of the Church. Missionary service is
12. literally service to the Lord and his Church. Its
objective is not primarily the personal
Work well with others and have a
development of a missionary, although righteous
pleasant personality.
service invariably produces that result.
Restricted-Service Workers Missionaries who represent the Lord and his
Ordinance Church must be duly called and set apart (see D.
and C. 42:11 ). This calling is extended only to
Mothers who have minor children those who are worthy and capable of achieving
living at home and brothers who are it. Missionary service requires faith, desire and
serving in bishoprics, branch consecration. Our future missionaries must have
presidencies, stake presidencies, or a longing and a desire to serve the Lord as His
district presidencies, as well as ambassadors. They must be full of "faith, hope,
brothers who are serving as Area charity and love" and have "an eye fixed solely
Seventies, cannot be called as on the glory of God" ( D. and C. 04:05 ).
regular temple ordinance workers.
However, outside of the United
States and Canada, they or some
worthy member who meets the 4.2 Preparation of
above requirements may be called
as restricted service ordinance Missionaries
workers. They operate from this
assignment only when there is a The Lord expects each young person to be able
need for groups organized from their to prepare spiritually, physically, mentally,
own Church units. They can also emotionally, and financially for missionary
work with groups that have special service. Personal preparation includes studying
language needs. Any exceptions to the gospel and scriptures, especially the Book of
these policies require the approval of Mormon, and building a testimony.
the First Presidency.
Preparation of missionaries should be a priority
Restricted service ordinance workers of parents, leaders, and teachers. Bishops and
are called and set aside just like stake presidents have an especially important
other ordinance workers. No responsibility to identify and prepare worthy
distinction of title is made when they members trained for missionary service. They
are set apart, but the member of the give special attention to helping young people
temple presidency who extends the prepare, especially those who seem uncertain
call and differentiates them explains about serving.
3.10.3 the restriction.
The following suggestions will guide bishops and
missionary service stake presidents in preparing missionaries:

In this chapter, every mention of missionaries 1.

and missions refers to full-time missionary
service unless otherwise noted. Working with youth begins at an early age, and
with their parents, to help youth develop the
desire and dignity to serve a mission.

32
2. The bishop reviews the Missionary Manual with
each missionary candidate and his family. The
Teach young members what is expected of them bishop ensures that the candidate understands
when they serve missions. Let parents know and agrees to abide by the instructions in that
what is expected so they can help their children manual. These guidelines address personal
prepare for service. conduct, language, dress and grooming, music
and other media, computers, finances, staying
3.
together as companions, refraining from
Youth call leaders who love mission work and inappropriate contact with children and members
will help youth learn the gospel, build faith, and of the opposite sex, obeying local laws and
desire to serve the Lord. customs, and communication with family
members.
4.

Invite exemplary returned missionaries to speak

about missionary work at sacrament meetings 4.3 The age and period of service of
and at other times. Consider calling missionaries missionaries
to serve in the Young Men organization.
Men
5.
Worthy single men ages 18 to 25
Encourage young people to attend seminary to who are physically, mentally, and
strengthen missionary preparation. emotionally capable of serving a
mission are encouraged. Missionary
6. service is a priesthood responsibility
of these brothers. They should be
Provide opportunities for future missionaries to
encouraged not to postpone
serve in the Church, including service as home
missionary service to pursue
teachers. Make sure young people have the
educational or other interests.
opportunity to teach the gospel in quorum
meetings and other settings. Single men between 18 and 25 are
called to serve for 24 months. Single
7.
men ages 26 and older are not
Arrange for prospective missionaries to 4.3.1 called as missionaries.
participate in teaching classes in preparation for
4.3.2 Women
Gospel and missionary courses. The main
resources for missionary preparation classes are
Worthy single women over the age
the scriptures, the Missionary Manual, and
of 19 who are physically, mentally
Preach My Gospel.
and emotionally capable may be
8. recommended to serve a mission.

Encourage young people to share the Gospel Single women between 19 and 39
with friends and family members. are usually called to serve for 18
months. These sisters can make a
See Manual 2, 8.7, for additional tips. valuable contribution in the field of
mission, and there is a continuing
In high priests group, elders quorum and need for them to serve. Bishops can
meetings, Relief Society leaders and teachers initiate discussions about the
regularly discuss how parents can help their missionary service of these sisters,
children prepare to serve as missionaries. but should not pressure them to
serve. Bishops should not

33
 recommend sisters for missionary You are in debt and have not taken the
service if it will interfere with necessary steps to meet your obligations.
prospects of imminent marriage.
5.
Single women age 40 or older are
typically called to serve for 12 or 18 They are on legal probation or parole.
months. Those assigned to serve
6.
outside their country of residence are
called up for 18 months. Bishops and He is HIV positive.
stake presidents ensure these
sisters are in good enough health to 7.
serve effectively as missionaries.
These sisters are called only to Having been convicted of sexual abuse.
proselytizing assignments, which are
If priesthood leaders have questions about any
set out in 4.11.3 .
of these restrictions, such as for a person who is
Couples on probation for a misdemeanor, they may
contact the Missionary Department.
Couples are usually called to serve
for 12, 18 or 24 months. A 6-month Couples who are still of childbearing age or who
term of service is considered only for have unresolved marital problems are not called
those in special situations, such as to serve a mission.
seasonal occupations. Couples who
Additionally, the following members are typically
reside outside their country of
not recommended for mission service:
residence are called for at least 18
months. Qualifications and 1.
assignments for pairs are described
4.3.3 in 4.11.1 and 4.11.3 . Brothers ages 25 and younger and sisters ages
39 and younger who have been divorced.

2.
4.4 Members who are not Sisters who have undergone an abortion, or
eligible for Missions brothers, or sisters, who have performed,
arranged for, pay for, or encourage an abortion.
This policy does not apply to persons who were
Members are not eligible to serve a mission if:
involved in an abortion before being baptized or
1. for one of the reasons set out in 17.3.1 .

They are not worthy as stated in 4.5.2 . 3.

2. Brothers who have fathered or sisters who have

given birth to a child out of wedlock, regardless
I would have to leave the children in the care of of whether they have any legal or financial
someone else. responsibility for the child.

3. 4.

They have been members of the Church for less Members who are not physically, mentally, and
than a year. emotionally prepared to endure the rigors of
missionary service (see 4.5.3 ).
4.

34
If the bishop and stake president can strongly the negative feelings that may result
recommend that the exception is justified by if a recommendation is returned or a
exceptional circumstances, the stake president missionary is sent home for not
may present a recommendation from the First meeting these standards.
Presidency for consideration. Submit the
recommendation through the Missionary If the bishop and stake president
Department, and include specific details of the have questions about a person's
situation. Bishops and stake presidents should creditworthiness or ability to serve,
not request exceptions that are unwarranted or the stake president may consult the
that they do not wholeheartedly support. Missionary Department (1-801-240-
2179 or 1-800-453-3860, extension
When members do not meet the requirements 2- 2179) or the Presidency Area.
for missionary service, priesthood leaders give
them Church callings in their stake or ward to Only in the most urgent cases, when
help them grow and experience the blessings of the stake president or bishop is
service. Priesthood leaders may also absent, can either of them be
recommend them as Church service authorized by a counselor to conduct
missionaries (see 4.12 ). a missionary recommendation
interview.

4.5.2 Dignity
4.5 Ensure Dignity and the ability to
serve Missionary work requires clean
hands and a pure heart. Our future
Bishops and stake presidents have the grave missionaries must be morally clean
responsibility of identifying members worthy, in every way and otherwise worthy of
suitable, and spiritually, physically, mentally, and being representatives of the Lord
emotionally prepared for missionary service. The (see D. and C. 38:42 ). They must be
bishop and stake president should not submit a living exemplary lives. If a missionary
recommendation until they are completely candidate's life needs reform, it must
satisfied that a candidate is prepared in each of occur long before he or she is
these ways. They should be able to recommend recommended for missionary
each candidate without reservation. service. Because genuine, complete
repentance may take some time,
While it is important to ensure that missionary some youth may have to wait until
candidates are well prepared, bishops and stake they are over 18 to serve a mission.
presidents should not impose preparation or
other requirements on candidates beyond those Those recommended to serve as
indicated in this manual. missionaries must meet the
requirements outlined in section 4 of
4.5.1 Interviews the Doctrine and Covenants (see
also D. and C. 88:121-26 ).
The bishop and stake president
conduct thorough research, seeking Repentance of Serious
interviews with each missionary Transgressions
candidate. If the bishop and stake
president have concerns about A person who has been found guilty
whether a person is capable or of adultery, fornication, fondling,
worthy of serving a mission, they homosexual activity, other sexual
deliberate together and discuss the perversions, gross violation of civil
concerns with the individual and his law, or other serious transgressions
or her parents. This will help avoid must repent before he or she can
35
recommend him or her for letter of the candidate describing the
missionary service. A prospective nature of his regret. Bishops and
missionary must also overcome any stake presidents should not
addictions before being considered recommend exceptions that are
for missionary service. unwarranted or that they do not
wholeheartedly support.
Mere confession and abstention from
a sin for a period of time do not Homosexual Activity
alone constitute repentance. There
must also be evidence of a broken A candidate who has engaged in
heart, a spirit, and a lasting change homosexual activity during or after
in behavior (see Mosiah 5:2 ). The the last three years of adolescence
bishop and stake president are to will not normally be considered for
confirm that the member is free from missionary service, especially if the
transgression for a sufficient time to person has engaged in such
manifest genuine repentance and activities with multiple partners or
prepare spiritually for the temple and with a partner for an extended period
for a so-called sacred mission. This of time. time.
period could be up to three years for
On rare occasions the stake
multiple serious transgressions and
president may present a
should not be less than one year
recommendation that the First
from the last serious transgression.
Presidency consider an exception if
Questions about certain individuals
there is strong evidence of genuine
may be directed to a General
repentance and reform and if the
Authority in the Missionary
candidate has been free from
Department, Area Presidency, or a
transgression for a sufficient period
member of the Presidency of the
of time. This repentance period must
Seventy.
be at least one year and can be up
Extended pattern of serious to three years if the events occurred
violations several times or over a long period of
time or if the person was the
A person who has been promiscuous aggressor. Such recommendation is
with multiple partners or with one presented through the Missionary
partner for an extended period of Department for the consideration of
time in a relationship outside of the First Presidency.
marriage will not be considered for
missionary service. Stake presidents A professional evaluation (typically
and bishops help these people arranged through LDS Family
repent and offer them other Services) and an HIV test is required
meaningful ways to serve the Lord. whenever a candidate has been
involved in homosexual activity.
If priesthood leaders believe that
exceptional circumstances or If a person was a victim of or
situations warrant an exception, the participated in early age same-sex
stake president may submit a experimentation and has no
recommendation from the First indication of current homosexual
Presidency for consideration. Submit tendencies, he or she may be
the recommendation through the considered for missionary service.
Missionary Department, and include Submission of missionary
specific details of the situation and a recommendation forms does not
require additional free space beyond
36
 that of the stake president. taking.

Late confessions Young missionaries who are

significantly overweight experience
Bishops and stake presidents teach difficulties dealing with the rigorous
future missionaries that to qualify for physical demands of a mission.
the necessary guidance of the Spirit, These difficulties also affect their
they must resolve transgressions colleagues. Bishops and stake
before entering the mission field. presidents should be sensitive and
These leaders explain to the cautious when considering whether
missionary candidates that, unless individuals should be recommended
unusual circumstances exist, for missions when their weight will
missionaries who are found to have negatively affect their service. If
entered the mission field without prospective missionaries are
resolving serious transgressions with significantly overweight, local leaders
the bishop will soon be made known should counsel with them about
and returned home. reducing their weight before they
submit missionary recommendation
4.5.3 Physical, mental and emotional forms. For weight guidelines, the
challenges bishop or stake president may
contact the Missionary Department
Missionary work is demanding.
or assigned administrative office.
Members who have physical, mental,
or emotional problems that would If the bishop and stake president are
prevent them from serving effectively unsure about recommending a
are not called to missionary service. member who has any of these
Experience indicates that those who, problems, they can consult with the
for example, suffer from severe Missionary Department (1-801-240-
emotional instability, are severely 2179 or 1-800-453-3860, extension
visually impaired, require a 2- 2179). They should not
wheelchair or crutches, or depend on recommend exceptions that are
other people to perform normal daily unjustified or that they do not fully
tasks should not be recommended support.
for missionary service.
If a member who has serious
Missionary candidates who have challenges strongly desires to serve
previously had significant emotional a mission but does not qualify, the
problems must be stabilized and bishop and stake president express
confirmed to be fully functional love and gratitude for the member's
before being recommended. A willingness to serve and explain that,
candidate who relies on medication due to circumstances, the member
for emotional stability must have will be honorably excused. of
demonstrated that he or she can missionary service for their own
function fully in the demanding benefit and not place excessive
environment of a mission on demands on mission heads and
medication before being companions.
recommended. The candidate must
also agree to continue taking the These members should be
medications unless authorized by a encouraged to pursue such
medical professional. The bishop important endeavors as education,
includes in the recommendation form professional development, temple
a list of the medications the person is preparation, and temple marriage.
37
 For those who have a strong desire
to serve, the bishop may advise the
4.6 Financing Missionary
stake president to identify local
opportunities for Church or
Service
community service. See 4.12 for The primary responsibility for providing financial
information about missionaries support for a missionary rests with the individual
serving the Church. and family. In general, missionaries should not
depend entirely on people outside their family for
Medical Limitations
financial support.
A prospective missionary who has a
Missionaries and their families must make
serious medical limitation, including
appropriate sacrifices to provide financial support
any due to injury or illness, may be
for a mission. It is better for a person to delay a
considered only with the
mission for a time and earn money for his
recommendation of a competent
support than to depend totally on others.
medical authority. Before submitting
However, worthy missionary candidates should
recommendation forms, the stake
not be prevented from serving missions solely for
president must consult with the
financial reasons when they and their families
Missionary Department. (1-801-240-
have sacrificed based on their ability.
2179 or 1-800-453-3860, extension
4.5.4 2-2179).
The Neighborhood
Review by the Area Medical Missionary Fund
Advisor
The ward missionary fund is used
Outside the United States and solely to support the missionaries
Canada, missionary identified in 4.6.2 . Ward missionary
recommendation forms are sent funds should not be sent directly to
through the Area Presidency. Under each missionary. Nor should
your direction, the Area Medical missionary funds be used for
Advisor reviews all referral forms and missionary activities in the ward or
identifies any unresolved medical stake.
and dental conditions or
immunization issues that could affect Stake presidents and bishops inform
the candidate's ability to serve or the missionaries and others who
nature of the assignment. contribute to the ward mission fund
that these contributions, including
If the zone medical advisor feels that those paid in advance, cannot be
treatment is necessary before a refunded ( see 14.4.9 ).
person is able to serve, the situation
is reviewed by the Area Presidency. Church leaders and members should
They can return the missionary not ask those outside the boundaries
recommendation forms to the stake of their own Church units to provide
president, who ensures that the missionary financial support, except
necessary treatment is arranged for 4.6.1 for family members.
them. When the medical condition is
4.6.2 Financing individual
resolved, the stake president may
4.5.5 resubmit the forms. Missionary proselytizing

Equalized Contribution

38
The Church has equaled the service listed above are covered by
required contribution for expenses matching contributions, but
related to the service of missionaries additional expenses are paid from
whose home wards are in personal funds. These expenses
designated countries, regardless of include clothing purchases and
where these missionaries are called repairs, bicycle purchases and
to serve. These contributions can be repairs, medical expenses not
made by missionaries, their parents, covered by the mission, and
other family members and friends. If approved telephone calls home.
necessary, the stake president or Other personal expenses, which
bishop may ask members within the should be kept to a minimum, could
stake or ward boundaries to include processing photos,
contribute to the ward missionary souvenirs, gifts, fines, and damage
fund. Budget funds and fast offerings to apartments or vehicles caused by
cannot be used to make matching missionary misconduct or
contributions. negligence.

The match only applies to the General Missionary Fund

following proselytizing missionaries:
Supplemental financial support from
1. the General Missionary Fund may be
requested by missionaries who are
Single men between 18 and 25
unable to provide the full amount of
2. support for their mission. To be
eligible for this assistance, a
Single women between 19 and 39 missionary must meet all of the
following requirements:
The matching contribution does not
apply to missionary couples, 1.
missionaries who are on
proselytizing assignments, sisters The missionary's ward home is in a
age 40 or older, or Church service by country that is not designated to
missionaries. participate in the matching program.

The amount of the matching 2.

contribution is identified in the
The missionary is a single senior
instructions from Church
ages 18 to 25 or a single sister ages
headquarters. For each missionary
19 to 39. This assistance is not
in his ward who is participating in the
available for couples or for sisters
matching program, the bishop
over 40 years of age.
ensures that the monthly contribution
is available in the ward missionary 3.
fund. Each month, Church
headquarters or the assigned Missionary members, parents, other
administrative office withdraws the family members, and ward and stake
matching contribution from the ward members are contributing according
missionary fund. to the guidelines established by the
Area Presidency. (Using these
Personal funds guidelines, stake presidents and
bishops will work with missionary
Expenses related to missionary candidates and their families to

39
 establish a specific commitment of 1.
financial support, based on
appropriate sacrifice for the The missionary's ward house is in a
missionary and family.) country that has been designated by
the Church to participate in the
4. matching program.

The missionary has his own 2.

scriptures and missionary clothing,
including temple garments, and has The missionary does not have
met medical and dental needs. sufficient means to provide support.

To request assistance for a 3.

missionary who meets these
Funds are available in the ward
requirements, the bishop completes
missionary fund.
a Supplemental Financial Assistance
Application for Full-Time Missionary
Form and submits it with the
Health insurance
Missionary Recommendation Form.
All missionaries are recommended to
4.6.3 maintain existing health insurance
Funding couples, during their missions. Having health
proselytizing Missionaries insurance conserves Church funds
and Church-Service and helps missionaries avoid having
to prove insurability after their
Missionaries 4.6.4 missions.

The expenses of the following

missionaries are not funded through
matching contributions. These
missionaries are responsible for
4.7 Submission of
paying their own expenses directly
from their own resources:
recommendation forms for
1.
Missionaries
Missionary marriages The bishop and stake president ensure that all
missionary recommendation forms are prepared
2. most completely and accurately. The bishop or
stake president submits these forms to the
Sisters 40 years or more Missionary Department up to 120 days before
the candidate's birthday or availability (whichever
3. is later). Recommendation forms for couples
may be submitted up to six months before their
Church Service Missionaries
availability date. . Instructions on referral forms
These missionaries cannot are provided.
contribute to the ward mission fund
When recommending pairs for missions, leaders
for their own use. However,
can confidentially recommend certain types of
missionary couples and sisters over
tasks for consideration. However, leaders should
the age of 40 may receive financial
not make commitments about the assignment a
assistance from the fund when all of
member will receive. Our future missionaries
the following requirements are met:
should be willing to accept any job.

40
Missionaries are called from their neighborhood calling and continue their preparation. Bishops
of origin. However, the bishop of a ward far from and stake presidents instruct newly called
home, such as a single youth ward, may process missionaries clearly regarding the seriousness
a missionary recommendation for the home and consequences of transgressions after
ward. To do this, you must: receiving the call.

1. The bishop also ensures that newly called

missionaries punctually comply with all
Obtain permission from the bishop of the instructions from Church headquarters, such as
neighborhood of origin. obtaining passports, applying for visas, and
acquiring appropriate clothing.
2.
Newly called missionaries should also read or
Ask about the creditworthiness of the
reread the Book of Mormon before they begin
candidates, in preparation for conducting a
their missions.
dignity interview.
4.8.1 Sacrament Meetings, Open
3.
Houses, and Advertising
Ask him for a letter of recommendation.
The bishopric usually invites new
The name of the home ward and involvement, missionaries to speak at the
the names of the bishop and stake president of sacrament meeting, just before their
those units, and the unit number of the home departure. The bishopric should
ward should be included in the recommendation. make it clear that this is a regular
sacrament meeting and is not to be a
By following this procedure, the bishop of the missionary farewell. The bishopric
ward away from home can ensure that all issues plans and holds these meetings.
regarding dignity, physical, mental, and Family and friends of missionaries
emotional health, financial support, and starting are not invited to speak. However,
point are resolved before he submits a other departing or returning
missionary recommendation. The far-from-home missionaries or other members may
stake president assures that this procedure is be invited to speak. As in all
followed and that the house-hall bishop's letter is sacrament meetings, talks and music
presented with the recommendation. should be worshipful, faith-
promoting, and gospel-oriented. The
If a bishop processes a recommendation for a
bishopric ensures that each
missionary candidate who has not lived in the
missionary has enough time to
ward continuously for at least one year, he
convey a spiritual message. The
meets with the bishop of the previous ward
regular sacrament meeting time
before proceeding.
should not be extended.
The stake president, bishop, missionary
Although it is valuable to have newly
candidate, and family should not make any
called missionaries speak in
announcement about a mission call before the
sacrament meeting, those
call is received.
conversations should not dominate
the sacrament meeting program to
the exclusion of other valuable
4.8 After Missionaries Are Called subjects and speakers.

The bishop continues to monitor the missionary's Members should avoid practices that
progress after the mission call is received to help may harm the sacred nature of the
the missionaries remain worthy of the sacred so-called mission or create
41
 unnecessary expenses. These general meeting to participate in
practices include holding open ratifying the ordination.
houses for missionaries (with the
exception of family reunions), A missionary is distinguished as
sending out printed formal notices or close to his departure date as
invitations, printing special possible. Even if the missionary will
sacrament meeting programs, and travel for some time between leaving
forming receiving lines. in the home and arriving at the TCM or
meeting house after sacrament field, neither the TCM leaders nor
meeting. other priesthood leaders should be
expected to separate the missionary.
Bishops review these guidelines with
newly called missionaries and their A day or two before a missionary is
families prior to departure date. set apart, the stake president
conducts an interview to confirm the
Temple Staff Endowment missionary's creditworthiness. This
interview is also a good opportunity
Whenever possible, unendowed to review the missionary's current
missionaries should receive their health status. If the missionary is not
own temple endowment after worthy or if there are serious
4.8.2 receiving their mission call. unresolved medical problems, he or
she will not fall away. The stake
4.8.3 Setting Apart Missionaries president notifies the Missionary
Department (1-801-240-2179 or 1-
The stake president distinguishes all
800-453-3860, extension 2-2179).
missionaries before leaving for a
missionary training center (MTC) or The separation should be a special
directly in the field. Only in the most occasion. Family and close friends
urgent cases, when absent can the are welcome to attend. The stake
stake president assign one of his president speaks briefly to help them
counselors to separate a missionary. feel the sacredness and importance
of the call.
The mission president distinguishes
missionaries who are called from the The stake president follows the usual
districts in his mission. However, if it procedure for setting aside (see
is not feasible for you to do so, you Handbook 2, 19.4). First the person
may assign one of your counselors is set apart as a missionary of The
to set aside a missionary. The district Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
president does not distinguish Saints assigned to work on the
missionaries. mission to which he or she has been
assigned. Then add a priesthood
A young man should have the
blessing as the Spirit leads. Worthy
Melchizedek Priesthood conferred
holders of the Melchizedek
upon him and be ordained as an
Priesthood, such as the missionary's
elder before being set apart as a
father, can be invited to stand in the
missionary. If he has to be set apart
circle.
before his ordination it can be held at
a stake conference or stake general When a missionary is set apart, the
priesthood meeting, which is setting aside should not be recorded.
presented for his sustaining vote by However, the missionary is
his ward at sacrament meeting. His encouraged to record in a personal
name is then presented at the next journal the date of the setting apart,
42
 the name of the stake president who Families are encouraged to go to the
officiated, and parts of the blessing airports when the missionaries leave
that were set apart. was especially MTC.
significant.
Transporting items to a
The stake president advises the Mission
missionary that, after being set apart,
he or she is a missionary and must Missionaries should not transport the
live according to missionary personal belongings of others to the
standards. mission field. Occasionally members
ask missionaries to take items such
Transport as medications or special glasses to
the mission field if they are not
The Church pays the missionaries' available there. If such requests are
expenses to travel to and from the made, the bishop or stake president
field. For those who go to an MTC, directs them to the Missionary
the Church pays for their trip to the 4.8.6 Department.
MTC and to the field. Travel
arrangements are sent shortly after
the so-called mission.
4.9 Missionaries in the mission field
When serving in their country of
residence, couples and single The placement of the
women over the age of 40 may take Missionaries
their own vehicles with them. They
are responsible for the costs of The mission president determines
operating and maintaining their the placement of missionaries in the
vehicles, including insurance, repairs mission. However, stake presidents
and fuel. These missionaries will be consult with bishops and recommend
given a coastal travel assignment of the number and location of
driving their own vehicles to or from missionaries to be assigned to the
the field. Information about this bonfire. The mission president then
refund is available at the Church assigns missionaries according to
travel office. If you have questions, 4.9.1 available resources.
please call 1-800-537-3537 or 1-801-
4.8.4 240-5149. Housing and Meals

4.8.5 Missionary Departures The stake president and mission

president determine whether and to
Parents or other immediate family what extent Church members should
members may take a missionary to provide lodging and meals for
an MTC but are not expected to do 4.9.2 missionaries.
so. Those who have to travel long
distances are discouraged from Missionaries working with less
going to an MTC. Family members active members
will say goodbye as the missionary's
luggage is unloaded from the 4.9.3 See Manual 2, 5.3.4.
vehicle. The MTC does not have an
4.9.4 Missionaries in leadership
orientation or other meeting for
families.
positions Power

With the approval of the mission

43
 president, missionary couples may home to join them in special fasts.
occasionally serve in branch
leadership positions. However, it is Communication Missionaries
generally preferable for them to with their families
serve in a training capacity to help
local members fulfill these Phone calls
responsibilities.
Under the direction of the mission
On rare occasions, younger president, missionaries may
missionaries may be assigned to telephone their parents at Christmas
branch leadership positions. and another time during the year,
However, these assignments need usually Mother's Day or another
the approval of the mission president major holiday. Mission presidents,
and are made only after careful and stake presidents, and bishops
prayerful consideration of all other encourage missionaries and parents
options. If couples or younger to keep these calls relatively brief,
missionaries are given these types of preferably no more than 30 or 40
assignments, they only serve until a minutes.
suitable local member can be called.
E-mail
If missionaries are assigned to
leadership positions in the branches As an alternative to postal mail,
they are on a mission, including the missionaries can use email to
branch president, they are not communicate with their families on
distinguished. The authority to act in preparation days, according to the
any mission position is inherent in guidelines that have been approved
your setting apart as a missionary. If 4.9.7 by the mission.
they perform a function that requires
Medical disability
priesthood keys, such as conducting
a baptism interview or presiding over If a missionary on the field (including
a branch, they do so by assigning an MTC) suffers a physical or
and delegating authority. emotional disability that prevents
effective missionary service, he or
If missionaries are assigned to
she is returned home for treatment.
leadership positions in branches that
A representative of the Missionary
are in a stake, they are distinguished
Department will explain to the stake
under the direction of the stake
president whether the missionary
presidency.
has been released or placed on
Requests to Support Members medical leave and what steps should
4.9.8 be taken.
Financially
4.9.9 The death of a family member
Missionaries and their families
should not be invited to provide
If a member of a missionary's
financial support to members who
immediate family dies, the Church
live in areas where the missionaries
encourages missionaries to remain
4.9.5 are serving.
on the field. However, if the
4.9.6 missionary and his family choose to
fasting
have the missionary return home, he
Missionaries should not ask friends, or she may allow him to return at the
family, or members of their wards' family's expense. The stake

44
 president may request such an at Church headquarters, they may
exception through the Missionary pay tithing through their home ward if
Department. they so choose. The bishop of the
ward in which they live interviews
4.9.10 Membership Records, those who recommend services for
Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction, and temple renovations and offers other
Contributions necessary ecclesiastical assistance.

Missionaries serving under the Mission Presidents

direction of a Mission
See 13.6.5 .
President

The home ward maintains

membership records, accepts any
tithing contributions, and records the 4.10 Liberation of
tithing status of missionaries serving
under the direction of a mission Missionaries
president. Missionaries pay fast
offerings for the room in which they Missionaries must serve the full term of service
are serving. for which they are called. Under normal
circumstances, neither they nor their parents
Missionaries serving under the should apply for first versions or extensions of
direction of a President or service.
Temple Area President Missionaries must travel directly home from their
missions. Any other travel is only permitted when
The home ward maintains
the missionary is accompanied by at least one
membership records, accepts any
parent or guardian.
tithing contributions, and records the
tithing status of missionaries serving The Church discourages parents from collecting
under the direction of a temple missionaries. However, if parents request this
president or area president. These privilege, they must understand that:
missionaries receive any necessary
ecclesiastical support, including 1.
temple recommends and counseling,
from the temple president or area Your plans must be based on the launch date
president. established by the mission president.

Missionaries at Church 2.
Headquarters who do not serve
They should not request a change in the launch
under the direction of a date to accommodate other travel plans or
Mission President commitments.
The membership records of full-time 3.
missionaries at Church headquarters
who are not serving under the They must inform the mission president or
direction of the mission president Church Travel Offices at least three months in
must be in the ward where they advance if they plan to travel with their
reside during their service. Tithing missionary.
and other offerings are normally paid
through that ward. However, if they 4.
move from their home ward to serve
45
They are expected to make their own travel the missionary near the completion
arrangements, including accommodation and of the temple 90-day recommended
meals. expiration period. If the missionary is
worthy, a new temple recommend is
Missionaries must dress and conduct issued with the normal expiration
themselves in accordance with missionary period of two years.
standards during their missions trip, as they are
not released until their stake presidents are Senior Missionaries
informed. They should not impose on members,
mission presidents, missionaries, or other If a returning senior missionary's
missions as they travel home. temple recommend is about to
expire, the mission president
4.10.1 Temple Recommendations conducts a temple recommend
interview as part of the exit interview
All qualified, gifted missionaries must and issues a new recommend. Such
have a valid temple recommend a recommendation only requires an
when they are released. The interview with the mission president
procedure for issuing a temple and the signatures of the president
recommend to a returning and the missionary.
missionary varies depending on the
age of the missionary. Missionaries who are not
Young Missionaries worthy of a Recommend
If a missionary who is sent home
When young missionaries are
early due to a late confession or
released, they benefit from frequent
disciplinary action has a temple
interviews with priesthood leaders
recommend, the mission president
during the time they are transitioning
asks when recommending. The
from the intense spiritual attention of
bishop and stake president may
missionary service to the various
issue a new temple recommend
activities of daily life.
when the person is worthy.
To help facilitate this, the mission
president conducts a dignity Arrivals at airports
interview with each returning young
missionary and issues a temple It is recommended that immediate
recommend that is valid only for 90 family members only go to the airport
days. The mission president writes to pick up returning missionaries at
an issue date for the temple 4.10.2 the conclusion of their missions.
recommend that will cause it to
4.10.3 Interviews, reports,
expire in 90 days. Such a
recommendation only requires an sacrament meetings and
interview with the mission president
appeals
and the signatures of the president
and the missionary. If the missionary
already has a valid temple
Interviews
recommend at the time of this
The stake president releases
interview, the mission president will
missionaries back from missionary
request it and destroy it when the 90-
service and gives them the certificate
day recommend is issued.
of fitness that he has received from
Local priesthood leaders interview the mission president. He
46
congratulates them on their service suggest or imply that they should be
and invites them to report on their married within a certain time frame.
mission. He also asks about his
behavior during the trip home. Reports and sacrament
When the missionaries are released, meetings
the stake president also interviews
In addition to their interview with the
them. This interview is an important
stake president, missionaries report
opportunity to help missionaries
to the stake priesthood executive
draw on their mission experiences
committee (stake presidency and
and commit to continuing on a
high council).
lifelong path of spiritual growth and
service. The stake president should As soon as practical, the bishopric of
allocate sufficient time for these your home room schedules
interviews to: missionaries to speak at a
sacrament meeting. Missionaries
1.
must have sufficient time to share
Discern the strengths and needs of spiritual experiences and bear
missionaries, then help them set witness. Your conversations should
goals and make plans that will build build faith and encourage young
on the good habits they have people to serve a mission. The stake
developed and that will take power in presidency may also assign them to
their daily lives. speak at other sacrament meetings
as companions to high counselors.
2.
The stake president advises
Review the importance of doing what returning missionaries to teach the
is necessary to continue feeling the Gospel in the conversations they
Spirit daily. give. As missionaries speak in
sacrament meetings, they must
3. share experiences that strengthen
faith in Jesus Christ, build
Encourage missionaries to choose
testimonies, encourage members to
and prepare for their life's work.
live and share the gospel, and
4. illustrate gospel principles. They
should avoid travelogues,
Ask missionaries to commit to paying inappropriate stories about their
a full tithe, being active in the peers or others, disparaging
Church, and serving faithfully in comments about the areas in which
Church callings and assignments they served, and other matters that
throughout their lives. would be inappropriate for a servant
of the Lord to discuss in the sacred
5. realm of sacrament meeting.

Encourage them to maintain high

Appeals
standards of behavior, including
dress and grooming. Priesthood leaders promptly call
missionaries who have recently
The stake president also encourages
returned to Church positions. Elders
returning young missionaries to live
quorum and Relief Society leaders
worthily and to prepare for temple
also assign each missionary as a
marriage. However, it should not
47
 home teacher or visiting teacher. recommended for missionary
service. The names of these
members must be submitted to the
Missionary Department.
4.11 Missionaries for older Representatives of the Missionary
Department will contact the stake
couples and sisters: president. He meets with the bishop
to consider each prospective
4.11.1 Identification of potential missionary's health, ability and
willingness to serve, and other
missionary couples
circumstances. The bishop meets
Bishops and stake presidents with members and encourages them
prayerfully consider whether couples to complete missionary
in their units might be called to serve recommendation forms. If the
as missionaries. Bishops can recommendation is approved, the
interview them to determine President of the Church issues a call
availability, ask them to prepare for letter.
so-called missions, and help them
Where there are large
complete and submit
concentrations of members, a
recommendation forms as outlined in
member of the Presidency of the
4.7 .
Seventy or the Area Presidency
Couples who are recommended for coordinates with stake presidents to
missionary service must no longer identify couples who could fill local
be involved in full-time employment. missionary needs in mission offices,
If they are to serve outside the training centers, visitors,
home, they must not have employment centers, family history
dependent children living at home. centers, temples, and the Church
Bishops and stake presidents take offices of the Educational System.
special care to ensure that couples Couples for these assignments could
are in good enough health to serve include those who are not able to
effectively as missionaries. leave their homes but wish to serve
at least 32 hours per week. These
Information about mission missionaries can receive live mission
opportunities for couples can be calls at home from the President of
found online at LDS.org . Stake the Church. Recommendations for
presidents and bishops can use this such missionaries will be presented
information to identify opportunities in the normal way.
for members who are encouraged to
serve. The bishop may confidentially Those who can serve less than 32
recommend specific assignments for hours a week may still be given local
these members. However, you assignments and are called by their
should not make commitments about stake president, as specified in 4.12 .
the allowances a member will
Bishops, stake presidents, and
receive. Our future missionaries
others who are encouraging couples
must be willing to accept any job.
to serve a mission should
General Authorities, mission understand that these members may
presidents, temple presidents, and have some anxiety due to misguided
Church service leaders can also preconceptions about what is
identify couples who could be expected of them. Leaders can

48
 reassure potential missionary part of their mission call:
couples that they will not be asked to
meet the same standards in work 1.
hours or other activities that are
Leadership
expected of younger missionaries.
Couples will allow themselves some 2.
flexibility in establishing their own
goals and schedules based on Church Educational System
personal needs, the demands of
their tasks, and the guidance of the 3.
person presiding over them.
Family background
Health Insurance for the 4.
Third Age Missionaries
Humanitarian Services
Missionary couples and sisters over
5.
the age of 40 are responsible for
their own health care expenses and Mission offices
must have health insurance
adequate for their mission duties. If 6.
the insurance coverage for those
living away from home is not The zone offices
adequate for their assignment,
7.
Deseret Mutual Benefits
Administrators (DMBA) will send Facilities management
them information about additional
insurance they can purchase. 8.
Missionaries who need additional
coverage but do not enroll in the Agricultural business administration
DMBA plan must provide proof of
adequate coverage before beginning 9.
4.11.2 to serve.
public affairs
4.11.3 Missions for senior 10.
missionaries and some
Temples
sister missionaries
11.
To the extent possible, all
missionaries should participate in Visitor centers and historic sites
sharing the gospel. Senior
12.
missionaries may also be asked to
help train leaders, provide Social welfare services
scholarships to new members, and
work with less active members. In 13.
addition to these basic assignments,
senior missionaries, sister Perpetual Fund for Education
missionaries over 40, and some
In response to local needs, mission
sisters under 40 may receive one or
presidents may change these
more of the following assignments as
assignments in consultation with

49
 headquarters departments service of Oportunidades
overseeing the original assignment.
The bishop may advise the stake
For information about senior president to identify local
missionaries serving as officers in opportunities for members who wish
local units, see 4.9.4 . to serve as Church service
missionaries. Examples of possible
The broadcasts of the assignments are listed below:
senior missionaries
1.
Release letters and certificates for
senior missionaries are prepared Welfare: Bishop's Stores, Canneries,
under the direction of the person Deseret Industries, and Employment
supervising their assignment. As with Resource Centers. Additional
all missionaries, these missionaries opportunities in the Salt Lake City
4.11.4 are released by their stake president. area: Deseret Manufacturing,
Humanitarian Center, and Wellness
Block

2.
4.12 Church-Service
Church Educational System:
Missionaries receptionist, office work, and
computer support; student
The Church-Service missionary program offers recruitment and enrollment; Institute
service opportunities for worthy members around accommodation, training, teaching
the world. Church service missionaries typically some classes in seminaries and in
work for Church departments. Except for those institutes
who serve in mission offices, they generally do
not serve under the direction of a full-time 3.
mission president. The use of Church service
missionaries is not intended to diminish the Church-owned farms, ranches, and
emphasis on full-time missionary service. recreational properties

Church service missionaries are normally called 4.

for 6 to 24 months. They serve at least 8 hours a
Physical facilities: the inspection and
week and usually less than 32 hours. They
maintenance of buildings
usually live at home while they are serving. Men
must be at least 18 years of age, and women 5.
must be at least 19. There is no maximum age.
Special premises projects
Church service missions are often a good
alternative when worthy members are not able to 6.
serve a full-time mission for health, financial,
family, or other challenges (see 4.5.3 ). Church History: Church History
Museum and Church History Library
Church service missionaries are called by their in Salt Lake City, including Library
stake president and set apart by their bishop as Services, Collections Development,
noted in 4.12.3 . Preservation Services and Joseph
Smith Papers
4.12.1 The identification of the
7.
Church-the missionary
50
Family History: Family History from fulfilling their responsibilities of
Library in Salt Lake City, regional caring for dependent children living
family history libraries, and support at home.
from around the world FamilySearch
Recommending
8.
Missionaries Church-
Materials management: distribution Service
centers, food services, and fleet
services (especially in Salt Lake A member, bishop, or stake
City) president may initiate an
investigation regarding a suitable
9. missionary Church service
opportunity. After an opportunity has
Other departments and operations
been identified, the bishop or
unique to Church headquarters:
member contacts a representative of
member locating services, housing
the department or other entity that
construction, Conference Center
registered the position to determine if
events, and administrative offices
it is still available and if the member
Stake presidents, bishops, and is able to meet the requirements.
members are encouraged to use the Contact information for the
following resources to identify and representative is posted on the
obtain information about missionary website with the position.
opportunities for Church service:
If the Church service opportunity is
In the United States and Canada: still available and the member meets
Internet: lds.org/csm Telephone: 1- the requirements, the bishop
801-240-4914 E-mail: csm- conducts a worthiness interview. The
support@ldschurch.org bishop and member complete a
Recommendation for Church-
Outside the United States and Missionary Service form. The bishop
Canada: Internet: lds.org/csm notes the recommended service
Telephone or write to the assigned opportunity, signs the form and
email administration office: csm- sends it to the stake president. The
support@ldschurch.org stake president then interviews the
member for merit, signs the form if
As with full-time missionaries, the approved, and sends it to the
bishop and stake president ensure director of missionary service. the
that each prospective missionary Church at Church headquarters or to
serving Church is worthy of having a the Church missionary service
temple recommend. They also 4.12.2 coordinator in your area.
ensure that he or she is physically,
mentally and emotionally capable of 4.12.3 Calling Missionaries
performing the duties of the call.
Prospective missionaries must be Church-Service
able to support themselves
Church service missionaries are
financially, including all living
called by their stake president. They
expenses, insurance, and medical
are distinguished by their bishop.
and dental expenses. Members
After the recommendation form has
should not be called to a Church-
been processed at Church
service mission if the responsibilities
headquarters or with the local
of the mission would prevent them
51
 coordinator, the stake president is Extensions
notified so he can extend the call. At
this time, the stake president also Near the end of the assigned period,
gives the missionary a calling letter the service period can be extended if
that is provided by the Church the missionary wants to extend and
service missionary coordinator in the service is still needed. The
their area. The stake president extension may be in variable
advises the bishop of the call and increments, not to exceed 30 months
asks him to establish the missionary of total service. The department
service separately. coordinator reviews the extension
request with the stake president. If
Once the call is issued, the the stake president approves the
missionaries contact the Church request, the missionary is informed
department representative to work and the missionary's bishop is
out the pertinent details. 4.12.7 notified.
Bishops and stake presidents give
due recognition to members who are
The liberation of the
called as missionaries in Church Church-Service
service. This recognition includes Missionaries
communicating your callings to ward
or stake members. It could also Toward the end of a Church service
include inviting missionaries to report mission, the department coordinator
on their service at appropriate informs the stake president when the
meetings. mission ends. At the end of the
mission, the stake president releases
Transport the missionary and advises the
bishop. The stake president also
Church service missionaries must gives the member a certificate of
provide their own transportation to fitness that is provided by the Church
their primary workplace. If a mission missionary service coordinator in his
assignment requires additional or her area.
travel, those expenses may be
4.12.4 reimbursable. At least six months must pass before
those at liberty receive another
Training and Supervision mission call from the Church to
service. Any exception must be
Church service missionaries are 4.12.8 approved by the stake president.
supervised by and trained under the
direction of the department in which Missionaries Church-Stake
they serve. They are not normally
trained in a missionary training
and Ward Service Callings
4.12.5 center.
Church service missionaries are
encouraged to serve in stake or ward
Medical expenses callings at the discretion of local
leaders, as long as these callings do
All Church service missionaries are
not interfere with Church missionary
entirely responsible for their own
4.12.9 service assignment.
medical needs, including dental and
eye expenses and prescription 4.12.10
4.12.6 medications.
Calls that are not
processed as Church-
52
 Service Missions 5.1.1

Calls to help with activation efforts or Wellness Leadership and Advice

to help strengthen ward members
are made by local leaders. These Teach Wellness Doctrines and
calls are not processed as Church Principles
service missions calls. This guideline
applies even if members will serve The stake president and his counselors ensure
outside of their home wards. that doctrines, principles, and blessings related
to spiritual and temporal well-being are regularly
taught to members of the stake. These doctrines
4.13 Voluntary Service and principles are described in the
aforementioned documents.
Many opportunities for Church service are
available to members, including those without a Teach leaders their well-being
temple recommend, and to non-members. These responsibilities
individuals are volunteers rather than
missionaries. Volunteers can serve in areas such The stake president and his counselors teach
as family history centers, FamilySearch Indexing, leaders their welfare responsibilities. The stake
welfare production projects and canneries, and president takes special care to instruct bishops
Scouting if you qualify for Scout registration. in the principles and policies of the Church's
welfare administration. As part of this
Church Welfare responsibility, he organizes the stake bishop's
Welfare Council (see 5.3 ).
Administration
The stake president ensures that the bishops
The welfare effects of the Church are to help administer the welfare of the Church correctly. In
members to be self-sufficient, to care for the his periodic interviews with bishops, he inquires
poor and needy, and to give service. For about the well-being of individual ward members
information about wellness doctrines and and discusses the use of social assistance,
principles, see the following publications: including fast offerings, to help those in need.

Manual 2, chapter 6 Welfare matters may also be discussed at stake

presidency training meetings with bishoprics, at
Providing the Lord's Way: Summary of a stake priesthood leadership meetings, and in
Leader's Guide to Wellness (brochure) other similar venues.

Basic Principles of Wellness and Self-Reliance Attend Coordination Council

(DVD and Manual)
meetings
Prepare everything you need: Home storage
(brochure) Stake presidents assist in coordinating council
meetings to receive instruction in various matters
Prepare everything that is necessary: The family of the Church, including principles of welfare and
economy (brochure) duties. At these meetings, presided over by an
assigned Area Seventy, leaders consider ways
to foster self-reliance, care for those in need, and
encourage donations of fast offerings.
5.1 Welfare Duties of the Preside over the work of the Stake
Stake Presidency Welfare Council
53
The stake president directs the care work of the upon to provide volunteer labor for it. These
stake council. In stake council meetings, leaders efforts are coordinated in the coordination of
consider spiritual and temporal welfare matters council meetings. The agent stake president
as follows: represents the welfare operation at these
meetings.
They identify concerns for the well-being of the
stake and look for ways to address those The agent stake president organizes an agent
concerns. However, they do not take stake operations committee to oversee the
responsibility for resolving neighborhood welfare welfare operation. This committee is composed
issues. of the stake president or an assigned counselor,
the president of the stake bishops' welfare
They plan ways to teach welfare principles to council, the Relief Society president, the
stake and ward leaders. operation manager, and other specialists as
needed. The committee meets regularly to
They discuss ways to make ward leaders aware
provide priesthood guidance and support to the
of people in the game who can serve as
operation's manager, to ensure that the
resources to help with wellness needs.
operation serves members in need appropriately,
Develop and maintain a simple written game and to coordinate volunteer work.
plan to respond to emergencies (see 5.1.3 ).
Stake Call Wellness Specialists
They plan wellness activities, taking care not to
impose excessive burdens on neighborhood A member of the stake presidency or an
leaders. assigned high councilor may call a stake
employment specialist and other welfare
They plan ways to respond to stake welfare specialists. These stake specialists serve as
assignments. resources for bishops and other ward leaders.
They can help with welfare needs such as job
When assigned by a member of the Presidency placement, education, training, nutrition,
of the Seventy or the Area Presidency, they sanitation, home storage, health care, family
provide leadership and support to a welfare finances, and the Perpetual Education Fund.
operation.
5.1.2
If a bishop has been assigned to handle
requests for assistance to persons who are Social care
transient or homeless, members of the stake
council determine how to make resources In general, social assistance is administered by
available to those concerned that bishop. bishops. However, the stake president has a role
in providing assistance in the following
Serve the Stake Presiding Agent for circumstances.
Church Welfare Operations
Assistance for Bishops
A member of the Presidency of the Seventy or
the Area Presidency appoints a stake agent to The stake president must be aware of the
each bishops' warehouse, cannery, home temporal circumstances of bishops and their
storage center, employment resource center, families. When a bishop or members of his
production project, Deseret Industries store , and immediate family need social assistance, he
other welfare operation of the Church or project reviews the needs and anticipated help with the
in the area. This assignment may change stake president. The written approval of the
periodically. stake president is required before the bishop
can:
All bets that are served by a welfare operation,
not just the participating agent, may be called 1.
54
Initiates the order of a bishop for the welfare submitted through Wellness Services (1-801-
assistance of the Church for himself or his 240-3001 or 1-800-453-3860, extension 2-3001).
immediate family.
A member of the Presidency of the Seventy or
2. the Area Presidency may recommend ward,
stake, and area maximum authorized amounts of
Use fast offerings to help yourself or your medical expenses for the areas over which they
immediate family. If fast offering funds are used, preside. They maintain that these
the stake president reviews bills and other recommendations of the Presiding Bishopric of
expenses before authorizing payment. the General Welfare Commission must be taken
into account.
3.

Obtain help for yourself or your immediate family Other special medical
through the welfare operations of the Church. circumstances
When authorizing the use of fast offerings for the See 5.2.6 .
bishop or his immediate family, the stake
president ensures that the instructions in the Assistance to members who are
“Fast Offerings” section in 5.2.4 are followed,
particularly with respect to signature checking. In
transient or homeless
short, the bishop cannot sign a check that is for
When there are two or more wards in close
welfare for himself or his immediate family.
proximity, the stake president may appoint a
bishop to handle all requests from persons who
Medical expenses that exceed are transient or homeless. This helps avoid
authorized amounts duplication and confusion.

The Church's General Welfare Committee Where there is a concentration of stakes with a
establishes the maximum amounts that a bishop large number of people who are transient or
and stake president may authorize to pay a homeless seeking assistance, a member of the
member's needy medical expenses, including Presidency of the Seventy or the Area
mental health care, without additional Presidency may call a Church service mission to
authorization. handle these types of requests. . This man
should have served as bishop. You must also
If the Church's total payment of a member's have experience helping those in need and be
needy medical expenses is expected to exceed familiar with the use of the Church's social
$5,000, the approval of the stake president is assistance resources. Where there is a bishops
required before the bishop can commit to paying warehouse, this Church-service missionary
health care providers. If the amount is expected serves under the direction of the bishops
to exceed $10,000, the stake president must warehouse manager. Exceptions to these
receive approval from a member of the guidelines must be approved by the Presiding
Presidency of the Seventy or the area President Bishopric.
before the bishop can commit to paying health
care providers. Support to Members in prisons,
A member of the Presidency of the Seventy or hospitals and other institutions
the Area President may authorize expenditures
of up to $25,000. When these leaders believe See 1/17/45 .
that an exception to these limits may be justified,
5.1.3
they may submit an application for the Presiding
Bishopric to consider. These requests are
Emergencies

55
The stake president directs the stake council in
preparing a simple written plan for the game to
respond to emergencies. This plan must be
coordinated with similar plans of other
5.2 Welfare Duties of the
participations in the coordinating council and with Bishopric
the plans of the community.
5.2.1 Wellness Leadership and
The stake council assigns tasks to carry out the
bonfire emergency response plan. The Council Advice
periodically reviews and updates these
allocations. Teach Wellness Doctrines
Care must be taken so that emergency planning
and Principles
does not promote fear. Emergency Mock
The bishop and his counselors
exercises should not be carried out.
ensure that doctrines, principles, and
During an emergency, the stake presidency blessings related to spiritual and
receives reports from bishops on the condition of temporal well-being are regularly
Church members and Church property. The taught to ward members. These
stake presidency then reports to a member of doctrines and principles are
the Presidency of the Seventy or the Area summarized in the publications listed
Presidency. at the beginning of this chapter.

During an emergency, Church leaders make Teach leaders their well-

Church services available to civil authorities. being responsibilities
Church leaders also take independent actions on
behalf of Church members, as necessary. The bishop and his counselors teach
priesthood and auxiliary
With the approval of a member of the Presidency
organizations their welfare
of the Seventy or the Area Presidency, Church
responsibilities to (1) encourage self-
buildings (except temples) may be used as
reliance, (2) care for the poor and
shelters, first aid stations, feeding places, and
needy, and (3) help members meet
recreation centers during emergencies. .
welfare needs. long term. The
Members of the stake and ward council ensure
bishopric teaches these
that users of the buildings observe the Church's
responsibilities in personal
standards of conduct, including the Word of
interviews, at ward council meetings,
Wisdom, while in the buildings.
and in other similar places.
During an emergency, the stake president
oversees public information that is released Encourage members to live
locally by the Church. He ensures that it is the law of fasting
accurate and timely. You can answer questions
from the media, or you can assign a public The bishopric and ward council
affairs director or assistant director involvement members encourage members to
to do so. He may also serve as a spokesperson live the law of fasting. Typically, this
for the local Church or may appoint a includes (1) fasting each Fast
spokesperson. The stake president reviews and Sunday for two consecutive meals
approves all press releases given by the and (2) giving a fast offering that is at
spokesperson. It also gives adequate recognition least equivalent to the value of the
to civil authorities and relief agencies. uneaten meals. Members are
encouraged to be generous and give
much more than two meals' worth if

56
 they are able. Church members do their best to
support themselves but cannot meet
When members live the law of their basic needs, they usually first
fasting and contribute fast offerings, turn to their families for help. When
their lives and the lives of those most this is not sufficient or feasible, the
in need will be blessed (see Isaiah Church is willing to help.
58:6-12 ). The importance of living
the law of fasting should be taught in The objectives of the Church's
sacrament meetings, priesthood welfare assistance are to strengthen
meetings, Relief Society and other members in need as follows:
auxiliary meetings, home visits,
temple recommend interviews, and 1.
tithing settlement interviews.
Help them to be self-sufficient and
stand independent of all social
Oversee the collection and assistance, regardless of their origin.
accounting of fast offerings
2.
See 14.4.2 .
It helps to become stronger
Preside over the Welfare spiritually and learn to provide
others.
work of the neighborhood
council 3.

The bishop directs the welfare work Helps maintain your self-esteem and
of the neighborhood council. He dignity.
ensures that in ward council
5.2.3 Principles and Guidelines
meetings, leaders consider spiritual
and temporal matters of well-being for the Provision of
as outlined in Handbook 2, 6.2.2.
Assistance
Participate in the stake The Lord has described His way of
bishops' Welfare Council caring for the poor and needy. He
instructed the saints to "give of your
See 5.3 . goods to the poor, ... and [it] shall be
appointed before the bishop... [and]
Call the Wellness Room shall be kept in my storehouse to be
and Employment supplied to the poor and needy" ( D&
C 42:31, 34 ).
Specialists
The Lord further explained that these
See "Wellness room specialists" in offerings must include the talents of
5.2.4. the members. These talents are
"being cast into the storehouse of the
5.2.2 Overview of Social Lord, ... all men seeking the welfare
Assistance of their neighbors, and doing all
things with an eye to the glory of
Through the Church, the Lord has God alone" ( D. and C. 82:18-19 ).
established a way to care for the
poor and needy and help them In some places, the Church has
regain their self-sufficiency. When established buildings called bishop's

57
stores. When members receive responsibility
permission from their bishop, they
can go to the bishop's store to obtain Before providing Church welfare
food and clothing. But the Lord's assistance, the bishop discusses
storehouse is not limited to a building with members the resources and
used to distribute food and clothing efforts they and their family can offer
to the poor. It also includes Church to meet their needs. Teaching the
members offering time, talents, principles of provident living and
compassion, materials, and financial committing to live these principles
means that are made available to the will often help members go a long
bishop to help care for the poor and way toward meeting their needs
needy. The storehouse of the Lord, themselves.
then, exists in every neighborhood.
The bishop is the agent of the Lord's When appropriate and feasible,
storehouse. those in need should seek the help
of family members before requesting
The bishop is charged with the help from the Church.
responsibility of utilizing the
resources of the Lord's storehouse to Church welfare assistance is
care for the poor and needy typically given to meet temporary
members of the ward. He uses the needs as members work to become
gift of discernment, good judgment, self-sufficient. Its goal is to help
and compassion to determine the members develop independence, not
best way to help those in need. dependence. The bishop
Every circumstance is different and encourages even those who may
requires inspiration. require long-term assistance, such
as some who are disabled or elderly,
The bishop seeks guidance from the to do all they can to help themselves.
Spirit and applies the following
welfare principles to help determine Sustain Life, Not Life
who should receive assistance, what
type and amount of help to offer, and The bishop provides basic life
for how long to provide it. support needs. He provides no help
to maintain a comfortable standard
Search for the poor of living.

The bishop has a divine mandate to Members who are temporarily

seek out and care for the poor (see unable to support themselves may
D. and C. 84:112 ). It is not enough have to alter their standard of living
to help only when asked. He must be until they are self-sufficient. They
aware of the temporary should not depend on the welfare of
circumstances of needy ward the Church to insure them against
members and ensure that needy temporary hardship or to enable
people receive adequate care. He them to continue their current
encourages priesthood and Relief standard of living without
Society leaders, home teachers, and interruption.
visiting teachers to help identify
members who need assistance. Provide items before
money
Promote personal
When possible, the bishop offers his

58
members products or services if they lived somewhere else.
instead of giving them money or Additionally, members who are
paying their bills. Members can then considered poor by some often do
use their own money to pay other not see themselves as poor.
obligations. When the bishop's
stores are not available, fast When the bishop does not know a
offerings can be used to purchase member, he contacts the member's
essential items. previous bishop before giving
welfare.
Give Job Opportunities In general, the bishop assists only
The bishop asks those who receive members who currently live within
assistance to work to the extent of the borders of his own ward. People
their ability for what they receive. He who are not members of the Church
teaches the importance of work and generally refer to local community
gives meaningful work assignments. resources if they need social
If members are reluctant to work, the assistance. However, on rare
bishop helps them understand that occasions, the bishop, under the
work assignments are given to bless inspiration of the Spirit, may help
them. When they work for people who are not members of the
assistance, they remain industrious, Church, especially if they are the
maintain self-esteem, and increase parents or caregivers of member
their ability to be self-sufficient. children. You must be discerning
about the type and amount of help
The ward council compiles and you give.
maintains a list of significant job
opportunities. If there are Church Providing social assistance should
welfare operations in the area, these not be based on the activity level or
operations can provide job and dignity of those who need it. Using
training opportunities for people who the welfare principles described in
need help from the Church. this manual, the bishop administers
help to all members in need. He
encourages less active members
Other guidelines
who receive assistance to improve
Completing a Needs and Resource their spiritual well-being by attending
Analysis form can help the bishop church, praying, reading the
determine what type of assistance to scriptures, and increasing their
offer. If circumstances are activity in the Church.
complicated and additional
In some situations, the welfare
information is needed, the bishops of
assistance provided may be
the United States and Canada may
contingent on members fulfilling
consider using the Needs and
simple tasks of the bishop, such as
Resources Analysis Supplement
doing assigned work, finding a job,
form.
and eliminating unnecessary
The bishop must take into account expenses. However, some members
that the circumstances and needs of who are widows, orphans, elderly or
temporary members vary from disabled people may be unable to
country to country. A family that fulfill the tasks. The bishop provides
might be considered needy in one compassionate care to these
location might not be considered so members based on their situations

59
 and abilities. Society is explained in more detail in
Handbook 2, 6.2.4.
When a stake president or members
of his immediate family need social Relief Society President
assistance, he makes contact with
his ward bishop. The bishop follows The bishop normally assigns the
the principles and guidelines Relief Society president to visit
governing social assistance as he members who need welfare
would any other member of the assistance. She helps assess their
Church. needs and suggests to the bishop
what assistance to provide. This may
Church Resources include preparing a Bishop's Order
Available to Help the Poor for Commodities form for the bishop
to approve and sign.
The bishop prayerfully determines
how to use the following Church The Relief Society president's role in
resources to help those in need. making these visits is explained
more fully in Handbook 2, 9.6.1.
neighborhood council
Ward Welfare Specialists
Ward council members assist with
the welfare needs of bishops Meet The bishopric may call an
the members. For information about employment specialist to help
the neighborhood council's care members prepare for and find
work, see Manual 2, 6.2.2. suitable employment. The bishopric
may also call other welfare
Melchizedek Priesthood specialists to help members with
needs such as education, training,
and Relief Society nutrition, sanitation, home storage,
quorums health care, family finances, and the
Perpetual Education Fund.
Wellness is fundamental to the work
of the high priests group, quorum Fast Offerings
elders, and Relief Society.
Priesthood and Relief Society Each week the Church consolidates
leaders say they regularly consider fast-offering contributions into a
wellness issues in their leadership worldwide general fast-offering fund.
meetings. Bishops then drew on this fund as
needed to provide short-term shelter,
Under the direction of the bishop and medical assistance, and other life-
quorum or Relief Society leaders, sustaining aid.
home teachers, visiting teachers,
and others help needy members find Guidelines for the bishop in using
solutions to welfare needs and fast offerings to administer
become self-sufficient. The time, assistance are outlined below:
talents, and abilities of ward
members are an important resource 1.
for the bishop to use in caring for
Personally approve all fast-offering
those in need.
expenditures.
5.2.4 The quorum care work of the
Melchizedek Priesthood and Relief
60
2. b.

If a bishops' storehouse is not The persons signing the check or

available, use fast offerings to buy form are not related to either the
essential commodities (see “Provide payee or the person being assisted.
Commodities before Cash” in 5.2.3).
c.
3.
Neither the payee nor the person
When possible, make payments to being assisted signs the check or
providers of goods and services form.
rather than to the person being
assisted or to other individuals. Stake and Other Church
4.
Resources

Do not loan fast offerings to If the stake presidency has called

members. Members are not required stake welfare specialists, the bishop
to repay welfare assistance they may ask them to provide expertise or
receive from the Church. Encourage other assistance.
members to contribute to the fast-
In some parts of the world, the
offering fund when they are again
Church has established welfare
able to do so.
operations such as bishops'
5. storehouses, canneries, employment
resource centers, Deseret Industries
Do not use fast offerings to pay stores, and LDS Family Services
members' consumer debt or agencies. Where these operations
obligations incurred in business exist, they provide resources that
failures or speculative ventures. bishops can use to help the poor and
needy. If a bishop needs information
6. about such resources in his area, he
contacts the chairman of the stake
Ensure that any fast-offering
bishops' welfare council or the stake
assistance to the bishop or his
president.
immediate family members is first
approved in writing by the stake
Non-Church Resources
president (see 5.1.2 ) and complies
with the following instructions for Available to Help the Poor
preparing checks.
Members may choose to use
7. resources in the community,
including government resources, to
When preparing a check for fast- help meet their basic needs. The
offering assistance (or a payment bishop and members of the ward
approval form, where used), ensure council should become familiar with
that: these non-Church resources. Such
resources may include:
to.
1.
Two authorized signers always sign
the check or form. Hospitals, physicians, or other
sources of medical care.

61
2. Without prior approval from the
Presiding Bishopric, fast offerings
Job training and placement services. may not be used to help pay for
medical care that is (1) beyond the
3.
usual and customary practice in the
Help for people with disabilities. area or (2) provided by facilities or
practitioners outside the
4. administrative area of the Church
where the member's ward is located.
Professional counselors or social If the bishop feels that an exception
workers. may be justified, he counsels with
the stake president. If the stake
5.
president agrees, he may submit a
Addiction treatment services. recommendation for the Presiding
Bishopric to consider an exception.
Even when members receive He submits his recommendation
assistance from non-Church through Welfare Services (1-801-
sources, the bishop helps them 240-3001 or 1-800-453-3860,
avoid becoming dependent on these extension 2-3001).
sources. He also advises them to
comply with any laws associated If the total Church payment of a
with receiving non-Church needy member's medical expenses
assistance, especially while is expected to exceed $5,000, the
receiving Church welfare assistance. bishop consults with the stake
Bishops should be careful not to president as outlined in 5.1.2 .
duplicate non-Church welfare
Fast offerings may not be used to
assistance.
pay for medical care that is morally,
ethically, or legally questionable.
Members Who Need
Medical Care Members Who Are
Before the bishop pays medical
Transient or Homeless
expenses for needy members,
The bishop may assist members and
including mental health care, he
others who are transient or
determines whether the care is
homeless, but he should be
necessary based on sound medical
discerning about the type and
advice. The bishop also determines
amount of assistance he gives.
whether family members are able to
When possible, he contacts the
assist and whether the member is
bishop of the person's home ward
fully using insurance, government
before providing assistance.
assistance, and other available
benefits. For instructions when there are two
or more wards in the vicinity, see
If the bishop feels that the Church
“Assistance for Members Who Are
should help pay a needy member's
Transient or Homeless” in 5.1.2.
medical expenses, he uses fast-
offering funds. He ensures that the
Confidentiality
records of health care providers
designate the member or family as The bishop maintains confidentiality
the party responsible for payment, about the welfare assistance that
not the Church.
62
members receive. He carefully hope and redemption through the
safeguards the privacy and dignity of Atonement of Jesus Christ.
members who receive assistance.
When he feels that other ward The behavior of individuals with
leaders can help members in need, social and emotional challenges
he may share information according often adversely affects spouses and
to the guidelines in Handbook 2, 6.4. family members. The bishop and
others whom he asks to assist
Welfare Abuse and Fraud should meet with those who are
adversely affected and extend
Bishops should protect against support and understanding to them.
welfare abuse and fraud. In the
United States and Canada, bishops The bishop may consult with LDS
who have concerns about welfare Family Services agencies, where
abuse or fraud should call the available, for help in assessing
bishops' help line (1-801-240-7887 needs, determining the need for
or 1-800-453-3860, extension 2- professional counseling, and
7887). Bishops may also call the identifying resources to assist
help line to verify a person's members with social and emotional
membership in the Church before challenges. The bishop may also use
giving welfare assistance. the Church Materials Catalog to
identify Church publications that
Outside the United States and have been prepared to help these
Canada, bishops should contact the members.
assigned administrative office.
Emergencies
Members with Social and
The bishopric directs the ward
Emotional Needs council in preparing a simple written
plan for the ward to respond to
Some members may experience
emergencies. This plan should be
serious social and emotional
coordinated with similar plans in the
challenges, such as mental illness;
stake and community.
unwed pregnancies; marriage and
family problems; drug, alcohol, and The ward council makes
pornography addictions; and same- assignments for carrying out the
gender attraction. ward's emergency response plan.
The council periodically reviews and
Members who face these and other
updates these assignments.
similar challenges require increased
sensitivity, understanding, Care should be exercised so
compassion, and confidentiality. emergency planning does not
Bishops can be instrumental in promote fear. Mock emergency
helping members heal and recover. exercises should not be conducted.
In many instances, members with
challenges such as pornography and When emergencies arise, the bishop
other addictions may have additional should receive reports from quorum
moral and spiritual needs that the leaders concerning the conditions
bishop can help them resolve. and needs of members. Quorum
Bishops should offer spiritual leaders receive these reports from
solutions by helping individuals home teachers. The bishop then
understand the basic doctrines of reports to the stake presidency on
63
 the condition of members and invited to attend.
Church property. This system may
also be used to communicate The council meets at least quarterly.
messages from the stake presidency Agenda items for these meetings
or bishop. may include the following:

During an emergency, Church 1.

leaders make the services of the
Receive instruction in welfare
Church available to civil authorities.
matters. This may include reviewing
Church leaders also take
instructions the stake president
independent action on behalf of
received at coordinating council
Church members as needed. For
meetings.
information on using Church
buildings during emergencies, see 2.
5.1.3 .
Exchange ideas and experiences
Supplemental equipment, food, relating to welfare responsibilities.
clothing, and services are available
through bishops' storehouses, 3.
Deseret Industries stores, and LDS
Family Services agencies where Review trends in fast-offering
they are established. During contributions, welfare needs and
emergencies, the bishop should resources, and welfare assistance.
request these commodities or
4.
services as needed.
Identify work opportunities for
During emergencies, full-time
members who receive welfare
missionaries can help with
assistance.
communication, ensuring that all
members receive needed 5.
information and are accounted for.
Identify ways for priesthood quorums
Stake Bishops' Welfare and the Relief Society to help meet
Council welfare needs in the stake.

6.
The bishops stakes' welfare council
is composed of all bishops and Identify agencies and services in the
branch presidents in the stake. The community that could be called on to
stake president appoints one bishop assist members.
to be chairman of the council. In
consultation with the stake president, 7.
the chairman arranges meetings,
prepares agendas, leads Evaluate the services and
discussions, and arranges for management of Church welfare
instruction. The stake president may operations in areas where they exist.
attend these council meetings
8.
occasionally to give instruction. A
stake clerk also attends and keeps a Discuss coordination of assistance to
record of assignments and people who are transient or
5.3 decisions. As needed, welfare homeless if the stake president has
specialists occasionally may be assigned one bishop to oversee this
64
 assistance. innocent, and (3) to safeguard the purity,
integrity, and good name of the Church.
9.
6.1.1
Review bishops' storehouse
procedures where one exists. Save the souls of transgressors

10. The first purpose of Church discipline is to save

the souls of transgressors, helping them to
Coordinate welfare farm and other repent (see D. and C. 1:31-32 ; 19:13-20 ;
welfare operations labor 42:37 ; 64:12-13 ). When people do not repent,
assignments. they are exposed to the demands of eternal
justice (see Alma 34:16 ). When they use faith to
Church Discipline and Name Removal
repent, God forgives them, granting mercy
In this chapter, references to transgressors are through the atonement of Jesus Christ (see Alma
in the masculine gender, but also include the 42:23 ; D. and C. 58:42 ). Through this process,
feminine. you may once again become clean and worthy of
inheriting the kingdom of God (see 3 Nephi
27:19 ; Moses 6:57 ).

6.1 Definition and Purposes of Church Church discipline can facilitate repentance by
Discipline helping transgressors recognize and abandon
sin, seek forgiveness, restitution, and
Bishops and stake presidents have the demonstrate a renewed commitment to keeping
responsibility to help members overcome the commandments. Informal Church discipline
transgression through repentance. This is often adequate for this purpose. However, in
responsibility includes counseling individual some cases the only way to encourage true
members as needed and assisting them in their repentance is to convene a disciplinary council
efforts to repent. In some circumstances, and consider formal discipline. Without formal
discipline from the administering Church is discipline, some transgressors cannot
required. The term Church discipline refers to the experience the change in behavior and change
restrictions and conditions of repentance in attitude necessary to qualify them for
imposed on a person. redemption through the atonement, because
"none but the truly repentant are saved" ( Alma
Guided by the Holy Spirit and the instructions in 42:24 ).
this chapter, bishops and stake presidents
administer Church discipline, whether formal or 6.1.2
informal, as necessary. Leaders administer
Church discipline with a spirit of love so that it Protect the innocent
can bless the life of the transgressor. To do this,
The second purpose of Church discipline is to
leaders must be guided and inspired by the Lord.
protect the innocent. With inspiration, a
Informal Church Discipline is administered in priesthood leader must act to protect others
private interviews. It does not affect a member's when an offender poses a physical or spiritual
position in the Church (see 6.8 ). Formal Church threat to them, such as by predatory practices,
discipline is administered in a disciplinary council physical harm, sexual abuse, drug abuse, fraud,
and may affect a member's standing in the or apostasy (see Alma 5:59-60 ).
Church (see 6.9 and 6.10 ).
6.1.3
The effects of Church discipline are: (1) to save
the souls of transgressors, (2) to protect the
Safeguard the integrity of the Church

65
The third objective of Church discipline is to The high council participates
safeguard the purity, integrity and good name of whenever a stake president
the Church. Consequently, transgressions that convenes a disciplinary council (see
significantly impair the good name or moral 6.10.1 and 6.10.4 ).
influence of the Church may require action by a
disciplinary council. Bishop

The bishop has authority over

Church discipline in the room, except
6.2 The responsibility of Church for the excommunication of a man
Discipline who holds the Melchizedek
Priesthood.
God does not overlook sin, and his servants
cannot ignore the evidence of serious The bishop must speak with the
transgressions (see Mosiah 26:29 ; D. and C. stake president and obtain his
01:31 ). Stake presidents, bishops, mission approval before convening a
presidents, district presidents, and branch disciplinary council. If evidence
presidents are called and set apart to be judges indicates that the Melchizedek
in Israel (see D. and C. 107:72-74 ). They are Priesthood holder is likely to be
"judging... by the testimony of the excommunicated, the bishop
righteous,...according to the laws of the kingdom immediately transfers the matter to
given by the prophets of God" ( D. and C. the stake president.
58:18 ).
When a bishop convenes a
Church discipline is administered in the ward or disciplinary council, he must include
stake that has a record of the offender's all three members of the bishopric
membership (see 6.2.7 for exceptions). Church (see "Disciplinary Council Room" in
leaders' responsibilities for initiating and 6.2.3 6.10.1).
administering church discipline are described in
the following paragraphs. branch president on a stake

Stake President A branch president in a stake is not

authorized to administer Church
The stake president has authority discipline without the authorization
over Church discipline at the stake. and advice of the stake president.
However, bishops normally He must receive authorization in
administer Church discipline unless each case to convene a disciplinary
evidence indicates that a man council.
holding the Melchizedek Priesthood
is likely to be excommunicated. In If evidence indicates that the
that case, the stake president Melchizedek Priesthood holder is
convenes a stake disciplinary likely to be excommunicated, the
council. When a stake president branch president immediately
convenes a disciplinary council, transfers the matter to the stake
participation of the stake presidency president. If a branch disciplinary
and high council is required as council recommends
described under “Stake Disciplinary excommunication of a member who
6.2.1 Councils” in 6.10.1. does not hold the Melchizedek
Priesthood, the approval of the stake
6.2.2 Better advice president is required before the
6.2.4 decision is final.

66
 When a branch president in a stake and advice of the mission president.
convenes a disciplinary council, he He must receive authorization in
must include all three members of each case to convene a disciplinary
the branch presidency (see “Branch council.
Disciplinary Councils in a Stake” in
6.10.1). Competence in Special
Circumstances
mission president
If a member in need of Church
The mission president administers or discipline moves to another ward
supervises the Church discipline of before disciplinary action is taken,
members in mission branches and the bishops of the two chambers
districts. If time or distance prevents consult to determine where action
you from personally convening a should be taken. They consider
disciplinary council of one of these issues such as the accessibility of
members, three holders of the key witnesses and the need to
Melchizedek Priesthood may be continue efforts to encourage
authorized to convene it as repentance and restoration of full
described under “Mission communion. If the bishops determine
Disciplinary Councils” in 6.10.1. If that the bishop of the former ward
this disciplinary council recommends should take disciplinary action, the
excommunication, the approval of membership record is preserved until
the mission president is required the action is taken. Otherwise, the
before the decision is final. membership record is transferred
and confidentially informs the current
The mission president also bishop of the circumstances
administers church discipline for full- warranting Church discipline of the
time missionaries who commit person.
serious transgressions on the
mission field. Before convening a If a member is living away from
disciplinary council for a full-time home temporarily (attending school
missionary, the mission president or serving in the military, for
discusses the matter with a General example), his bishop at the place of
Authority in the Missionary temporary residence may counsel
Department. If the mission president him or place him on informal
is located outside of the United probation. However, this bishop must
States and Canada, he also consult the home ward bishop before
discusses the matter with the Area initiating formal disciplinary action.
Presidency. In any case, the mission
president may not convene the If a full-time missionary commits a
disciplinary council until he receives serious transgression that was not
authorization from a General revealed until after he has been
Authority in the Missionary released, the bishop of his current
6.2.5 Department. ward confers with the stake
6.2.7 president and mission president.
District President and Branch
President on a Mission

A district president or branch 6.3 Information about a

president in a mission is not
6.2.6 authorized to administer Church possible serious violation
discipline without the authorization
67
The process of Church discipline begins when a If a member denies the accusation that the
presiding officer receives information that a bishop has reliable evidence to support, the
member has committed a serious transgression. bishop (or stake president if the member is a
This information can come from at least three Melchizedek holder who is likely to be
different ways: excommunicated if the accusation is true)
gathers further evidence to confirm or refute the
1. accusation. The Presidency may conduct the
investigation itself, or may assign two reliable
Confession by the member. Repentance
Melchizedek Priesthood holders to do so.
requires that all sins be confessed to the Lord.
However, leaders should not investigate people
"By this you will know whether a man repents of
or matters while they are the subject of
his sins: Behold, he will confess them and
investigation by law enforcement authorities. For
forsake them" ( D. and C. 58:43 ). Members
guidance in such circumstances, the stake
must also confess to their presiding Board if they
president seeks legal advice from the Church
have committed serious transgressions.
Legal Director's Office or area office as directed
Members who voluntarily and completely
on 01/17/26 .
confess transgressions demonstrate that they
have begun the process of repentance. Priesthood leaders who conduct an investigation
should not use methods that are not convenient
2.
to priesthood holders or that could lead to legal
Information from someone else. Such action. For example, they should not use
information could come from a family member, electronic surveillance devices, hidden cameras,
another Church leader, a victim, or a participant or recording devices. Likewise, they should not
in the transgression. keep surveillance on a member's home.

3.

The impressions of the Holy Spirit. When a 6.5 Confidentiality

presiding officer feels that a member of his or her
Bishops, stake presidents, and their counselors
ward or stake may be struggling with sin, he or
have a solemn duty to maintain the
she may schedule an interview with the member.
confidentiality of all information members give
In such a case, the leader speaks to the member
them in confessions and interviews. The same
in a respectful and helpful manner, avoiding any
duty of confidentiality applies to all those who
accusatory tone.
participate in the Church's disciplinary councils
and who are assigned to carry out investigations.
It includes what is said in the presentation of
6.4 Interviews and Research evidence and in deliberations. Confidential
information should not be shared with anyone
A bishop interviews any member of his ward who except authorized church leaders.
confesses or is accused of a serious infraction. If
the member confesses the sin, whether on his If a bishop learns that a member of the Church
own or as a result of someone else's accusation, outside his ward may have been involved in a
the bishop responds with love and serious infraction, the bishop informs that
understanding. The user is encouraged to seek member confidentially. When members of
forgiveness from the Lord, abandon the different wards transgress together, and when
transgression, and make restitution. If the sin the identity of the other transgressor has been
may be serious enough to require formal Church made known to his bishop, the bishop to whom
discipline, the bishop explains this to the the revelation was made consults with the bishop
member (see 6.7 ). of the other member.

68
If civil authorities challenge a clergyman's
required confidentiality, the challenged
priesthood leader seeks legal advice from the
Church's Office of the Chief Legal Officer (1-801-
6.7 How to determine if the
240-6301 or 1-800-453-3860, ext. 2-6301) or the Disciplinary Council is
area office.
necessary
6.6 Seeking forgiveness and disclosure
When a Disciplinary
of information Council is not necessary
As part of the repentance process, transgressors Disciplinary advice is normally not
must seek forgiveness from people who have necessary in the following cases.
done wrong. Repentance for a married person
who is involved in a sexual transgression usually Failure to comply with
includes confessing and asking for forgiveness some Church norms
from his or her spouse. A young unmarried
person who commits a sexual transgression A disciplinary board cannot stop
should be encouraged to inform his or her disciplining or threatening members
parents. who do not comply with the Word of
Wisdom, who are struggling with
Repentance may include disclosure to pornography or self-abuse, or whose
government authorities. If confidential transgressions consist of omissions,
information indicates that a member has violated such as failure to pay tithing. ,
applicable law, the bishop or stake president inactivity in the Church or lack of
encourages him or her to report the matter to the attention to the rights of the Church.
appropriate government authorities. The member
should also be advised to seek competent legal Business bankruptcies or
advice before reporting. For guidance regarding
local laws governing abuse of reporting, see the non-payment of debts
instructions in 17.3.2 .
Church leaders or members should
Disclosure of the identity of others who not use the threat of Church
participated in a transgression is encouraged as discipline as a form of harassment or
part of the repentance process, especially when as a device to resolve business
this can help Church leaders assist participants disputes. Business bankruptcies and
in their repentance. non-payment of debts are not
reasons to convene a disciplinary
Disclosure of the identity of other persons who council. However, a disciplinary
participated in a transgression may be required hearing may be held for deceptive
when necessary to restore or protect persons practices, false statements, or other
who have been or may be seriously injured as a forms of fraud or dishonesty in
result of the transgression. For example, a business transactions.
sexual offender who has been exposed or who
has exposed others to a sexually transmitted Civil Disputes
disease must make necessary disclosures to
protect others. Predators may need to be Disciplinary boards should not
identified to protect potential victims. An offender attempt to resolve disputes over
who has or has had a prominent position of trust property rights or other civil
may need to be identified to Church leaders for 6.7.1 controversies. However, if such a
the spiritual protection of members. controversy involves accusations
69
 that a member has committed acts members who undergo, perform,
that would warrant Church discipline, organize, pay for, or encourage
leaders treat the accusations like any abortions. However, Church
other accusations of transgression. discipline should not be considered
for members who have participated
If Church leaders are asked to help in an abortion before being baptized
resolve civil disputes, they should act or because (1) the pregnancy is a
as private, official advisors and result of rape or forced incest, (2) the
should not involve the Church. life or health of the mother was in
serious danger, or (3) the fetus was
Pass of the time known to have serious defects that
do not allow the baby to survive
If a member voluntarily confesses a beyond birth (see 17.3.1 ). Bishops
serious transgression that was refer questions about specific cases
committed long ago and his to the stake president. The stake
faithfulness and service in the president may ask questions of the
intervening years have demonstrated Office of the First Presidency, if
full reform and repentance, a necessary.
frequent disciplinary council is not
necessary (see "The Time Between
Transsexual Operation
Transgression and Confession" in
6.10.6). Church Leaders Counsel Against
Elective Transsexual Operations. If a
When a disciplinary council member is contemplating this
may be necessary operation, a presiding officer informs
him or her of this advice and informs
The serious transgression him or her that the operation may be
cause for official Church discipline.
Formal Church discipline may be Bishops refer questions about
necessary for any member who specific cases to the stake president.
commits a serious transgression. As The stake president may ask
used here, grave transgression is questions of the Office of the First
defined as a deliberate and major Presidency, if necessary.
crime against morality. This includes
(but is not limited to) attempted When a Disciplinary
murder, rape, sexual abuse, spousal Council is mandatory
abuse, intentional serious physical
injury of others, adultery, fornication, A disciplinary council must be held
homosexual relations, deliberate when evidence suggests that a
abandonment of family member may have committed any of
responsibilities, robbery, theft , theft, the following transgressions.
embezzlement, the sale of illegal
medications, fraud, perjury and false Murder
testimony.
As used here, murder refers to the
abortion deliberate and unjustified taking of
human life. Requires
Chairs carefully review the excommunication. It does not include
circumstances of members who police and military action in the line
6.7.2 have participated in abortions. 6.7.3 of duty. Abortion is not defined as
Formal discipline may be required for murder for this purpose. If the death
70
was caused by negligence or 2.
defense of self or others, or if
extenuating circumstances prevail Persist in teaching as information
(such as poor mental capacity), the Church doctrine that is not Church
taking of a human life could not be doctrine after they have been
defined as murder. Bishops refer corrected by their bishop or a higher
questions about specific cases to the authority.
stake president. The stake president
3.
may ask questions of the Office of
the First Presidency, if necessary. Continue to follow the teachings of
apostate sects (such as those who
Incest advocate plural marriage) after you
have been corrected by your bishop
As used here, incest refers to sexual
or a higher authority.
relations between a parent and a
natural, adopted, or foster child or 4.
stepchild. A grandfather considers
himself as a father. Incest also refers Formally join another church and
to sexual relations between brothers defend its teachings.
and sisters. It almost always requires
excommunication. Bishops refer Priesthood leaders must take
questions about specific cases to the disciplinary action against apostates
stake president. The stake president to protect members of the Church.
may ask questions of the Office of The Savior taught the Nephites that
the First Presidency, if necessary. If they should continue to minister to a
a minor commits incest, contact the transgressor, "but if he does not
stake president's Office of the First repent, he will not be numbered
Presidency for direction. among my people, lest he destroy
my people" ( 3 Nephi 18:31 ; see
Child abuse also Mosiah 26: 36 ).

Total inactivity in the Church or

As used here, child abuse refers to a
attending another church does not
sexual offense against a child or
constitute apostasy. However, if a
physical abuse of a child. If
member formally joins another
priesthood leaders learn or suspect
church and defends its teachings,
child abuse, follow the instructions in
excommunication or removal may be
17.3.2 . If a minor abuses a child, the
necessary if formal membership in
stake president contacts the Office of
the other church is not terminated
the First Presidency for direction.
after counseling and
encouragement.
Apostasy
As used here, apostasy refers to Serious transgression
members who: while maintaining a
1. prominent church position

Repeatedly act in clear, open and A disciplinary council must be held

deliberate public opposition to the for a member who commits a serious
Church or its leaders. transgression while holding one of
the following prominent Church
positions: Area Seventy; temple,
71
 mission, or stake president; counsel and caution and (2) informal probation.
patriarch; or bishop (but the
president does not branch). The term The private lawyer and Caution
serious violation is defined in 6.7.2 .
Private legal counsel and caution
may be sufficient discipline for
Transgressor Who is a
members who have committed minor
Predator transgressions and who are
genuinely remorseful.
A disciplinary council must be held
for a member who commits a serious BOARD OF DIRECTORS counsel
transgression that shows him or her members to resist temptation and
as a predator with tendencies that help them take preventive measures
present some type of serious threat to resist specific temptations. Such
to other people. counseling often helps members
who have committed minor moral
Panorama of serious transgressions protect themselves
transgressions against major transgressions. This
counseling also helps protect and
A disciplinary council should be held strengthen those who are courting,
for a member who demonstrates a having difficulties in their marriages,
pattern of serious transgressions, or are separated or divorced. Chairs
especially if previous transgressions do not have to wait for members to
have resulted in Church discipline. seek this type of help, but they can
call for advice.
The serious transgression
For more information about
that is widely known 6.8.1 counselling, see 7.2 .

A disciplinary council must be held 6.8.2 Informal Probation

for a member who commits a serious
transgression (as defined in 6.7.2 ) Informal parole is a means for a
that is widely known. presiding official to restrict some of
the privileges of an offending
member of the Church. Such
restrictions may include suspension
6.8 Informal Church Discipline
of the right to participate in the Lord's
A bishop or branch president normally Supper, hold a Church position,
administers informal church discipline. Their exercise the priesthood, or enter a
counselors do not participate, and no disciplinary temple. If the privilege of entering a
council is held. Except for the most serious temple is suspended, a member
transgressions, informal discipline may be gives his or her temple recommend
sufficient for people who are truly repentant to the president for the period of
(especially if they have voluntarily confessed), suspension. Wisely administered
for first-time offenders , for those who have not and humbly received informal
violated the temple covenants by their probation can be effective in helping
transgression, and for those with significant transgressor repent.
extenuating circumstances (see D. and C. 42:25-
In less serious cases, a presiding
26 ; see also 6.10.6 ).
officer may determine that a member
Informal Church Discipline includes (1) private needs a more active role rather than
a less active exercise of the

72
 privileges of membership in the condemn. A presiding officer who is unwilling to
Church. In these cases, informal proceed in such cases is not fulfilling his
probation may include positive responsibilities as a common judge.
conditions, such as regular church
attendance, regular prayer, and Formal Church discipline is administered in a
reading selected passages or disciplinary council (see 6.10 ). Because formal
Church literature. church discipline is ecclesiastical, not civil or
penal, it can affect the foot of only one member
Informal probation is not an option of the Church (see D. and C. 134:10 ). The
when priesthood leaders administer judicial procedures of a state or nation do not
Church discipline to a member who apply.
has participated in any of the serious
transgressions mentioned in Formal Church discipline includes formal
6.12.10 . probation, disassociation, and excommunication.

A bishop typically did not inform Formal Probation

anyone of the decision to place a
member on informal probation. No Formal probation is an action taken
official record is made of these types by a disciplinary board to restrict or
of decisions, but the bishop may take suspend some of the privileges of a
private notes for his own use. He transgressing member of the
keeps these notes safe and destroys Church. These restrictions could
them after the trial period, he include or go beyond those imposed
concludes. If a bishop is released or by informal probation. Positive
if the member moves to a new ward conditions similar to those imposed
before the informal probation ends, by informal probation may also be
the bishop may inform the new prescribed (see 6.8.2 ).
bishop to the extent necessary for
the new bishop to supervise the Formal probation is not an option
remaining probation. when priesthood leaders administer
Church discipline to a member who
When a member on informal parole has participated in any of the serious
advances specified and meets the transgressions mentioned in
prescribed conditions, the 6.12.10 . If a minor commits incest or
Presidency may terminate the abuses a child, contact the stake
parole. If the member does not make president in the Office of the First
this progress and comply with the Presidency's leadership.
conditions, additional disciplinary
action may be necessary. Where a probationer makes certain
progress and meets the prescribed
conditions, the President may
convene another disciplinary council
6.9 Formal Church to consider terminating the probation
(see 6.12 ). If the member does not
Discipline make this progress and comply with
the conditions, the disciplinary board
Sometimes, formal discipline is the only way to may continue probation or take more
help repent transgressors, to protect the 6.9.1 severe disciplinary action.
innocent, or to safeguard the purity and good
6.9.2 Disassociation
name of the Church. Presidents approach formal
discipline with prayer's desire to help, not
A person who is excommunicated is
73
 still a member of the Church, but is disciplinary measure of the Church.
no longer in good standing. As directed by the Spirit, it may be
Disassociation is a serious action necessary to:
that may be appropriate for all but
the most serious transgressions. 1.

A person who is disfellowshipped Members who have committed

may not hold a temple recommend, serious transgressions, especially
serve in a Church position, or hold violations of temple covenants (see
the priesthood in any way. He is "Violation of Covenants" in 6.10.6).
encouraged to attend public Church
2.
meetings if his conduct is orderly, but
he may not give a talk, a public Members who have been expelled
prayer, participate in the Lord's and have not repented and for whom
Supper, or participate in the support excommunication seems to offer the
of Church officials. The President best hope for reform.
may impose additional conditions,
such as staying away from 3.
pornographic materials and other
bad influences. He may also impose Members whose behavior makes
positive conditions such as regular them a serious threat to others and
church attendance, regular prayer, whose Church members facilitate
and reading selected passages or their access to victims.
Church literature.
4.
Disfellowshipped members are
Church leaders or prominent
encouraged to pay tithes and
members whose transgressions
offerings, to continue wearing temple
significantly impair the good name or
garments if gifted, and to seek a
moral influence of the Church in the
return to fellowship in the Church
community that is aware of the
through sincere repentance and
transgression.
righteous living.
Excommunication is mandatory for
Disassociation is intended to be
murder (as defined in 6.7.3 ) and is
temporary, but usually lasts at least
almost always required for incest.
a year. When a member shows true
repentance and satisfies the A person who is excommunicated
conditions imposed, the President does not enjoy the privileges of
may convene another disciplinary membership in the Church. He
council to consider restoring him to cannot wear temple clothing or pay
full communion (see 6.12 ). If a tithes and offerings. You may attend
member does not repent, the public Church meetings if your
disciplinary council may continue conduct is orderly, but your
disassociation or consider participation in such meetings is
excommunication. limited the same as for
disfellowshipped members.
Excommunication
Excommunication almost always
A person who is excommunicated is lasts at least a year. If a person
6.9.3 no longer a member of the Church. shows true repentance and meets
Excommunication is the most severe the requirements while he is

74
 excommunicated, he can be participate in their places, and the
readmitted by baptism and twelve members of the high council
confirmation. The readmission or those who are authorized to
process is explained in 6.12 . participate in their places.

For information on the effects of Ward Disciplinary Councils

excommunication on temple
sealings, see “Effects of All three members of the bishopric
Excommunication or Name and a clerk participate in a ward
Removal” in 3.6.1. disciplinary council. If the bishop is
unable to participate, he refers the
case to the stake president, who
agrees to stake disciplinary council.
6.10 Disciplinary Councils The bishop may not assign a
counselor to agree or preside over a
A presiding officer agrees to disciplinary council disciplinary council. If a counselor in
when he has determined that formal Church the bishopric is unable to participate,
discipline may be necessary. Procedures in a the bishop may ask a high priest in
disciplinary council must be fair and consider the the ward to take the counselor's
feelings of all who participate. place. If a high priest is unavailable,
the bishop refers the case to the
Leaders Who Are to stake president, who agrees to stake
Participate disciplinary council. In these
circumstances, as with other stake
disciplinary councils, the participation
Stake Disciplinary Councils
of the stake presidency and high
All three members of the stake council is required as outlined above.
presidency, all twelve members of
The bishop always consults with the
the high council, and a clerk
stake president and obtains his
participate in a stake disciplinary
approval before agreeing to a
council. If a counselor in the stake
disciplinary council.
presidency is unable to participate,
the stake president asks a member
Branch Disciplinary
of the high council to take the
counselor's place. If a high councilor Councils in a Stake
is unable to participate, the stake
president asks a high priest in the A branch president in a stake may
stake to take the high councilor's suit a disciplinary council when
place. If the stake president is authorized by the stake president. All
unable to participate, the First three members of the branch
Presidency may authorize one of his presidency participate in the
counselors to preside in his place. If disciplinary council.
filling one vacancy creates another,
the presiding authority fills it as Mission Disciplinary
prescribed in this paragraph. Councils
Without exception, fifteen high When a mission president holds a
priests participate in a stake disciplinary council for members or
disciplinary council: the three full-time missionaries under his
6.10.1 members of the stake presidency or jurisdiction, he appoints two
those who are authorized to Melchizedek Priesthood holders to
75
assist him. A disciplinary council in a the counselor should not participate.
mission follows the procedures and If the transgressor objects to the
exercises the authority specified for participation of the bishop, the
a disciplinary council in a stake, disciplinary matter must be referred
except that a high council does not to the stake president, who agrees to
participate. stake disciplinary council. If the
transgressor objects to the
If time or distance prevents a participation of the stake president,
mission president from personally or if the stake president feels that he
holding a disciplinary council for a cannot be impartial in the matter, he
member under his jurisdiction, he consults the Office of the First
may authorize three Melchizedek Presidency.
Priesthood holders to suit a mission
disciplinary council. Normally the If a member of a bishopric, stake
presiding officer is the member's presidency, or high council or a clerk
district president or branch president has a legal duty because of his
(see “District and Branch Disciplinary occupation (such as a law
Councils in a Mission” below). enforcement officer) to report to
government authorities facts that are
A mission president must preside likely to be disclosed in a disciplinary
over disciplinary councils for full-time council, he should not participate.
missionaries in his mission. Before
doing so, he must receive Notice and Scheduling
authorization from a General
Authority in the Missionary A presiding officer should not
Department (see 6.2.5 and the schedule a disciplinary council until
Mission President's Handbook ). (1) he has had adequate time to
determine the relevant facts and (2)
District and Branch he and the transgressor and the
Disciplinary Councils in a aggrieved parties have had
adequate time to give unhurried
Mission consideration to the consequences
of the transgression.
A district president or branch
president in a mission may suit a The presiding officer gives a member
disciplinary council when authorized written notice of a disciplinary council
by the mission president. District that will be held in his behalf. This
councils do not participate in notice is addressed to the member
disciplinary councils. See also 6.2.5 by his full name and is signed by the
and 6.2.6 . presiding officer. It states:

Additional Instructions “The [stake presidency or bishopric]

about Participation is considering formal disciplinary
action on your behalf, including the
If a transgressor objects to the possibility of disfellowshipment or
participation of a counselor in the excommunication, because you are
bishopric or stake presidency, the reported to have [set forth the charge
presiding officer evaluates the in general terms, such as 'been in
objection. If the presiding officer apostasy' or 'participated in conduct
concludes that the objection is 6.10.2 unbecoming a member of the
reasonable in fact or appearance, Church,' but do not give any details

76
 or evidence]. the two leaders determine whether it
would be helpful and appropriate for
“You are invited to attend this the victim to be given an opportunity
disciplinary council to give your to provide a written or oral statement
response and, if you wish, to provide about the known or alleged
witnesses and other evidence on misconduct and how it has affected
your behalf. the victim and his or her family.

“The disciplinary council will be held Any interview with an aggrieved

on [date and time] at [place].” victim for this purpose is conducted
by his or her current bishop or stake
Two Melchizedek Priesthood holders
president. Any inquiries about a
deliver the notice to the member
victim who is under 18 years of age
personally and privately with
are made through the child's
courtesy and dignity. The members
parent(s) or legal guardian(s). Great
who deliver the notice must give the
care must be taken to avoid causing
clerk of the disciplinary council a
further trauma, especially with a
signed statement certifying that the
victim of sexual or physical abuse. In
member was notified and describing
the United States, Canada, and
how he was notified.
selected other countries, the Church
If the notice cannot be delivered in has established a help line for cases
person, it may be sent by registered that involve abuse. Priesthood
or certified mail, with a return receipt leaders should call the help line for
requested. guidance in such cases (see
17.3.2 ). In the United States and
A member who is incarcerated when Canada, the telephone number is 1-
a council is to be held is notified as 801-240-1911 or 1-800-453-3860,
specified in the preceding extension 2-1911.
paragraphs, with one exception:
since he will not be able to attend, he Procedures of the Council
is not invited. However, the letter
should invite him to send evidence The stake president, bishop, mission
on his behalf, including a written president, district president, or
response about the crime with which branch president conducts the
he has been charged and, if disciplinary council. He also rules on
applicable, convicted. The letter may the procedures that are followed and
also invite him to tell how he feels the evidence that is presented.
about continued fellowship or
A clerk records the proceedings of
membership in the Church.
the council as a basis for completing
the Report of Church Disciplinary
Communicating with
Action form, but he does not
Aggravated Victims participate in the discussion or
decision.
When there is an aggrieved victim
(such as for incest, child abuse, or The presiding officer helps the
spouse abuse), the presiding officer member prepare for the disciplinary
of the upcoming disciplinary council council by explaining its purpose and
contacts the victim's current bishop procedures. He also explains the
or stake president. If the victim's consequences of the decisions the
6.10.3 current bishop or stake president 6.10.4 council may reach.
already knows about the situation,
77
If the member has confessed, the admitting or denying it.
presiding officer asks for consent to
use the confession as evidence in 3.
the council. Information received in a
If the member admits to the
member's confession cannot be
misconduct, proceed to number 5
used as evidence in a disciplinary
below. If he denies the reported
council without the member's
misconduct, present evidence of it or
consent. When necessary, the
ask someone else to do so. This
presiding officer attempts to
evidence may include the written or
persuade the member to give this
oral statements of witnesses, reliable
consent. He explains that refusal
documents, and the substance of the
reflects a lack of contrition and
member's confession (if he has
repentance, preventing justice and
confessed and given consent). The
mercy from operating fully for the
member must be given an
good of the transgressor.
opportunity to question any
A lack of consent to use a witnesses who give evidence against
confession as evidence does not him. (If witnesses are unable to
prevent a disciplinary council from attend, see “Party or Witness Unable
proceeding on the basis of other to Attend” in 6.10.12.)
evidence. Also, the presiding officer
4.
can still impose informal discipline on
the basis of the confession, even if If the member desires to present
the member does not give consent evidence on his behalf, invite him to
for the confession to be used in the bring in witnesses one at a time,
council. submit other relevant evidence,
comment on the evidence, and make
Immediately before the council
any other statements he desires.
begins, the presiding officer tells his
counselors (and the high council if it Witnesses should be Church
is a stake disciplinary council) who it members unless the presiding officer
is for and what the reported has determined in advance that a
misconduct is. If necessary, he nonmember witness will respect the
explains the procedures of the purposes and procedures of a
council to these leaders. The person Church disciplinary council.
is then invited into the meeting and Witnesses wait in a separate room
introduced. until they give their evidence. The
presiding officer asks them not to
The presiding officer conducts the
talk with each other about the matter
disciplinary council as follows:
either before or after they testify.
1.
5.
Invite participants to open the council
Ask questions of the member or
with prayer.
witnesses in an orderly, polite
2. manner, avoiding argument. Allow
counselors in the bishopric or stake
State the reported misconduct, or presidency to do the same.
designate someone else to state it. Questions are to be brief and limited
Ask the member to respond by to the essential facts of the case.

78
6. 9.

In a stake disciplinary council, invite Explain the person's right to appeal

members of the high council to (see 6.10.10 ).
participate as outlined in “High
Council Participation” (see the next 10.
heading).
Invite participant to close the council
7. with prayer.

When all relevant matters have been If the person holds a valid temple
presented, excuse the member and, recommend and the right to enter the
with counselors in the bishopric or temple has been withdrawn, he gives
stake presidency, prayerfully the recommend to the presiding
deliberate over what action to take. officer at this time, unless he has
The presiding officer is the judge. He already done so.
makes the decision through
If the person does not attend the
inspiration and invites his counselors
council, the presiding officer informs
to sustain it. If they have a different
him of the decision and gives
opinion, he listens and seeks to
instruction and advice by meeting
resolve the differences so the
with him or by other means if
decision can be unanimous.
necessary.
In a stake disciplinary council, the
Video or audio recordings of
stake presidency withdraws from the
disciplinary councils should not be
council room to confer in private.
made.
After the stake president reaches a
decision and his counselors sustain
it, he announces it to the high council
High Council Participation
as outlined in “High Council
Stake disciplinary councils always
Participation” (see the next heading).
include the high council. Principles
If there is not enough evidence to governing the participation of the
justify formal Church discipline but it high council, including the casting of
seems inappropriate to conclude the lots to determine the order of
matter immediately by a decision of speaking, are stated in Doctrine and
no action, the presiding officer Covenants 102:12–23 .
adjourns the council temporarily to
This section provides additional
seek additional evidence.
instructions as stake presidencies
8. and high councils apply these
principles. Except as stated here, up
Invite the person back into the to the time of deliberation, the
council meeting to inform him of the procedures for a stake disciplinary
decision. If the decision is formal council are the same as those
probation, disfellowshipment, or prescribed for other disciplinary
excommunication, explain the terms councils.
and conditions that are imposed, tell
the person in a spirit of love how to A Church disciplinary council is not
overcome those restrictions, and organized as a criminal trial and
offer other appropriate instruction does not follow the procedures of
and counsel. such a trial. The high council is not a

79
jury. For instructions on how to proceed
when one or more high councilors
The stake president may invite any are not available, see “Stake
member of the high council to ask Disciplinary Councils” in 6.10.1.
questions in an orderly, polite
manner, avoiding argument. For instructions on high council
Questions are to be brief and limited participation in disciplinary councils
to the essential facts of the case. to consider ending Church discipline,
see 6.12.8 .
After all the evidence has been
presented, the appointed high Possible Decisions
councilors presented their views of
the matter. They are not prosecutors A disciplinary council can reach any
or defenders. They are councilors, of the following decisions:
responsible to see that the evidence
is examined in its true light before 1.
the council. Each is to speak
“according to equity and justice” ( No action. A disciplinary council can
D&C 102:16 ). One-half of those reach this decision even if a
appointed to speak are responsible transgression has been committed.
“to stand up in behalf of the accused, As part of this decision, the member
and prevent insult and injustice” ( may be given cautionary counsel, or
D&C 102:17 ). he may be referred to his bishop for
an interview that could lead to
The accused member and the informal discipline.
accuser (if any) are then given
another opportunity to speak, after 2.
which they are excused from the
Formal probation (see 6.9.1 ).
council room.
3.
The stake president may ask for any
additional comments from the high Disfellowshipment (see 6.9.2 ).
council. He and his counselors then
withdraw from the council room to 4.
confer in private.
Excommunication (see 6.9.3 ).
After the stake president reaches a
decision and his counselors sustain If discipline is imposed, the presiding
it, he announces it to the high council officer interviews the person
and asks them as a group to sustain regularly. The officer counsels him in
it. The high council cannot veto the love, helps him repent, and
decision; it is binding even if it is not encourages him to live so he may
sustained unanimously. However, if again enjoy the full blessings of
one or more high councilors object to 6.10.5 Church membership.
the decision, the stake president
6.10.6 Considerations in
makes every effort to resolve the
concerns and achieve unanimity. He Reaching a Decision
may recall witnesses for further
questioning. If necessary, the This section lists some of the factors
disciplinary council may again review that leaders may need to consider in
the evidence, but not in the presence reaching decisions on formal and
of the member. informal Church discipline. These
80
 Repetition
factors are listed in order from those
that suggest stern discipline to those If a transgression that was previously
that suggest more lenient discipline. confessed and apparently forsaken
None of these factors dictates any is repeated, the repetition may be
particular decision. They are only viewed as part of a pattern of
aids to a decision that must be conduct that shows a lack of
pursued prayerfully and guided by repentance, even though the earlier
the Spirit of the Lord. transgression had been resolved
with Church authorities. The Lord
Violation of Covenants warned those He had forgiven, “Go
your ways and without more; but
If a transgressor has been endowed, unto that soul who sinneth shall the
he has made covenants to live a former sins return” ( D&C 82:7 ).
higher standard of behavior than
applies to those who have not been Magnitude
endowed. Violating these covenants
magnifies the seriousness of the The seriousness of a transgression
transgression. Therefore, endowed is measured in part by the number of
persons who commit adultery or sinful acts and the number of
fornication (including homosexual persons injured. The number of
relations) are subject to stern Church persons who are aware of the
discipline. transgression also affects its
seriousness.
Adultery is a more serious sexual
transgression than fornication Age, Maturity, and
because adultery involves a violation
Experience
of marriage covenants. See also
“Removing a Restriction against Presiding officers considered a
Temple Sealing” in 3.6.1. transgressor's age, maturity, and
experience when administering
Position of Trust or Church discipline. The Lord
Authority revealed, “For of him unto whom
much is given, much is required; and
If a transgressor occupied a position he who sins against the greater light
of trust or authority (such as parent, shall receive the greater
bishop, or teacher) that was violated condemnation” ( D&C 82:3 ).
by the transgression, the
seriousness of the transgression is Leniency is often appropriate for
magnified. For example, incest is a those who are immature in the
most serious form of sexual gospel. Leniency may also be
transgression for a parent because it appropriate for young members who
violates the sacred trust of parental are involved in a moral transgression
authority. Embezzlement is a most if they forsake the sin and manifest
serious form of theft because the sincere repentance. However, young
transgressor has been trusted with members who persist in immoral
funds; it is a particularly serious conduct may require formal
offense when it involves Church disciplinary action.
funds. See also “Serious
Transgression While Holding a Interests of the Innocent
Prominent Church Position” in 6.7.3.
81
When administering and announcing discernment. Factors to consider
discipline, presiding officers consider include the nature of the confession,
the interests of innocent victims and depth of sorrow for the sin, success
the transgressor's innocent family in forsaking the sin, strength of faith
members. in Jesus Christ, faithfulness in
obeying other commandments,
Time between truthful communications to Church
Transgression and officers, restitution to injured
persons, obedience to legal
Confession requirements, and willingness to
follow the direction of Church
If a transgression occurred many
authorities.
years before it was confessed, the
presiding officer carefully considers
Written Notice of the
the intervening circumstances. If the
sin was not repeated and the Decision
member has lived righteously in the
interim, his conduct during the The presiding officer ensures that a
intervening time can show that he person who is placed on formal
has forsaken the sin. In this instance, probation, disfellowshipped, or
confession may complete rather than excommunicated by a disciplinary
start the process of repentance. council receives prompt written
notice of the decision and its effects,
Voluntary Confession even if he has been advised orally.
This notice consists of a general
Voluntary, complete confession statement that the person has been
demonstrates a repentant attitude, placed on formal probation,
which may favor leniency. An disfellowshipped, or
admission of guilt after a person has excommunicated for conduct
been accused of or interviewed contrary to the laws and order of the
about a transgression is less Church. It could also include counsel
indicative of repentance. A person to help the person come back into
who admits guilt when interviewed full fellowship in the Church. The
by a bishop shows greater presiding officer does not give the
repentance than one who tries to person a copy of the Report of
deceive and admits guilt only when 6.10.7 Church Disciplinary Action form.
confronted with evidence.
6.10.8 Maintaining Contact with a
Evidence of Repentance Person Who Has Been
Normally, evidence of repentance is Excommunicated
the most important single factor in
When a person is excommunicated,
determining how to accomplish the
his name is removed from the
first purpose of Church discipline:
membership records of the Church.
saving the soul of the transgressor.
Although the person no longer has a
Genuine repentance is demonstrated
membership record, the presiding
more reliably by righteous actions
officer of the disciplinary council asks
over a period of time than by intense
for his consent to retain his name
sorrow during a single interview.
and address so Church leaders can
Judgments about the adequacy of a continue to assist him. The presiding
person's repentance require spiritual officer does this with genuine love
82
 and concern at a time when the principles and procedures in the
excommunicated person is most following paragraphs govern these
likely to consent. This may be announcements.
immediately after the person is told
of the excommunication decision or No announcement is made if a
at a later time. If the person decision is being appealed, unless
consents, this is noted on the Report the presiding officer of the
of Church Disciplinary Action form. disciplinary council concludes that an
announcement pending appeal is
If an excommunicated person moves necessary to protect potential
after consenting to have the Church victims, to support the healing of
maintain contact with him, the bishop victims (although victims' names are
contacts the bishop of the new ward, not announced), or to safeguard the
gives him the person's name and name of the Church.
address, and communicates relevant
information about the disciplinary The bishop announces the decision
action. in confidence in ward priesthood
executive committee meeting to
If an excommunicated person moves guide priesthood officers who might
after not giving consent to have the otherwise consider the disciplined
Church maintain contact with him, person for Church service, offering
the bishop contacts the bishop of the prayers, or giving talks or lessons.
new ward, identifies the person
involved, and indicates that a The bishop advises the ward Relief
disciplinary council has been held Society president in confidence
and that the person has requested when a member of the Relief Society
that no further information be shared has been disciplined or has been a
and no contact be made. The victim.
request of the excommunicated
If a case concerns (1) preaching of
person should be respected until
false doctrine, (2) a transgressor
there is a change of mind.
whose predatory tendencies
seriously threaten other persons, or
Announcement of the (3) other flagrant transgressions
Decision (such as plural marriage, cultist
teachings to attract a following, or
When announcing Church discipline, ridicule of Church leaders ), then,
leaders must consider the feelings of with the approval of the stake
the transgressor's innocent family president, the bishop announces the
members and the needs of innocent decision in meetings of the elders
potential victims. quorum, high priests group, and
Relief Society in his ward. In such
A decision to place a member on
cases the stake president may also
informal probation is not announced.
need to authorize a broader
A decision to place a member on announcement, such as in a stake
formal probation may be announced priesthood meeting or to the
to those who need to know as Melchizedek Priesthood brethren
determined by the presiding officer. and Relief Society sisters of other
wards in the stake. In some cases
A decision of disfellowshipment or the presiding officer may find it
6.10.9 excommunication is announced only beneficial to notify some or all of the
to those who need to know. The victims and, when necessary, their
83
 families that the transgressor has bishop or branch president presided
been the subject of a disciplinary over the council, he forwards the
council. appeal with the Report of Church
Disciplinary Action form and other
When an announcement of Church relevant documents to the stake or
discipline is necessary, it is limited to mission president. If a stake or
a general statement that the person mission president presided over the
has been disfellowshipped or council, he forwards the materials to
excommunicated for conduct the First Presidency.
contrary to the laws and order of the
Church. The officer who makes the The decision on the appeal may be
announcement asks those who hear to (1) let the initial decision stand, (2)
it not to discuss it with anyone. modify the initial decision, or (3)
Announcements of direct the disciplinary council to
disfellowshipment or rehear the matter. In addition, the
excommunication do not require a First Presidency may refer an appeal
sustaining vote. to another priesthood officer or body
for review (with or without receiving
To dispel rumors, a bishop or stake additional evidence) and resubmittal
president may need to announce to the First Presidency with a
that a disciplinary council considered recommendation.
charges against a member but that
no action was taken. Reports on Disciplinary
6.10.10 Appeals Councils
The presiding officer asks a clerk to
A person who has been
summarize the proceedings of the
excommunicated, disfellowshipped,
disciplinary council on a Report of
or placed on formal probation by a
Church Disciplinary Action form. The
disciplinary council may appeal the
form provides instructions on how to
decision. An appeal of the action of a
complete it, whether to retain or
ward disciplinary council is to the
6.10.11 submit it, and how to submit it.
stake presidency (and high council).
An appeal of the action of a stake 6.10.12
disciplinary council is to the First
Procedures in Exceptional
Presidency. An appeal of the action Circumstances
of a branch or district disciplinary
council is to the mission president. Conduct Examined in
An appeal of the action of a
Criminal or Civil Courts
disciplinary council presided over by
a mission president is to the First Normally a disciplinary council is not
Presidency. held to consider conduct being
examined by a criminal trial court
If a person who has been disciplined
until the court has reached a final
wants to appeal the decision, he
judgment. In some cases it may also
specifies in writing the alleged errors
be appropriate to delay disciplinary
or unfairness in the procedure or
proceedings until the period of
decision. The person presents the
appeal has expired or the appeal has
appeal within 30 days to the
been rejected.
presiding officer of the disciplinary
council that made the decision. If a Criminal charges may or may not

84
necessitate Church discipline. Acts Conviction
that constitute serious crimes under
local law would normally be If a member has been convicted of a
considered serious transgressions. crime involving conduct that might
However, minor offenses under local threaten the well-being of other
law, such as traffic violations or persons or of the Church, the
unintentional failure to comply with presiding officer of the disciplinary
technical government regulations, council promptly sends to the Office
would normally not. Criminal charges of the First Presidency a written
that have serious moral overtones statement about the nature of the
may warrant Church discipline even offense and the sentence imposed
if a criminal court dismisses these by the criminal court, even if a
charges for technical reasons. Acts disciplinary council does not impose
such as fornication, adultery, or formal discipline.
abortion are serious transgressions
although they may not be crimes Reporting Embezzlement
under local law.
of Church Funds
When a member is convicted of a
If a person is disciplined for
crime or found guilty in a civil action
embezzling Church funds, the
for fraud or other dishonest or
presiding officer reports it as outlined
immoral conduct, the judgment of the
in 14.9.5 .
criminal or civil court is a sufficient
basis for holding a Church
disciplinary council. A finding of guilt
Party or Witness Unable to
in a court may be considered as Attend
evidence of guilt for purposes of
Church discipline. Reliable evidence If a party or essential witness is
submitted to a court may also be unable to attend a disciplinary
considered in a Church disciplinary council, the presiding officer invites
council. him to submit a written statement.
Such a statement may be
To avoid implicating the Church in considered as evidence. When
legal matters to which it is not a necessary, the party or witness may
party, leaders should avoid testifying be questioned further, in writing or
in civil or criminal cases reviewing orally.
the conduct of members over whom
they preside. For specific guidelines, Preserving Evidence
see 17.1.26 .
If a witness will not likely be available
Church leaders should not try to for a possible future disciplinary
persuade alleged victims or other council, the presiding officer invites
witnesses either to testify or not to him to write his testimony for use
testify in criminal or civil court when needed.
proceedings.
Evidence When Adultery Is
For information about membership
records of those who are Charged
incarcerated and face Church
If a person who is accused of
disciplinary action, see 6.13.8 .
adultery denies the charge and the
matter is being considered in a
Notice of Criminal Court
85
 disciplinary council, revelation restoration of blessings. Disciplinary action
requires that “every word shall be should be the first step on the path back to the
established against him or her by blessings of Church membership. Leaders and
two witnesses of the church” ( D&C members must be willing to help a person who
42:80 ). “Two witnesses” means two has been disciplined repent so that he or she
separate sources of evidence. This can enjoy these blessings. The bishop oversees
could include the personal evidence these efforts.
of a participant and some other
source of evidence of the member's The time right after a person has been
guilt. disciplined is difficult and critical for the person
and their family. During this time, priesthood
Questions about procedure leaders and other members of the Church should
be patient and sensitive to the needs of those
If a bishop is unsure of the involved and should give special support and
procedures to follow in administering assistance. The bishop often interviews the
Church discipline, he consults his person and, if necessary, his wife.
stake president. If a branch president
is unsure of procedures, he consults The bishop assures that mature caring teachers
his stake or mission president. A and visiting teachings are assigned to a person
stake or mission president refers who has been expelled or excommunicated—
unresolved procedural questions to and to members of his or her immediate family.
the Office of the First Presidency. In some situations, pairs may be assigned.
Home teachers and visiting teachers make
Questions about Decisions regular contacts and see that the person, their
spouse, and other family members receive the
Local presiding officers should not counsel and fellowship they need during this
expect General Authorities to tell critical period of heartbreak, repentance, and
them how to decide difficult matters. healing.
Decisions on Church discipline are
If a person who has been disciplined moves from
within the discretion and authority of
the room before he has returned to full
local presiding officers as they
communion and, where appropriate, received a
prayerfully seek guidance from the
restoration of blessings, the bishop informs the
Lord.
new bishop of the person's discipline and what
remains for him. that the new member in full
First Presidency Authority
communion and blessings. The bishop makes
The First Presidency has ultimate this same contact for excommunicated persons
authority over all Church discipline. who have consented to be assisted by Church
Decisions of the First Presidency leaders (see 6.10.8 ).
take precedence despite any rules or
procedures to the contrary.

6.12 Termination of formal

probation, disassociation
6.11 Twinning after Discipline or excommunication
The bishop's role as an ordinary judge does not Determine Jurisdiction and
end when a member has been disciplined. This
continues until the person returns to full 6.12.1 Participation
communion and, when necessary, receives a
86
To consider ending formal probation, 5.
disassociation, or excommunication,
a presiding officer where the person If a district or branch president in a
currently lives must convene a mission presided over a disciplinary
disciplinary council. The council must council that excommunicated a
have the same (or higher) level of Melchizedek holder (with the
ecclesiastical authority as the council authorization of the mission
that took the initial disciplinary president), and if the
action. For example: excommunicated person later lives in
a stake, the stake president presides
1. over another council. to consider
readmitting the person into the
If a bishop presided over the Church.
disciplinary council that administers
discipline, the person's current A bishop must be approved by the
bishop normally presides over stake president to convene a
another council to consider the disciplinary council to consider
person's change of status. changing a person's status. In a
mission, a branch or district
2. president needs approval from the
mission president to convene such a
If a stake or mission president
council. discipline.
presided over the disciplinary
council, a stake or mission president
presides over another council to
Review the deliberations of
consider the person's change of the Initial Council
status. Any exceptions to this policy
require approval from the First The current president will review the
Presidency. minutes of the initial disciplinary
board. These procedures are
3. summarized in the Report of the
Church Disciplinary Action Form.
If a branch president in a mission
presided over the disciplinary council For persons expelled or
and the disciplined person later lives excommunicated, the President
in a stake, the current bishop of the requests a copy of the original report
person who normally presides over from the Office of the First
another council to consider changing Presidency.
the person's status (see number 5
below for an exception). For members on formal probation,
the President obtains a copy of the
4. report from the presiding officer of
the unit where the initial disciplinary
If a district president on a mission 6.12.2 action was taken.
presides over the discipline council
and the later disciplined person lives 6.12.3 Interview the person
in a stake, the stake president
presides over another council to The official president interviews the
consider the person's change of person thoroughly to determine the
status. Any exceptions to this policy strength of his or her faith in Jesus
require approval from the First Christ, the extent of his or her
Presidency (see also number 5 repentance, and whether the
below).
87
 conditions specified in the initial or readmitting him or her to the
disciplinary action have been met. Church.

Determine the status of Contact priesthood leaders

criminal or civil court action of wronged victims
(if necessary) The chairman of the disciplinary
If a person who has had council next contacts the current
ecclesiastical discipline has been bishop or stake president of any
convicted of a crime or found guilty aggrieved victim (such as in cases of
in a civil trial of fraud or other incest, child abuse, or spousal
dishonest or immoral acts, a abuse). If the victim's current bishop
disciplinary council is not held to or stake president already knows
consider changing his or her Church about the situation, the two leaders
status until who has complied with all will determine if it would be helpful
the terms and conditions of any and appropriate for the victim to be
sentence or resolution imposed by given the opportunity to present a
legal authorities. These conditions written or oral statement about how
may include imprisonment, the victim's misconduct The
probation, probation, and fines or disciplined person has affected the
restitution. Exceptions require victim and his family. A victim may
6.12.4 approval from the First Presidency. also comment on the person's
evidence of remorse since the
6.12.5 Contact the President disciplinary action was taken.

where action was taken Any interview with an aggrieved

victim for this purpose must be
If the President has questions or conducted by his or her current
concerns as he reviews the initial bishop or stake president. Inquiries
disciplinary board report, he can regarding a victim who is under 18
consult with the current sessional years of age are made through the
chair of the unit where the board was child's parent(s) or legal guardian(s).
held to see if he knows the Great care must be taken to avoid
circumstances and can provide causing further trauma, especially
clarification. with a victim of sexual or physical
abuse. In the United States, Canada,
In cases of incest, child abuse, or
and some other countries, the
spousal abuse, the President of the
Church has established a helpline for
disciplined person must contact the
cases involving abuse. Priesthood
current president of the unit where
leaders should call the helpline for
the initial disciplinary action was
guidance in these cases (see
taken. If that official already knows
6.12.6 6.10.3 ).
about the situation, the presiding
officer of the disciplined person 6.12.7 Notify the Disciplinary
seeks his or her opinion on the
appropriateness of a proposed Council
change in the disciplined person's
status. This discussion should take The president informs the person
place prior to holding a disciplinary about the date, time and location of
council to consider restoring the the disciplinary board at which his or
disciplined person to full communion her Church status was considered to

88
 change so that he or she may attend Complete and submit a
or submit a written statement if he or
she so wishes.
report
6.12.9 See 6.10.11 .
Convene and direct the
Disciplinary Council 6.12.10 Request First Presidency
The president convenes and directs
approval (if necessary)
the disciplinary council. The person
If the person was expelled or
is invited into the room, the council
excommunicated for any of the
opens with prayer, and the president
following reasons, or if he has
or someone designated by him
committed any of these sins after
establishes the purpose of the
being expelled or excommunicated,
council. The president asks the
the approval of the First Presidency
person questions about what has
is required before he may be
caused them to repent and about
reinstated to full communion or
their commitment to the Church and
readmitted by baptism and
the strength of their testimony.
confirmation. For purposes of
In a stake disciplinary council that is Church discipline, some of the
convened to consider ending church following terms are defined in 6.7.3.
discipline, the role of the high council
1.
is the same as stated in 6.10.4 , but
it is not necessary for the high Murder
councilors to cast lots or speak
before the council. 2.

When all pertinent matters have Incest

been presented, the presiding officer
officially excuses the member and, 3.
with his counselors, prayerfully
Sexual offense against a child or
deliberates what action to take. See
serious physical abuse of a child by
6.10.4 for instructions on these
an adult or by a youth who is several
deliberations and on informing the
years older than the child
member of the council's decision.
4.
A disciplinary council may either end
or continue Church discipline, but Apostasy
cannot place a disfellowshipped
member on formal probation. 5.

If the approval of the First Committing a serious offense while

Presidency is not necessary to holding a prominent church position
terminate the prescribed discipline in
the case, the presiding officer may 6.
terminate it himself. If the approval of
An elective transsexual operation
the First Presidency is necessary (as
stated in 6.12.10 ), the The council's 7.
conclusion may only be a
6.12.8 recommendation of the First Embezzlement of Church funds or
Presidency and not a final decision.

89
 property excommunicated by
In these circumstances, the Baptism and Confirmation
president carries out the disciplinary
council as stated above. Prior When all approvals have been
authorization from the First received, a person who was
Presidency is not required to excommunicated may be readmitted
convene the council. If the to the Church. After the person is
disciplinary board recommends a baptized, he is confirmed a member
change in status, the President may of the Church like no other
notify the person of this confirmation. The bishop prepares a
recommendation. However, he Baptism and Confirmation Record,
explains that the situation cannot be noting how the ordinances are for
changed until the First Presidency readmission.
gives written approval of the
recommendation. Church Activity after
Readmission
To submit a recommendation to the
First Presidency, the President The members who were not gifted as
completes each step on the First before. From the time of their
Presidency form application. This baptism and confirmation, these
form is available electronically in members can participate in Church
units that use Church maintenance activities just as a new convert would
record keeping software. In other do.
areas, it is available at the Area
Presidency. Members who previously endowed.
From the time of their baptism and
The stake or mission president confirmation until their blessings are
sends (1) the completed application restored (see 6.15 ), these members
form, (2) the Report of Church may participate in any Church
Disciplinary Action Form, and (3) the activity that is permitted for an
necessary attachments (such as unendowed member who does not
letters that are required on the hold the priesthood. However, they
application form) to the Office of the may not wear temple clothing,
First Presidency or the Area receive a temple recommend, or
Presidency, if the unit is located participate in baptisms for the dead
outside the United States and until their blessings are restored.
Canada. The Office of the First
Presidency will notify the stake or Ordination after
mission president of the decision.
Readmission
Give written notice of the Brothers who previously had the
decision priesthood, but were not gifted.
Immediately after baptism and
The president ensures that after confirmation, these brothers have
disciplinary advice, the person the priesthood conferred on them
receives prompt written notification and are ordained to the priesthood
of the decision and its effects, even if office they held at the time of
6.12.11 he or she has been informed orally. excommunication. In this
circumstance, a sustaining vote of
12/06/12 Readmission of persons the members is not required. The
90
 bishop records the ordination If a disfellowshipped member moves,
information in the spaces indicated in the bishop transfers the membership
the Baptism and Confirmation record to the new ward. The file will
Record so that it can be properly be notified to the new bishop that the
recorded at the headquarters of the person has been expelled. The
Church. See also 6.13.3 . bishop may also contact the bishop
of the new room to communicate
Brothers who previously held the relevant information about the
Priesthood and were endowed. After disciplinary action.
baptism and confirmation, these
brothers are not ordained to any After a person has been reinstated to
priesthood office and may not full communion, the Church
perform ordinances until their headquarters or assigned
priesthood and temple blessings are administrative office removes the
restored (see 6.15 ). notice of disassociation and provides
an updated membership record.
Temple Recommendations
After Readmission Records of
Excommunicated Members
See "who have been members
readmitted by Baptism and
and those re-entered
Confirmation after Excommunication through Baptism and
or Name Removal" in 3.3.4. Confirmation

After excommunication
6.13 Membership When a person is excommunicated,
his or her name is removed from the
Registration and Church records of Church members. Church

Discipline Headquarters or the assigned

administrative office takes this action
after receiving the report of the
Records of Members Church Disciplinary Action Form.
placed on formal parole
Although a person who is
Formal parole is not indicated on a excommunicated no longer has a
6.13.1 membership record. record of membership, the chairman
of the disciplinary council asks for his
Records of Members consent to retain his name and
address so Church leaders may
Disfellowshipped and continue to assist him. For
Restored to Full Fellowship instructions, see 6.10.8 .

Disassociation is noted in a person's After Readmission

membership record. Church
Headquarters or assigned After a person is readmitted for
administrative office makes this note baptism and confirmation, the stake
and provides an updated record after president or bishop submits a copy
receiving the report of the Church of the Baptism and Confirmation
6.13.2 Disciplinary Action Form. 6.13.3 Record, usually with the report of the
Church Disciplinary Action Form.
91
 If the member was not endowed submits a report of the Church
prior to the excommunication, disciplinary action form showing that
Church headquarters or the the person was disciplined for incest,
assigned administrative office sexual offense against or serious
provides the pavilion with a physical abuse of a child, plural
membership record showing the marriage, an elective transsexual
dates of the member's original operation, repeated homosexual
baptism and other ordinances, activities (by adults), predatory
without any reference to the driving, or embezzlement of Church
excommunication. funds or property.

If the member was gifted prior to 2.

excommunication, Church
headquarters or the assigned The stake president or bishop
administrative office provides the maintains written notification that the
room with a member record with the person has been criminally convicted
member's new baptism date. This of one of these transgressions.
disc also includes the message
3.
"Restoration of Blessings Required."
After the members' blessings are The stake president and bishop
restored, Church headquarters or jointly submit written notification that
administrative office provides for a the person has committed one of
new, updated membership record these transgressions before or after
showing the dates of the member's the excommunication or name
original baptism and other removal.
ordinances, including endowment
(and current priesthood, if applies), Additionally, the stake president and
without any reference to bishop may jointly recommend that a
excommunication. person's membership record be
noted for other conduct that
Records with Annotations endangers the well-being of others
or the Church.
In areas authorized by the First
Presidency, a notation may be In all cases, a notation in a
placed in the file of a member whose membership record is removed only
conduct has threatened the well- with the approval of the First
being of others or the Church. An Presidency, upon request of the
annotation helps the bishop protect stake president.
members of the Church and others
from such individuals. When a Records with Special
bishop receives an annotated Comments
membership record, he follows the
instructions in the annotation. The bishop and an employee review
the records of new ward members
Church Headquarters will
for special comments that Church
automatically record a person's
headquarters or the assigned
membership record in any of the
administrative office may have
following situations:
added. If a record includes such
1. comments, the Church headquarters
6.13.4 6.13.5 contacts the bishop or administrative
The stake president or bishop office as necessary and takes
92
 appropriate action. incarcerated.

Records with request from

the Contact Bishop
If movement members and a bishop 6.14 Deletion of Member Names from
feel the need to share information Church Records
with the member's new bishop,
instruct an employee to make a An adult member who wishes to have his or her
contact request in the registry when name removed from the membership records of
it is sent to the new room. When a the Church must submit a signed written request
bishop receives a membership card to the bishop. A request that Church
with such a request, he contacts the representatives not visit a member is not
6.13.6 previous bishop as soon as possible. sufficient to initiate this action.

Move Restrictions on The bishop ensures that a member who requests

name withdrawal understands the
Member Registration
consequences: it voids the effects of baptism
If a member moves while Church and confirmation, the priesthood held by a male
disciplinary action or other serious member is withdrawn, and temple blessings are
concern is pending, the bishop, or revoked. The bishop also explains that a person
the ward clerk with the bishop's can be readmitted to the Church by baptism and
authorization, may contact Church confirmation only after a thorough interview (see
headquarters or the assigned 6.14.4 ).
administrative office and request a
If the bishop is satisfied that the member
restriction of movement in the
understands these consequences and is not
membership record. A disc that has
likely to be deterred, he completes an
a movement restriction will not be
Administrative Action Report form and sends it to
moved to a new unit until the
the stake president. The bishop sends the
priesthood leader who requested the
member's and member's ID request in writing
restriction authorizes it to be
with the form.
6.13.7 removed.
If members of the stake presidency determine
6.13.8 The records of people that the bishop has followed established
imprisoned in Penitentiary procedures, they ask that he send the member a
letter indicating that his name be removed from
Centers Church records as requested. The letter must
state the consequences of removing your name.
If a member has been convicted of a
It should also be noted that the request for name
crime and is incarcerated in a
separation may be rescinded if the member
correctional institution, the stake
sends the stake president a written request for
president or bishop of the unit where
rescission within 30 days (the name and address
the person resided at the time of
of the stake president must be included). If a
conviction must proceed with any
member requests that his or her name be
disciplinary action that may be
immediately removed from the Church records,
necessary. This President should
the 30-day waiting period may be waived.
take the necessary measures before
sending the affiliation file to the unit If a member requests immediate withdrawal or
that has ecclesiastical responsibility name does not request a termination within 30
for the institution where the person is days, the stake president forwards the complete

93
Form and Administrative Report and other that priesthood leaders can resolve
documents requested on the form. Instructions these issues in the future if the
for submission are on the form. The name of the person requests readmission into the
person who is removed from the records of Church.
Church membership.
Effects of Name Removal on
If a member submits a written request for name Temple Joints
removal directly to Church headquarters and not
to local leaders, the Office of the First See "Effects of Excommunication or
Presidency will forward this letter to the acting 6.14.2 Name Removal" in 3.6.1.
member's stake president in accordance with
this section. . The stake president must give Name Removal Announcement
immediate attention to these requests. If Church
In some cases, a bishop may have
headquarters has not received a response from
to announce that a person's name
the stake president within 60 days, the name
has been removed from the records
removal request is automatically granted.
of Church members. The
A minor who wishes to have his or her name announcement simply states that the
removed from Church records must follow the measure was taken at the person's
same procedure as that of an adult with one request. The announcement must
exception: the written request must be signed by not use the word excommunication.
the minor (if over 8 years old) and by the 6.14.3 The guidelines in 6.10.9 apply.
parent(s) or guardian(s) who has legal custody of
the minor. Readmission after Name
Removal
If two or more family members want their names
extracted from Church records, they need to After removing the name, the person
prepare only one written request. However, an must be baptized and confirmed to
Administrative Action form report must be be readmitted into the Church. If the
completed and signed by each person who has person was of age when his or her
requested that the name be removed. name was removed from the
Church's membership records,
If a member requests name removal and readmission is usually not approved
threatens legal action against the Church or its until at least a year later.
leaders, the stake president follows the
instructions on 01/17/26 . When a person requests
readmission, the bishop or stake
Requests for name removal must be acted upon president requests a copy of the
promptly as stated above. The form and Administrative Action Report form
administrative report and all documentation must that accompanies the name removal
be submitted in a timely manner. request. This copy is available in the
Office of the First Presidency. After
Name Removal and examining the report, the bishop
Transgression Suspicion interviews the person in depth. He
asks for the reasons for the name
A name separation request must be removal request and the desire for
acted upon if priesthood leaders readmission. It also determines
suspect or have indications of whether any unresolved
prevarication. Any allegations or transgressions may have been
evidence of unresolved committed before or after name
6.14.1 transgressions are noted on the 6.14.4 removal.
Form and Administrative Report so

94
If the person was on formal
probation or was expelled at the time
of the name withdrawal, a 6.15 Restoration of Blessings
disciplinary board is held to consider
the request for readmission. Gifted persons who were excommunicated and
subsequently readmitted by baptism and
If the bishop believes that prior to confirmation can receive their priesthood and
removal the person's name has temple blessings only through the ordinance of
committed transgressions that restoration of blessings. These people are not
warrant disciplinary action, but they ordained to priesthood offices or re-endowed,
have not been resolved, he will not since all priesthood and temple blessings held at
approve a request for readmission the time of excommunication are restored
until he is satisfied that the person through the ordinance. Brethren are restored to
has repented of the sins and the their former office of priesthood, except the office
later ones. No disciplinary council of seventy, bishop or patriarch. (See also
stands. 6/12/12 .)

If the person has committed any of Only the First Presidency can approve the
the offenses listed in 6.12.10 , either execution of the ordinance of restoration of
before or after name removal, blessings. The First Presidency will not consider
approval of the First Presidency is a request for this ordinance earlier than one year
required for readmission. If the after the person is readmitted by baptism and
person is readmitted after committing confirmation.
any of the offenses listed in
"Annotated Records" (see 6.13.4), To submit a recommendation to the First
whether before or after name Presidency, the President completes each step
removal, an annotation will be made in the application of the First Presidency form.
in the new membership record. This form is available electronically in units using
Church maintenance record software. In other
The person requesting readmission areas, it is available at the Area Presidency.
must meet the same requirements
as others who are baptized (see The stake or mission president sends the
16.3.3 ). When the bishop is application form and any necessary attachments
convinced that the person is worthy (such as letters that are required on the form) to
and sincere in their desire to be the Office of the First Presidency or, if the unit is
readmitted, a baptism and located outside the United States and Canada,
confirmation is prepared. Indicate on to the Area Presidency. The Office of the First
the form that the baptism is for Presidency will notify the stake or mission
readmission. After the person is president of the decision.
baptized, he is confirmed a member
6.15.1 Ordinance Performance
of the Church. Confirmation can take
place during the baptismal service or If the First Presidency authorizes
during a sacrament meeting. restoration of blessings, they assign
a General Authority or stake
Ordination to the Priesthood, temple
president to interview the applicant.
recommends, membership
If the applicant is worthy, the
registration, and the ordinance of
General Authority or stake president
restoration blessings are handled the
performs the ordinance to restore the
same as for an excommunicated
person's blessings.
person who has been readmitted by
baptism and confirmation (see 6.13.3
).
95
 In designated areas, when an Area General instructions for
President receives authorization
from the First Presidency to conduct
creditworthiness Interviews
an interview for restoration of
Stake presidents, bishops, and (when
blessings, he may delegate the
authorized) their counselors conduct worthiness
authority of an Area Seventy. When
interviews as outlined in this section. They must
assigned, this Area Seventy can
prepare themselves spiritually so that they can
then conduct the interview and carry
be guided by the Spirit during these interviews.
out the ordinance if the applicant is
They must also seek the power of discernment.
worthy.
This is a spiritual gift that will help you discern
For the Dead the truth as well as the needs of a member
country (see D. and C. 46:27-28 ).
6.15.2 See 3.7.9 .
Solvency interviews must be private. For
example, husband and wife are interviewed
separately for temple recommends.
6.16 Records Retention
Careful listening is important during dignity
The presiding officer destroys paper copies and interviews. The member of the stake or bishopric
electronic documents related to a disciplinary presidency should give full and sincere attention
action after the conservatee receives an updated to the person being interviewed. The interviewer
membership record or other notification of the also makes sure the member understands the
action on file. When notification is received, the questions being asked. He sets aside enough
secretary immediately informs the bishop and time to conduct the interview in a dignified,
stake president. If a disciplinary board has unhurried manner.
imposed formal probation, the President
maintains the board's records until the matter is 7.1.2
resolved.
General Instructions for Priesthood
The stake or mission president destroys copies Interviews
of records related to the submission of an
application to the First Presidency form after Stake presidents, bishops, and their counselors
receiving notification that Church headquarters regularly interview priesthood leaders who report
has received the application. to them. One of the purposes of these interviews
is to receive an explanation of the leader's
Interviews and Counseling responsibilities. Another purpose is to help the
leader set goals and make plans to carry them
out. Where appropriate, budgets and expenses
are also reviewed during these interviews.

7.1 Interviews The person conducting a priesthood interview

should instruct, encourage, and inspire leaders
Each stake president and bishop is "a judge in in their efforts to fulfill their callings. You should
Israel" ( D. and C. 107:72 ). By this authority that also express gratitude and strengthen the leader
conducts dignity interviews and priesthood in your personal and family life.
interviews. He represents the Lord in conducting
these interviews. Therefore, one should seek to 7.1.3
bless members and help them live the gospel of
Jesus Christ. Interviews conducted by the Stake
7.1.1
President

96
The stake president conducts the following For the ordination of the offices of elder and high
interviews with stake members: priest (see 16.7.1 ).

1. 3.

For temple recommends for those who are For callings to serve in Church positions, as
receiving their own endowment or are being indicated in the Calling Chart in Handbook 2,
married or sealed in a temple (see 3.3.3 ). chapter 19.

2. 4.

On the recommendation of the full-time For an endorsement to enroll in a Church college

missionaries (see 4.5 ). or university (see 11.4 ).

3. 5.

For the release of full-time missionaries after For an endorsement to participate in the
they have returned home (see 4.10.1 and Perpetual Education Fund loan program, in
4.10.3 ). which the program is approved (see 12.4 ).

4. If a stake presidency counselor encounters

serious matters in an interview, such as
For callings to serve as counselors in the stake transgressions requiring confession, he or she
presidency, as patriarchs and bishops, when refers the member to the bishop without delay.
authorized.
7.1.5
5.

For calls to serve as a quorum of presiding

Interviews conducted by the bishop
elders and stake secretaries. The bishop conducts the following interviews
with ward members:
The stake president also interviews each bishop
regularly to encourage and instruct him. The 1.
stake patriarch is interviewed at least twice a
year (see 15.4 ). For temple recommends for those who are
receiving their own endowment or are being
7.1.4 married or sealed in a temple (see 3.3.3 ).

Interviews conducted by the stake 2.

president or assigned counselors On the recommendation of the full-time
The stake president or assigned counselors missionaries (see 4.5 ).
conduct the following interviews with stake
3.
members. Before interviewing a person for any
of the following purposes, the member of the For ordination of the offices of elder and high
stake presidency ensures that the person has priest, with the authorization of the stake
been interviewed or cleared by the bishop or an presidency (see 16.7.1 ).
assigned counselor in the bishopric.
4.
1.
For the annual settlement of the tithe (see 14.4.1
For renewal of temple recommends (see 3.3.3 ). ).

2. 5.
97
For callings to serve as ward auxiliary presidents one parent or guardian who is a member (see
and as the ward missionary leader. 16.3.3 ).

6. 4.

For ordination to the office of priest (see 16.7.2 ). For callings to serve as the president of the
quorum of deacons, counselors and secretary;
7. president of the quorum of teachers, counselors
and secretary, and quorum of priests secretary.
For callings to serve as assistants in the priests
However, only the bishop can set apart deacons
quorum.
and quorum presiding teachers.
8.
5.
Of young people (see 7.1.7 ).
By 12 years of age as they progress from
9. Primary. During this interview, the Bishop or his
assigned counselor also interviews the young
For an endorsement to enroll or continue men to determine if they are worthy and
enrollment in a Church university or college (see prepared to receive the Aaronic Priesthood. He
11.4 ). interviews young women in preparation for
entering the Young Women program.
The bishop also meets regularly with the
president of the elders quorum and the leader of 6.
the high priests group (see Handbook 2, 7.3.1).
For ordination to the office of deacon or teacher
7.1.6 (see 16.7.2 ).

Interviews conducted by the Bishop 7.

or assigned counselors Of youth and young single adults (see 7.1.7 and
7.1.8 ).
The bishop or assigned counselors conduct the
following interviews with ward members. Only 8.
the bishop resolves concerns about chastity and
associated moral issues in these interviews. If a For patriarchal blessings (see 16.12.1 ).
counselor encounters serious things, such as
9.
transgressions that require confession, he refers
the member to the bishop without delay. For a priesthood holder who desires to act as the
voice of a priesthood ordinance in another ward
1.
but does not have a temple recommend. If the
For renewal of temple recommends (see 3.3.3 ). person is worthy, the member of the bishopric
fills out and signs a Recommend to Perform
2. Ordinance form.

For callings to serve in Church positions, as 10.

indicated in the Calling Chart in Handbook 2,
chapter 19. For members entering military service (see
10.2 ).
3.
11.
For baptism and confirmation of children from 8
years of age, they are registered members or, if For an endorsement to participate in the
they are not registered members, have at least Perpetual Education Fund loan program, in

98
which the program was approved, and seeking 2.
advice and encouragement thereafter (see
12.4 ). Be modest in dress and action, refrain from any
type of sexual activity, and refrain from viewing,
7.1.7 reading or listening to pornographic material.

Youth Interview Guidelines 3.

The bishop interviews each young man and one Obeying the Word of Wisdom and refraining from
young woman at least annually. If possible, using illegal drugs and misusing other
interview every 16- and 17-year-old twice a year. substances.
If this is not possible, a consultant is assigned to
4.
conduct some of these interviews.
Refraining from using the name of the Lord in
Six months after the annual interview with the
vain and the use of vulgar expressions and other
bishop, every youth and young woman age 12 to
degrading language.
15 has an interview with the bishopric counselor
who oversees the Aaronic Priesthood quorum or 5.
Young Women class.
Attend priesthood and sacramental meetings,
In the great halls, bishops, acting with inspiration participating in other Church meetings and
and wisdom, can adjust the frequency of activities, and satisfactory assignments given by
interviews. Some youth may need additional quorum leaders or Young Women members of
attention, while others may need interviews less the Class Presidency.
frequently than suggested, although all should
be interviewed at least annually. Members of the bishopric may wish to refer to
the Scriptures, for the strength of youth, and
Leaders encourage parents to be close to their Loyal to the Faith during discussions about
children and to advise them, allowing leaders to gospel principles and obedience to the
act in a supporting role. commandments.

Interviews are excellent teaching opportunities When interviewing young people, the member of
and can be spiritual experiences for young the bishopric pays special attention to their
people. Members of the bishopric must express preparation for a full-time mission (see 4.2 ). The
love and listen attentively. They encourage author discusses spiritual preparation for being
young people to talk instead of making the most worthy, studying the Gospel, and building a
of themselves talk. testimony. It also talks about preparation
physically, mentally, emotionally and financially.
Issues for discussion include the growth of the
Members of the bishopric should be sensitive to
testimony of Heavenly Father, the mission and
the circumstances in which young people are
atonement of Jesus Christ of young people, and
honorably excused from full-time missionary
the restored gospel. The importance of
service (see 4.5.3 ).
maintaining the President of the Church and
other general and local leaders of the Church The bishop and his counselors encourage young
should also be discussed. women to support young people in accepting so-
called missions. Young women of eligible age
Another topic of discussion is the importance of
who wish to serve a mission may do so, but
obeying the commandments, in particular:
should not be pressured to serve (see 4.3.2 ).
1.
Members of the bishopric ensure that young
Pray regularly in private and with family, study people understand the blessings of the temple
the scriptures, honor parents, and pay a full tithe.
99
covenants and getting married in the temple and For instructions on interviewing persons who
the requirements to receive these blessings. have been excommunicated and want to be
readmitted by baptism and confirmation, see
When interviewing a young man to be ordained a 6.12.3 .
priest, the bishop or his assigned counselor
discusses the blessings of the celebration of the For instructions about interviewing persons who
Aaronic Priesthood and the duties of the office to have had their names removed from Church
which the young man will be ordained, as records and want to be readmitted by baptism
revealed in Doctrine and Covenants 20:46- 60 and confirmation, see 6.14.4 .
(see also Manual 2, 8.1.1).

In interviews with the youth, the member of the

bishopric emphasizes the importance of living 7.2 Counseling
the standards of For the Strength of Youth and
achieving the purposes of the Aaronic General Guidelines
Priesthood (see Handbook 2, 8.1.3). The young
Stake presidents and stake bishops
person's progress is evaluated and encouraged.
advocate and ward members who
When interviewing a young woman, the bishopric seek spiritual guidance, who have
member emphasizes the importance of serious personal problems, who
incorporating Young Women values and For the have doctrinal issues, or who have
Strength of Youth standards into her daily life committed serious transgressions.
(see Handbook 2, 10.1.4 and 10.5 ). It also Stake presidents and bishops may
emphasizes the importance of completing the delegate some of this counseling to
Personal Progress program. He evaluates the their counselors, but not when a
young woman's progress and encourages her. member has committed serious
transgressions. In appropriate cases,
When interviewing seminary-aged youth, the such as when a family has financial
member of the bishopric emphasizes the problems, a bishop or stake
importance of regular seminary attendance and president may also delegate some
the blessings that come from active participation. counseling to Melchizedek
Priesthood holders who are qualified
When talking about moral purity, the bishop to assist. A person to whom a bishop
adapts the debate to the understanding of youth. or stake president assigns counsel
It also ensures that the discussion does not as reported by a regular member to
encourage curiosity or experimentation. the leader making the assignment.
The person also maintains
7.1.8
confidentiality.

Interviews of Young Single Adults Members of the Church must make

diligent efforts, including fervent
The bishop or an assigned counselor interviews prayer and scripture study, to find
each young single adult. These interviews are solutions and answers for
usually held annually. However, with all the themselves. If they still need help,
inspiration and wisdom, the bishopric can adjust they should first counsel with their
the frequency of these interviews. bishop. If necessary, reference can
be made to the stake president.
7.1.9
Local leaders should discourage
members from calling, visiting, or
Interviews of people subject to
writing to Church headquarters about
readmission through Baptism and 7.2.1 personal matters (see 17.1.29 ).
Confirmation
100
 The stake president and bishop are solutions to those he advises. To the
entitled to the discernment and extent possible, it helps them
inspiration necessary to be spiritual analyze and resolve their own
counselors and temporary problems or questions in the context
counselors to ward members who of the doctrines of the Gospel and
need this type of help. They must the plan of salvation. Ideally,
prepare themselves spiritually before members are taught how to find
counseling a member in pursuit of solutions and the strength of
the power of discernment and the Scripture on their own.
guidance of the Spirit. This general
guidance comes as impressions, Questions and Listening
thoughts, or feelings. The Spirit often
prompts leaders to remember the When counseling, the stake
teachings of the scriptures and latter- president or bishop asks questions
day prophets. to help understand the member's
situation, although he should avoid
Leaders should frequently use unnecessary probing. Questions
scripture and the words of latter-day should generally bring out feelings
prophets in offering counsel. These and thoughts rather than yes or no
inspired words should be used with answers. Members should do most
sensitivity, love and warmth. They of the talking.
should be used to inspire and
encourage, not force or cause fear. While members speak, the stake
president or bishop listens carefully,
Leaders should schedule enough paying full and sincere attention.
time for appointments. Members Listening is vital to establishing trust
should not feel that leaders are too and confidence. People often need
busy to spend just a few minutes someone they trust to listen to them
with them. Leaders should also help as they work through their
members feel comfortable when an 7.2.3 challenges and problems.
appointment begins.
Repentance and resisting
If the stake president or bishop does temptation
not feel prepared to counsel a
member, they schedule another If a member has transgressed, the
appointment. Among the stake president or bishop firmly and
appointments you seek guidance lovingly helps him or her repent. He
through study, prayer and, where teaches that repentance includes
appropriate, fasting. You may also exercising faith in Jesus Christ, with
consult with your priesthood leader. a broken heart and a contrite spirit,
acknowledging and forsaking sin,
Spiritual Self-Reliance seeking forgiveness, making
restitution, and demonstrating a
Leaders encourage members to renewed commitment to keeping the
develop spiritual self-reliance. commandments. If necessary,
Leaders avoid making decisions by informal church discipline is imposed
those they advise. Instead, leaders or formal discipline initiated. He
help make their own decisions with should be familiar with the
the guidance of the Lord. circumstances that may require
Church discipline and the
7.2.2 The stake president or bishop should
7.2.4 procedures to initiate (see chapter
also avoid immediately offering
6 ).
101
 By counseling members, leaders Outside the United States and
help them take preventive measures Canada, stake presidents may
to resist temptations. For example, contact the Area Presidency for
members who are courting, are guidance.
having difficulties in their marriages,
are separated or divorced, or are The Blessings of the
struggling with minor moral problems Priesthood
can be protected and strengthened
by counseling that is designed to The stake president or bishop may
help them protect against give a priesthood blessing if the
transgression. Chairs do not have to member being counseled sincerely
wait for members to seek this type of 7.2.7 wants one.
help, but they can call for advice.

Marriage, Divorce and

7.3 Maintain Confidences
Separation
During and after their term of service on a call,
No priesthood official is there to
leaders must maintain confidences about
advise a person who to marry. Nor
matters discussed in interviews and counseling.
should you advise a person to
A breach of trust can damage trust, testimonies,
divorce his or her husband or wife.
and faith. A leader should not discuss
Those decisions must originate and
confidential matters with others, including his
remain with the individual.
advisors and wife, unless he receives consent
When a marriage ends in divorce, or from the person he is interviewing or counseling.
if a husband and wife separate, they
If a counselor in the bishopric or stake
should always receive counseling
presidency encounters matters that need to be
from Church leaders. One or both
discussed with the bishop or stake president,
may also need Church discipline if
explain this to the person and he or she refers it
they have committed serious
to the bishop or stake president without delay.
transgressions in connection with the
divorce or separation. . If a person moves to a new ward or stake, the
president of the unit from which he or she moved
A member who separates from his or
may need to share information about formal
her husband or wife, or who is going
church discipline or pending disciplinary matters
through a divorce should advise not
with the person's new presiding officer ( see also
updated until the divorce decree has
6.2.7 and 6.13 0.4 through 6.13.7). Doing so is
become final in accordance with the
not considered a breach of confidentiality.
7.2.5 law.
However, the President should not share
information about transgressions that have been
Professional orientation
resolved.
In addition to inspirational help from
Church leaders, members may need
professional help. In the United 7.4 Protection against
States and Canada, stake presidents
misunderstandings
and bishops can contact LDS Family
Services to identify resources to When a member of a bishopric or stake
provide such counseling in harmony presidency meets with a child, youth, or woman,
with gospel principles (1-801-240- he or she asks a parent or other adult to be in an
7.2.6 1711; 1-800-453-3860 , extension 2- adjoining room, vestibule, or hallway. One parent
1711; or ldsfamilyservices.org ). will usually be available for a child. The leader
102
must avoid any circumstance that could be and Canada, Area Presidencies and
misinterpreted. temporary affairs directors have
these responsibilities. These
properties include meetinghouses,
religious institutes, mission homes
and offices, welfare operations, and
7.5 Responding to Abuse others.

While interviewing or counseling a person, a Local facility staff serve under the
priesthood leader may become aware of direction of the director of temporary
incidents of abuse of a minor, spouse, or another affairs.
person. Abuse cannot be tolerated in any form.
stake presidency
Guidelines for reporting and responding to abuse
are provided in 17.3.2 . Members of the stake presidency
ensure that Church facilities are
Physical facilities
properly used, cared for, and
protected. They teach leaders and
members of their responsibilities for
8.1 Purpose the use and care of these facilities. A
high councilor is assigned to be the
The Church acquires land and facilities to give representative of stake physical
Church members places where they can facilities. They meet with him when
worship, teach, learn, pray together, make and necessary to review needs and
renew covenants, and receive sacred 8.2.3 projects.
ordinances. Each Church facility must (1)
provide a spiritual environment where users Stake Physical Facilities
worship and (2) present an image of respect and Representative
dignity in the community.
The participation of the physical
facilities representative (a high
councilor) assists the stake physical
8.2 Organization facilities presidency as follows:

Physical Facilities Department He helps teach and implement the

use and care of meeting standards.
Under the direction of the Presiding
Bishopric, the Department of Coordinates the distribution and
Physical Facilities establishes control of keys.
operational policies and procedures
that help provide facilities for Coordinates the instruction of
members of the Church throughout neighborhood construction
8.2.1 the world. representatives in their functions.

Participates in annual meetinghouse

Administrative office
inspections conducted by the facility
In the United States and Canada, manager, unless the stake
members of the Presidency of the presidency designates an alternate
Seventy and directors of temporal 8.2.4 to participate.
affairs are responsible for the
acquisition and operation of Church 8.2.5 Agent Bishop
8.2.2
property. Outside the United States

103
 If more than one ward meets in a physical facilities of operating sound,
building, the stake presidency heating, air conditioning and other
assigns a bishop who is the agent building systems.
bishop. Coordinates member
participation tasks in the care and Members
maintenance of the meetinghouse.
Also coordinates safety and security Priesthood leaders emphasize that
procedures for the meetinghouse. member participation is a key factor
Additionally, he coordinates the in meetinghouse care and
building's programming with the maintenance. Members are
stake and other wards that use it, encouraged to provide individual or
although he may designate another group services, depending on their
member to do the programming. 8.2.8 skills and abilities.

Bishopric

Members of the bishopric are 8.3 Physical Facilities

responsible for the use, care and
security of the meetinghouse. They Management
teach the ward members how to use
and care for it. They organize Use and care of meeting
member participation in the care and
centers
maintenance of the meetinghouse,
making assignments as necessary. Local Church leaders and members
They also distribute the keys to the are responsible for the use and care
meeting center. of meetinghouses. They are assisted
by staff from local facilities. Leaders
Members of the bishopric ensure
strive to ensure that meetinghouses
that appropriate security measures
and grounds are always well-
are taken in the meetinghouse and in
maintained, clean, attractive, and in
8.2.6 the gardens (see 8.3.5 ).
good repair. Church facilities must
Ward, Representative Building reflect care and respect in every
way.
Each room must have a building
representative of the neighborhood. Church members, including youth,
The bishop may appoint a member should help clean and care for
of the bishopric to serve in this meetinghouses. As members
position, or the bishopric may call provide such service, their reverence
another member to do so. for the house of the Lord deepens.
Whenever possible, members should
The ward representative building fulfill this responsibility as part of
assists the bishopric with weekly events when they are already
meetinghouse responsibilities such in the meetinghouse. Members may
as energy conservation, security, also be asked to help clean other
snow removal (if applicable), and 8.3.1 Church facilities.
member participation in cleaning and
maintenance. He handles building- Meetinghouse
related needs during meetings, Maintenance and
activities and emergency situations.
8.2.7 If necessary, receive representative 8.3.2 Inspection
participation instruction in the
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 The facilities manager inspects each Leaders are also encouraged to
meetinghouse annually. The physical follow local governments' energy and
facilities representative, or an water conservation initiatives.
alternate, who is designated by the
stake president, participates in these Security and vigilance
inspections. He must be fully
authorized to act on behalf of the Priesthood leaders instruct
stake presidency in this capacity. members, especially women and
Those who participate in these youth, not to be alone in an unlocked
inspections identify building Church building.
maintenance needs and make plans
to repair or renew their systems and Leaders must take reasonable
components and to make other measures to keep hallways,
necessary improvements. stairwells, staircases, exit doors,
utility rooms, and sidewalks free of
obstacles and other hazards.
Meeting planning
Leaders also ensure that hazardous
The stake presidency provides materials or flammable items such
information to a member of the as equipment, hay, straw, and corn
Presidency of the Seventy or the stalks are not used or stored in
Area Presidency who will assist the meetinghouses (see also 8.4.2 ).
director for temporal affairs in
Leaders control key distribution and
preparing and updating a master
establish effective building locking
plan of anticipated needs for future
procedures. They also consider that
and new construction work. or
interior classrooms and other rooms
8.3.3 additional meeting space.
that do not contain valuables are
unlocked.
Energy and Water
Conservation Leaders ensure that local emergency
phone numbers for police, fire and
The Church incurs significant utility ambulance are located on or near
costs for meetinghouses. Leaders each phone with brief instructions.
can help reduce these costs Intruders are reported to the police
substantially by teaching members to 8.3.5 immediately.
turn off lights and equipment when
they are not needed and to follow 8.3.6 Accident Notification
other energy and water conservation
practices. Leaders ensure that Church activities must involve
lighting, heating, air conditioning, minimal risk of injury or illness to
equipment, and water are used as participants or damage to property.
economically as possible. During activities, leaders make every
effort to ensure safety. By effective
As needed, a stake presidency planning and following safety
member or assigned high councilor precautions, leaders can minimize
may call a water and energy the risk of accidents.
conservation engagement
construction specialist for each The bishop or stake president must
campfire meetinghouse and retreat be notified immediately if:
house. These specialists work under
the direction of representative 1.
8.3.4
physical facilities.
105
An accident, injury, or illness occurs about security issues or claims
on Church property or during a against the Church to the Risk
church-sponsored activity. Management Division or area office.

2. See Manual 2, 6.13.20, for additional

instructions on how to proceed in the
A person who was participating in a event of an accident or emergency.
Church-sponsored activity is
missing.

3.
8.4 Policies Regarding the
Damage to private, public, or Church
property occurs during a Church- Use of Church Buildings
sponsored activity.
and Other Properties
If a person has been seriously
injured or is absent, if property has Church buildings and other properties are to be
been seriously damaged, or if legal used for worship, religious teaching, and other
action is threatened or anticipated, Church-related activities. Church property must
the stake president (or a bishop not be used for commercial or political purposes,
under his direction) promptly takes which would violate laws allowing tax exemption.
one of the following actions : Nor can the feature be used for purposes that
violate these laws. The following list provides
1. examples of unapproved uses:

In the United States or Canada, the 1.

Risk Management Division at Church
headquarters (1-801-240-4049 or 1- Rental or leasing of Church facilities for
800-453-3860, extension 2-4049, commercial purposes.
after hours or On weekends, call 1-
2.
801 - 240-1000 or 1-800-453-3860,
and the operator will connect Promotion of business projects or investment
someone right away.) companies, including publishing commercial
advertising or sponsoring commercial
2.
entertainment.
Outside the United States and
3.
Canada, the area office is notified.
The purchase, sale or promotion of products,
Leaders also report injuries and
services, publications or creative works or
damages involving Church facilities
display of merchandise.
or property to the facility manager.
4.
Leaders should review the
applicability of the Church Activity Holding unauthorized fundraising activities (see
Insurance Program if the injury Manual 2, 13.6.8).
occurred during a church-sponsored
activity, event or task. For 5.
information on insurance, see
Manual 2, 13.6.9. Hosting speakers or teachers who are paid a
fee, who recruit participants, or who request
The stake president (or a bishop clients or clients while giving seminars, lessons,
under his direction) refers questions aerobics classes, and so on. Exceptions may be
106
made to use private meetinghouses and bodies may also obtain artwork that is
for private pay instruction (see Manual 2, 14.7). appropriate for Church
meetinghouses through distribution
6. services.

Holding organized sporting events that are not Pictures and other works of art can
sponsored by the Church, including practices. be placed in appropriate locations in
the meetinghouse. However, they
7.
cannot be placed in the chapel or
Holding meetings or political campaigns. As an near the baptismal font. Statues,
exception, Church facilities may be used for murals and mosaics are not
voter registration and as polling places, at the authorized. This policy may not apply
request of voting officials if: to works of art that have been on
display for many years in existing
a. meetinghouse chapels.

There is no reasonable alternative. Artwork in meetinghouses must be

properly framed.
b.
Decorations
Officials and voters maintain Church standards
in the building. Decorations for Christmas, other
holidays, and other similar occasions
c.
may be temporarily placed in the
The event will not pose a physical danger to the lobby or cultural hall of a
building. meetinghouse, approved under the
direction of the stake presidency.
d. With the exception of flowers,
decorations may not be placed in the
The event will not damage the image of the chapel area of the meeting house.
Church. Nor should the exterior of the
meeting house or gardens be
Use of Church property must not pose a
decorated.
significant risk of harm to participants or
property. Nor should we unduly expose the Decorations should be modest and
Church to liability or disturb the surrounding inexpensive, and should not be a fire
residents. hazard. Hay, straw, palm leaves,
other dehydrated materials and
For more detailed instructions on the use and
lighted candles may not be used. If
care of Church buildings and other properties,
Christmas trees are used, they must
see Facilities Management Guidelines for
be artificial or fireproof and displayed
meetinghouses and other church property or
without electric lights or candles.
contact Church headquarters or assigned
Local fire and safety codes and
administrative office .
8.4.2 regulations must be observed.
Illustrations
Dedicating Buildings
Church-approved work of
All new meetinghouses, as well as
meetinghouses is obtained through
major additions containing a chapel,
the facilities manager using the
cultural hall, or area larger than the
8.4.1 Church Facilities catalog
8.4.3 existing structure, must be dedicated
illustrations . The facilities manager
as soon as possible after the project
107
 is completed. standards of conduct, including the
Word of Wisdom, while in the
Smaller buildings such as mission buildings. For more information
houses, institutes, seminaries, and about emergency situations, see
classroom or office additions to 5.1.3 .
meetinghouses may also be
dedicated, if local leaders desire. Firearms
Final approval of the dedication is Churches are dedicated to the
given by a member of the worship of God and as havens from
Presidency of the Seventy or the the cares and concerns of the world.
Area Presidency, in coordination with The carrying of deadly weapons,
the director for temporal matters. A concealed or otherwise, within its
member of the Presidency of the walls is inappropriate except when
Seventy or the Area Presidency 8.4.5 required by law enforcement officers.
works with the presiding stake or
mission and indicates that he or she
Fires and candles
is responsible for dedicating the
building. Open flames and lit candles cannot
8.4.6 be used in Church buildings.
The program of a dedication service
should be consistent with the
purpose of the event. It should not
Flags
be very long or include extensive The national flag may be flown on
musical presentations. Sufficient Church-owned land at any time as
time should always be given to the long as it conforms to local custom
assigned leader to speak and and convention. The national flag
dedicate the building. Following the may appear inside Church buildings
dedicatory prayer, there should be on special occasions, such as
an appropriate hymn or musical patriotic programs. Genuine
selection and a brief prayer to close patriotism does not require
the service. displaying the national flag
8.4.7 continuously at places of worship.
Dedicatory prayers for buildings may
be recorded with permission of the
presiding authority. Innovative Services

8.4.4 After a new construction project is

Emergencies approved, local leaders can carry out
pioneering service in preparation for
During an emergency, the stake
construction. This service will not be
presidency determines whether to
8.4.8 held on Sunday.
call regular ward meetings.
8.4.9 Historic Preservation
In a community-wide emergency or
disaster, the stake president can
assist legitimate disaster relief All questions regarding the
agencies by permitting placement of Church-owned property
meetinghouses to be used as or buildings on national or local
emergency shelters. The Church historic preservation lists or registries
maintains control. Stake and ward should be directed to Church
leaders ensure that people who use headquarters through a member of
the buildings follow the Church's the Presidency of the Seventy or the

108
 Area Presidency. If you have Additionally, Church parking lots are
questions about marking, not to be used for commuter parking
commemorating, or preserving other without permission from the principal
sites, artifacts, works of art, or for temporary matters.
documents, contact the Church
History Department at 1-801-240- Photographs, video
2272 or 1-800- 453-3860, extension recordings and
2-2272.
transmissions in Chapels
Meetinghouse
Taking photographs or making video
Construction, Rental or recordings in the chapels is not
Purchase permitted. Meetings and other
events held in the chapel may not be
For policies regarding the broadcast over the Internet or by any
construction, rental or purchase of other means (see 18.3.1 in Manual 2
meetinghouses, see Facilities 8.4.15 for an exception).
Management Guidelines for
meetinghouses and other church Property rights and
property or contact the director for ownership
8.4.10 temporary matters.
All property assigned or held by the
Meetinghouse plans local units belongs to the Church, not
to the units. However, local units
The Church has prepared a variety have broad autonomy in the use of
of standard meetinghouse plans to fit Church-owned property, including
the circumstances and needs of buildings, land, and other assets,
members around the world. When a subject to Church ownership and
new meetinghouse is to be built, an 8.4.16 policies.
appropriate standard plan is
selected. That plan defines the policy Administration of
for the rooms, features, and
equipment included in the recreational properties
8.4.11 meetinghouse.
For information about management
and retirement homes, see Facility
Monday Nights
Management Guidelines for
8.4.12 See Manual 2, 13.6.10. meetinghouses and other church
property or contact the director for
Overnight accommodation 8.4.17 temporary matters.

or camping Serving Areas

Church meetinghouse properties The service area in Church
may not be used for overnight meetinghouses is not intended for
8.4.13 lodging, camping, or sleepovers. food preparation or cooking unless it
is part of a lesson, demonstration, or
Parking lots other instruction. When food is to be
served in the building or on the
Use of Church parking lots must
grounds, it must be prepared
8.4.14 comply with the guidelines at the
8.4.18 elsewhere and brought to the
beginning of section 8.4 .
meetinghouse, where it can be kept
109
 hot or cold until served.

Signs 9.1 Creation, modification or

discontinuation of Church Units
The name of the Church is to be
displayed in all meetinghouses and Church units include stakes, districts, wards, and
other Church buildings in the branches. They are created, modified or
approved language and logo. It is to discontinued only when the need is clearly
be mounted on the building. Under demonstrated.
certain conditions, the name of the
Church may also be mounted on the The following guidelines are intended to help
8.4.19 basis of an independent sign. ensure that Church units are divided only when
they are strong enough. Splitting a unit
Storage prematurely can weaken it before it becomes a
center of strength. Premature splits can also
The only storage permitted in overburden members.
meetinghouses is for maintenance
9.1.1
items and other approved supplies
and equipment. Wellness products
Guardians and Districts
and other items may not be stored in
meetinghouses. Stakes are created from districts or by dividing
existing holdings. In the United States and
Materials such as gasoline, propane,
Canada, betting shops generally must have a
matches, and camping equipment
minimum of 3,000 members and five rooms. In
should be stored in buildings that are
all other countries, bets generally must have a
separate from the meetinghouse.
minimum of 1,900 members and five rooms.
Cars, recreational vehicles, and There is no fixed minimum number of members
other personal equipment may not or branches necessary to create a district.
8.4.20 be stored on Church property.
All new challenges must be at least 24 years old,
of an active full tithe paying Melchizedek
Use of meetinghouses Priesthood, in addition to the required minimum
outside stake boundaries of 15 of these brothers in each room at the
bonfire. These brothers must be able to serve
All meeting facilities within a effectively in stake and ward priesthood,
reasonable distance of the administrative, and auxiliary positions.
guardianship must be occupied at
their design capacity before Proposing the creation of a stake or district,
additional facilities will be provided. changing its boundaries, changing its name, or
When necessary, stake discontinuing it to the stake or mission completes
presidencies, in consultation with a a stake president and District Organization
member of the Presidency of the Application form and marks the proposed
Seventy or the Area Presidency, boundary changes on a map. In the United
may assign meeting rooms for use in States and Canada, stake and mission
an adjacent set. More than one stake presidents can obtain an application form and a
can use a stake center if it is very unit map from the Boundaries and Change
08/04/21 well located. Leadership Committee staff at Church
headquarters (1-801- 240-3500 or 1-800-453-
Creation, Modification and Naming of 3860, extension 2-3500). In other countries,
New Units stake and mission presidents can obtain
application forms and unit maps from their

110
assigned administrative office. If unit maps are pay full tithes, and able to serve in the priesthood
not available in that office, leaders should obtain or auxiliary position. Normally all new wards
two standard, detailed maps with street or city must have at least one, active full tithe paying
indexes and use them to clearly identify the unit Melchizedek Priesthood for 20 members.
boundaries. Therefore, new wards with more than 300
members must have more than the required
A stake president who is proposing a change of minimum of 15 active Melchizedek Priesthood
participation gives the completed application and holders. Requests for exceptions may be
maps to a member of the Presidency of the submitted in places where this is not possible.
Seventy or the Area Presidency. A mission
president who intends to create a district share To create a branch in a game, generally, there
follows the same procedure. The proposal must must be a minimum of 20 members and at least
have the written endorsement of the presidents 4 to 6 full tithe holders of the Melchizedek
of each affected stake or mission. Priesthood paid.

A member of the Presidency of the Seventy or Proposing the creation of a ward or branch in a
the Area Presidency reviews all applications to game, changing its boundaries, changing its
ensure that instructions and guidelines have name, or discontinuing it, the stake president
been followed. Before approving a proposal for a completes a Ward and Branch Organization
district to make a stake, a member of the Request form and marks the proposed boundary
Presidency of the Seventy or Area Presidency changes on a map. Instructions for obtaining the
ensures that the unit is well above minimum application form and maps are provided in 9.1.1 .
standards and has been functioning at the
desired level of maturity and strength. . If the The stake president gives the completed
member of the Presidency of the Seventy or the application and maps to a member of the
Area Presidency supports the proposal, the Presidency of the Seventy or the Area
application and maps are presented to the Presidency. The proposal must have the written
Boundary and Leadership Change Commission. endorsement of the presidents of each affected
Approval is given only by the First Presidency stake or mission.
and the Quorum of the Twelve.
A member of the Presidency of the Seventy or
Leaders who have questions about stake local the Area Presidency reviews all applications to
language members of the Presidency of the ensure that instructions and guidelines have
Seventy may contact. been followed. Before approving a proposal for a
branch to make a room, a member of the
9.1.2 Presidency of the Seventy or the Area
Presidency ensures that the unit is well above
Neighborhoods and branches on the the minimum standards and has been
stakes functioning at the desired level of maturity and
force. If the member of the Presidency of the
Neighborhoods and betting branches are created Seventy or the Area Presidency supports the
from existing rooms or betting branches or proposal, the application and maps are
missions. The stake president uses the same presented to the Boundary and Leadership
procedures for creating a branch as he does for Change Commission. Authorization is granted
a ward. only by the First Presidency.
In the United States and Canada, rooms When new rooms are created, the stake
generally must have a minimum of 300 president completes a recommendation for the
members. In all other countries, rooms must New Bishop form for each bishop being
generally have at least 150 members. All new recommended. This form must be submitted with
wards must have at least 15 Melchizedek the proposal. Stakes using Church maintenance
Priesthood holders who are active in the Church, registration software may print the form locally.
111
Other participations can be obtained at the A member of the Presidency of the Seventy or
assigned administrative office. the Area Presidency may approve, but not give
final approval, the proposal to create or change a
9.1.3 mission branch for young single adults, single
adults, members who speak native languages,
Branches in Misiones members who have special needs, or members
There is no fixed minimum number of members of the armed forces. If the member of the
necessary to create a branch in a mission. Presidency of the Seventy or the Area
However, these new branches generally must Presidency supports the proposal, the
have at least 4 to 6 active priesthood holders. At application and maps are presented to the
least one must be a full tithe paying Melchizedek Boundary and Leadership Change Commission.
Priesthood. Authorization is granted only by the First
Presidency.
Proposing the creation of a branch in a mission,
changing its boundaries, changing its name, 9.1.4
transferring it, or discontinuing it, the mission
Groups in Missions, Stakes, and Areas
president completes a Ward and Branch
Organization Request form and marks the When members cannot meet in a ward or
proposed boundary changes on a map. branch, groups can be created. Groups can also
Instructions for obtaining the application form be created in unusual circumstances, such as
and maps are provided in 9.1.1 . The mission when a small number of ward or branch
president gives the completed application and members speak a different language or are deaf
maps to a member of the Presidency of the and there is no ward or branch that can
Seventy or the Area Presidency. accommodate their needs. Groups can also be
created for members of the armed forces as
A member of the Presidency of the Seventy or
described in 10.4 .
the Area Presidency may give final approval or
rejection of a proposal to (1) create and name a For a group to be created, there must be two or
new branch in a mission, (2) suspend, or (3) more members from a locality, and one must be
change its boundaries. if the change does not a worthy priest in the Aaronic Priesthood or
affect an adjacent district, mission, or stake. A worthy Melchizedek Priesthood. When a group is
member of the Presidency of the Seventy or the created, the unit number is not assigned by the
Area Presidency must send copies of the Church headquarters.
applications and approved maps to the Boundary
and Leadership Change Commission at church In missions, the mission president may
headquarters before a unit number can be recommend the creation of a group to a member
assigned. of the Presidency of the Seventy or the Area
Presidency. With your approval, the mission
A member of the Presidency of the Seventy or president may organize a group, or may assign a
the Area Presidency may approve, but not give branch president to organize and supervise it.
final approval, the proposal to (1) change the
name of a branch in a mission, (2) transfer to In stakes, the stake president may recommend
another district, mission , or stake, or (3) change the creation of a group to a member of the
its boundaries if the change would affect an Presidency of the Seventy or the Area
adjacent district, mission, or stake. If the member Presidency. With approval, the stake president
of the Presidency of the Seventy or the Area may assign a bishop or branch president to
Presidency supports the proposal, the organize and supervise a group.
application and maps are presented to the
Boundary and Leadership Change Commission. The mission president, bishop, or branch
Authorization is granted only by the First president calls a group leader and differentiates
Presidency. him or her. A group leader organizes group

112
meetings, which include the administration of the recommend the creation of a young single adult
sacrament. He does not have priesthood keys, room or branch if a set has a sufficient number of
so he is not authorized to receive tithes and active young single adults who wish to attend
offerings, counsel members on serious such a unit and if circumstances make it
transgressions, administer Church discipline, or advisable.
perform other tasks that require keys.
Single adult rooms typically requiring a minimum
Typically, groups use the Basic Unit Program of 125 active individual members. The standard
(see 9.3 ). requirement for the number of Melchizedek
Priesthood holders also applies (see 9.1.2 ).
Membership records of group members are Branches normally require a minimum of 50
maintained in the branch or ward that oversees active individual members. In general, a single
the group. adult youth room should have no more than 225
active members. When active members exceed
As groups grow in size and maturity and
225, the stake president recommends the
circumstances permit, priesthood leaders can
creation of an additional room.
apply so that the group becomes a branch.
If a set does not have enough young single
9.1.5
adults to create a ward or branch, stake
Non-native language Wards and presidents may recommend creating a unit of
young single adults with membership from two or
Branches
more adjacent stakes. The unit will be in charge
Priesthood leaders must carefully foster the well- of one of the participating stakes assigned by a
being of members within their boundaries who member of the Presidency of the Seventy or the
do not speak the predominant language. In Area Presidency. This assignment, or any
circumstances where the conventional hall modifications thereof, must have the approval of
cannot provide for the needs of a non-native the First Presidency.
language group, and when a language barrier
Single adult wards and branches are created or
exists among a sufficient number of members in
modified using the procedures outlined in 9.1.2 .
a stake, a stake president may recommend that
Authorization is granted only by the First
LNMs be created under the tutelage or branch.
Presidency.
Said general room must have at least 150
members. The standard requirement for the Membership
number of Melchizedek Priesthood holders also
applies (see 9.1.2 ). There is no fixed minimum Membership in a single young adult ward or
number of members required to create a branch. branch is limited to young single adults who live
within the boundaries of the stake(s) authorized
Towards the local language and branches are
to participate. Both students and non-student
created or modified using the procedures
young single adults are eligible for membership
indicated in 9.1.2 . Authorization is granted only
in the unit. Eligible members may, in consultation
by the First Presidency.
with their parents, decide to be members of that
9.1.6 unit or to remain in their conventional ward.
Member records must be in the unit of the
Young individual wards and adult person attending.
branches
Young single adults who are students living in
housing located on the campus or property of a
Creation
university or college must be members of a
Most young single adults (ages 18 to 30) live in young single adult unit, if one exists to serve the
conventional wards, many of them with their institution. If there is more than one service room
parents. However, a stake president may of the institution, neighborhood membership is
113
determined geographically by a person's living not typically have its own young single adult
location. room or branch.

Single parents who have children at home A unit of young single adults that is in a
typically stay in their conventional living room so conventional stake may be included in a single
the children will have the benefit of primary and young adult game only if (1) its boundaries lie
youth programs. However, parents will be able to within or adjacent to the stake young single
attend youth activities only for adults. adults and (2) the presidents of both stakes
recommend transfer.
In consultation with the bishops, the stake
president may authorize the transfer of the Young single adult stakes are created or
membership records of designated less active modified using the procedures outlined in 9.1.1 .
young single adults to the communion and Authorization is granted only by the First
activation young single adult unit. However, Presidency.
when these members become active, a member
may be chosen from either the young single Membership
adult unit or your conventional ward.
Membership in a young single adult membership
Membership in a young single adult unit is is limited to young single adults living within the
temporary. Leaders help young single adults boundaries of the stake. Normally, both student
prepare to return to a conventional living room and non-student young single adults are eligible
when they marry or reach age 31. for membership. All young single adults within
stake boundaries who do not live at home with
Leadership their parents, both active and less active, will be
considered members of that stake, unless they
Bishops of young single adult wards should advise the bishop of the young single adult ward
marry men of mature judgment. Episcopal that They attend the conventional room for their
counselors may include married students or place of residence. Young single adults living at
young married men. Other ward officers and home with their parents, in consultation with their
teachers are called from among the members of parents, choose to be members of the
the ward. conventional ward or the young single adult ward
and the stake. Member records must be in the
Advisors to bishops of young single adult wards
room of the person attending.
in conventional stakes should be high priests.
Advisors to bishops of young single adult wards Membership in a young single adult participation
in young single adult stakes may be priests or may be limited to students when warranted by
elders (see “leadership” in 9.1.7). local circumstances, approved by a member of
the Presidency of the Seventy or the Area
9.1.7
Presidency.
Young simple adult cuttings All other membership standards in 9.1.6 for
young single adult wards in conventional stakes
Creation
also apply in young single adult stakes.
When a large number of young single adults
Leadership
reside in a concentrated area, usually near
universities or colleges, one or more young The stake presidency, high council, stake
single adult stakes may be organized. Generally, patriarch, bishoprics, and stake Relief Society
a minimum of 1,500 young single adults is presidency in a young single adult participation
necessary to justify the creation of such a game. are to be married persons of mature judgment.
Episcopal counselors may include married
A conventional game with limits that overlap
students or men young married women As an
those of a young single adult participation does
114
exception, bishop's counselors in wards found in Single adult rooms
young single adult stakes do not have to be
ordained priests. However, at least the first Creation
counselor is usually a more experienced and
mature person than those of the typical college Most single older adult members are better
or university student age. served as members of conventional rooms. As
an exception, when a game includes 150 or
The stake presidency, high council, stake more individual adults ages 31 to 45, whose
patriarchs, bishoprics, and stake Relief Society needs for service, leadership, and social
Presidency in a young single adult involvement interaction are not adequately met by
may be called from a broader geographic area conventional units, the stake president may
than the boundaries of the involvement, as recommend the creation of a single game room.
determined by a member of the Presidency of Adults. Such a room is created or modified using
the Seventy, the Area Presidency, or an the procedures described in 9.1.2 . Authorization
assigned Area Seventy. Those who extend such is granted only by the First Presidency.
callings first obtain authorization through
consultation with the person's conventional stake If stake leaders wish to create a single adult
president. For instructions, see Manual 2, 16.6.2. ward but do not have enough members in a
Approval from the First Presidency is also single set, stake presidents may recommend
required before calling a bishop. The approval of creating a ward with membership from two or
the Quorum of the Twelve is required before more adjacent stakes. The room will be in
calling a patriarch. charge of one of the participating bets, which are
assigned by a member of the Presidency of the
Other stake and ward officers and teachers are Seventy. This assignment, or any modifications
called from among the members of the stake and thereof, must have the approval of the First
wards. Presidency.

9.1.8 Membership

Married Student Stakes, neighborhoods Membership in a single adult ward is limited to

and branches single adults ages 31 and 45 who live within the
boundaries of the stake(s) authorized to
A stake president may recommend the creation participate. These members may choose to be
of a married student game when 1,500 or more members of that ward or to remain in their
married members attend a university or college conventional ward. Member records must be in
located in his game. the room of the person attending.

A stake president may recommend the creation Single parents who have children at home
of a married student ward when 125 or more typically stay in their conventional living room so
married members attend a university or college the children will have the benefit of primary and
located in his or her stake and want to attend a youth programs. However, parents will be able to
married student ward. These rooms are created attend activities in the adult only room.
using the procedures described in 9.1.2 .
Authorization is granted only by the First 9.1.10
Presidency.
Special Needs Neighborhoods and
Members who are eligible to attend a married branches
student ward may choose to be a member of that
ward or its conventional ward. Member records Wards or branches can be created for groups of
must be in the unit the members are attending. members who have special needs, such as
members who are deaf or who are in care
9.1.9 facilities, residential treatment programs, and

115
prisons. These units are created or modified When the name of a city is repeated
using the procedures indicated in 9.1.2 . in the name of its state, province, or
Authorization is granted only by the First country, the name of the state,
Presidency. province, or country is not used as
part of the share or district name. For
9.1.11 example:

Church units in military installations Colorado Springs East Stake, not

Colorado Springs Colorado East
For instructions on creating wards, branches,
Stake
and groups of service members serving on
military installations, see 10.4 . Guatemala City Central Stake, not
Guatemala City Central Stake

Idaho Falls Eagle Rock Stake, not

9.2 Designation of Church units Idaho Falls Idaho Eagle Rock Stake
When new units are created, local leaders may Mexico City Aztec Stake, not Mexico
present unit names to a member of the City Mexico Aztec Stake
Presidency of the Seventy or the Area
Presidency. These leaders review the names to When more than one stake or district
make sure they comply with Church guidelines. If is in the same city, the third word is
these leaders endorse the proposed names, they an identifying feature, such as a
are presented to the Boundaries and Leadership compass direction ( North, South,
Change Commission for review. Approvals for East, or West ), the name of a
naming Church units are made by the First community, or the name of a
Presidency. geographical feature that is within or
adjacent to the boundaries of the
Guardians and Districts unit. Other directional terms (such as
Southwest ), names of people,
The name of a stake or district must
numbers, or segregation terms (such
uniquely identify other stakes or
as Spanish or hard of hearing should
wards. In general, the names of
not be used).
existing stakes and districts should
not be changed. 9.2.2 Neighborhoods and branches
The first word of the stake or district The name of a neighborhood or
name is the name of the city where branch must uniquely identify it so
the stake or district headquarters is that people in the community can
located. recognize and locate it. The name
should be chosen carefully so that it
In the United States and Canada, the
does not have to be changed later.
second word is generally the state or
In general, the names of existing
province in which the stake or district
wards and branches should not be
is located. In other countries, the
changed.
second word is usually the name of
the country. Exceptions to this policy The ward or branch must be named
must be approved by the Office of after a city, subdivision,
the First Presidency. (One of those neighborhood, street, or geographic
exceptions is that games in Salt feature that is within or adjacent to
Lake City do not include the word the unit boundaries. The name of a
9.2.1 Utah. ) single city, subdivision,

116
 neighborhood, street, or geographic Unit Program may also be used in stakes where
feature is used as the unit name. If similar conditions exist.
there is more than one ward or
branch with the same name, a Guidelines for the Basic Unit Program are
number will be added as part of the provided in the Basic Unit Program Guide. Other
name, such as Montevideo First useful information is provided in the Guide for
Ward, Montevideo Second Ward, the Branch, Priesthood, and Auxiliary
and Montevideo Third Ward. The Organizations Guide, Guide for the Family, and
name of the ward or branch must be Guide for Teaching.
in the language of the area. If the
language does not use the Latin
alphabet, translation using Latin
characters must be included.
Compass directions (such as Middle 9.4 Growth of Church units
or Northwest ), names of people, and
segregation terms (such as Spanish The organization, auxiliaries, and programs of a
or Hard of Hearing ) are not included Church unit must grow as rapidly as the size and
in the name. maturity of the unit's charter. Leaders should not
attempt to organize all the programs described in
the manuals unless they have the leadership
strength and number of members necessary to
9.3 Basic Unit Program do so. Trying to complete the entire Church
program ahead of time can overburden members
Because Church units are at different stages of and lead them to withdraw from Church activity.
development and have different needs, the
The doctrines, ordinances and practices that are
Church has developed the Basic Unit Program to
established by the Scriptures and the teachings
be used by some small branches and groups.
of the living prophets and apostles are to be
An Area Presidency may authorize the use of the uniform throughout the Church. However, under
Basic Unit Program in small branches or groups the direction of presiding authorities, leaders can
where any of the following conditions apply: adapt auxiliaries, leadership meetings, and
activities to local needs and capabilities. For
1. instructions on case accommodations, see
Manual 2, Chapter 17.
The Church is in its initial stages.

2. Military Relations
The members are scattered. Stake presidents and bishops help make the
blessings of Church participation available to
3. members who serve in the military. As indicated
in this chapter, the program of military relations
Membership is small and leadership is beginning
of the Church consists of:
to develop.
1.
4.
The support of stakes and neighborhoods.
Members have special language or other special
needs. 2.
With the approval of a member of the Presidency Church orientation for members entering military
of the Seventy or the Area Presidency, the Basic service.

117
3. A member of the stake presidency develops a
working relationship with the senior chaplain at
Organization of wards, branches or groups of each military installation at the stake. He ensures
members of the Latter-day Saint service. that the bishops of the wards whose boundaries
encompass a military installation do the same.
4.
These leaders inform the chaplain of the ward's
Approval of LDS Military Chaplains. meeting schedule, compliance location, and
contact person so that the chaplain can give this
information to members in the facility.

The stake president conducts an annual

10.1 Stake Military interview with each LDS chaplain who lives
within his stake boundaries. The purpose of this
Relations Leadership interview is to determine the welfare and dignity
chaplain to serve. The stake president also
If military installations or members serving in the
interviews each chaplain's spouse annually.
armed forces are in a stake, the stake
presidency has the responsibilities outlined in If there is an active-duty LDS chaplain in the
this section. If these facilities are in a mission game, the stake president may call him or her to
rather than a game, the mission president fulfills the high council. Being called as a member of
these responsibilities. the high council helps the chaplain serve more
effectively as a liaison between military leaders
A member of the stake presidency oversees the
and the stake president. If a chaplain is not
Church at the Bonfire pre-military orientation
called as a member of the high council, the stake
service. Ensures orientation is offered to all
president invites him to attend stake Executive
members entering military service. The stake
priesthood committee meetings that report
executive secretary can coordinate this
periodically on the activities of Church units and
orientation.
installation activation efforts. .
When necessary, the president of a stake where
The military requires that a chaplain provide
a military installation is located organizes a ward,
administrative supervision to any religious
branch, or service member group for military
services held on a military installation. If there is
personnel and their families (see 10.4 ). For
an LDS chaplain at the installation, the military
each of these units, the stake president calls,
typically assigns him to provide such supervision
sets aside, and oversees a bishopric (when
to a Latter-day Saint unit that meets there. If the
authorized by the First Presidency), branch
stake presidency calls a chaplain to serve on the
presidency, or group leader of service members
high council, he could fulfill this military mission
and their assistants. The stake president gives
and serve as the stake president's
you contact information for these leaders from
representative to the unity of the Church.
the Church's Military Relations Division. You
may designate a ward to support each service The stake president may call an LDS chaplain to
member group. preside over a military ward, branch, or group of
service members, as long as this call does not
When one or more Church units are established
conflict with the chaplain's military obligations. All
for military personnel, the stake president gives
LDS chaplains and their spouses must have
each bishop, branch president, or group leader a
involvement or ward callings, but chaplains may
Certificate of Appointment and a letter describing
not serve in positions that require proselytizing.
his or her responsibilities and authorizing him or
her to preside over the units. unit and conduct
meetings. Church Military Relations Division can
provide a certificate and a sample letter. 10.2 Ward, Military Relations Leadership

118
A member of the bishopric ward interviews provides it as soon as possible after the member
members before leaving for military service. arrives at basic training. base.
Ensures they have the opportunity to attend pre-
military Church orientation.

When a member enters military service or

transfers to a new location, a member of the
10.4 Church units for
bishopric helps him or her identify the Church Service Members
unit closest to the new duty station. Information
regarding times and meeting locations for Latter- Members of the armed forces typically
day Church services on St. Military installations participate in neighborhoods or branches located
is available from the Church's Military Relations on or near their military installations. However,
Division. under the following circumstances, the presiding
stake or mission may organize a ward, branch,
Priesthood leaders in the home ward should or service member group for military personnel
correspond regularly with each ward member and their families on the installation:
who is away on military service. Families are
also encouraged to ensure that their family 1.
member in the military receives the Ensign or
Liahona. The Church News is also available for There is no organized Church unit within a
those who read English. reasonable distance of a military installation to
which Church members are assigned.
Each bishop is responsible for members of the
Church assigned to a military installation within 2.
his ward boundaries. A working relationship is
established with the senior chaplain at the facility Military personnel in a country where they do not
(see 10.1 ). understand the language spoken in the local
room or branch.

3.
10.3 Church Service Pre-Military
Military personnel are unable to leave a military
Orientation
installation due to training requirements or other
In the Church's pre-military service orientation, restrictions.
members entering military service learn what to
4.
expect regarding Church services and the
activities of the armed forces. Guidance can be Military unit Members of the Church 'deploy or
held at a stake or ward level. A member of the will deploy for contingency operations to a
stake presidency or bishopric calls on an location where the Church is not organized,
instructor, preferably someone with recent where the local Church unit cannot
military experience, to provide the orientation. accommodate the members because of a
different language, or where attendance at local
The orientation may include watching the video
meetings is not feasible.
recordings corresponding to your country and do
not let your heart be troubled. The member must 5.
receive a military writing set, an LDS
identification tag, and his or her country's Members belong to Reserve or National Guard
brochure. If a member has not received this units and participate in weekend exercises or
orientation before arriving at basic training, the annual training exercises.
bishop, branch president, or service member
group leader who is in charge of the training

119
Wards and branches on military installations are 10.5 Group leaders in remote areas or
created using the procedures described in war zones
Chapter 9 .
While stake or mission presidents typically call
A ward or branch, rather than a group of service group leaders and separate service members,
members, is generally established if there is a this may not be possible in remote areas or war
need to support both military members and their zones. Since a group leader is not given the
families. A ward or branch may also be keys of the priesthood with his vocation, it is
established for military members, without their permissible for him to be appointed without being
families, if necessary long-term to provide set apart. The priesthood leader who is
Church services and programs for members responsible for the area may appoint a worthy
attending basic or advanced training, or on a Melchizedek Priesthood to serve as the group
remote assignment. The military does not leader after verifying his worthiness with his
typically allow members of the Church who are bishop and stake president. Or, if there is an
not associated with the military to belong to a LDS chaplain in the area, the priesthood leader
ward or branch that uses installation facilities. is authorized to call and set aside a group
leader.
If circumstances do not justify the creation of a
ward or branch on a military installation, the When a group leader is called, the Church
presiding stake or mission may establish a group Military Relations Division must be notified. An
of service members. A service member group is appointment letter will be sent to him. This letter
a small Church unit that holds Church meetings is required by the military before the group
and cares for members. However, the group leader can conduct Church services.
leader does not have priesthood keys, so he is
not authorized to receive tithes and offerings,
counsel members on serious transgressions,
administer Church discipline, or perform other 10.6 Missionary service and military
tasks that require keys. For information on obligation
service member groups, contact the Military
Relations Division or see "Military Relations" In countries with mandatory military service (the
where they serve in the Church section of draft), stake presidents and bishops should
LDS.org . consider how these laws apply to people who
want to serve a mission. In the United States
Leaders of service member groups in isolated military, a person who joins the armed forces on
areas can obtain a Group Leader kit and active duty before serving a mission must
additional Church materials by contacting the complete his or her enlistment obligation before
Church's Military Relations Division. serving a mission. Those in Reserve or National
Guard units may be able to serve a mission after
Depending on the needs of the service member, completing basic and advanced training. For
Church programs in a ward, branch, or service more information, leaders can contact the
member group serving on a military installation Church's Military Relations Division.
may be limited in scope and complexity.

When a Church unit is established on a military

installation, coordination with the senior
installation chaplain is necessary to arrange
meeting times and use of base facilities. If there 10.7 LDS Chaplains
is no installation chaplain assigned to the base,
In the United States, the Department of Defense
the stake president consults with the
and the Department of Veterans Affairs require
commanding officer.
that all applicants for chaplain positions in the
military or veterans affairs be approved by their

120
religious faith groups before being considered for identify members of the military to call as service
appointment. Applicants must also meet certain member group leaders.
educational and ministry requirements. Members
who are interested in such positions should LDS military chaplains in a war zone or isolated
contact the Church's Military Relations Division area may fulfill additional responsibilities under
for specific instructions regarding ratification the direction of priesthood leaders. For example,
requirements and procedures. group leaders may call and remove service
members when authorized. They may also
The Church does not provide centralized support interview a service member for baptism,
for those who serve as chaplains in hospitals, confirmation, and Aaronic or Melchizedek
hospices, assisted living facilities, correctional Priesthood coordination if conditions prevent
facilities, or police or fire departments. Persons access to the service member's full-time
seeking these positions must obtain a letter from missionary or bishop or stake president.
their bishop or stake president stating that they
are full members and that their Church status If chaplain duties prevent him and his family from
and worthiness are reviewed every two years. attending his ward meetings, he seeks approval
They should also contact the Church's Military from his stake president to attend religious
Relations Division for guidance. services in another room.

LDS Chaplains serve people of all faiths,

including Latter-day Saints. They strive to
10.8 The use of clothing in the Armed
accommodate the free exercise of individuals'
religious beliefs to the greatest extent possible Forces
and to ensure that individuals enjoy religious
If members entering military service have been
freedom.
gifted, bishops ensure they understand the
LDS chaplains serving in the armed forces are following guidelines.
authorized to provide nondenominational
When possible, gifted members in the armed
worship services, give priesthood blessings,
forces should wear the garment the same as any
perform civil marriages (see 3.5.3 ), conduct
other member. However, members should avoid
funeral and memorial services, name and bless
displaying the garment to those who do not
children, organize groups of service members as
understand its meaning. When conditions
approved by priesthood leaders, and service
become inevitable, members must seek the
members advise. A chaplain does not hold
guidance of the Spirit and exercise tact,
priesthood keys like a judge in Israel unless he is
discretion, and wisdom. It may be best to lay the
serving as a bishop, branch president, or stake
garment aside temporarily and put it back on
president. Chaplains can assist Church
when conditions permit. However, a simple
members in the process of repentance, under
inconvenience of wearing the garment does not
the direction of their priesthood leaders, but
justify leaving it aside.
members must resolve serious transgressions
with their bishop or stake president to complete When military regulations prevent a member
the process. Chaplains assigned to Reserve or from wearing the garment, the member's
National Guard units must receive approval from religious status is not affected, provided that he
the Church's Military Relations Division prior to or she remains worthy. If service members are
performing civil marriages. unable to wear the garment due to military
regulations or circumstances beyond their
LDS military chaplains observe Church units on
control, it is their privilege, right, and duty to wear
their military installations and report on the units'
it again as soon as circumstances permit.
activities to the stake president. They help local
Church leaders locate members of the armed Members of the armed forces should consult
forces and direct them to the appropriate Church with their individual services regarding specific
unit. They can also help the stake president
121
requirements that undergarments must meet, Military Relations Division 50 East North Temple
such as color or neckline style. A special military Street, Room 2048 Salt Lake City, UT 84150 to
garment that meets the specifications of the 0.020 Telephone: 1-801-240-2286 E-mail: pst-
Church and the United States Army and Air military@ldschurch.org
Force can be obtained through Church
distribution services. This two-piece garment is
desert tan in color and has a t-shirt top with a
Church Educational
crew neck. It should be worn with the combat System
camouflage uniform when required by military
regulations. Since the shirt is considered part of The Church Educational System (CES) is made
the uniform, the markings are stenciled inside, so up of:
they are not visible to others if the shirt is worn
without the shirt of camouflage uniform. 1.

When military service requires a different color Seminars and religious institutes.
than Desert Tan t-shirt, approved military t-shirts
can be purchased and sent to distribution 2.
services to be individually marked. Bottoms of
Primary and secondary education (in some
clothing as white or desert can be worn with areas outside the United States).
service-specific color tops.
3.
Certain synthetic fibers worn on the skin can
cause serious risks to pilots and others who may Institutions of higher education (in the United
be exposed to fire. All nylon and some polyester States only).
blend materials fall into this category. Military
authorities have indicated that cotton is a much
safer fabric for these individuals to wear. A 100
percent cotton garment should be worn in these
situations.
11.1 Responsibilities of
To place special orders for clothing items,
Priesthood Leaders
members may contact distribution services.
11.1.1

stake presidency
10.9 Other Information
Members of the stake presidency encourage and
For information about service member supervise the participation of eligible stake
membership records, see 13.6.8 . members in CES programs. High councilors and
the stake executive secretary may be asked to
For information about patriarchal blessings for help. The stake presidency regularly includes
service members, see 16.12.3 . Church education issues on the agendas of
stake leadership meetings. Staff from seminaries
For information on the arrangement of service
and institutes may be invited to attend the
members in isolated areas, see 16.7.4 .
portion of these meetings when Church
For information about giving temple recommends education matters are discussed.
in isolated areas, see 3.3.3 .
The stake president or an assigned counselor or
If Church leaders have questions about military high council calls, distinguishes and
relations, they may contact: communicates participation seminars and
teaching institutes. The stake president consults
in advance with the person's bishop and may

122
consult with seminary and institute personnel. located within the board's geographic area. Each
Teachers should be summoned sufficiently in game served by the seminary program may be
advance to allow time for staff from seminaries represented by a member of the stake
and institutes to train them before classes begin. presidency or a member of the high council.

The stake president verifies that each CES Local board of education meetings may be held
employee, participating seminary or institute once or twice a year. Council members make
teacher, and supervisor in his or her game is plans to enroll young people in seminary and
worthy of holding a temple recommend. This institute, approve and correlate calendar items,
verification must occur prior to the start of the report on enrollment and attendance trends,
individual's CES service and annually thereafter. coordinate graduations, and discuss any
challenges facing seminary programs. The local
A member of the stake presidency presides over board may also discuss topics of interest
seminary and institute graduation ceremonies. regarding local institute programs.

The stake president or one of his counselors 11.1.3

interviews members of the stake who are
seeking approval to enroll in Church universities Institute of Advisory Council of
or colleges.
Religion
Where there are no separate seminary and
institute facilities, the stake presidency ensures A religion advisory board institute is established
that facilities are available as described under whenever there is an institute program. The
“Facilities” in 11.2.3. stake president may serve as president of the
council or assign one of his counselors to do so.
The stake president approves members of the
seminary student council after verifying their If an institute attends more than one game, a
creditworthiness with the bishops. He or a member of the Presidency of the Seventy, a
priesthood officer under his calls and sets of member of the Area Presidency, or an assigned
direction, apart from these students. Area Seventy assigns one of the stakes to be
responsible for the advisory council. The
11.1.2 assigned stake president He may serve as
president or assign one of his advisors to do so.
Local Board of Education
The institute of religion advisory council consists
A local board of education establishes that of the president, the director of the institute, and
multiple interests work together to provide time- the institute of religion student council
released seminar programs. presidency. The president may invite
representatives of other participations, as
A local board of education can also be necessary.
established where several stakes with daily
seminary classes, home study courses, or both This advisory council organizes and directs the
are in close proximity and have common institute of religion student council. It also
concerns and challenges. These boards of encourages high school enrollment and
education may meet jointly with the Institute's attendance. Additionally, the Council approves
religion advisory council (see 11.1.3 ). the annual student activity calendar and the
expenditure of funds for student activities,
A member of the Presidency of the Seventy or including any travel.
an assigned Area Seventy may assign one of the
stakes to be responsible for the meeting. The 11.1.4
president of this holding may serve as president
or assign one of his advisors to do so. This Bishopric
president oversees seminary programs that are
123
The bishopric oversees the enrollment of those to help youth and young adults understand and
who are eligible for the seminary and institute. trust in the teachings and atonement of Jesus
The bishop and his advisors encourage: Christ, worthy of temple blessings, and prepare
themselves, their families, and others for life.
1. eternal with his Father in Heaven.

All youth of appropriate age (usually 14 to 18) to Under the direction of the Church Board of
participate in the seminar. Education, full-time seminary and institute
representatives are assigned to each game.
2.
Leaders direct requests or questions about
All individual higher education students to seminar and institute programs to these
participate in the institute. The bishopric may representatives.
also encourage married higher education
Seminary and institute classes are not held on
students, as well as young single adults who are
Sunday unless the Church Board of Education
not students, to participate in the institute as their
has given approval.
needs and interests may be served (see 11.2.2 ).
11.2.1 Seminars
The bishopric regularly includes Church
education issues on the agendas of ward
The seminary program offers
leadership meetings.
religious instruction for young people
The bishop may recommend to the stake (usually 14 to 18 years of age)
president who to call as a seminary participant Monday through Friday. There is no
and appoint teachers as well as supervisors. registration fee for the seminar.

The bishop determines whether a person is Seminar is most effective when:

worthy of graduating from a seminary or institute.
1.
The bishop interviews and recommends ward
The environment is conducive to the
members seeking approval to enroll or continue
influence of the Spirit.
enrollment in Church universities or colleges
(see 11.4 ). 2.
The ward executive secretary can assist the Includes daily scripture study.
bishopric of seminary and institute matters, such
as class registration. 3.

Seminary and institute personnel are authorized The teachers are capable and well
to request appropriate information about trained, with minimal billing.
prospective seminary and institute students from
ward records. Representatives from seminaries 4.
and institutes provide priesthood leaders with
regular registration information and attendance Teachers and students have
reports. frequent face-to-face interaction.

5.

Student expectations and

11.2 Seminars and responsibility are reasonable.

Institutes of Religion Types of Seminar

The goal of religious seminaries and institutes is
Programs
124
Factors for establishing a seminary In stake seminary programs,
program include the number of LDS students from several districts or an
youth, availability of Church facilities, entire participation may meet from
distance, travel and safety issues, time to time for instruction. Under the
legal restrictions, and local school direction of stake Young Men and
policy and calendars. Based on young Women leaders, an activity
these factors, and taking into may occur in conjunction with this
account the five guidelines instruction.
mentioned above, stake
presidencies and seminary staff Published in Tiempo Seminario. As
determine which of the following approved by the Church Board of
programs is most appropriate in a Education, the time-released
particular situation. seminary was established in some
areas of the United States and
Stake Seminary. Stake Seminary is Canada. These classes are held
offered through (1) daily classes that during school hours according to the
meet outside of school hours when school schedule. The local Church
local schools are in session or (2) board of education may approve
home study classes. offering additional classes before or
after school, when student needs
1. warrant.

Daily classes are organized where

students can meet each day of the
Seminary Class Officers
week in the morning, afternoon or A seminary teacher may appoint a
evening. Classes should be class president, one or more vice
approximately 50 minutes long. As presidents, and a secretary. Before
an exception, the stake presidency making these appointments, the
and the area director of Seminaries teachers contact the bishop(s) for
and Institutes of Religion may approval. The teacher considers all
recommend daily classes be held for students worthy of class officers,
60 minutes four days a week. including those with disabilities. The
Approval from a member of the teacher announces officers in the
Presidency of the Seventy or the class, but is not held or set aside.
Area Presidency must be obtained These agents help the teacher when
prior to the application of this necessary.
exception.

2.
Student Council Seminar

Home studio classes are organized A seminary student council may be

where students cannot meet each organized, where more than one
day of the week due to distance or seminar class meets in one building.
other factors. These students This council may consist of a
participate in daily religious president, one or more vice-
instruction, attending one or more presidents, a secretary and a limited
classes each week and completing number of council members, as
homework assigned to each day of necessary. Council members are
the week that class is not held. The recommended by the faculty and
teacher assigns homework from approved by the local board of
approved seminar materials. education. They are called and set
apart by or under the direction of

125
 their stake president. Church institutions of higher
education.
Members of the seminarian student
council help the professors (1) Location and contact information
maintain an appropriate spirit in the about the institute's programs
building, (2) encourage enrollment worldwide is available on the Internet
and attendance in seminary classes, at institute.lds.org and through
(3) establish positive traditions, and seminary and institute
(4) the plan and carry out limited representatives.
activities that involve more than one
class. Institute of Religion of the
11.2.2
Student Council
Institutes of Religion
The student religion council institute
Institutes of Religion provide may consist of a president, one or
weekday religious instruction for more vice presidents, a secretary,
individual higher education students. and a limited number of council
Married higher education students members as necessary. Council
and their husbands may participate members are called and separated
in the institute as time and by or under the direction of the chair
circumstances permit. Young single of the advisory council (see 11.1.3 ).
adults of the appropriate age (usually The president must consult with the
18-30) who are not students may president of each member's
also participate in the institute. In participation.
addition to religious instruction,
institutes give students the Student council members encourage
opportunity to grow spiritually enrollment and attendance in high
through service, social interaction, school classes. They also plan and
and leadership training. There is no conduct institute activities approved
institute registration fee. by the advisory board.

Institute of religion programs are Last Days Santa Student

established under the direction of
priesthood leaders and seminary and Association (LDSSA)
institute staff when there are
The Latter-day Saint Student
sufficient numbers of LDS higher
Association (LDSSA) may be
education students. With the
organized in which Latter-day Saint
approval of the stake president and
undergraduates will be given formal
the area director of Seminaries and
recognition on campus to facilitate
Institutes of Religion, participation
opportunities for service and
institute classes may also be
involvement on campus. LDSSA
organized.
officers are called upon and
Institute classes generally meet separated in the same manner as
twice a week for 50 minutes or once the institute's board members and
a week for 100 minutes. Independent the student's religion.
study courses may be available for
students who cannot attend regular Institute Men's Association
institute classes. Under certain (IMA) and the Institute
circumstances, credit for institute
classes may be transferred to
Women's Association

126
 (IWA) Activities normally take place on the
seminar class premises and during
In the United States and Canada, the normal class hours. Any request for
Institute of Men's Association (IMA) exceptions must be approved well in
and the Institute of Women's advance by local priesthood leaders
Association (IWA) can be organized or the local board of education.
to meet local needs. The Institute
Advisory Board approves all The activities of the Institute are
chapters and chapter advisors for planned by the institute's religious
these organizations. Chapter student council and must be
presidencies are called, set apart, approved by the advisory council.
and released by or under the They must be carefully coordinated
direction of the advisory board chair so that they do not interfere with
(see 11.1.3 ). Additional information activities sponsored by local adult
on IFAs and IWA is available from singles organizations in the Church.
the institute director. They must comply with Church
policies and guidelines.
Perpetual Fund for No money must be collected from
Education students for seminar or institute
activities.
In countries where Perpetual
Education Fund (PEF) loans have Mod cons
been approved, institute staff assist
in the process according to Whenever possible, seminary and
established guidelines. Applicants institute sites and facilities are to be
must meet PEF guidelines for shared with other Church units or
institute enrollment and attendance departments. Where there are no
to be eligible for PEF loans (see seminary and institute facilities, the
Chapter 12 ). stake presidency ensures that
facilities in meetinghouses or as
General information members' homes are available for
seminary and institute classes.
Guidance and Training Renting facilities for game seminar
programs is not authorized.
Seminary and institute personnel However, facilities may be rented by
guide and train those who have been institute classes when authorized by
called as teachers and supervisors. the Seminaries and Institutes of
Religion headquarters office.
Class materials
Travel expenses
Seminar and institute classes must
use seminar and institute materials Where individual need warrants,
from approved courses. The participation seminar and institute
seminary and institute representative teachers and supervisors can be
provides the class materials for the reimbursed for travel expenses they
teachers. Teachers and students incur in connection with teaching
should obtain their own scriptures. classes and attending monthly short
course meetings. These
Activities reimbursements come from
11.2.3 seminary and institute funds, with the
Seminar activities should be limited.
127
approval of priesthood leaders. Exercises.

Audiovisual materials
When seminary and institute classes
are held in a meetinghouse,
11.3 Primary and Secondary Education
audiovisual curricular materials are
stored in the meetinghouse library. (in some areas outside the United States)
The meetinghouse library also
The Church provides primary or secondary
supplies the audiovisual equipment
education in a few long-established locations in
needed for classes held in the
the Pacific Islands and Mexico. No new schools
meetinghouse.
are anticipated.

Materials for people with Under the direction of the Church Board of
disabilities Education and the Commissioner of the Church
Educational System, these schools are run by
Special religious education materials full-time Seminaries and Institutes of Religion
for students with reading problems or administrators. Schools provide secular and
other disabilities are available to religious instruction. Students attending these
assist seminary and institute schools must receive ecclesiastical approval to
students. The seminary and institute enroll and to continue enrollment each year.
representative can provide
information regarding the acquisition
of these materials. Teachers can
also find helpful information at
disabilities.lds.org . 11.4 Institutions of Higher Education (in
the United States only)
Graduation
The Church sponsors four institutions of higher
Students must complete certain
education: Brigham Young University, Brigham
academic and attendance
Young University-Hawaii, Brigham Young
requirements and have a clearance
University-Idaho, and the LDS Business College.
to graduate from seminary or
Under the direction of a Board of Trustees and
institute. Seminary and institute
the Commissioner of the Church Educational
personnel verify that the student has
System, each of these schools is led by a full-
met the academic and attendance
time university or college president. Information
requirements. The bishop verifies the
about admissions and academic programs can
student's merit.
be obtained at education.lds.org or from the
A member of a stake presidency schools' admission offices:
presides over seminary and institute
Admissions Brigham Young University Office A-
graduation ceremonies. These
41 ASB Provo, UT 84602 Telephone: 1-801-422-
exercises are planned by a member
2507
of a stake presidency or a member
of the high council, assisted by a Brigham Young University-Hawaii Office of
representative of seminaries and Admissions 55-220 Kulanui Street Laie, Hawaii
institutes and by seminary and 96762-1294 Telephone: 1-808-675-3738
institute students. For additional
information, see the Guide to Brigham Young University-Idaho Office of
Seminary and Institute Graduation Admissions 120 Kimball Building Rexburg, ID
83460-1615 Telephone: 1-208-496-1036
128
LDS Business College Admissions Office 95 Non-LDS students who wish to apply
North 300 West Salt Lake City, UT 84101-3500 to a Church institution of higher
Telephone: 1-801-524-8145 education must obtain approval from
clergy of their own faith or from an
Endorsement to enroll in LDS bishop. A non-LDS student
Church universities and must receive annual approval in
Colleges order to enroll for the next academic
year. He or she may obtain this
Church institutions of higher endorsement from (1) the local
education are based on the Gospel church leader, of his or her own faith,
of Jesus Christ and exist to provide if the student is an active member of
an environment of faith in which the congregation, or (2) the bishop of
young people can, through serious the LDS ward where the student
study, pursue spiritual and academic resides, while at school.
preparation. The Church Educational
System wants to accommodate all Instructions for approval
who wish to attend. However, each Interviews
institution has limited space. A
student who is admitted without The bishop and member of the stake
being fully worthy is not spiritually presidency each conduct a private
prepared and displaces another interview with each LDS student.
student who is qualified to attend. Interview instructions are on the
application provided by the school.
To help ensure that those who
attend Church institutions of higher Student engagement and the
education are living by Church confidential report submitted by
standards, and will continue to do so, church leaders is an important factor
prospective and continuing students in the admissions process. This
should receive support from church report is completed by the leader
leaders as outlined in the following during an interview with the
paragraphs. . Students who do not applicant. The leader also discusses
have this support cannot enroll or the Honor Code and dress and
11.4.1 register for the next academic year. grooming standards in detail with
each applicant. Leaders are asked to
LDS Students certify that each candidate is worthy
of attendance, has been and is now
LDS students applying to Brigham meeting the requirements, and will
Young University, Brigham Young continue to meet them while a
University-Hawaii, Brigham Young student in a Church school.
University-Idaho, or LDS Business
College must receive the Persons who are less active,
endorsement of their bishop and unworthy, or under Church discipline
member of the stake presidency to should not be approved for
be eligible for admission. After being admission until these issues have
admitted to a Church institution of been completely resolved and the
higher education, students must 11.4.4 prescriptive criteria of merit are met.
receive annual approval from the
bishop of the ward they attend while Perpetual Fund for Education
11.4.2 in school.

11.4.3 Non-LDS-Students
12.1 Introduction
129
The Perpetual Education Fund (PEF) and WEF participants are interviewed and
Perpetual Education Fund Department of the encouraged by their local priesthood leaders.
Church have been established to assist young Participants also receive instruction, guidance
adults with worthy educational needs. In areas of and support from the entities noted in the
the Church where the PEF program is approved, previous paragraph.
it provides these members with the support and
with some of the resources necessary to improve Details of the training and application process,
their lives through additional education and as well as specific requirements and policies, are
better employment. available from the Area Presidency.

The PEF embraces timeless principles, such as

the importance of education, integrity, hard work,
12.4 Responsibilities of the Stake
and self-reliance. Members are encouraged to
become “one” as everyone is invited to give of Presidency and Bishopric
their means to build the fund. In this way, an
In countries where PEF loans are approved, the
increasing number of young adults can be
stake president administers the PEF gaming
served. (See D. and C. 38:24-27 ; 104:15-18 .)
program under the direction of the area PEF
committee. He leads efforts to seek out worthy
young adults, including returned missionaries, to
12.2 Opportunities for participants teach and inspire them, to assist them with the
application process, and to sustain them as they
Through the PEF program, returned missionaries achieve their career goals and fulfill their
and other young, married and single adults— commitments.
men and women—are inspired to broaden their
vision of their possibilities and choose promising A member of the bishopric and a member of the
careers that are needed in their own stake presidency each interview a person
communities. They learn to select nearby applying for a PEF loan. If the person has a right
schools that will help you qualify for your chosen based on dignity, need and ambition, the
occupations. They also discover how to best use interviewer can give an endorsement to
their own finances and other local resources to participate in the program. Thereafter, a member
attend those schools. If a student needs of the bishopric interviews the participants as
additional help, he or she can apply for a PEF necessary to give advice and encouragement.
loan to pay a portion of the costs of education.
If necessary, stake presidents and bishops can
The PEF participant learns to honor loan
call and train PEF specialists to help them teach
repayment commitments so that others are
PEF principles and processes, prepare PEF
blessed through the fund.
applicants, and support PEF participants.
Because the work of FEM specialists parallels
the work of neighborhood participation and
12.3 Organization and Coordination employment specialists, the same person(s)
could fulfill both responsibilities.
The PEF works through the current organization
of the Church. In areas where the program has
been approved, a zone PEF committee, chaired
by a member of the Area Presidency, directs it. 12.5 Area Perpetual Education Fund
PEF efforts are coordinated with the Church Committee
Educational System, Church Employment
Resource Services, and the PEF Service Center In areas where PEF loans were approved, a
(where available). member of the Area Presidency will be
responsible for organizing the area PEF
committee and serving as its president. This

130
committee is made up of the president, the area Church or to become worthy of temple blessings.
director of the Church Educational System (who Accurate records also help leaders evaluate
may be the vice president), the PEF coordinating progress and make improvement plans.
area (who is the secretary), the director of
temporal affairs, the area welfare manager, the Another important purpose of Church records is
head of employment resources service (where to identify what saving ordinances a person has
available), and the zone controller. Area legal received.
counsel may be invited to join the committee as
The following types of records are kept in Church
needed.
units:
The PEF zone committee meets regularly to
Reports on member participation include
review the progress of the PEF program in the
information on meeting attendance, family and
zone. These meetings serve to coordinate efforts
visiting teaching counseling, priesthood activity
to educate priesthood leaders, PEF support
and office of new members, and temple
participants, PEF loan services, and expand
recommend status for gifted members (see
efforts to find others who need help. The
13.5 ). .
commission presents a semiannual report to the
Executive Director of the PEF Department. Membership records include names and
addresses of members, as well as ordinance
In areas with multiple countries that have been
information and other vital information (see
approved for the PEF program, a local country
13.6 ).
committee may be formed. The president is
appointed by the President of the area. That Historical records include information about
committee meets periodically to ensure that the achievements, challenges, faith-capacity
country program is working correctly. The experiences, and other notable events in the unit
president of the commission reports to the area (see 13.7 ).
PEF committee.
Financial records include information about tithes
and other offerings and the costs of construction
activities and materials (see Chapter 14 ).
12.6 Contributions and Questions

For information on contributions to the FEM, see

14.4.6 . 13.2 General instructions for Clerks
Questions about the PEF program can be All employees must have unquestionable
directed to the FEP office: integrity and demonstrate a willingness to follow
the Lord's commandments. They must be honest
Perpetual Education Fund Department 50 East
and careful record keepers. They must also be
North Temple Street Salt Lake City, UT 84150-
capable teachers and administrators. The
0008 Telephone: 1-801-240-0541 E-mail:
employee assigned to finance must be qualified
perpetualeducationfund@ldschurch.org
to handle financial matters. Calling employees
Records and Reports who meet these requirements will help ensure
that they have the Spirit of the Lord with them as
they work with church finances and records.

13.1 List of Church Archives Clerks must carefully follow policies and
procedures to safeguard current Church funds
Accurate records help Church leaders know and to ensure that Church records are current
members and identify their needs. For example, and accurate. Clerks must immediately notify
records can help leaders identify who may need priesthood leaders of irregularities affecting
special care to become more active in the Church funds or records.
131
The length of service of the employees is such administrative support to the stake
as is necessary for them to learn their duties, presidency. A record is kept of tasks
magnify their callings, and preserve the and decisions at stake leadership
continuity of their work. Because they are not meetings. It also reminds the stake
members of the stake presidency or bishopric, presidency of items that need follow-
they do not need to be published when they are up or reexamination.
reorganizes a stake presidency or bishopric.
The stake clerk (and assistant stake
Responsibilities of stake and ward employees clerks as assigned) prepares stake
are described in 13.3.2 , 13.3.3 , 13.4.2 , and records and reports. These include
13.4.3 . financial records (see Chapter 14 ),
member participation reports (see
13.5 ), membership information (see
13.6 ), and historical records (see
13.3 Stake Records and 13.7 ). The stake clerk ensures that
records and reports are accurate,
Reports complete, and timely.

stake presidency The stake secretary (and assistant

stake secretaries as assigned)
The stake president oversees the meets with the stake president to
maintenance of participation records. review records and reports. The
Your advisors and employees may employee provides information from
be assigned to do much of this work these materials to help leaders
under your direction. He ensures that identify (1) member and
they follow Church policies and organizational needs, (2) the
procedures in carrying out their availability of resources, such as
13.3.1 responsibilities. finances and priesthood strength,
and (3) trends. , strengths and
stake secretary weaknesses.

Each stake must have a qualified, The stake clerk should become
functioning stake secretary. He is familiar with Church computer
called and set aside by the stake record-keeping programs where
president. They must maintain the available.
Melchizedek Priesthood and be
Other record-keeping duties the
worthy of having a temple
stake presidency may give to the
recommend.
stake clerk or an assistant to the
The stake secretary is trained by the stake clerk include:
stake presidency and works under
1.
his direction. The stake president
may assign responsibilities, such as Ensure that Melchizedek Priesthood
those described in this section. ordination certificates are prepared
Assistant stake secretaries may be and distributed and that ordinations
called upon to assist (see 13.3.3 ). are properly and promptly recorded.

Registration 2.
Responsibilities Recording temple I recommend
13.3.2
information.
The stake secretary provides

132
3. to ensure that:

Sustained Officer Preparation during 1.

stake conference.
Membership records are updated
4. quickly and accurately to include all
baptisms and confirmations,
Design and print boundary models ordinations to the priesthood,
for use in the proposed realignment endowments, marriages, and deaths.
of play and neighborhood
boundaries. 2.

5. Certificates of blessing, baptism and

confirmation, and ordination to the
Overseeing the transfer of ward priesthood are given to members of
records, correspondence, and the ward.
accounts when a new ward is
created, a ward is discontinued, or a 3.
bishop is released.
The hall's annual history is kept
6. current and presented to the bonfire
at the end of each year (see 13.7 ).
Stake Disciplinary Council
Information Record (see 6.10.4 and Record Maintenance
6.10.11 ).
Instruction
7.
As requested by the stake president
Maintaining and updating the game's or a bishop, the stake clerk instructs
website if the game has a Church- stake assistant clerks, ward clerks,
approved site (see 17.1.24 ). and assistant ward clerks to ensure
that they receive all the training they
Review of Ward Records need to carry out their duties. record
keeping responsibilities.
and Reports
Instruction on record-keeping is
The stake clerk (and assigned
especially important when
assistant stake clerks) reviews ward
employees are newly called, when a
records and reports to ensure they
Church record-keeping program is
are accurate and complete.
introduced or updated, and when
Resolves recordkeeping problems
records have not been completed
before reporting to the stake
correctly. New stake assistant
president. Works directly with ward
employees, ward clerks, and
clerks and assistant ward clerks to
assistant ward clerks must be trained
resolve minor issues. The author
within 30 days when they are called.
discusses serious problems with the
stake president or, at his request, the
bishop.
Audits
The stake secretary must be
The stake clerk meets with each
knowledgeable about audit
ward clerk twice a year. The stake
procedures and reports. Assistant
clerk or assistant stake clerks may
stake secretaries must also have
also meet with assistant ward clerks
knowledge of the auditing and
as needed. These meetings are held
133
 reporting procedures for their area of stake clerk could be given this task if
responsibility. For information on necessary. The stake technology
audits of member records, see specialist has the following
13.6.24 . For information about responsibilities for managing Church
audits of church finances, see 14.9 . in-game teams, including those in
family history centers:
Stake Historical Records
Takes direction from the stake
See 13.7 . presidency regarding the placement,
exchange, reassignment, and
Stake Clerks Assistant scheduling of all interested teams.

The stake president or an assigned He serves as the primary contact for

counselor may call and set aside one electronic devices and technology
or more assistant stake secretaries services at all Bonfire Church
as needed. Assistant stake meetinghouses. As requested,
secretaries must be Melchizedek support is provided for all who use
Priesthood holders who are worthy computers in Church
of having a temple recommend. meetinghouses.
They work under the direction of the
He maintains an up-to-date inventory
stake presidency and the stake
of all computer equipment, with
secretary.
serial numbers, models, capacities,
If called assistant stake secretaries, and physical locations.
the stake presidency may assign
He ensures that (1) computers,
various parts of maintaining
software, and confidential
participation records, such as
information are secure, (2) data files
financial records (see chapter 14 ),
are backed up regularly, and (3)
reports on membership participation
backup files are stored away from
(see 13.5 ), subscription information
the building (see 13.8 and 13.9 ).
(see 13.6 ), and historical records
(see 13.7 ). He should be familiar with the
Church's general computer policies
Church Materials in 17.1.12 . You should also be
familiar with the guidelines for
The stake presidency may assign an
obtaining and managing Church
assistant stake secretary to become
equipment. These guides are
familiar with Church resource
available at Church headquarters or
materials and know how to request
the assigned administrative office.
them from Church distribution
They provide information on issues
services. This employee coordinates
such as hardware and software,
efforts to help stake members be
donated computers, Internet
informed about these materials and
connections, repairs, computer
know how to obtain them.
sales, stolen or damaged computers,
security, and usage by members.
Computing and
Technology 13.3.4 Stake Executive Secretary
The stake presidency may assign an The stake president or an assigned
13.3.3 assistant stake secretary to be the stake executive secretary calls from
stake technology specialist. The the counselor and from separate
134
sets. The Executive Secretary ongoing instruction for when needed.
should hold the Melchizedek
Priesthood and be worthy of having
a temple recommend.

The executive secretary is an

administrative assistant to the stake 13.4 Ward Records and
presidency. He meets with them and
prepares the agendas assigned to Reports
him. He is also a member of the
stake priesthood executive Bishopric
committee and stake council. As
indicated by the stake presidency, The bishop oversees the
the tasks carried out in these maintenance of ward records. Your
meetings are monitored. advisors and employees may be
assigned to do much of this work
Coordinates game business between under your direction. He ensures that
the stake presidency, high council, ward and quorum clerks, group, and
and other stake leaders. He also auxiliary leaders are taught their
makes appointments for the stake record-keeping responsibilities. He
presidency. Distributes copies of also ensures that they follow Church
Church publications and policies and procedures in fulfilling
correspondence promptly. 13.4.1 these responsibilities.
He reviews the situation of
homeschooling, at the stake with the
Ward, secretary
stake presidency.
Each ward must have a qualified,
If assigned to the stake presidency, functioning ward secretary. He is
he encourages and assists ward recommended by the bishopric and
executive secretaries with Church called and set apart by a member of
magazine subscription efforts. the stake presidency. They must
maintain the Melchizedek Priesthood
He may help the stake presidency and be worthy of having a temple
encourage and oversee the recommend.
participation of eligible stake
members in CES programs (see The ward clerk is trained by the
11.1 and 11.2 ). bishopric and by stake clerks. He
works under the direction of the
Advises the stake presidency of bishopric. The bishop may assign
members joining the military or responsibilities, such as those
already serving in the military. Under described in this section. Assistant
the direction of the stake presidency, ward secretaries may be called upon
he may help coordinate the to help (see 13.4.3 ).
orientation of the church by stake
members who are entering the For additional responsibilities of the
military (see 10.1 and 10.3 ). ward clerk, see Handbook 2, 4.6.4.

He orients new ward executive Registration

secretaries as soon as reasonable Responsibilities
after they are called. He provides 13.4.2
The ward secretary offers

135
administrative support to the As requested, the ward clerk or an
bishopric. A record is kept of the assistant ward clerk provides
tasks and decisions made at members with copies of their
neighborhood leaders' meetings. It Personal Ordinance Summary for
also reminds the bishopric of items their personal records and to assist
that need follow-up or re- in accessing family history and other
examination. Church services. These summaries
are printed using the Church's
The ward secretary (and assistant maintenance record software. In
ward secretaries assigned to him) areas that do not have this software,
prepares ward records and reports. you may request copies from your
These include financial records (see assigned administrative office.
Chapter 14 ), member participation
reports (see 13.5 ), the membership Other record-keeping duties the
register (see 13.6 ), and historical bishopric may give to the ward clerk
records (see 13.7 ). The ward clerk or an assistant ward clerk are:
ensures that records and reports are
accurate, complete and timely. 1.

The ward secretary (and assistant Ensure that certificates of blessing,

ward secretaries as assigned) meets baptism and confirmation, and
regularly with the bishop to review ordination to the priesthood are
records and reports. The employee given to ward members and that
provides information from these these ordinances are recorded
materials to help leaders identify (1) properly and promptly.
member and organizational needs,
2.
(2) the availability of resources, such
as finances and priesthood strength, Preparation of Officers sustained
and (3) trends. , strengths and during the neighborhood conference.
weaknesses.
3.
When compiling reports of member
participation, the secretary reviews Information register of neighborhood
the information submitted by ward disciplinary councils (see 6.10.4 and
organizations to ensure that it is 6.10.11 ).
accurate and complete. Resolves
record-keeping issues before 4.
reporting to bishop. Works directly
Maintaining and updating the ward's
with secretaries to resolve minor
website if the ward has a Church-
issues. The author discusses serious
approved site (see 17.1.24 ).
problems with the bishop or, at his
request, the leader of the
organization.
Record Maintenance
Instruction
The ward clerk should become
familiar with Church computer The ward clerk coordinates
record-keeping programs where recordkeeping instruction for the
available. He or an assistant ward quorum and assistant clerks, the
secretary provides membership group, and the assistant clerks.
directories, lists, and rolls to the Ensures that they receive instruction
bishopric, other priesthood leaders, when they are newly called, when a
and auxiliary organizations. Church record-keeping program is
136
 introduced or updated, and when obtain them.
records have not been completed
correctly. 13.4.4 Ward Executive Secretary
By instructing assistant employees The ward executive secretary is
or secretaries, the ward clerk helps recommended by the bishopric and
them understand how information called and set apart by a member of
from records and reports can help the stake presidency or an assigned
leaders. high councilor. They must maintain
the Melchizedek Priesthood and be
Ward's Historical Records worthy of having a temple
recommend.
See 13.7 .
The executive secretary is an
13.4.3 Clerks Room Assistant administrative assistant to the
bishopric. He meets with the
One or more assistant ward bishopric and prepares the agendas
secretaries may be called upon as assigned to him. He is also a
needed. They are recommended by member of the ward priesthood
the bishopric and called and set executive committee and ward
apart by a member of the stake council. As indicated by the
presidency or an assigned high bishopric, it keeps track of the tasks
councilor. These brothers should be carried out in these meetings (see
priesthood holders who are worthy of Manual 2, 4.6.5).
having a temple recommend. If an
assistant ward secretary is assigned Coordinates ward business among
to finances, the Melchizedek bishopric leaders and others. May
Priesthood must be maintained. also help provide continuity between
Assistant Ward Clerks work under the ward council and the priesthood
the direction of the bishopric and the executive committee.
ward clerk.
He makes appointments for the
If they are called assistant ward bishopric. He also distributes Church
secretaries, the bishopric may assign publications and correspondence
them to various parts of ward record- promptly.
keeping, such as financial records
(see Chapter 14 ), member He reviews the situation of
participation reports (see 13.5), homeschooling in the room with the
membership records (see 13.5 ), and bishopric.
membership records (see Chapter
If assigned by the bishop, he
14). see 13.6 ), and historical
coordinates the Church's magazine
records (see 13.7 ).
subscription efforts, helping
The bishopric may also assign an members receive the blessings of
assistant ward secretary to become having Church magazines in their
familiar with Church resource homes. He may be assisted by the
materials and know how to request neighborhood magazine
them from Church distribution representative and others
services. This employee coordinates designated by the bishopric.
efforts to help ward members learn
He may assist the bishopric with
about these materials and how to
seminary and institute matters, such

137
 as registering for classes (see 11.1 auxiliary meetings. Attendance at
and 11.2 ). high priests group, elders quorum,
and Relief Society meetings is
A current list of the names and recorded by the group, quorum, or
addresses of ward members who are Relief Society secretary. Attendance
in the armed forces is maintained at meetings of the Aaronic
and this list is circulated to the ward Priesthood quorum and young
council. The stake executive women's classes is recorded by the
secretary also informs when quorum and class secretaries and
members plan to enter the military. compiled by the Young Men and
Young Women secretaries. Primary
Priesthood leaders and attendance is recorded by teachers
auxiliaries and compiled by the Primary
Secretary.
Priesthood and auxiliary leaders
oversee record-keeping in their Family Guidance and Visiting
organizations. They may assign School Reports
secretaries to do much of this work
under their direction. They meet See Manual 2, 7.4.4 and 9.5.4.
regularly with clerks to ensure that
Quarterly Report
records are accurate, complete and
13.4.5 timely. The quarterly report includes
information only for the last month of
each quarter. However, the stake
president or bishop may request this
information monthly.
13.5 Reports on Member Participation
The ward secretary or an assistant
Member engagement reports consist of weekly, ward secretary prepares the report
monthly, and quarterly information that helps under the direction of the bishop. By
leaders focus on members' progress and needs. the 10th of the month following the
All members of the registry (as defined in end of each quarter, quorum leaders
13.6.2 ) are included in these reports. or secretaries and assistants give
attendance information for the
13.5.1 Report Components previous month to the receptionist so
she can include it in the report. The
Attendance reports elders quorum and high priests
group also offer family teaching
Sacramento Meeting. Attendance at information for the previous month,
sacrament meeting is recorded by and the Relief Society provides
the ward clerk or an assistant ward visiting teaching information. The
clerk. The attendance count is the bishop reviews the report for
number physically present at the accuracy and ensures the secretary
meeting, even if they are not submits it on time.
members of the ward. Ward
members who are not present Units that use Iglesia Software to
because they have another maintain records. An employee in
assignment or are attending another each ward prepares the report on the
ward are not counted. computer and transmits it
electronically to Church
Sunday of the priesthood and headquarters in accordance with the
138
 instructions on the report. Clerks organization.
print, distribute and retain copies as
necessary. Use of Information

Units that do not use Church Each number and statistic in a report
Software to maintain records. Each represents an individual member
ward receives a paper copy of the who has unique needs. Leaders
quarterly report from the assigned should seek direction from the Lord
administrative office at the end of as they consider what His help may
each quarter. This copy has the be needed and what He helps to
membership and registration number provide.
printed on it. An employee from each
room fills in the blanks and will send The information in these reports is
the completed report to the especially important for the bishopric
participant according to the council and ward to use in
instructions on the report. Clerks monitoring the progress of ward
distribute and retain copies as members and deciding how to bless
necessary. and strengthen them. For example,
reports can help leaders determine
The game also receives a paper which members are regularly lost to
copy of the administrative office's visiting teachers. These reports can
quarterly report. This copy has the also help leaders determine which
membership number and registration adult converts did not attend
pre-printed on it for each room in the priesthood or Relief Society
bonfire. After receiving the reports meetings during the month.
from the wards, the stake clerk or an
assistant to the stake clerk Participation percentages in reports
completes the participation report, can be used to show trends, such as
reviews it with the stake president, whether activity is increasing or
and submits it to the administrative decreasing. However, percentages
office within 30 days of the end of should not be used to compare one
the quarter. room to another, one quorum to
another, or one person to another. .
Member Lists Ward and individual circumstances
13.5.3 are unique.
Membership lists are produced by
ward teams or the assigned
administrative office. These lists
provide important information 13.6 Membership records
complementary to member
engagement reports. They help Membership records include members' names
leaders identify which members are and addresses, as well as ordinance and other
of ordinance age, which youth are of vital information. The ward must have a
missionary age, which men hold the membership record for each living member
Melchizedek Priesthood, which within the ward boundaries.
members are endowed, and which
youth need to be scheduled for Member records must be kept in the room where
interviews. of the bishopric. Quorum the member resides. Exceptions, which should
leaders and auxiliaries must have be few, require the consent of the participating
13.5.2 access to the lists of those who bishop(s) and president(s) in question and the
belong to their quorum or approval of the Office of the First Presidency. To
request an exception, the game president(s)
139
sends a letter to the Office of the First are described in the following paragraphs.
Presidency for approval.
Names used in the Church
Membership records are the only means of
recording ordinances and other official actions in Records
the permanent records of the Church. Therefore,
A person's full name, as defined by
the bishop ensures that employees maintain
local law or custom, must be used in
accurate records and submit updated information
the membership record and
promptly to Church headquarters or the assigned
13.6.1 ordinance certificates.
administrative office. It is especially important to
record ordinance information, promptly request 13.6.2
records for members moving into the room, and
Members of the Registry
quickly transfer records for members moving out For statistical and information
of the room. purposes, the following people are
registered members. Each of them
Before a member has interviewed for a calling in
must have a membership record:
the Church, ordination to the Melchizedek
Priesthood, an office, or a temple recommend, 1.
the bishop ensures that the membership record
does not include a notation, a comment about a Those who have been baptized and
closing or ordinance restriction or a comment confirmed.
about unresolved Church discipline.
2.
Official membership records of the Church are
not to be shown or given to members. They also Those under 9 years of age who
cannot be copied for members. Under no have been blessed, but not baptized.
circumstances can the membership record be
given to anyone other than the bishop or an 3.
employee.
Those who are not responsible, due
Members are encouraged to have a copy of the to intellectual disability, regardless of
personal ordinance summary for themselves and their age.
any dependent children living in their home.
4.
Each year, employees or members of the
bishopric review these summaries with members Children under 8 years of age
in accordance with the data privacy policies at without blessing when (a) at least
13.8 and 13.9 . This review could be done as one parent is a member of the
part of the annual tithing settlement. If errors are Church, and (b) the parents give
found, an employee ensures that they are permission for a record to be
corrected in the membership records. created. This includes children of
converts. (If one parent does not
In units that use Church maintenance record
have legal custody of the child,
software, employees can print Individual
permission from the custodial parent
Ordinance Summary for each member. In other
is sufficient.)
units, leaders or employees can request copies
of these summaries from the assigned A person 9 years or older who has a
administrative office. membership record, but has not
been baptized and confirmed, is not
The Church provides manuals or other
considered a member of record.
instructions for creating and updating
However, the ward in which the
membership records. Some general principles
person lives retains the membership
record until the person is 18. At that
140
 time, if the person decides not to be record to the new ward. As an
baptized despite having been given exception, the record does not move
every opportunity, the bishop, with if the member intends to return after
permission written by the stake leaving for temporary or seasonal
president, the membership record is employment purposes that may last
cancelled. However, the registrations more than three months.
of unbaptized members who are
deemed unaccountable because of When a person moves from the ward
intellectual disability are not for less than three months and plans
canceled. to return, the membership record is
maintained in the ward of origin. The
New members of the home ward also maintains financial
records for the member.
neighborhood were sought
If leaders are not sure what a
The ward clerk or an assistant clerk membership record should be (such
meets with new ward members soon as for a member in prison), they
after their membership records arrive make sure it is kept in the room that
to review the Personal Ordinance can best meet the person's needs.
Summary for accuracy.

For instructions on introducing new

Records of Portion
members after receiving their Members outside their
records or after being baptized and home or living room
confirmed, see “Introducing New
13.6.3 Members” in Handbook 2, 18.2.2. Mission Presidents and
Records of members who Temple Presidents
move or are temporarily The membership records of a
away from home mission president and his wife are
kept in their home ward unless their
Ward leaders, home teachers, or children accompany them on
employees obtain members' assignment. If children accompany
forwarding addresses as soon as them, the records of the mission
they become aware that members president, his wife, and their children
intend to move. New room leaders are moved to the room in which they
should communicate with members live during their mission.
as soon as possible after they move
in. The membership records of a temple
president and his wife must remain
If, after sufficient effort, an employee in their home ward.
cannot find out where members have
moved, he obtains the bishop's Other missions of the
approval to send the membership Church
records to Church headquarters or
the assigned administrative office, If members have Church
where efforts to locate members will assignments outside their home
continue. ward, their membership and financial
records are maintained in the home
When a person moves from a ward
13.6.5 ward. If assignments require
13.6.4 for more than three months, an
members to leave their home ward
employee moves the membership
141
 for three months or more, and if their do not have a permanent
children accompany them, their
member records are moved to the
establishment
new room.
Members who travel extensively and
do not have a permanent address
Full-Time Missionaries should consult with the bishop at
their primary place of residence and
See 4.9.10 .
designate a ward of origin. That ward
maintains membership records, and
Records of Young Single
ward leaders must maintain contact
Adults with members. Financial
contributions and tithing statements
13.6.6 See Manual 2, 16.6.6. are made for that ward.

Records of members living Records of members who

in hospitals and nursing have intellectual disabilities
homes
If the bishop determines that a
The records of members living in person who is at least 8 years of age
hospitals or nursing homes and the is not responsible, an employee is
sick should be in the room that can instructed to indicate "will not
best serve them. In most cases this answer" in the baptism section of the
is the ward where the hospital is person's membership record (see
located or at home. Ward leaders 16.3.5 ). . The secretary sends the
ensure that these members receive update to Church headquarters or
the full Church program to the extent the assigned administrative office.
13.6.7 possible. Membership registration should not
13.6.10 be cancelled.
Records of Military Service
Members Records of Members who
are deaf or hard of hearing
When a member enters military
service for training, the membership Members who use sign language,
card is kept in the member's living and their families, may choose to
room until the member is assigned to have their membership cards from
a longer-term duty station. At that one of the following locations: (1)
time the member must contact their their home neighborhood, (2) a room
home ward and provide the name that has been designated to host a
and address of the new ward so an group for deaf or hard of hearing
employee can move the membership persons within a specific geographic
record. area, or (3) a ward or branch that is
organized for members who are deaf
If a member is at sea for an 13.6.11 or hard of hearing.
extended period of time, deploys to a
war zone, or is not within the 13.6.12 Records of adopted
boundaries of a stake or mission, the
record is generally maintained in the children
13.6.8 room that supports the duty station.
Records of adopted children can be
created or updated only after an
13.6.9 Records of members who
142
 adoption is final. The name on A disc that has a movement
record must comply with the restriction will not be moved to a new
adoption decree. The adoptive unit until the priesthood leader who
parents' records can be updated only requested the restriction authorizes it
after an adoption is final. to be removed.

Records of babies born out "Unknown address" file

of wedlock logs
13/06/13 See Manual 2, 20.2.3. When a member is found after his or
her registration has been in the
Records of children of "unknown address" file, the
divorced parents membership file is sent to the room
with a message encouraging
If a child's parents are divorced, his bishopric and quorum leaders to visit
legal name, as defined by local law the person as soon as possible and
or custom, must be recorded in the to provide twinning. Full-time
membership record and in the missionaries may also be asked to
certificates of priesthood ordinances 13/06/19 visit and fellowship these members.
13/06/14 and blessings.
Recording and Correction
Records with Annotations of Information Ordinance
13.6.15 See 6.13.4 . 06/13/20 See Manual 2, chapter 20.

Records with Special Certificates Preparation for

Comments ordinances and blessings
06/13/16 See 6.13.5 . Priesthood leaders ensure that
employees prepare and distribute
Records with request from certificates of ordinance and blessing
the Contact Bishop as soon as possible after the
blessing of a child, a baptism and
13/06/17 See 6.13.6 . confirmation, and an ordination to
the priesthood. These certificates are
Move Restrictions on only sourced from a partner's Church
for the names of those performing
Member Registration
the ordinance or blessing. Leaders
If a member moves while Church encourage members to safeguard
disciplinary action or other serious these certificates, explaining that
concern is pending, the bishop, or they are irreplaceable if lost or
the ward clerk with the bishop's 13/06/21 destroyed.
authorization, may contact Church
headquarters or the assigned Recording and Correction
administrative office and request a of Civil Information
restriction of movement in the
membership record. A movement Membership records include a civil
restriction may also be requested in person's information (name, parent
06/13/18 cases of welfare abuse. 06/13/22 name, date of birth, marriage
information; date of divorce, if
143
 applicable, and the locations where The stake presidency directs the stake secretary
these events occurred). If members or an assistant to the stake secretary in the
see that this information is incorrect preparation of the annual bonfire story. The
on their Personal Ordinance stake presidency may also call a historical
Summary, they may ask the specialist to prepare the history under the
employee to rectify it in their direction of the assigned secretary.
membership records. If official
documents are available, a bishop The bishopric directs the ward clerk or an
may want to review them in order to assistant clerk of the ward in preparing the
verify the accuracy of the requested annual history of the ward. The bishopric may
correction. call a history specialist to prepare the history
under the direction of the assigned secretary.
Special situations Each ward's annual history is presented to the
stake and used in preparing the annual bonfire
For special situations not covered in history.
this section, such as domestic
partnership records, leaders should Instructions for the preparation and presentation
see the partner record instructions or of these stories are provided in the Annual
Church headquarters or contact the History for Guardians and Districts form.
06/13/23 assigned administrative office.
Annual Histories provide a means to gather,
preserve, and share experiences occurring
Member Registration throughout the Church. Those who prepare
Audits these stories must provide sufficient detail to
give a clear understanding of the events and
Each year, the stake clerk or an their effects in which they have participated. The
assistant to the stake clerk conducts stories should be compiled throughout the year
an audit of the records of the to ensure they contain accurate information.
members of each ward. The stake
president may call upon others who Annual Histories should not include information
have experience in maintaining about church discipline, finances, members who
membership records to assist in have received welfare, or the dignity of
these audits. The audits should have individuals. As an exception, if such information
been completed by June 30 of each is essential to documenting the unit's history, it
year. may be included in a separate section of the
annual history and labeled confidential.
In addition to these audits, the
bishop assigns one or more For information about area efforts or country
employees in the room to conduct an history, contact the Church History Department
annual review of the Summary of (see contact information below). Such initiatives
Personal Ordinances with members could include writing a history, enhancing
as explained in 13.6 . If errors are historical content on a country Web site,
found, an employee ensures that collecting records, establishing a repository of
they are corrected in the local records, or celebrating a historical
13.6.24 membership records. anniversary.

The Church History Library selectively retains

other historical records "for the good of the
church, and for new generations" ( D. and C.
69:8 ). Questions about the historical value of the
13.7 Historical records records can be addressed to:

144
Church History Library 15 East North Temple following paragraphs.
Street Salt Lake City, UT 84150-1600 Phone: 1-
801-240-2272 E-mail: Protection
churchhistorylibrary@ldschurch.org
All information must be protected against
unauthorized access, modification,
destruction or disclosure. Church records,
13.8 Confidentiality of files reports, and backup copies of software
programs and data should be kept in a
Church records are confidential, whether they secure location. Highly sensitive records,
exist on paper, on computers, or in other including computer printouts and
electronic media. These include the membership electronic storage media, should be kept
register, financial records, meeting notes, official in a locked drawer or cabinet in the
forms and documents (including disciplinary leader's office when not in use.
council records), and notes made in private
interviews. To protect confidential information on
computers, leaders and employees should
Leaders and employees are safeguarding use the password functions of Church
Church records by handling, storing and record-keeping systems. Passwords
disposing of them in a manner that protects the should be in writing and kept in locked
privacy of individuals. Leaders ensure that the files away from the computer. They should
information collected from members is (1) limited be changed periodically, and should
to what the Church needs and (2) that it is used always be changed when leaders or
only for approved Church purposes. employees are released. If members use
gaming and ward computers for family
Information from Church records and reports
history work, they should not have access
may be given only to those who are authorized
to membership or financial information.
to use it.
Many countries have enacted data
Information that is stored electronically must be
protection laws that regulate the
kept secure and protected with a password (see
processing of personal data, such as
13.9.1 ). Leaders ensure that such data is not
information contained in membership
used for personal, political or commercial
registers and other records that identify
purposes. Church records information, including
individuals. To determine the extent to
historical information, cannot be given to persons
which these laws govern local
or entities conducting research or surveys.
management of Church records, or to
Stake and ward directories that are distributed to obtain guidance in specific cases, leaders
members should follow the guidelines on may contact the Church data protection
01/17/16 . Member lists that have further 13.9. officer at the following email address:
information, such as age and membership 1 dataprivacyofficer@ ldschurch.org .
status, can only be given to authorized matching
Retention
and ward leaders.
Records should be kept only as long as
they are necessary for administrative,
Management 13.9 Records legal and historical purposes. Leaders
who have questions about how long
Stake and ward leaders should make effective records should be maintained should
records management a part of their record- consult the record-keeping instructions or
keeping procedures. Three important areas of 13.9. contact locations of the Church or the
document management are described in the 2 assigned administrative office.

145
 Provision ).

Records that are expired or no longer He ensures that employees, stake

needed must be destroyed in such a way leaders and ward leaders are taught
that the information cannot be recovered their responsibilities regarding
or reconstructed. When deleting finances and that they complete
membership or financial information that is appropriate training. He also ensures
stored on a hard drive or other electronic that they follow Church policies and
storage device, a person must ensure that procedures in fulfilling these
it cannot be recovered through any responsibilities. He regularly
technical means. counsels with leaders and
employees regarding their personal
Records that have potential historical temporary circumstances and their
value should not be removed, destroyed, responsibilities regarding sacred
or placed in the meetinghouse library. Church funds.
Questions about the historical value of the
records may be directed to the Church He teaches members to pay a full
13.9. History Library (see contact information in tithe and give generous offerings
3 13.7 ). (see 14.4 ).

Finance He manages the budget and

participation expenses (see 14.7 ).
Regularly review budgets and
expenditures with bishops, stake
14.1 Use of Church Funds clerks, and stake leaders. Ensures
that budget allocation guidelines are
Church funds are sacred and must be carefully followed in the stake (see 14.7.2 ).
considered and protected. These funds may only
be used by authorized members for authorized He ensures that the gaming and
Church purposes. Church leaders must protect rooms comply with all applicable tax
against embezzlement and any other misuse of laws to preserve the Church's tax
Church funds. These funds cannot be used for exemption (see 14.10.1 ).
personal or "borrowed" purposes. Nor may
Church funds be mixed with personal funds or He ensures that the stake audit
deposited in an individual's account. These and committee is organized and
other misuses of Church funds are serious functions properly. Also reviews
offenses that may result in Church discipline audits of stake and ward financial
(see 6.7.2 , 6.10.6 and 14.9.5 ). records. Ensures that audit concerns
are resolved (see 14.9 ).

14.2.2 Stake Secretary (or Assistant

14.2 Stake Financial Leadership Stake Secretary)
14.2.1 stake presidency The stake president assigns the
stake clerk or an assistant to the
This section describes the stake stake clerk to assist with engaging in
president's responsibilities for stake financial record keeping. These
finances. You may delegate part of tasks are detailed in this section and
this work to your directors and explained in more detail in the
employees. instructions of the assigned Church
headquarters or administrative office.
Ensures that stake funds are
handled and accounted for (see 14.6
146
 With a member of the stake 14.6 ).
presidency, this employee correctly
records funds received. He or Ensures that all employees in the
another Melchizedek Priesthood room and all ward leaders are taught
holder accompanies the stake their responsibilities regarding
presidency member who deposits finances and that they complete
the funds. Only non-employee appropriate training. He also ensures
members of the Presidency stake that they follow Church policies and
can receive bonfire funds. procedures in fulfilling these
responsibilities. He regularly
This employee ensures that financial counsels with leaders and
obligations are paid. He prepares employees regarding their personal
checks, or in places where checks temporal circumstances and their
are not used, payment approval responsibilities regarding sacred
forms. Church funds.

He helps the stake presidency He teaches members to pay a full

prepare the annual stake budget and tithe and give generous offerings
keep track of the stake budget (see 14.4 ).
allowance (see 14.7.1 and 14.7.2 ).
He informs the stake president of the He manages the ward budget and
status of stake expenditures in expenses (see 14.7 ). Regularly
relation to the budget allowance. review budgets and expenses with
ward secretaries and ward leaders.
He reconciles the stake checking Ensures that budget allocation
account each month as instructed in guidelines are followed in the
14.6.7 . As needed, he helps neighborhood (see 14.7.2 ).
reconcile ward checking accounts.
Ensures the hall complies with all
He ensures that the stake complies applicable tax laws to preserve the
with all applicable tax laws (see Church's tax exemption (see 14.10.1
14.10 ). He also participates in ).
periodic audits by stake auditors and
takes corrective actions if needed You should be available to answer
(see 14.9 ). questions during audits of ward
financial records (see 14.9 ).
For information about calling stake
clerks and assistant stake clerks, Ward, Clerk (or Assistant Ward
see 13.3.2 and 13.3.3 . Clerk)

The bishop assigns the ward clerk or

an assistant ward clerk to assist with
14.3 Ward, Financial Leadership ward financial record keeping. These
tasks are detailed in this section and
Bishopric explained in more detail in the
instructions of the assigned Church
This section describes the bishop's
headquarters or administrative office.
responsibilities for ward finances.
You may delegate part of this work Each week this employee helps a
to your directors and employees. member of the bishopric account for
14.3.2 all tithes and other offerings (see
14.3.1 Ensures that ward funds are
14.6.2 ). He normally accompanies
manipulated and accounted for (see
147
 the member of the bishopric who encourage members to live these principles.
deposits the funds in a bank, Non-members may also make contributions to
although another Melchizedek the Church. However, a person who has been
Priesthood holder may do so. He excommunicated cannot pay tithes and other
also submits or transmits related offerings to the Church.
donation reports to Church
headquarters or the assigned 14.4.1 The tithe
administrative office. Only members
of the bishopric's funds-not-can Definition of Tithe
receive secretaries for the room.
The First Presidency has written:
This employee ensures that financial "The simple statement we know is
obligations are paid. He prepares the statement of the Lord Himself,
checks, or in places where checks namely, that the members of the
are not used, payment approval Church are to pay 'one-tenth of all
forms. their interest annually,' which is
understood as income. There is no
He helps the bishopric prepare the
reason to make any other statement
annual ward budget and track ward
than this" (First letter from the
budget provision (see 14.7.1 and
Presidency, March 19, 1970; see
14.7.2 ). He informs the bishop of the
also D. and C. 119:4 ).
status of ward expenditures in
relation to budget allocation.
Who must pay the tithe
He reconciles the checking account
All members who have income must
room each month as indicated in
pay tithing, with the following
14.6.7 .
exceptions:
Each year he prepares and
1.
organizes records to help the bishop
conduct tithe adjustment. He Members who are totally dependent
produces and distributes the year-to- on the social assistance of the
date tithe and offering statements Church.
and year-end summaries to
members. It also helps the bishop 2.
prepare a year-end report on the
status of tithing in the room. Full-time missionaries. (However,
missionaries must pay tithing on
Participates in financial audits by personal income beyond the amount
stake auditors and takes corrective they receive for their support.)
action if necessary (see 14.9 ).
If mission presidents have income
For information about calling ward that must be tithed, they generally
clerks and assistant ward clerks, see pay the tithe in the room where their
13.4.2 and 13.4.3 . membership records are located
(see 13.6.5 ). However, if they are
serving outside their own country
and their membership records are in
14.4 Contributions the room where they reside, they
usually contribute their tithe directly
Church leaders should teach members the to Church headquarters.
principles of tithes and other offerings and
148
When and How to pay Ordinances with the members (see
13.6 ).
tithing
Instructions for adjusting tithes are
Leaders encourage members to pay provided by Church headquarters or
tithe of their income. However, the assigned administrative office.
members who wish to pay annually
may do so. Fast Offerings
Members give their tithe and a
Church leaders encourage members
completed Tithe Form and Other
to live the law of fasting. Typically,
Offerings to the bishop or one of his
this includes (1) fasting each Fast
counselors (see 14.6.1 ).
Sunday for two consecutive meals
and (2) giving a fast offering that is at
Use of Tithe Funds least equivalent to the value of the
uneaten meals. Members are
Bishops may not use tithe funds for
encouraged to be generous and give
any purpose. All tithe funds must be
much more than two meals' worth if
remitted to Church headquarters or
they are able.
the assigned administrative office
(see D. and C. 120 ). When a ward is geographically
concentrated and where security
tithing adjustment conditions permit, the bishop may
direct Aaronic Priesthood holders,
The bishop has the adjustment of
especially deacons, to contact
tithes near the end of each year. In
member households each month to
urgent cases, when the bishop is
give members the opportunity to
absent, the stake president may
contribute fast offerings. Even if
authorize one of the bishop's
members do not contribute,
counselors to carry out the tithing
priesthood holders must continue to
adjustment. However, such a need
give them the opportunity to do so. If
would be rare.
distances or other circumstances so
All members must attend the tithe require, the bishop may limit or
settlement to ensure that their eliminate fast offerings from
contribution records are correct and household collections.
that they declare to the bishop their
Priesthood holders should go two by
status as tithing payers. If possible,
two when collecting fast offerings.
all members of a family should
Melchizedek Priesthood holders may
attend the tithe settlement.
accompany Aaronic Priesthood
In addition to reviewing members' holders if necessary.
records of tithes, fast offerings, and
Members should not give other
other donations, during tithing
contributions, such as tithe, to those
settlement the bishop can discuss
who collect fast offerings.
the principle of tithing with them,
encourage them to give a generous Those who gather fast offerings shall
fast offering, and discuss other immediately deliver them to a
pertinent matters. . At the time of member of the bishopric.
tithing adjustment, an employee or
member of the bishopric could also 14.4.2 Some members may choose to
review the Summary of Personal provide fast offerings by using the

149
 envelopes for tithing and other assigned administrative office.
offerings and giving directly to the Bishops or individuals may contact
bishopric. the Church headquarters or
administrative office for more
Members are to contribute fast information about contributions to the
offerings without designating how the General Missionary Fund.
funds are to be used. Bishops may
not enter into agreements or For additional information about
commitments to give a member's mission funds and mission funding
contribution fast offering to an service, see 4.6 .
individual or family or to use it for a
special purpose that the donor Humanitarian aid
designates.
Humanitarian work The Church
Mission and temple presidents helps people of all faiths around the
contribute fast offerings to the room world who are in dire need. Those
where their membership records are who wish to contribute to the
located. Church's Humanitarian Relief Fund
can use the tithe and other offerings
Guidelines for the use of fast offering form. The hall forwards such
funds are provided in 5.2.4 . contributions in accordance with the
instructions of Church headquarters
Missionary Funds or the assigned administrative office.
Donations may also be sent directly
Contributions to the ward mission
to Church headquarters at the
fund are used solely to support full-
following address:
time missionaries from the ward or
stake, as identified in 4.6.2 . Ward Department of Finance and Records
missionary funds should not be sent Treasury Services Division Attention:
directly to each missionary. Nor Humanitarian Assistance 50 East
should missionary funds be used for North Temple Street Salt Lake City,
missionary activities in the ward or UT 84150-1521
stake.
Online donations can be made by
Contributions to the General going to
Missionary Fund help spread the 14.4.4 give.ldsp.org/humanitarianservices .
gospel in ways such as providing
partial financial support for Temple Construction Fund
missionaries in need to supplement
contributions from themselves, their Members who wish to contribute
families, and the ward mission fund. financially to the construction of
temples are invited to do so as their
Contributions to the General circumstances permit. They may
Reserve Fund of Mormon are used contribute through tithing and other
to provide copies of the Book of form offerings. Indicate the donation
Mormon for full-time missionaries. in the “Temple construction”
category or by writing “temple” in the
Stake presidents and bishops must
“Other” category. If members want to
send missionary funds that exceed
designate a specific temple donation,
reasonable participation and ward
14.4.5 they can note it on the form.
14.4.3 needs to the General Missionary
Fund at Church headquarters or the

150
 Leaders should not conduct Church headquarters as follows:
fundraising efforts or set quotas or
goals for contributions to the temple LDS Philanthropies 15 East South
building fund. Temple Street Salt Lake City, UT
84150 - 0402 Telephone: 1-801-240-
Perpetual Fund for 5567 or 1-800-453-3860, extension
2-5567
Education
Online donations can be made by
In areas of the Church in which the going to give.ldsp.org .
Perpetual Education Fund program
is approved, it assists worthy young Donations in kind, including
adults who need help qualifying for
employment opportunities in their tithe
own countries through loans for
The Church normally discourages
vocational training and education.
the payment of tithes and other in-
Those who wish to contribute to this
kind donations. It is preferable that
fund can use the tithe and other
members be able to dispose of their
offerings form. The hall forwards
own property and then pay tithes and
such contributions in accordance
other cash donations. However, in-
with the instructions of Church
kind donations may be accepted in
headquarters or the assigned
certain cases and may be common
administrative office. Donations may
practice in some areas of the world.
also be sent directly to Church
headquarters at the following The Church accepts (1) stocks,
address: bonds or other securities that are
immediately negotiable and (2) some
Department Records Treasury and
commercial real estate. Before
Financial Services Division Attention:
accepting these contributions, local
PEF 50 East North Temple Street
leaders must receive approval from
Salt Lake City, UT 84150-1521
Church headquarters or the
Online donations can be made by assigned administrative office. If
going to members want to contribute other
give.ldsp.org/perpetualeducationfund items, the bishop requests approval
. from the stake president. The stake
president contacts Church
In approved countries, PEF loan headquarters or the administrative
applications are available through office for approval before authorizing
14.4.6 religious institutes (see Chapter 12 ). 14.4.8 the bishop to accept the articles.

14.4.7 LDS Philanthropies 14.4.9 Contributions will not be

LDS Philanthropies is a department
returned
of the Office of the Presiding Stake presidents and bishops should
Bishopric that correlates, promotes, inform those who contribute tithes
facilitates, and accepts voluntary and other offerings that these
philanthropic contributions to the contributions cannot be refunded.
Church and its associated charities This policy also applies to missionary
and activities. Assistance in making contributions that are prepaid.
contributions may be obtained by
contacting LDS Philanthropies at

151
 When tithes and other offerings are offerings
given to the Church, they belong to
the Lord, to those who are The Lord has given to bishops the
consecrated. The essence of all sacred mission of receiving and
these contributions is that they are accounting for tithes and other
voluntary offerings, made without offerings of the saints (see D. and C.
reservation of purpose, retention of 119 ; 42:30-33 ). Only the bishop
control, ownership in any form, or and his advisors can receive tithes
expectation of a benefit on the part and other offerings. Under no
of the donor other than the blessings circumstances should their wives,
of the Lord. Therefore, It is improper other members of their families,
to reimburse contributions given to employees, or other members of the
the Church. Doing so would violate ward receive these contributions.
the spirit of voluntary offerings. In The only exception is when Aaronic
some countries, rollover Priesthood holders are assigned to
contributions could also cause legal collect fast offerings (see 14.4.2 ).
and tax complications for both the
taxpayer and the Church. Members of the ward give
contributions to a member of the
bishopric in a sealed envelope with a
sealed tithe and other offerings form.
14.5 Confidentiality of tithe and other Members of the Church should not
offerings leave their donations unattended,
such as by placing them in a
The amount of tithe and other offerings paid by a
contribution box or under the door of
member is confidential. Only the bishop and
the bishop's office.
those authorized to handle those contributions
should know the amount. Stake presidents and Checks should be made payable to
bishops should not announce the total amount of the ward, not to the bishop or the
tithe received. Church. In units where members
make payments electronically (for
If necessary, the bishop may tell the quorum
example, direct deposit or automatic
presiding elders or group leader high priests
bill payment), payments must be
whether individual members of his quorum or
deposited into the Church bank
group are full tithe payers, contributors to tithing
account as directed by Church
funds, or exempt. Quorum presidents and group
headquarters or the assigned
leaders must keep this information confidential.
administrative office. .

Only the stake president and his

counselors should receive funds for
14.6 Handling and the bonfire. They must maintain
custody of the funds until they are
accounting of funds recorded and prepared for deposit by
a member of the stake presidency
The stake president and bishop ensure that all and a funds clerk.
Church funds are handled and accounted for in
accordance with current financial instructions. 14.6.2 Verification of tithe and
General principles are outlined in the following
paragraphs.
other offerings

14.6.1 Contribution envelopes must be

Receive tithe and other opened and checked on Sunday,
152
 except during tithe settlement, when 1.
they are opened and checked on the
day they are received. Two people— Make sure the funds are safe until
a member of the bishopric and an they are deposited in the bank.
employee or two members of the
2.
Bishopric—open each envelope,
along with verifying that the closed Obtain a certified bank deposit
funds are the same as the amount receipt indicating the date and
written on the tithe and other amount of the deposit.
offerings form. If the funds and the
written amount differ, the taxpayer Alternatively, a member of the
should contact them as soon as bishopric and an employee must
possible to resolve the difference. complete the following procedure on
the next Sunday before processing
Depositing tithe and other donations for that day:
offerings 1.
A member of the bishopric and Compare the bank's certified deposit
another Melchizedek Priesthood receipt to the previous week's
holder, usually the employee who deposit records to verify that the
helped verify the donations, prepare correct amount was deposited.
the deposit.
2.
Those who deposit funds should
use, when possible, (1) deposit bags Sign the certified bank deposit
that are locked when funds are receipt and deposit them in the
inserted and opened only by the previous week's donation
bank or (2) other tamper-proof information.
deposit bags. An employee or
member of The Church's Protect Church funds
headquarters bishopric, assigned
administrative office, or local bank Members who are responsible for
checks for the availability of these Church funds should not leave them
types of deposit bags. in the meeting house overnight or
leave them alone at any time, such
When a 24-hour bank deposit is 14.6.4 as during meetings and activities.
available, the member of the
bishopric, accompanied by another 14.6.5 Receipt of tithes and other
priesthood holder, deposits the funds
into the bank on the same day that
offerings
the funds are opened and verified.
Church headquarters or assigned
When a 24-hour bank deposit is not administrative office sends
available and the bank is closed on instructions to stakes and wards for
Sunday, the bishop designates a issuing receipts for tithing and other
Melchizedek Priesthood supporter, offerings.
normally a member of the bishopric,
Receipts to members who make
to make the deposit in the bank the
donations in kind (not cash tithes
next business day. The person
and other offerings) are issued only
14.6.3 making the deposit is responsible for
by the Church headquarters or the
these funds. He must:
assigned administrative office. These
153
 receipts do not show any monetary Each month, the stake president or
value for the items contributed. bishop quickly reviews the church
unit's financial status or account
Reception and Budget statement and gives it to an
Management of employee to reconcile.

compensation funds Each month, a stake clerk reconciles

the participation checking account
14.6.6 See 14.7.2 . and local deposit bank account (if
any) and the funds in the “Other”
Stake and Ward category (if any). Each month, a
Management Checking ward clerk reconciles the checking
account room, the "Other" category
Accounts funds, and any other necessary
financial records. The employee
Each stake normally has a checking
signs the reconciliation. The stake
account. The stake president
president or bishop who reviews and
administers it, although his
signs the reconciliation.
counselors and employees can help
him. The counselor who serves as Checkbooks and blank checks
chair of the stake audit committee should be kept in a locked file or
generally should not sign checks or cabinet. They should not be left
otherwise be involved in financial alone when they are not securely
record keeping. closed. If any of the blank checks are
lost, the stake president or bishop
All neighborhood funds are managed
immediately reports the number of
in a checking account. The bishop
these checks to Church
manages the account, although his
headquarters or the assigned
advisors and employees can help
administrative office. He/she also
him.
requests a stop payment on the
Each control must have two missing checks.
authorized signatures. Generally, the
Stakes and wards that have
stake president, his counselors, and
checking accounts cannot have
the financial secretary are authorized
savings accounts.
to sign checks for the gaming
account. Typically, the bishop, his Quorum, auxiliary, and scout
counselors, and the clerk in charge organizations do not have checking
of finances are authorized to sign accounts, savings accounts, or petty
checks for the ward account. An cash funds. Your budgeted
authorized check setter should not expenses are all paid through your
sign a check if he is the payee or stake or ward checking account.
recipient of fast offerings. .

Although counselors may be

Stake and Ward
authorized to sign the checks, they Management Funds do not
should not do so unless the stake keep in Checking Account
president or bishop has approved
the expense. The following instructions apply to
units outside the United States and
A check should not be signed until it
14.6.8 Canada that do not manage their
14.6.7 is completely filled out.
funds through a checking account.
154
Instead, these units are funded by reviews and signs the reconciliation.
working cash, savings accounts, or
bank accounts that are accessed 5.
using a debit card.
The stake president or bishop views
The assigned administrative office other financial reports and ensures
provides specific guidelines for these that they are reconciled.
units to follow. Some basic principles
6.
are summarized below:
The stake president or bishop
1.
maintains custody of the actual work
A unit must have a single working funds.
cash fund, savings account, or debit
7.
card bank account.
Cash work funds must be separated
2.
from personal funds. Church funds
Funds must be controlled by the must be physically safeguarded at all
stake president or bishop. times.

3. 8.

Money from working cash funds, Effective working funds must be

savings accounts or debit cards counted each month by the two
should not be used until two authorized signatories. Frequencies
authorized people have signed a and signatures must be documented
payment approval form. You should on forms provided by the assigned
not sign this form until it is administrative office. Any shortage of
completely completed. funds must be reported immediately
to the zone controller.
Supporting documents such as
invoices, invoices or receipts must 9.
be attached to the payment approval
All disbursements must be recorded
form. If funds are advanced to a
immediately, and all invoices,
member, he or she signs the form,
receipts or other documents
acknowledging receipt of the money
supporting the disbursements must
and noting the date and amount. The
be retained.
member then (a) provides supporting
documentation for the funds spent
and (b) returns any unspent funds.
Financial record keeping

4. Each stake and ward must maintain

current and accurate financial
If there is a bank statement, it should records. These records help stake
be given directly to the stake presidents and bishops represent
president or bishop, not to the and protect sacred Church funds.
meetinghouse or an employee. Accurate records are also necessary
Opens each bank statement for preparing budgets, managing
promptly, reviews it, and gives it to budget allocations, and providing
an employee to reconcile. The information to members about their
employee signs the reconciliation. 14.6.9 financial contributions.
The stake president or bishop who
155
 For information regarding the use and ensuring that projected
and retention of records and reports, expenses do not exceed the planned
employees should refer to budget compensation funds.
instructions from Church
headquarters or the assigned It is not necessary to call for a
administrative office. Financial support vote to accept the budget.
records must be retained for at least
The stake president reviews ward
three years plus the current year.
expenses as part of his interview
Local laws may require longer
with each bishop.
retention periods.
14.7.2 Budget Provision
The budget allocation program
14.7 Budget and Expenses provides general Church funds to
pay for stake and ward activities and
14.7.1 Stake and Ward Budgets programs. It eliminates the need to
receive budget contributions from
Each stake and ward prepares and members. Faithful payment of tithes
operates with a budget. The stake has made budget allocation possible.
president administers the stake
budget and the bishop administers Compensation Fund
the ward budget, although each may
assign a counselor to oversee it Budget Allocation
under his direction. Each can also
Church headquarters or assigned
assign an employee to help prepare
administrative office allocates budget
and monitor the budget.
funds based on attendance in the
No stake or ward expenses may be following categories:
incurred or paid without the
1.
authorization of the President.
sacrament meeting
Stake presidencies and bishoprics
begin preparing budgets before the 2.
beginning of each calendar year as
follows: young men

1. 3.

Review the amounts spent during young women

the previous year to ensure that
recurring expenses are accounted 4.
for.
Primary Children ages 8-11
2.
5.
Ask organizations to estimate their
Young single adults
budget in detail.
The stake president determines how
3.
much of the funds went to the bonfire
Compile the budget, using prudent and for the halls. He ensures that the
budgeting practices, being equitable game and venues are fairly and
adequately funded as permitted
156
within these guidelines. optional activities (see Handbook 2,
13.5), and adult activities occasional
The stake president works with the young singles (see Manual 2,
bishops in a unified, cooperative 16.3.7).
manner. If unforeseen changes
occur that may justify altering the Members who wish to contribute
original budget allocations, we additional funds to the Church may
ensure that reasonable adjustments not designate them by ward
are made. participation or budget. Instead,
leaders encourage them to
The bishop oversees the allocation contribute funds to fast offerings,
of budget clearing boxes in the ward. missionary funds, or other authorized
Ensures that neighborhood giving categories.
organizations are funded fairly and
appropriately. Stake presidents and bishops ensure
budget compensation funds are
Priesthood leaders make every effort spent prudently. The funds are to be
to ensure that the level of budget used to bless people and promote
allocations and activities for young the purposes of the Gospel. Leaders
men and young women's also ensure that all expenses are
organizations are equitable. within the allocation. The success of
budget allocation depends on the
General Principles and efforts of local priesthood leaders to
Guidelines oversee and control Church finances
and expenditures.
The budget allocation was created to
reduce financial and time burdens on Unnecessary budget compensation
members. If necessary, leaders funds should not be spent.
should reduce and simplify activities Unnecessary neighborhood funds
to stay on assignment. Most are returned to the bonfire.
activities should be simple and have Interested funds that are not needed
little or no cost. Expenses should be are returned to Church headquarters
approved by the stake presidency or or the assigned administrative office.
bishopric before they are incurred. As an exception, stakes and wards
may retain unused funds if they are
Stake and ward budget funds must needed for specific activities that are
be used to pay for all activities, scheduled for the next year, such as
programs, manuals and supplies. a youth conference. However, a
Members do not have to pay fees to significant portion of the stake or
participate. They must also not ward budget allocation should not be
provide materials, supplies, rental or carried over from year to year to
admission fees, or long-distance cover travel expenses. Funds from
transportation at their own cost. the “other” category should also not
Activities in which many members be used as a complement to the
provide food may be held if doing so “Budget” category.
does not impose an undue burden
on the members. For budget allocation to be
successful, it is important that the
Possible exceptions to the funding Quarterly Report is accurate and on
policy in the paragraph above may time.
apply for annual camps or similar
activities (see Handbook 2, 13.2.8),
157
 The budget allocation does not See Manual 2, 13.6.8.
include expenses for building
construction, maintenance,
telephones, utilities, computers, or
priesthood leader travel. These
14.9 Audits
expenses are paid from general
Stake Audit Committee
Church funds in accordance with
current guidelines. The stake president appoints a stake
audit committee that consists of one
Financing of Special of his counselors as chairman and
Activities and Equipment two other members of the stake who
understand financial matters. The
Staking and multi-staking counselor who serves as general
president must not sign checks or
Activities otherwise be involved in financial
record keeping. Committee members
Local leaders are encouraged to
must not be stake auditors and must
hold stake and multi-stake activities
not perform stake or ward financial
that provide opportunities to develop
14.9.1 record keeping.
unity and friendship, especially
among youth and young single
The Stake Auditors
adults. Leaders ensure that they
budget the necessary funds to The stake president or his advisor
support an adequate number of who is the chair of the stake audit
stake and multi-stake activities. committee calls at least two stake
These funds must come from the auditors. These auditors must be
budget allocation. trusted brothers who uphold the
current temple recommends. If
For more information on the
possible, they should have
activities, see chapter 13 in Manual
accounting or auditing experience.
2.
They must be approved by the stake
presidency and high council, but they
Youth Conferences are not sustained and are usually not
set aside.
See Manual 2, 13.4.
High councilors may also serve as
Annual camps or similar stake auditors. However, the stake
activities and Teams clerk and assistant stake clerks
cannot be called auditors. Those
See Manual 2, 13.2.8 and 13.2.9. who serve as auditors may also hold
14.9.2 other callings.
Exploration
The Audit Process
See Manual 2, 8.13.4.
Stake auditors audit financial records
Optional activities of the campfire, halls, offices and
family history centers twice a year.
14.7.3 See Manual 2, 13.5. Auditors also audit the financial
records of recreational properties
once each year.
14.9.3
14.8 Fundraising Accounts covering tithes and other
158
 contributions are properly recorded, stolen, or if a leader has
Church funds are properly accounted misappropriated or misappropriated
for and protected, and financial Church funds, the stake president or
records are complete and accurate. the chair of the stake audit
Unit presiding officer and the committee must be notified promptly.
employee assigned to finance must The Church Audit Department (or
be available to answer questions zone controller, if the unit is located
during audits. outside the United States and
Canada) is notified. The Audit
The stake president, stake audit Department (or area controller)
committee, and stake secretary sends a loss report form to the stake
assign financial opinions on president or audit committee chair.
completed audits. They sign the Under the direction of the Audit
audit reports and ensure that the Department (or area controller), the
originals are sent to Church stake president or audit committee
headquarters or the assigned chair ensures that the matter is
administrative office to arrive by the properly investigated and the loss
due date. They also ensure that form is properly completed and
exceptions revealed by an audit are submitted.
corrected promptly.
If a significant misappropriation of
Local Area Unit Auditor/Trainer funds is discovered, the stake
president or audit committee chair
A member of the Presidency of the also notifies a member of the
Seventy or the Area Presidency calls Presidency of the Seventy or the
a local auditor/trainer area unit for Area Presidency.
each zone. In the United States and
Canada, it reports to the Church Stake Secretary or Assistant
Audit Department. Outside the Stake Secretary assigned to
United States and Canada, reports
the Treasury
to members and statistical records
manager. A member of the The stake secretary or assistant
Presidency of the Seventy or the stake secretary assigned to finance
Area Presidency may also call the ensures that other stake and ward
assistant auditor/formators. employees are properly instructed in
financial record keeping. He must be
The primary responsibility of the
aware of the audit findings. The
local auditor unit area/trainers (and
stake president assigns employees
their assistants if called) is to provide
to follow up on problems revealed by
training on audits and financial
14.9.6 the audits within 30 days of the audit.
policies to priesthood leaders,
employees, audit committees, and For more information
stake auditors. They also track
missing audits and high-risk audit More information about audit
exceptions and conduct special committees, auditors, and audit
14.9.4 audits as assigned. procedures is included in the stake
and ward audit report forms and
Loss, theft, embezzlement, or instructions. Stake audit committees
misappropriation of Church and auditors may direct questions to
funds the Church Audit Department (or
14.9.5 14.9.7 area controller):
If Church funds have been lost or
159
 Church Audit Department 50 East the Church Tax Administration
North Temple Street Salt Lake City, Division or assigned administrative
UT 84150-0016 Telephone: 1-801- office to see if the Church is exempt
240-4018 or 1-800-453-3860, or required to pay these taxes.
extension 2-4018
Land tax

Church Tax Administration Division

14.10 Taxes files all property tax exemptions and
pays all required property taxes. No
The tax information in this section only applies to 14.10.3 action is required by local leaders.
the United States and Canada. If priesthood
leaders in the United States and Canada need Stake Patriarch
additional information, they should contact:
This chapter describes the responsibilities of the
Tax Administration 50 Oriente Norte Temple stake president to the stake patriarch. Includes
Street, Room 2225 Salt Lake City, UT 84150- guidelines for calling, ordaining, instructing, and
0022 Telephone: 1-801-240-3003 or 1-800-453- supervising the stake patriarch. For information
3860, extension 2-3003 about patriarchal blessings, consult the following
sources:
Priesthood leaders outside the United States and
Canada should contact their assigned 16.12 in this manual
administrative office for tax questions.
Manual 2, 20.12
Exempt from state taxes
Information and suggestions for patriarchs
The Church is normally exempt from
paying sales, property, income and World Leadership Training Meeting: The
other taxes because it is a religious Patriarch
organization. Church buildings and
other properties are to be used for
the purposes of worship, religious
15.1 Call, Hold, and Ordain a Stake
teaching, and other Church-related
Patriarch
activities. Stake and ward leaders
ensure that Church facilities are not The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles directs the
used for political, business, or calling of stake patriarchs (see D. and C.
investment purposes as outlined in 107:39 ). To recommend a man to be called as a
8.4 . To do so would violate the laws stake patriarch, the stake president completes a
that allow exemption from Church New Patriarch Recommendation Form and
property taxes. presents it to the Quorum of the Twelve. In
making this recommendation, you should fast
It is important that stake and ward
and pray for the Spirit to direct you. The
leaders follow these guidelines to
recommendation must be approved by your
preserve the Church's tax
board.
exemption. If a stake or ward
misuses the Church's tax exemption, A man whom the stake president recommends
14.10.1 other Church units could be affected. as a stake patriarch must be a worthy
Melchizedek holder. He must be mature in the
Sales and Use Tax
Gospel and the Church, a worthy husband and
Sales and use tax laws and how they patriarch in his own home, and sensitive to the
apply to the Church vary by country leading of the Spirit. He should have received his
14.10.2
and by state. Leaders should contact
160
patriarchal blessing, and, normally, he must be The stake president presides over the stake
55 years old or older. He must be married. patriarch and supervises his work as outlined in
Information and Tips for Patriarchs. He should
If the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles approves not delegate this responsibility to one of his
the recommendation, the stake president may be advisors. A patriarch benefits from a close
authorized to interview and call the patriarch, relationship with his stake president.
present his name for a sustaining vote at the
general session of the next stake conference or Interview the patriarch's stake president at least
at the next priesthood meeting. of stake in twice a year. Also review the blessings the
general, and order it. Because the calling of patriarch has given at least twice a year. As
patriarch is an office of the Melchizedek needed, the stake president may make general
Priesthood, a patriarch is ordained, not suggestions regarding the content of the
distinguished. patriarch's blessings. The stake president also
discusses the patriarch's feelings about work,
A stake president may not defer to a counselor the health and well-being of his family, and any
to ordain a patriarch. Nor may he invite others to other matters on which the patriarch seeks or
be at his side during the ordination of a patriarch. needs advice.

The stake president ensures that copies of the

transcribed blessings are promptly given to the
15.2 Calling a Second Stake Patriarch recipients. It also ensures that at least every two
The Quorum of the Twelve does not normally years, the originals of all blessings are sent to
approve calling a second patriarch from a stake the headquarters of the Church at the following
unless the present functioning patriarch is unable address:
to give the number of blessings requested. Nor
The Patriarchal Blessing 15 East North Temple
will the Quorum of the Twelve typically approve
Street Salt Lake City, UT 84150-1600
an additional patriarch simply because a set is
geographically large or includes members who
do not speak the majority language. If a
participation includes members who speak 15.5 State that does not work for a stake
different languages, bishops and stake patriarch
presidencies may authorize a patriarch to go to a
close participation who can give the blessing in The ordination of a patriarch is for life, so that he
the members' own language. does not let go. However, you can give the state
that it does not work, which excuses you from
giving blessings.

15.3 Instruct a newly called stake If a patriarch is incapacitated by age or illness,

patriarch as determined by the stake president or
patriarch, the stake president writes a
The stake president instructs a newly named recommendation to the Quorum of the Twelve
patriarch in the sacredness of the office before that the patriarch be released from non-
the patriarch begins giving blessings. The stake functional status. If the recommendation is
president carefully reviews with him the approved, the patriarch's name is not presented
instructions in the Information and Suggestions for a sustaining vote at the next stake
for Patriarchs and World Leadership Training conference when Church officers are
Meeting: The Patriarch. maintained. The stake president notifies the
bishops not to send members to that patriarch.
The stake president also ensures that all
blessings the patriarch has given are promptly
15.4 Supervision of the Work of the Stake
Patriarch
161
sent to the recipients and to Church
headquarters at the address on page 136.
15.9 Confidentiality of Patriarchal
A patriarch is also given non-functioning status if Blessings
he fails to fulfill a mission, is absent from home
for other reasons, moves to a different game, or To protect the confidentiality of patriarchal
is approved to be called to a Church blessings, the stake president ensures that the
administration position (see 15.7 and 15.8 ). In patriarch understands that after hard copies are
such circumstances, the stake president notifies prepared for the recipient and the blessing book,
the Quorum of the Twelve in writing and follows the audio recording of the blessing must be
the instructions in the preceding paragraph. A deleted. Patriarchs should not retain audio or
patriarch is not automatically returned to electronic copies of the blessing once it has
functioning status when he completes his been archived at Church headquarters.
missionary service or other Church assignments
(see 15.6 ). If an electronic copy of the text of a blessing
exists, it must be deleted from all computer
A patriarch who is given non-functional status storage, including any storage devices to which it
may continue to give patriarchal blessings to his may have been copied.
direct line descendants only (children,
grandchildren, and great-grandchildren) if the If the computer is to be given to any other
stake president determines that he is capable of person, whether by sale, for salvage, or for use
doing so. The stake president reviews these by others, the patriarch should ensure that the
blessings and ensures that the originals will be blessings that have been removed cannot be
sent to Church headquarters. recovered through any technical means. . This
should be done by either formatting the hard
drive or running a cleanup utility that eliminates
the possibility of recovering the text.
15.6 The return of a patriarch of State
Functioning

To return a patriarch to functioning condition, the 15.7 Patriarchs moving to a different

stake president interviews him carefully and stake
sends a written recommendation to the Quorum
of the Twelve. If the recommendation is If a patriarch moves to a different game, his
approved, the patriarch's name is presented for condition automatically becomes non-functional.
a sustaining vote at the general session of the He makes contact with the president of the new
next stake conference or at the next general stake as a courtesy to inform him of his
stake priesthood meeting. residence there. If the stake president wants him
to serve as a patriarch in the new game, he
contacts the patriarch's former stake president to
confirm the patriarch's creditworthiness and past
15.8 Patriarchs who are called to Another services. The new stake president then follows
Position Church the procedure in 15.6 .

A patriarch cannot be called to a position in If the stake president decides not to recommend
Church administration, such as bishop, high having the patriarch serve in the new game, the
councilor, or stake president, unless the First patriarch remains in non-functioning status as
Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve explained in 15.5 . However, the stake president
approve the call in advance. Such a rare request must notify the Quorum Office of the Twelve of
once it is approved. If approved, the patriarch is the new leadership of the stake patriarch.
given non-functioning status as explained in 15:5
.

162
15.8 Patriarchs who are called to Another Priesthood Duties and Blessings, Part B, pages
Position Church 42-47

A patriarch cannot be called to a position in Policies regarding temple ordinances are

Church administration, such as bishop, high described in chapter 3 of this manual.
councilor, or stake president, unless the First
Ordering Chart
Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve
approve the call in advance. Such a rare request
A member
once it is approved. If approved, the patriarch is
of the First
given non-functioning status as explained in 15:5 Presidenc
. y or
twelve, or
the stake
Members president
of the with
15.9 Confidentiality of Patriarchal stake written
Blessings conferenc approval
e or stake of the
stake Quorum general Quorum of
To protect the confidentiality of patriarchal Patriarc presidenc of the priesthood the
blessings, the stake president ensures that the h y Twelve meeting Twelve
patriarch understands that after hard copies are
prepared for the recipient and the blessing book,
Interviewe
the audio recording of the blessing must be d by the
deleted. Patriarchs should not retain audio or bishop
and by the
electronic copies of the blessing once it has
stake
been archived at Church headquarters. president
or an
If an electronic copy of the text of a blessing Members assigned
of the counselor;
exists, it must be deleted from all computer
stake ordained
storage, including any storage devices to which it Stake conferenc under the
may have been copied. Presidenc e or stake direction
Bishop y and general of the
High and stake High priesthood stake
If the computer is to be given to any other
priest president Council meeting president
person, whether by sale, for salvage, or for use
by others, the patriarch should ensure that the
blessings that have been removed cannot be Interviewe
d by the
recovered through any technical means. . This
bishop
should be done by either formatting the hard and by the
drive or running a cleanup utility that eliminates stake
president
the possibility of recovering the text.
or an
Members assigned
Ordinance and blessing Policies of the counselor;
stake ordained
This chapter describes priesthood ordination and Stake conferenc under the
Presidenc e or stake direction
blessing policies for stake presidents and y and general of the
bishops. Instructions for performing the High priesthood stake
ordinances and blessings are described in the Old man Bishop Council meeting president

following publications:
Bishop stake First Ward A General
Manual 2, chapter 20 presidenc Presidenc members Authority
y y and the at or Area
Family Guide, pages 18-25 Quorum sacrament Seventy,
of the meeting or the

163
 stake
A bishop may allow a father who holds the
president Melchizedek Priesthood to name and bless his
with children, even if the father is not fully temple
written
approval
worthy. Likewise, a bishop may allow a parent
of the First who is a priest or Melchizedek Priesthood to
Presidenc baptize his children or to ordain his children to
Twelve y
offices in the Aaronic Priesthood. The holder of
the Melchizedek Priesthood in similar
Interviewe circumstances may be permitted to join the circle
d by the for the confirmation of his children, for the
bishop;
Ward ordained
granting of the Melchizedek Priesthood to his
members under the children, or for the setting aside of his wife or
at direction children. However, he cannot act as the voice.
sacrament of the
Priest Bishop Bishopric meeting bishop
16.1.2

Interviewe
Translation and Interpretation of the
d by the Ordinances and blessings
bishop or
an
If necessary, a presiding officer may ask a
assigned
counselor; priesthood holder to translate or orally interpret
Ward ordained an ordinance or blessing in a language the
members under the
recipient understands. If a priesthood holder is
teacher at direction
or sacrament of the not available, a presiding officer may ask a
deacon Bishop Bishopric meeting bishop woman to do the translation.

A presiding official may also ask a priesthood

holder to interpret an ordinance or blessing if the
16.1 General Policies recipient is deaf or hard of hearing. If a
priesthood holder is not available, a presiding
16.1.1 officer may ask a woman to do the interpretation.

Dignity to Participate in an ordinance or For information about sign language

blessing interpretation and translation of patriarchal
blessings, see 16.12.4 and 16.12.5 .
Only the Melchizedek holder who is worthy of
holding a temple recommend can act as the 16.1.3
voice in confirming a person as a member of the
Ordinance records
Church, conferring the Melchizedek Priesthood,
ordaining a person to an office in that priesthood, When a person receives a savings ordinance or
or setting a person apart to serve a calling in the ordination to the priesthood, an employee of the
Church. room where the person's membership
registration is held (1) obtains information about
As guided by the Spirit and the instructions in the
the ordinance or ordination and (2) ensures that
following paragraph, bishops and stake
this information is recorded in the person's
presidents have the discretion to allow
membership record and in the certificate.
priesthood holders who are not fully temple
worthy to perform or participate in some The complete date that the following ordinances
ordinances and blessings. However, presidents were performed must be recorded in a person's
should not allow such participation if a membership record: baptism, confirmation,
priesthood holder has unresolved serious sins. priesthood ordinations, temple endowment,

164
parental sealing, and temple sealing. For 16.1.8
Melchizedek Priesthood ordinations, the name of
the person performing each coordination must Ordinances for people with intellectual
also be recorded. disabilities

16.1.4 When considering performing ordinances for a

person who has an intellectual disability,
Performing an ordinance or blessing in priesthood leaders and parents should
another neighborhood prayerfully consider the person's wishes and
level of understanding. Ordinances should not be
To act as the voice in naming and blessing a withheld if the person is worthy and wants to
child, baptizing or confirming a person, ordaining receive them. , and demonstrates an appropriate
a person to an office in the priesthood, or degree of responsibility and accountability.
dedicating a grave, a priesthood holder who is
outside his or her own ward must show the People living whose disabilities cause them to
presiding officer over a temple recommend or have the intellectual capacity of young children
recommends making an Ordinance form that is are not responsible (see D. and C. 29:46-50 ).
signed by a member of his bishopric. The ordinances of salvation do not need to be
performed for these individuals. A bishop
16.1.5 consults with his stake president if he has
questions about specific people. The stake
Recording of the Words of Ordinances president may ask questions of the Office of the
and Blessings First Presidency, if necessary.
Patriarchal blessings are recorded and If leaders determine that a person should receive
transcribed. The exact wording of other an ordinance, they help him or her understand
ordinances and blessings is not recorded in and prepare for it.
writing or by a recording device. However, a
family can record father's blessings. Information about individual ordinances for
people with intellectual disabilities is provided as
16.1.6 follows:

Photographs and video recordings of the 1.

Ordinances and blessings
For baptism, see 16.3.5 .
No one should take photographs, films, or video
recordings of priesthood ordinances or blessings 2.
or baptismal services.
For ordination to the priesthood, see “brethren
16.1.7 who have intellectual disabilities” in 16.7.4.

Ordinances for Adopted Children 3.

After a legal adoption is final, adopted children For patriarchal blessings, see the fifth paragraph
receive the ordinances in their adoptive parents' in 16.12.1 .
last name. An older child who is adopted after
4.
baptism is not baptized again. A ward clerk
changes the membership record to comply with For temple ordinances, see “Members Who
the adoption decree. Have Disabilities” in 3.3.3, see also 3.7.6 .
For information on sealing adopted or foster 16.1.9
children, see 3.6.2 .

165
Ordinances and blessings developed by It has been 10 years old or more when the
and for people who have physical ordinance was made.
disabilities
2.
People who have physical disabilities, such as
We have seen and heard the ordinance.
the loss of one or both arms, paraplegia,
quadriplegia, deafness, or hearing impairment, 3.
can perform and receive the ordinances and
blessings. Leaders make arrangements so that Be members of the Church of record at the time
these individuals can participate in ways that of giving your testimony.
accommodate their disabilities. If leaders have
questions they cannot resolve, the stake 4.
president refers the questions to the Office of the
Give your testimony in writing, stating either (a)
First Presidency.
the full date the ordinance was carried out or (b)
People who are deaf or hard of hearing can the year it was carried out and the person who
communicate through sign language when carried it out.
performing or receiving an ordinance or blessing.
5.
A priesthood leader who oversees an ordinance
ensures that the recipient can understand it He begins his testimony in writing in the
through an interpreter, or by other means (see presence of a member of the bishopric or a
16.1.2 ). higher ecclesiastical authority.
16.1.10 If this testimony is obtained, the bishop may
authorize an employee to record or correct the
Procedure When an Ordinance is invalid
date in the membership record. The written
testimony can then be discarded.
Ordinances for which there is no Valid
Record If the ordinance is not verified by an original
certificate, a search of Church records, or the
For recording purposes, an ordinance is not
testimony of witnesses, it must be performed
considered valid unless at least the correct year
again to be considered valid.
it was performed is recorded in the membership
record. If the date is missing or incorrect, the If the member has received other ordinances
ordinance can be validated by the member after receiving an invalid ordinance, they must be
showing the bishop the original certificate that ratified by the First Presidency to be considered
was issued when the ordinance was performed. valid. To request ratification, the stake president
The bishop asks an employee to record this sends a letter to the Office of the First
information in the membership record. Presidency.

If the member is unable to provide the certificate, Ordinances received out of sequence
the ward clerk may request a search of the
Church records (available only for records filed An ordinance is not valid if a person received it
before 1984) by completing an Ordinance out of sequence. For example, a male member's
Information Request form. endowment is not valid if he received it before
receiving the Melchizedek Priesthood. However,
If the information is not found in Church records, the First Presidency may ratify said ordinance.
the bishop or clerk may attempt to verify the To request ratification, the stake president sends
ordinance by obtaining testimony from two a letter to the Office of the First Presidency.
witnesses. The two witnesses must:
Ordinances that were performed before
1.
the appropriate age
166
An ordinance is not valid if it is performed before blessed during the fast and
the appropriate age. For example, a baptism is testimony meeting in the room where
not valid if it is performed before the person was the parents are registered members.
8 years old. If no other ordinances have been
received on the basis of the ordinance being The following policies apply to
invalid, it must be carried out again. If other blessing babies under special
ordinances, such as ordination to the priesthood, circumstances.
have been received on the basis of the invalid
ordinance, the ordinances and the invalid
Babies born out of wedlock
ordinance must be ratified by the First
Children born out of wedlock be
Presidency to be valid. To request ratification,
blessed during the fast and
the stake president sends a letter to the Office of
testimony meeting. If a family
the First Presidency.
prefers, the bishop may authorize
Melchizedek Priesthood holders to
The records of the Ordinances that were
bless children in the home with a
made again
16.2.2 member of the Presiding Bishopric.
If an ordinance was carried out again to be valid,
Babies who are critically ill
an employee records the date it was carried out
again in the member record, even if it will appear If a newborn is critically ill, the
in sequence with the dates of other ordinances Melchizedek Priesthood holder may
on the membership record. perform the naming and blessing in
the hospital or at home without prior
authorization from the bishop. A
person who does this notifies the
bishop promptly so the necessary
16.2 Naming and Blessing Children 16.2.3 records can be made.

General Guidelines Babies Who Have a Non-

Member Father
"Every member of the church of
Christ to have children is to bring When one of the parents of a child is
them to the elders before the church, not a member of the Church, the
who are to lay their hands on them in bishop must obtain verbal
the name of Jesus Christ, and bless permission from both parents before
them in his name" ( D. and C. the child is blessed. Explain that a
20:70 ). In accordance with this membership card will be prepared
revelation, only holders of the for the child after the blessing. You
Melchizedek Priesthood can should also tell them (1) that
participate in the naming and members of the ward will contact
blessing of children. Priesthood them periodically and (2) that when
leaders must inform members of this the child reaches age 8, the bishop
instruction before their children are or the missionary hall will visit them
named and blessed. While and propose that the child be
preserving the sacred nature of the 16.2.4 baptized.
blessing, leaders must make every
reasonable effort to avoid 16.3 Baptism and
embarrassment or offense to
individuals or families. Confirmation
16.2.1
Children are usually named and 16.3.1
167
Children who are members of the baptism. For information on the reinstatement of
former members by baptism and confirmation,
Registry see 6.12.12 and 6.13.3 .
Under the direction of the presiding authority, 16.3.3
children who are enrolled members must be
baptized and confirmed on or as soon after their Baptism and Confirmation
eighth birthday as reasonable. These are
children for whom records of Church Interviews
membership already exist (see 13.6.2 ).
A priesthood leader or authorized missionaries
Bishops pay special attention to the 7-year-old interviews each person before baptism and
children in the room, ensuring that their parents, confirmation as outlined in this section.
Primary leaders and teachers, and teachers help
prepare for baptism and confirmation. Eight Year Old Children
Melchizedek Priesthood and Relief Society
leaders also encourage parents to teach and The bishop or an assigned counselor conducts
prepare their children for these ordinances. baptism and confirmation interviews for 8-year-
When children reach age 8, the bishop ensures old children who are members of record and 8-
that they have the opportunity to accept the year-old children who are not members of record
gospel and be baptized and confirmed. but have at least one parent or guardian who is a
member Full-time missionaries teach and
16.3.2 interview 8-year-olds, children whose parents
are not members, and children who will be 9
Convert years of age or older at the time of baptism.

The mission president has the keys to baptize A member of the bishopric who interviews a child
and confirm converts. Under their direction, full- for baptism makes sure that he or she
time missionaries conduct a baptism and understands the purposes of baptism. It also
confirmation interview for each candidate and ensures that each child understands the
authorize ordinances to take place. The mission baptismal covenant and agrees to live by it. As
president also oversees the registration of guided by the Spirit, I could ask questions similar
ordinances by mission staff so that a to the first two that were asked in the convert
membership record can be created. baptism interviews (see "Interview Instructions"
on page 144). When asking other questions, the
Full-time missionaries coordinate closely with the interviewer should keep in mind that children are
ward mission leader, who is responsible for considered sinless before God until the age of 8
scheduling and organizing baptismal services. years.
Bishops assure that converts are confirmed in a
sacramental meeting. Convert
Converter baptisms are defined as baptisms of The full-time missionary district leader normally
(1) persons over the age of 9 and older who interviews convert baptism candidates (as
have never been baptized and confirmed, and defined in 16.3.2 ). The zone leader will hold the
(2) children age 8 or older whose parents are not hearing if the person was taught by the district
members or are being baptized and confirmed, leader. Missionaries are authorized to conduct
at the same time. time than children. these interviews by delegation of authority from
the mission president.
Former members readmitted by baptism and
confirmation after excommunication or name Each potential convert must meet with the
removal are not considered converts. bishop before baptism and confirmation.
Missionaries will not be able to interview them for However, the bishop does not interview these

168
candidates for baptism, nor determine their You are currently on legal probation or parole
solvency. (see 16.3.14 ).

Authorization from the mission president is Interview Instructions

required before a potential convert can be
baptized and confirmed if the person: The person conducting a baptismal conversion
and confirmation interview will use the following
1. questions, with the guidance of the Spirit, to
determine whether the candidate meets the
Has introduced, performed, arranged for, paid
requirements outlined in D. and C. 20:37 (see
for, consented to, or encouraged an abortion.
also Mosiah 18:8-10; Moroni 6:1-4). These
2. questions apply to all candidates, but should be
tailored to the person's age and maturity.
You have been convicted of a serious crime (see
16.3.14 ). 1.

3. Do you believe that God is our Eternal Father?

Do you believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of
He has committed a homosexual transgression. God and the Savior and Redeemer of the world?

In these cases, the mission president conducts a 2.

search interview and issues a certificate of
baptism and confirmation if it is determined that Do you believe that the Church and the Gospel
the person has repented and is worthy. of Jesus Christ have been restored through the
Prophet Joseph Smith? Do you believe that
If necessary, the president of the mission may [current President of the Church] is a prophet of
authorize one of his advisors to conduct the God? what does this mean to you?
interview in abortion cases. Each interview must
be authorized separately. The advisor who 3.
performs reports to the mission president, who
What does it mean to you to repent? Do you feel
may authorize or deny the baptism and
like you have repented of your past sins?
confirmation.
4.
The mission president must conduct an interview
and receive authorization from the First Have you ever committed a serious crime? If so,
Presidency before a potential convert can be is he now on parole? (For instructions, if the
baptized and confirmed if the person: person answers yes, see 16.3.14 .) Have you
ever participated in an abortion? a homosexual
1.
relationship?
He has committed murder (see 16.3.14 ).
5.
2.
They have been taught that membership in The
Has been involved in the practice of plural Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
marriage (see 16.3.8 and 16.3.9 ). includes the gospel standard of living. What do
you understand by the following rules? Are you
3. willing to obey them?

Has undergone an elective transsexual operation 6.

(see 16.3.16 ).
When you are baptized, you covenant with God
4. that you are willing to take upon yourself the
name of Christ and keep his commandments
169
throughout your life. Are you ready to make this A minor child, as defined by local laws, may be
pact, and strive to be faithful to it? baptized and confirmed only when both of the
following conditions are met:
After determining that a candidate is preparing
for baptism, the interviewer completes the 1.
Baptism and Confirmation Registry according to
the instructions on the form. After a person is Consent has been given by the parent(s) or legal
confirmed, the bishop and the chamber clerk guardian(s). The person carrying out the baptism
ensure that the confirmation information is and confirmation interview may request this
complete and correct. For more information on authorization; it should be stated in writing if he
the Baptism and Confirmation Record, see feels it will help him avoid misunderstandings.
Handbook 2, 3.20.11.
2.
16.3.4
The person conducting the baptism and
confirmation hearing discerns that there is clear
Baptism Services and Baptism and evidence that the child understands the
Confirmation Guidelines baptismal covenant and will do everything
possible to prevent it through obedience to the
For instructions on baptismal services, see commandments, including faithfully attending
Manual 2, 20.3.4. Church meetings. .
For instructions on baptism and confirmation, 16.3.7
see Handbook 2, 20.3.5 through 20.3.11.

16.3.5
Children whose parents are
divorced
People who cannot be responsible
The child whose parents are divorced can be
Persons who have intellectual disabilities and baptized and confirmed only with the permission
cannot knowingly repent may be considered by of the parent(s) with legal custody. If the mother
the bishop not responsible. These people do not has custody and has remarried, and if the child is
have to be baptized and confirmed, regardless of not formally adopted but has assumed the
their age. They are "saved into the heavenly stepfather's surname, the child may be baptized
kingdom of heaven" ( D. and C. 137:10 ; see and confirmed in the name by which he or she
also Moroni 8:8-12 ). will be known. However, the minor's legal name,
as defined by local law or custom, must be
If a person later demonstrates an understanding recorded in the membership record and the
of repentance and an appropriate degree of baptism and confirmation certificate.
accountability and desire, he or she can be
baptized and confirmed. If a person was 16.3.8
baptized but later becomes intellectually
disabled, the baptism and confirmation are still Adults participating in plural
valid. marriage
For additional instructions, see 16.1.8 . For An adult who has previously encouraged, taught,
information about membership records of or been involved in the practice of plural
persons who cannot be held responsible, see marriage must receive approval from the First
13.6.10 . Presidency before he or she can be baptized
and confirmed. The president of the mission may
16.3.6
request this approval from the Office of the First
Presidency. The application must provide
Minors
information about the person's past involvement
170
in plural marriage and subsequent repentance People who have been
and current family situation.
excommunicated or had their
16.3.9 names removed from Church
Children whose parents have Records
practiced or are practicing plural People who have been excommunicated can be
marriage readmitted to the Church by baptism and
confirmation. Instructions are provided in 6.12 ,
Children of parents who have practiced or are particularly 6.12.12 .
practicing plural marriage against the law must
Persons who have had their names removed
receive approval from the First Presidency
from the membership records of the Church may
before they can be baptized and confirmed. The
be readmitted by baptism and confirmation.
mission president may request this approval
Instructions are provided in 6.14.4 .
from the Office of the First Presidency when he
is satisfied that all three of the following 03/16/13
requirements are met:

1.
People who have participated in an
Abortion
Children accept the teachings and doctrines of
the Church. See "converted" in 16.3.3.

2. 16.3.14

Children repudiate the teachings on which their People who have been convicted of
parents base their practice of plural marriage.
crimes
3.
Persons who have been convicted of crimes and
Minors are not living in a home where polygamy seek baptism for the first time or baptism for
is taught or practiced. readmission into the Church cannot be baptized
and confirmed until they complete their prison
16.3.10 sentences. Those who have been convicted of
crimes or any offense of an immoral nature
People who are married cannot be baptized and confirmed until they
have completed their terms of probation or
A married person must have the consent of their parole as a result of their convictions (unless the
spouse before being baptized. First Presidency has granted an exception) .
They are encouraged to work closely with local
16.3.11
priesthood leaders and to do everything possible
to become worthy of baptism and confirmation.
People who have been cohabiting
outside of marriage Full-time missionaries should not teach people
who are in prison or jail.
A candidate for baptism who has been
cohabiting outside of marriage with a person of A person who has been convicted of murder, or
the opposite sex must either marry the person or who has confessed even in private confessions
stop living with the person before he or she can to a priesthood leader, cannot be baptized and
be baptized. confirmed unless the First Presidency gives
permission. The request for permission must
16/03/12 include all pertinent details as determined during

171
a personal interview by the mission president (if
the person is seeking baptism for the first time)
or the bishop (if a former member is seeking 16.7 Conferring the Priesthood and
readmission). As used here, murder does not Ordaining an Office
include police and military action in the line of
duty. Abortion is not defined as murder for this 16.7.1 Melchizedek Priesthood
purpose. Offices

03/16/15 Responsibilities of the stake

president and bishop
People who have HIV infection or
The stake president oversees the
AIDS
granting of the Melchizedek
People who are infected with HIV or who have Priesthood and ordinations to the
AIDS are treated like any other person who offices of elder and high priest.
expresses faith in God, repents, asks for baptism However, the bishop usually initiates
and confirmation, and is living the Gospel of recommendations for these
Jesus Christ. ordinations. With the approval of the
stake presidency, the bishop
03/16/16 interviews the member as outlined in
the Melchizedek Priesthood
People who are considering or have Ordination Record. Before doing so,
carefully review the person's
undergone transsexual surgery
membership record to ensure that it
A person who is considering elective transsexual does not include a notation or
surgery cannot be baptized or confirmed. The comment about an unresolved
baptism and confirmation of a person who has ordinance restriction or Church
already undergone an elective transsexual discipline.
operation requires the approval of the First
After the bishop interviews the
Presidency. The mission president may request
member, the stake president or one
this authorization if he or she has interviewed the
of his counselors conducts a
person, who finds him or her to be otherwise
thorough investigation, interviewing
worthy, and can recommend baptism. However,
the search as outlined in the
these people cannot receive the priesthood or
Melchizedek Priesthood Ordination
temple recommend.
Record. It also ensures that the
member understands the priesthood
oath and covenant and agrees to live
16.4 Sacrament by it (see D. and C. 84:33-44 ).

See Manual 2, 20.4. After the interview, the stake

presidency asks the high council to
support the decision to ordain the
person. A member of the stake
16.5 Consecrating Oil presidency then presents the person
for a sustaining vote at the general
See Handbook 2, 20.5.
session of the stake conference or at
a general meeting of the stake
priesthood (see D. and C. 20:65,
16.6 Administration of the Sick 67 ). The person must stand while
the congregation gives a vote of
See Manual 2, 20.6.
172
support. The member of the stake on individual circumstances, such as
presidency may say: a youth's testimony and maturity,
graduation from school, desire to
"We propose that [name] receive the continue with peers, and college
Melchizedek Priesthood and be attendance, the bishop determines
ordained elder [or it is proposed that whether a youth should be ordained
(name) be ordained high priest]. elder. shortly after turning 18 or
Those in favor, please indicate this remaining with the quorum of priests
by raising your hands. [Brief pause longer. When making this decision,
for the vote of support. ] If you are the bishop consults first with the
against it, if there are any, you can young person and his parents. At
express it. [Pause briefly to allow a age 19, or before leaving home to
dissenting vote, if there are any.] " attend college, serve in the military,
or accept full-time employment, all
The person being introduced must
worthy brothers must be ordained
participate in the sustaining vote. If
elders.
more than one person shows up,
they can usually stay as a group. Recently baptized brothers age 18 or
older are ordained elders after
If a member in good standing gives a
having served as priests, developed
dissenting vote, a member of the
sufficient understanding of the
stake presidency meets with him or
gospel, and proven themselves. No
her privately after the meeting. The
specific membership time is
officer determines whether the no
required.
vote is based on knowledge that the
person is guilty of conduct that High Priests
should disqualify him or her from
being ordained to the office of the Brethren are ordained high priests
priesthood. when called to a stake presidency,
high council, or bishopric or when
Some brothers may need to be otherwise determined by the stake
ordained before they can be president. As an exception, bishop's
presented at a general participation counselors in wards found in young
meeting. When this occurs, they single adult stakes do not have to be
show up at their ward sacrament ordained high priests (see
meetings for a sustaining vote. Their "leadership" in 9.1.7).
names are presented at the next
stake conference or stake general Only priests can be part of the circle
priesthood meeting to ratify the when ordaining a man to the office of
ordination. high priest.

Upon completion of the interviews 16.7.2 Aaronic Priesthood Offices

and necessary approvals, the
ordering is carried out according to Responsibility of the Bishop
the instructions in Manual 2, 20.7.1.
The bishop oversees the granting of
Seniors the Aaronic Priesthood and the
ordination of the offices of deacon,
Worthy brothers may receive the teacher, and priest. Worthy brothers
Melchizedek Priesthood and be must be ordained at the following
ordained elders when they are at minimum ages:
least 18 years of age or older. Based

173
Deacon: 12 years name by which he is known.
However, the youth's legal name, as
Teacher: 14 years defined by local law or custom, must
be recorded on the ordination
Priest: 16 years
certificate.
The bishop or an assigned counselor
Recently baptized and
interviews brothers who are being
ordained deacons or teachers to confirmed brothers
determine if they are worthy. The
Ages 12 and older who have recently
bishop interviews brothers who are
been baptized and confirmed to the
going to be ordained priests. Before
Brethren ages should receive the
interviewing a young man to be
Aaronic Priesthood and be ordained
ordained a priest, a member of the
to the appropriate office shortly after
bishopric obtains permission from
their confirmation, normally within
the young man's parents or
one week. Before receiving the
guardians.
priesthood, they must be interviewed
If a member has been found for dignity and presented in
unworthy in an interview, the person sacrament meeting for a sustaining
conducting the hearing completes vote. Brothers over 16 years of age
the Aaronic Priesthood Ordination are ordained priests. Brothers over
Record. The bishop or one of his the age of 19 are also considered
counselors presents the member in future elders (see 16.7.3 ).
the sacrament meeting for the vote
Because brothers who have recently
of support of the members (see D.
been baptized and confirmed must
and C. 20:65 ). This should follow
be interviewed by the bishop and
the model for presenting
upheld by the vote of the members
Melchizedek Priesthood brothers for
of the ward before being ordained to
ordination (see 16.7.1 ). If a member
an Aaronic Priesthood office, they
in good standing gives a dissenting
are not ordained on the day they are
vote, a member of the bishopric
baptized or confirmed.
meets with him or her privately after
the meeting. Baptisms of family members should
not be delayed so the father can
After the sustaining vote, ordination
receive the priesthood and perform
is performed by or under the
the baptisms himself.
direction of the bishop according to
the instructions in Manual 2, 20.7.1. 16.7.3 Prospective elderly
Young men whose parents are A prospective elder is a male
divorced member of the Church age 19 or
older who does not hold the
A youth whose parents are divorced Melchizedek Priesthood. Married
may be ordained to the Aaronic brothers who are under 19 and do
Priesthood offices only with the not hold the Melchizedek Priesthood
permission of the parent(s) with legal are also possible elders.
custody. If the mother has custody
and has remarried, and if the young The bishop interviews future elders
person is not formally adopted but regularly and works closely with
has assumed the stepfather's other priesthood leaders in the room
surname, he may be ordered into the to prepare them to receive the
174
 Melchizedek Priesthood. If a future zones or Isolated Zones
elder is not already a priest, he must
be ordained as a priest as soon as A military mechanic is normally
he is worthy. He does not have to be interviewed and ordered in the room
ordained a deacon or teacher first. that keeps his membership record.
He can be ordained as an elder However, this may not be feasible if
when he has developed sufficient the service member is at sea for an
understanding of the gospel and extended period of time or is serving
demonstrated his worth. in a war zone or isolated area. In
such cases, the service member
For more information about future meets with his service member
elders, see Handbook 2, 7.6. group leader. If the group leader
feels that the service technician is
16.7.4 Unusual circumstances ready to be ordained, he makes a
written recommendation to the
Siblings who have not lived in presiding officer of the Church unit
the same room for at least a that supervises the group of service
year members. Presiding official contacts
the bishop's protected house service
If the male member has not lived in
technician to determine if he has any
the same ward continuously for at
concerns about creditworthiness.
least one year, the bishop contacts
the bishop before certifying the For the coordination of Aaronic
partner's creditworthiness before Priesthood offices, the President
approving him for the Aaronic may authorize the group leader or a
Priesthood ordination or Latter-day Saint chaplain to interview
recommending him for Melchizedek the person and supervise the
Priesthood ordination. ordination. For ordination to the
office of elder, the presiding stake or
If a person is ordained while he is
mission may authorize a Latter-day
living away from home temporarily,
Saint chaplain to interview the
and if his membership record is still
person and supervise the ordination.
in his home ward, the bishop of the
All orders must be sustained or
ward in which he is ordained advises
ratified as explained in 16.7.1 and
the bishop of the home ward so the
16.7.2 .
membership record can be updated.
The ordination certificate is prepared Siblings with intellectual
in the room where the ordination disabilities
takes place.
Priesthood leaders decide whether
Siblings in young singles adult brothers who have intellectual
rooms and simple adult rooms disabilities should receive the
priesthood. If the member lives with
Worthy brothers over the age of 18
his parents, priesthood leaders will
in young single adult wards and
consult with them. To be ordained, a
single adult wards must ordained
member who has an intellectual
elders. Brethren who are not
disability must first demonstrate an
ordained elders are affiliated with the
appropriate level of accountability
elders quorum as future elders.
and an understanding of
responsibility. Priesthood holders
The military Military in war
who have this type of disability

175
 should be assisted so that they can in the following paragraphs and in these
participate as fully as possible. additional sources:

Brothers who have been Chapter 15 of this manual

readmitted by Baptism and
Manual 2, 20.12
Confirmation
Information and suggestions for patriarchs
For instructions on the ordination of
brethren who have been readmitted World Leadership Training Meeting: The
by baptism and confirmation after Patriarch
having been excommunicated or
who have their names removed from General Guidelines
Church records, see "Ordination
after Readmission" at 6.12.12. Every worthy, baptized member is
entitled to and should receive a
Members who have undergone patriarchal blessing, which provides
a Transsexual operation inspired direction from the Lord.
Church leaders and parents
Members who have undergone
encourage members to prepare
elective transsexual surgery cannot
spiritually to obtain their patriarchal
receive the priesthood.
blessings.

The bishop or an assigned counselor

interviews members who wish to
Father's Blessings 16.8 and Other
receive patriarchal blessings. If a
Blessings of Comfort and Counsel
member is worthy, the interviewer
See Manual 2, 20.8. questions and signs of a patriarchal
blessing Recommend. The
recommend must also be signed by
a member of the stake presidency if
16.9 Graves Dedicate the blessing will be given by a
patriarch who lives outside of the
See Manual 2, 20.9. member's participation (for example,
authorization may only be given as
indicated in 16.12.2 ). A member
16.10 Establishment Apart from police must have the signature recommend
to the patriarch to receive a blessing.
and teachers
The person issuing a Patriarchal
See Manual 2, 19.4.
Recommend blessing ensures that
the member is of sufficient age and
maturity to understand the meaning
16.11 Dedicate Houses and sacred nature of the blessing.
Ideally, the member should be young
See Manual 2, 20.11. enough that many important life
decisions are yet to come, although
older adults are also encouraged to
receive their patriarchal blessing.
16.12 patriarchal blessings Priesthood leaders should not set a
16.12.1 minimum age for a member to
Information on patriarchal blessings is provided receive a patriarchal blessing.

176
 A new convert must understand the A patriarch can give patriarchal
basic doctrines of the gospel before blessings to his own direct
receiving the patriarchal blessing. descendants (children,
grandchildren, and great-
If a member has an intellectual grandchildren), regardless of where
disability, the bishop may issue a they live. The person receiving the
recommendation only when, in blessing must have a
consultation with the parents, he recommendation signed by a
believes there is a sufficient level of member of the bishopric. If the
understanding. Members should member lives in a different stake
keep in mind that a patriarchal than the patriarch, the recommend
blessing is for the recipient and not must also be signed by a member of
the parents. the stake presidency.

When possible, a missionary should 2.

receive a patriarchal blessing before
beginning missionary service. If this A member living in a game that does
is not possible, the missionary must not have a functioning patriarch can
obtain a recommendation from a go to a patriarch in close
member of his bishopric and receive participation. The recommend
the blessing while at a missionary member must be signed by a
training center. member of the bishopric and a
member of the stake presidency. A
If a missionary arrives on the mission member living in a district can also
field without having received a go to a patriarch in close
patriarchal blessing, the mission participation. The recommend must
president is authorized to interview be signed by the branch or district
him or her and issue a president and the mission president.
recommended patriarchal blessing.
Then contact the stake president at 3.
the nearest bonfire where a patriarch
can give a blessing in a language the A member who speaks a language
missionary can understand. If this is that is different from the language of
not possible, the missionary may the stake patriarch may go to a
have to wait until he or she returns patriarch in close participation to
home to receive a patriarchal receive a blessing in his or her own
blessing. language. The member must have a
recommend signed by a member of
16.12.2 Give patriarchal blessings the bishopric and a member of the
stake presidency.
to members outside the
Stake 16.12.3 The patriarchal blessing of
A stake patriarch normally gives
the deputies entering
patriarchal blessings only to military service
members of his stake. However, you
can give blessings to members When a worthy member enters
outside of their participation in the military service, priesthood leaders
following circumstances: encourage him to receive a
patriarchal blessing before reporting
1. for active duty.

177
 If it is not possible for a member to language, and able to understand
receive a patriarchal blessing before the spiritual nature and
leaving, he or she may receive it confidentiality of the blessing.
from a patriarch where the temporary Translated copies of blessings were
filling station is located. To do this, not presented at Church
the member submits a recommend headquarters.
from a member of the bishopric's
house forward to a member of the Sign Language
stake presidency where the Interpretation of Patriarchal
temporary duty station is located.
Blessings
If a member entering the military
does not have a recommendation If a member requires sign language
from the bishopric's home-ward, he interpretation to understand the
or she may receive a blessing as it is pronounced, it is his
recommendation from a member of or her responsibility to find a
the bishopric's ward where the trustworthy and worthy member of
temporary duty station is located. Let the Church who can provide the
the member of the bishopric 16.12.5 interpretation.
interview the dignified member and
contact the bishop at the ward house
before issuing a recommendation.
Church Policies
After a member of any of these
bishoprics has signed a This chapter consists of three sections. Each
recommendation, a member of the section includes subtopics in alphabetical order:
stake presidency where the
temporary duty station is located 1.
interviews the person and signs
recommend him or her, if he or she Administrative policies
is worthy.
2.
Translation of patriarchal Medical and health policies
blessings
3.
The Church does not offer
Policies on moral issues
translations of the text of patriarchal
blessings. Nor are members For policies on the use of Church buildings and
encouraged to translate patriarchal other properties, see 8.4 .
blessings, as it is difficult to convey
the inspired depth of meaning and
feeling of a blessing. However, if a
member does not understand the
language of the patriarch and wishes
17.1 Administrative
to have a blessing in another
language after it has been received,
Policies
it is his or her responsibility to find a
17.1.1
reliable and worthy member of the
Church who can provide the
Accident prevention and response
16.12.4 translation. The translator must be
carefully selected, expert in the See Manual 2, 6.13.20.
178
17.1.2 They may not be used in sacrament meetings or
in the general session of stake conference
Political Activities (however, appropriate recorded musical
accompaniment may be used if a piano, organ,
See Manual 2, 13.6. or accompanist is not available).

17.1.3 2.

Adopted children and their They may not be used if such use is restricted by
copyright (see 17.1.13 ).
biological parents
3.
Questions related to information sharing and
contact between adopted children and their birth They cannot be used if they contain material that
parents should be handled sensitively. The legal is not suitable for Church settings.
rights and emotional needs of all interested
parties must be considered. In the United States Audiovisual materials that meet these criteria
and Canada, stake presidents and bishops can may be used in the chapel during meetings other
contact LDS Family Services for guidance (1- than sacrament meeting or the general session
801-240-1711; 1-800-453-3860, extension 2- of the stake conference if they are an important
1711, or ldsfamilyservices.org ). . Outside the part of the meeting.
United States and Canada, stake presidents may
contact the Area Presidency for guidance. 17.1.6

17.1.4 Autographs and photographs of

General Authorities and Area
Adoption and Foster Care
Seventies
Members seeking to adopt children or provide
foster care must strictly observe all legal Members of the Church should not seek the
requirements of the countries (and their autographs of General Authorities or Area
governmental subdivisions) they are involved. Seventies, including signatures on their
They are encouraged to work through licensed, scriptures, hymns, or programs. Doing so takes
authorized agencies. Church leaders should not away from your sacred callings and the spirit of
be involved in going through these agencies to the meetings. It could also prevent the greeting
help place children privately or independently. from being received.
These placements are not sanctioned by the
Members should not take photographs of
Church and violate local laws.
General Authorities or Area Seventies in
For information on the placement of children for chapels.
adoption, see 17.3.12 .
17.1.7
17.1.5
Bible
Audiovisual materials English-speaking members should use the
Members may use audiovisual materials, such Latter-day Saint edition of the King James
as CDs, DVDs, and computer presentations, in Version of the Bible. This edition includes the
Church settings with the following restrictions: Study Guide; Footnotes; excerpts from the
Joseph Smith Translation, cross-references to
1. other Bible passages and the Book of Mormon,
Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great
Price, and other study aids.Although other

179
versions of the Bible may be easier to read , in Church employees must respect Church policies
doctrinal matters, latter-day revelation is at all times. To begin or continue employment,
compatible with the King James Version in they must be worthy of having a temple
preference to other English translations. recommend. This includes employees of the
Church Educational System and Church
Spanish-speaking members should use the universities and colleges.
Latter-day Saint edition of the Reina-Valera
Bible. This edition includes study aids similar to Periodically, representatives of the Church
those in the Latter-day Saint English edition. Human Resources Department will contact stake
presidents or bishops to verify the temple
In many languages other than English, the creditworthiness of current or potential Church
Church has approved a Latter-day Saint edition employees. These requests can be written or
of the Bible for use in Church meetings and made over the phone. Leaders must respond
classes. Members should take advantage of promptly.
these editions of the Bible.
Church employees must comply with labor laws.
The most reliable way to measure the accuracy Church headquarters or area office can provide
of any Bible translation is not by comparing information about applicable laws.
different texts, but by comparing it to the Book of
Mormon and modern-day revelations. 17.1.10

Printed copies of authorized editions of the Bible Church Magazines

are Church Distribution Services. Electronic text
and audio recordings of LDS editions are also The First Presidency has consistently
available at scriptures.lds.org . encouraged Church members to read Church
magazines. Local Church leaders should
17.1.8 encourage members to keep Church magazines
in their homes. These magazines contain
Book of Mormon guidance from the Lord given through latter-day
prophets. Church magazines strengthen faith in
The Church discourages rewriting the Book of
the Savior and provide inspired direction from
Mormon in familiar or modern English. The First
personal challenges.
Presidency has said:
The stake president and bishop may assign their
"When a sacred text is translated into another
executive secretaries to coordinate Church
language or rewritten into more familiar
magazine subscription efforts (see 13.3.4 and
language, there are substantial risks that this
13.4.4 ). Bishoprics may also call a
process may introduce doctrinal errors or
representative of the ward magazine and appoint
obscure evidence of its ancient origin. To guard
help from others. If a ward magazine
against these risks, the First Presidency and the
representative is called, he or she will help plan
Council of the Twelve They give close personal
and direct campaigns in Church magazines, help
supervision of the translation of the scriptures
members start or renew subscriptions, and teach
from English to other languages and have not
members about the benefits of subscribing to
authorized efforts to express the doctrinal
Church magazines. .
content of the Book of Mormon in familiar or
modern English. (These concerns do not pertain Members may subscribe to Church magazines
to Church publications for children.)" ( Liahona, through Church distribution services. In some
Apr. 1993, 74). areas, users can subscribe by filling out the
subscription form on the Church magazine
17.1.9
websites.

Church employees 01/17/11

180
Church name and logo Intellectual Property Office 50 East Norte Temple
Street, Room 1888 Salt Lake City, UT 84150-
Church name and logo are the key identifiers of 0018 Telephone: 1-801-240-3959 or 1-800-453-
the Church. They are registered as trademarks 3860, extension 2-3959 Fax: 1-801-240-1187
or are otherwise legally protected throughout the Email: cor-intellectualproperty@ldschurch.org
world. They should only be used in accordance
with the following guidelines. 17.1.12

Local units may use the written name of the Computers

Church (not the logo) when all of the following
conditions are met: As authorized by presiding councils of the
Church, some Church units have computers for
1. purposes such as record keeping and family
history. The stake president oversees the
The activity or function with which the name is placement and use of computers at the bonfire.
associated officially sponsors the unit (for Guidelines for obtaining and managing Church
example, a sacrament meeting program). equipment are available at Church headquarters
or the assigned administrative office. These
2.
guidelines provide information on issues such as
The name of the local unit is used as a prelude hardware and software, donated computers,
to the name of the Church (e.g., Canyon View Internet connections, repairs, computer sales,
Ward, of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- stolen or damaged computers, security, and use
day Saints). by members.

3. When necessary, stake presidents arrange to

make ward and stake computers available for
The font does not imitate or resemble the official members to use family history programs. Ward
Church logo. and stake computers are not authorized for other
personal uses.
Official Church logo (see cover of this manual) is
to be used only for items approved by the To protect confidential information on computers,
Correlation Department at Church Headquarters. leaders and employees should use the password
Examples of these elements are: functions of Church record-keeping systems.
See 13.8 and 13.9 for additional instructions on
1. protecting confidential information.

Official Church publications and stationery. Computers should be placed so that bishopric
members and employees can process members'
2.
weekly contributions in privacy.
Missionary name tags.
For restrictions on software duplication, see
3. 17.1.13 .

Exterior signs of meetings. The stake presidency may assign an assistant

stake secretary to be the stake technology
The logo cannot be used as a decorative specialist. The stake clerk could be given this
element or a computer screen saver. It also may task if necessary. The Stake Technology
not be used in any personal, commercial or Specialist fixes Church computers in the game,
promotional manner, such as in family history including those in family history centers. These
books, t-shirts, buttons or banners. Questions responsibilities are described under "Computing
can be directed to: and Technology" in 13.3.3.

181
17/01/13 publication is out of print does not void its
copyright or justify duplicating, distributing,
Copyrighted materials performing, displaying, or making derivatives of it
without permission.
Laws governing creative works and their
permitted use vary from country to country. The The Church's Intellectual Property Office (IPO)
Church standards described in this section are in assists in processing requests to use materials
line with international treaties that apply in most or programs, including materials that are
countries. For simplicity, this section refers to a copyrighted by the Church's Intellectual Reserve,
creator's rights as "copyright." However, some of Inc. (IRI). IRI is an independent, nonprofit
these rights may be known by different names in corporation that owns the intellectual property
some countries. used by the Church. Additional information about
requesting use of Church-owned materials can
Copyright is the protection granted by law to be found by following the "Rights and Use of
creators of original works of authorship that are Information" page on LDS. .org .
expressed in a tangible form, including:
The following questions and answers can help
1. members understand and comply with copyright
laws when using protected materials at church
, Musical, dramatic, choreographic and literary and at home. If members have questions that
works. are not answered in these guidelines, they may
contact:
2.
Intellectual Property Office 50 East Norte Temple
Works of art, photography and sculpture.
Street, Room 1888 Salt Lake City, UT 84150-
3. 0018 Telephone: 1-801-240-3959 or 1-800-453-
3860, extension 2-3959 Fax: 1-801-240-1187
Audio and audiovisual works (such as films and Email: cor-intellectualproperty@ldschurch.org
videos, CDs and DVDs).
Can I copy images from Church magazines?
4. Pictures in Church publications can generally be
copied for your Church and non-commercial,
Computer programs or games. home and family use. However, they may not be
copied for commercial purposes without express
5.
written permission from the IPO. If an image is
Internet and other databases. restricted from copying, words such as "cannot
be copied" will appear in the image's credits.
Members of the Church must strictly observe all
copyright laws. Generally, only copyright owners Can I copy published Church materials? Church
can authorize duplication (copying), distribution, publications generally can be copied for your
public performance, public display, or derivatives Church and non-commercial, home and family
of their work. Use of a work in any of these ways use. No commercial use may be made of Church
without the authorization of the copyright holder materials without express written authorization
is contrary to Church policy and may also subject from the IPO.
the Church or the user to legal liability.
Can I copy music? Special copyright laws apply
A user of a work must assume that it is protected to music. A person may copy music from hymns,
by copyright. Published works usually include a Children's Songs, and Church magazines for
copyright notice, such as "© 1959 by John Doe." Church and non-commercial, home and family
(For sound recordings, the symbol is ℗ .) use, unless a restriction is expressly stated in the
However, a copyright notice is not necessary for hymn or song. Duplication of printed or recorded
legal protection. Likewise, the fact that a music without permission of the copyright holder

182
is contrary to Church policy. Music that has been Church-owned sites and all information on these
duplicated against this policy should not be used sites, including the names and addresses of
for Church purposes. persons who have submitted information, may
not be used for the sale or promotion of products
Can I modify, copy or segment audiovisual or services, soliciting customers, or any other
materials produced by the Church? No, unless commercial purpose. .
such use is specifically authorized by the IPO.
Audiovisual materials produced by the Church For additional information, see the rights and use
must be used in accordance with the instructions of information associated with the websites.
prescribed in the manuals and on the packaging
materials. What permission is needed to present musical
and theatrical productions? Productions that are
Can I copy materials that are not property of the property of the Church or the IRI may be
Church? Generally not. Copyright laws regulate performed in Church settings without permission
the use of privately owned materials. There are from Church headquarters. If a copyrighted
usually restrictions that give conditions that the production is not owned by the Church,
public must follow before copying materials members must obtain permission from the
without the Church. These restrictions usually copyright owner to perform all or part of it in a
appear near the beginning of a post. Members Church environment. Typically, the copyright
must strictly observe all copyright laws. owner requires fees or royalties , even if the
performances are not charged. All submissions
Can I show commercial audiovisual products at must have the approval of local priesthood
Church functions? Generally not. Church leaders.
members should not violate warnings and
restrictions placed on commercial audiovisual 01/17/14
products. The use of commercial audiovisual
products at Church functions generally requires Curricular Materials
the permission of the copyright owners.
The Church makes available scriptures,
Can I download or copy computer software and magazines, manuals, books, and other materials
other Church use programs? Generally not. to help members learn and live the Gospel of
Computer programs and other software may not Jesus Christ.
be duplicated or downloaded unless all licenses
have been properly purchased. As an exception, Priesthood leaders and auxiliaries encourage
Church family history programs can be members to obtain copies of scriptures and other
downloaded at no charge. curriculum materials to use in their homes and at
Church.
Can I download or distribute material I find on
Church websites? The Church has created Leaders ensure that teachers use Church-
several websites, such as LDS.org , Mormon.org approved materials for quorum and class
, and FamilySearch.org . Unless otherwise instruction. The Curriculum Instructions
indicated, all material on Church-owned Web publication provides information on how to
sites, including images, text, icons, screens, organize Sunday classes and what materials to
databases and general information, may be use for the lessons.
viewed, downloaded, and printed for the Church
and Non-commercial, home, and family use only. 17/01/15
Material from these sites may not be published,
transcribed, or distributed to other Web sites or Appointments or Familiarization-
computer networks without permission from the More for Individual Members
IPO.
Contact and get to know companies often
promote their services to individual members of
183
the Church. Church meetings, classes or Gospel are greatly increasing throughout the
programs may not be used to promote any world. As members remain in their home
private enterprise, including dating and get-to- countries and work to build the Church there,
know-you businesses or services. Lists of great blessings will come to them personally and
Church groups or any other information about to the Church. Stakes and wards around the
members should not be given to these types of world will be strengthened, making it possible to
companies. share the blessings of the gospel with even
greater numbers of Heavenly Father's children.
17/01/16
Experience has shown that those who emigrate
Directories often encounter language, cultural, and
economic challenges, leading to disappointment
Stake and ward directories may be published and personal and family difficulties.
according to the following instructions:
Missionaries should not ask their parents,
Names, addresses, and telephone numbers may relatives, or other people to sponsor members
be included in a directory only if their name who wish to emigrate to other countries.
appears in a commercial telephone directory or,
if publicly traded, if the member authorizes it. Members immigrating to any country must
Email addresses can only be included with the comply with applicable laws.
member's permission.
When arriving in the United States or other
Stake or ward budget funds are used to pay for countries on student or tourist visas, members
directories. Directories cannot contain should not expect to find employment or obtain
advertising. permanent visas after entering that country.

Leaders may not distribute directories outside To be considered for Church employment in all
the game or ward boundaries or allow their use countries, a person must meet all conditions of
for commercial or political purposes. immigration and naturalization laws. The Church
does not sponsor immigration through Church
The beginning of each directory should include a employment.
statement that it is to be used for Church
purposes only and is not to be copied without 01/17/19
permission of the bishop or stake president.
Fasting Day
17.1.17
A proper fast day observance usually includes
Email for priesthood leaders abstaining from eating and drinking for two
consecutive meals in a 24-hour period, attending
The Church has established an email system to fast and testimony meeting, and giving a
communicate with priesthood leaders and so that generous fast offering to help care for those in
they can communicate with each other. need.
Priesthood leaders will be notified when this
system is available to them. 01/17/20

01/17/18 Fundraising
The emigration of Members See Manual 2, 13.6.8.

Members are generally encouraged to remain in 01/17/21

their home countries to build and strengthen the
Church. Opportunities for Church activity and for Games of chance and lotteries
receiving and sharing the blessings of the
184
The Church opposes gambling in any form, well-founded legal objections can challenge the
including government-sponsored lotteries. tax laws in court.

17.1.22 Members of the Church who refuse to file a tax

return, pay required income taxes, or comply
Guest Speakers or Instructors with a final judgment in a tax case are in direct
conflict with the law and with the teachings of the
For most Church meetings, speakers and Church. These members may be eligible for a
instructors must be from the local plant or stake. temple recommend and should not be called to
positions of primary responsibility in the Church.
Bishop approval is required before guest Members who are convicted of willfully violating
speakers or teachers can participate in any ward tax laws are subject to Church discipline to the
meeting, including auxiliary meetings. Approval extent justified by the circumstances.
of the stake president is required for such
participation in stake meetings. 01/17/24

The bishop or stake president carefully selects

Internet
guest speakers or instructors and the topics of
their presentations. This may include contact When used carefully, the Internet can help
with the person's bishop. The bishop or stake coordinate the work of the Church, strengthen
president ensures that: faith, and minister to the needs of others.
However, where possible, members should
1.
ensure that electronic communication does not
The presentations are in harmony with the replace opportunities for personal contact.
doctrine of the Church.
Church Officials Internet Resources
2.
The Church offers a number of official websites
Guest speakers or teachers are not paid fees, do and other Internet resources for your general
not recruit participants, and do not solicit clients use. These sites and resources are clearly
or customers. identified as official, whether by use of the
church logo or in some other way. They also
3. comply with legal requirements and the Church's
intellectual property and privacy policies.
Travel expenses of guest speakers or teachers
are not paid, either with local Unit budget funds Stake and ward websites can be created only
or by private contributions. using official Church Internet resources. Stakes
and wards are not authorized to create other
4.
websites or blogs, or otherwise have a Church-
Presentations comply with guidelines for use of sponsored presence on the Internet.
Church facilities (see 8.4 ).
Stake and ward websites can facilitate
01/17/23 coordination and communication within local
units. These websites may include news and
Income Tax announcements, calendars, leadership and
member directories, and programming facilities.
Members of the Church are bound by the twelfth If a stake or ward site is created, it must be
article of faith to obey the tax laws of the nation regularly maintained to fulfill its intended
where they reside (see also D. and C. 134:5 ). purposes.
Members who disapprove of the tax laws can try
to have them changed by legislation or To request approval to use official Church
constitutional amendment. Members who have resources to create a game or ward Web site,

185
the stake president contacts the following office 4.
at Church headquarters:
Church-owned artwork, music, or other materials
Members and Statistical Records Division Attn: should not be published unless such use is
Local Internet Resources Unit 50 East North clearly authorized by the "Rights and Use of
Temple Street, Room 1320 Salt Lake City, UT Information" page of an official Church website
84150-0013 Telephone: 1-801-240-3500 or 1- or by the Property Office Intellectual of the
800-453-3860, extension 2-3500 Email: Church.
msrmail@ldsmail.net
5.
Additional guidelines for stake and ward
websites can be found by searching for "LDS Photographs of other individuals or personal
Site Development Guide" on LDS.org . information about them should not be displayed
without their consent.
On occasion, official Church websites may be
approved for other purposes, such as multi-stake Internet Personal Use
projects, special events, and young single adult
activities and organization. To seek approval for Members are encouraged to exemplify their faith
this type of site, the organization's priesthood at all times and in all places, including on the
leader submits an application indicating the Internet. By using blogs, social media, and other
purpose and need for a member of the Internet technologies, you are encouraged to
Presidency of the Seventy or the Area empower others and help them become aware of
Presidency. what is useful, good, and praiseworthy. When
appropriate, members are encouraged to talk
Temples, missions, and visitor centers are not about the Church and to link to and share
permitted to create Web sites. approved Church materials.

Member Use of the Internet in When members use the Internet for purposes
other than Church callings, they must
Church Callings understand that the message they give is
Individual members may create websites or personal. They must not give the impression that
blogs or make use of other Internet resources they represent or are sponsored by the Church.
appropriate in their Church callings, provided
Additional study aids and guidelines are provided
they include a disclaimer such as "This is not an
by searching for "Internet Use Help Members" on
official site of The Church of Jesus Christ of
LDS.org .
Latter-day Saints." Days." Members must also
adhere to the following guidelines: 01/17/25

1.
Laws of the Earth
The Church logo may not be used or imitated.
Members must obey, honor and uphold the law
2. in any country in which they reside or travel (see
D. and C. 58:21-22 ; Articles of Faith 1:12 ). This
The name and contact information of the includes laws prohibiting proselytizing.
member who is responsible for the website must
be included. 01/17/26

3. Legal Matters
Members must not state or imply that their When legal assistance is needed for Church
website or activities are sponsored or approved affairs in the United States and Canada, the
by the Church. stake president should contact the General
186
Council Office at Church headquarters (1-801- Communication by Members of the
240-6301 or 1-800-453 -3860, extension 2-
6301). Outside the United States and Canada,
Church Headquarters
stake presidents contact the area office to obtain
Members of the Church are discouraged from
local legal advice.
making telephone calls or writing letters to
To avoid implicating the Church in legal matters General Authorities regarding doctrinal matters
for which it is not a party, Church leaders should or personal matters. With a growing Church
avoid testifying in civil or criminal cases membership, personally answering these
reviewing the conduct of the members over questions presents an almost insurmountable
whom they preside. In the United States and task and would make it more difficult for General
Canada, a leader should consult with the Office Authorities to accomplish the tasks for which
of General Counsel if he or she is subpoenaed, only they are responsible. The General
is considering testifying in a trial, is asked to Authorities love the members of the Church and
communicate with lawyers or civil authorities do not want them to feel that they do not have
about legal proceedings, or is Asks you to offer the support and guidance they need. However,
verbal or written testimony. Outside the United all things must be done with caution and order.
States and Canada, leaders should contact the
The Lord has organized His Church so that each
area office for local legal advice in these
member has access to a bishop or branch
situations.
president and a stake, district, or mission
Church leaders should not attempt to persuade president who serve as spiritual advisors and
alleged victims or other witnesses to either testify temporary counselors. Because of their callings,
or not to testify in a criminal or civil court these local leaders are entitled to the spirit of
proceeding. discernment and inspiration so that they may
counsel members within their jurisdiction.
17/01/27
Members who need spiritual guidance, have
The Church Headquarters Mail serious personal problems, or have doctrinal
questions should make diligent efforts, including
Some businesses and individuals send local fervent prayer and scripture study, to find
leaders promotional items that could look like solutions and answers for themselves. Members
official Church correspondence. Official of the Church are encouraged to seek the
correspondence can be distinguished from other guidance of the Holy Spirit to assist them in their
correspondence as follows: it is always personal lives and in their family and Church
transmitted (1) personally by Church leaders, (2) responsibilities.
in a letter from Church leaders on Church
If members still need help, they should first
letterhead, or (3) by the announcement in a
counsel with their bishop. If necessary, reference
Church publication. Only these elements require
can be made to the stake president.
attention and action by Church leaders.
In most cases, members' correspondence to
01/17/28
General Authorities was forwarded to their local
leaders. Stake presidents who need clarification
Mail sent to Church headquarters
on doctrinal or other Church matters may write
Local leaders must place a return address on all on behalf of their members to the First
letters and other items of correspondence sent to Presidency.
Church headquarters in addition to the return
17/01/30
address on the envelope in which the item is
sent.
Member Occupations, Professions
17/01/29 and Affiliations
187
Baptism into the Church, ordinations to the seek out, vote for, and defend leaders who are
priesthood, and the issuance of temple honest, good, and wise (see D. and C. 98:10 ).
recommends are based on the personal dignity
of each individual as established by a care While the right of expression on political and
interview by that person's local priesthood social issues is affirmed, the Church is neutral
leaders. Members of the Church should strive to with respect to political parties, political
engage in activities and employment in which platforms, and candidates for political office. The
they can conscientiously ask for the blessings of Church does not support any political party or
the Lord and that are consistent with the candidate. Nor do they advise members how to
principles of the gospel and the teachings of the vote. However, in some exceptional cases, the
Savior. Church will take a position on specific legislation,
especially when it concludes that moral issues
01/17/31 are involved. Only the First Presidency can
speak on behalf of the Church, or engage the
Other beliefs Church to support or oppose specific legislation
or to attempt to intervene in judicial matters.
Much of what is inspiring, noble and worthy of Otherwise, stake presidents and other local
the greatest respect is found in many other leaders should not organize members to
religions. Missionaries and other members participate in political affairs or try to influence
should be sensitive and respectful of the beliefs how they participate.
of others and avoid causing offense. A member
of the Presidency of the Seventy or stake Area Members of the Church are encouraged to
Presidency and mission presidents who have consider serving in elected or appointed public
questions about relationships with non-Christian offices in local and national government.
religions should contact them. Other local Candidates for public office should not imply that
leaders who have these types of questions their candidacy is endorsed by the Church or its
should contact their stake or mission president. leaders. Church leaders and members should
also avoid statements or conduct that could be
01/17/32 interpreted as Church endorsement of any
political party, platform, policy or candidate.
Activities during the night
Members are encouraged to support measures
See Manual 2, 13.6.12 and 21.2.8. that strengthen the moral fabric of society,
particularly those aimed at maintaining and
17/01/33 strengthening the family as the fundamental unit
of society.
Political and civic activity
Church records, directories and similar materials
As citizens, members of the Church are may not be used for political purposes.
encouraged to participate in political and
governmental affairs, including participation in Church facilities cannot be used for political
the political party of their choice. Members are purposes. However, facilities may be used for
also encouraged to actively participate in worthy voter registration or voting where there is no
causes to improve their communities and make reasonable alternative (see 8.4 ).
them healthy places to live and families back.
17/01/34
In accordance with the laws of their respective
governments, members are encouraged to Postal Code
register to vote, to study issues and candidates
carefully, and to vote for individuals whom they In the United States and some other countries, it
believe will act with integrity and good judgment. is a violation of postal regulations to place any
Latter-day Saints have a special obligation to postage-free materials in or into mailboxes. This

188
restriction applies to avoid or stake newsletters, name of the Church, the contractions "the
advertisements, brochures and other Church- church" or "the Church of Jesus Christ" are
related materials. Church leaders should instruct acceptable.
members and missionaries not to place such
objects in or in mailboxes. Referring to the Church as "the Mormon
Church," "the church of Latter-day Saints," or
17/01/35 "the LDS Church" is discouraged.

Member Privacy When referring to members of the Church, it is

preferable to use the term "members of The
Church leaders are required to protect the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints." As
privacy of users. Church records, directories and a shorthand reference, "Latter-day Saints" is
similar materials may not be used for personal, preferred and "Mormons" is acceptable.
commercial or political purposes (see also 13.8 ).
The word Mormon will continue to be used in
17/01/36 proper names, such as the Book of Mormon and
the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. It will also
Private Writings Published continue to be used as an adjective in phrases
such as "Mormon pioneers." Additionally, the use
Members should not ask General Authorities or of the word Mormon may be necessary to
Area Seventies to co-author or approve Church identify the Church as it is commonly known in
books or other Church writings. some countries.

17/01/37 01/17/39

Recording conversations or at the Research studies in the Church

addresses of General Authorities
The only authorized research agency of the
and Area Seventies Church is the Division of Research Information
Correlation Department. Representatives of this
Church members should not record department use questionnaires and interviews to
conversations or addresses that General obtain information on issues of concern to the
Authorities and Area Seventies give at stake General Authorities. When investigators
conferences, missionary meetings, or other authorized by the Church contact members, they
meetings. However, members may record provide the Church's toll-free telephone number
general conference broadcasts on their home and a contact name at headquarters.
computer for personal, non-commercial use. Additionally, they always allow the respondent
the option of not answering some or all of the
01/17/38
questions in a survey.
Referring to the Church and its Church meetings may not be used for the
members collection of information by authorized persons
or agencies. Nor should the names of members
As the Church grows across borders, cultures, of the Church be made available to those
and languages, the use of its revealed name, persons or entities. If local leaders want to verify
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints authorization of questionnaires or interviews,
(see D. and C. 115:4 ), is increasingly important they should contact the Research Information
in the responsibility of the Church and its Division (1-801-240-2727 or 1-800-453-3860,
members to proclaim the name of the Savior extension 2-2727).
throughout the world. References to the Church
should therefore include its full name whenever 17/01/40
possible. Following an initial reference to the full

189
Security in Church Welfare another without authorization from Church
headquarters.
Operations
Only people who are trained to operate the
Many Church welfare operations have equipment can do so. Young people can help
equipment and machinery that can cause operate only if they are supervised.
damage if not used correctly. Stake agent
operations committees and welfare operations All equipment must be locked securely when not
managers must ensure the safety of employees in use. It cannot be removed from construction
and volunteers. Workers should be regularly for home or personal use.
advised on safety practices. The work
environment must be inspected periodically, with 17/01/43
health and safety risks corrected. Adequate
supervision should always be provided to ensure Donation Request
that workers follow instructions for use, tools and
equipment appropriately, and avoid risky Established programs of the Church provide
behavior. financial assistance to worthy persons and
corresponding causes. Church aid is
Normally people who work in welfare operations administered by bishops, who are familiar with
must be over 16 years of age. Those who the circumstances and can prevent duplicate
operate the equipment must be mature, properly assistance and abuse. Therefore, members
trained and experienced in using the equipment. should not seek additional financial assistance
Only adults may operate power equipment. from Church headquarters or local leaders or
members.
The operations manager reports accidents to
Welfare Services (1-801-240-3001 or 1-800-453- If members receive a request for such funds,
3860, extension 2-3001) and the Risk they might respond by saying that they have
Management Division at Church headquarters contributed from their own wards to provide
(see 8.3. 6 for contact information). funds for attendance in accordance with the
established principles of Church welfare.
17.1.41
01/17/44
Sales agents
Statements attributed to Church
Local leaders should not accept claims from
leaders
sales agents that the Church or a Church leader
has authorized them to appeal to local leaders or From time to time, statements are circulated that
members to sell their products. are incorrectly attributed to Church leaders.
Many of these claims distort current Church
17/01/42
teachings and are based on rumors and
innuendo. They are never officially transmitted,
Satellite and Video Equipment but by word of mouth, e-mail or other informal
Church satellite video equipment may only be means. Members of the Church should not teach
used for non-commercial, Church-related or transmit such statements without verifying that
purposes as authorized by the stake presidency they are from approved Church sources, such as
or bishopric. This equipment cannot be used to official statements, communications and
record television, cable, or satellite programs publications.
that are not sponsored by the Church. Nor can
All notes made when General Authorities, Area
Church satellite equipment be used to view non-
Seventies, or other general Church officers
Church programs. Members may not direct the
speak at stake conferences or other meetings
antenna of one satellite or transponder to
should not be distributed without the consent of
190
the speaker. Personal notes are for individual In collaboration with the Priesthood Department
use only. at Church headquarters, Welfare Services is
responsible for professional materials and
17/01/45 resources to assist people in correctional
institutions and their families. For assistance,
Support to Members in prisons, priesthood leaders can contact Wellness
hospitals and other institutions Services at 1-801-240-2644 or 1-800-453-3860,
extension 2-2644.
Stake presidents are encouraged to provide
support to members in prisons, hospitals, and For assistance with social welfare issues in
other institutions within their boundaries. They prisons, hospitals, and other institutions, the
must do so within the channels of the priesthood stake president may be a member of the
and in accordance with the guidelines Presidency of the Seventy or the Area
established by the Church and the institutions. Presidency contact. The stake president may
also contact Welfare Services directly at the
The stake president determines the support to telephone numbers in the paragraph above.
be provided to each institution. He also oversees
the support and assistance of other local 01/17/46
priesthood leaders. If interest group needs help
provide a service to institutions within their Symposiums and similar meetings
boundaries, a member of the Presidency of the
Seventy or Area Presidency may assign one or The Church warns its members against
more nearby holdings to assist. symposiums and similar meetings that include
presentations that (1) disparage, ridicule, make
The stake president or an assigned bishop may light of, or are otherwise inappropriate in their
call a priesthood holder to oversee the support treatment of sacred matters, or (2) may injure the
given to members of these institutions. In community. Church, to the detriment of its
prisons, men should normally be called upon to mission, or endanger the well-being of its
work with male inmates. However, husbands and members. Members must not allow their position
wives may also be called upon to work with male or standing in the Church to be used to promote
inmates. At least two men, two women, or a or imply approval of these types of meetings.
husband and wife must be called upon to work
with the inmates. Men and women who work with 17/01/47
inmates should not be alone with them.
Taxed activities
Worship services for members in prisons,
hospitals and other institutions may be simplified Ward and stake leaders ensure that local Church
as necessary to meet the needs of those activities do not jeopardize the Church's tax
involved. These services typically follow the exemption. For instructions, see 8.4 and
same format as sacrament meeting except that 14.10.1 .
the sacrament is not administered to inmates in
01/17/48
prisons. As an exception to Church policy, when
worship services are held in prisons, inmates
may participate by offering prayers or giving
Men and women travel together
talks, regardless of their religious affiliation or
A man and a woman should not travel alone
standing in the Church.
together for Church activities, meetings or
Other support that can be given to members of assignments unless they are married to each
these institutions includes counseling, family other or are both single. For other travel policies,
counseling, visiting teaching, Sunday School see Manual 2, 13.6.24.
classes, family home evening, seminary or
institute classes, and other special programs.
191
 The autopsies

17.2 Medical and Health Policies An autopsy can be performed if the

deceased's family gives consent and
17.2.1 if the autopsy complies with the law.

Cremation

The Church does not usually

encourage cremation. The family of
the deceased must decide whether
the body should be cremated, taking
into account the laws governing
burial or cremation. In some
countries, cremation is required by
law.

Whenever possible, the body of a

deceased member who has been
gifted should be dressed in temple
clothing when cremated (see 3.4.9 ).
A funeral service will be held (see
17.2.2 Manual 2, 18.6).

Euthanasia

Euthanasia is defined as deliberately

putting to death a person suffering
from an incurable disease or illness.
A person who participates in
euthanasia, particularly by helping
someone commit suicide, the
violation of God's commandments.
17.2.3 (See also 17.2.8 .)

17.2.4 HIV infection and AIDS

Members who are infected with HIV

(human immunodeficiency virus) or
who have AIDS (Acquired Immune
Deficiency Syndrome) should be
treated with dignity and compassion.
Some people with HIV are innocent
victims of the actions of others. For
example, she may not be infected
through a non-diligent blood
transfusion or from an infected
parent. If infection is the result of
transgression of God's laws, the
Church advocates the example of
the Lord, who condemned the sin but
loved the sinner and encouraged

192
 repentance. Members should have health problems to consult with
approach the afflicted with kindness competent professionals who are
and comfort, attending to their needs licensed in the countries where they
and helping them find solutions to practice.
their problems.
Organ and Tissue Donation
The main safeguards against HIV and Transplantation
and AIDS are chastity before
marriage, full fidelity in marriage, Organ and tissue donation is a
abstinence from homosexual selfless act, which often results in
relations, prevention of illegal drugs, great benefit for people with medical
and reverence and care for the body. conditions. The decision to want or
donate the body's own organs or
Attendance at Church meetings by tissues for medical purposes, or the
people with HIV infection or AIDS decision to authorize the
does not represent a serious health Transplantation of organs or tissues
problem. Public health authorities from a deceased relative is
say HIV has not been transmitted performed by the individual or the
through casual contact in homes, family of the deceased member.
schools, churches or workplaces.
A decision to receive a donated
Those who may occasionally need to organ should be made after
clean up blood or provide first aid receiving competent medical advice
should learn and follow the 17.2.7 and confirmation through prayer.
recommendations of local health
authorities. The prolongation of life

In relation to baptism and When serious illness occurs,

confirmation, people with HIV members must exercise faith in the
infection or AIDS are treated like any Lord and seek competent medical
other person who expresses faith in help. However, dying becomes
God, repents, and is living the inevitable, it should be seen as a
Gospel of Jesus Christ. blessing and an intentional part of
eternal existence. Members should
Hypnosis not feel obligated to extend mortal
life by unreasonable means. These
The use of hypnosis under
opinions are best expressed by
competent, professional medical
family members after receiving wise
supervision for the treatment of
and competent medical advice and
mental illnesses or disorders is a
seeking divine guidance through
medical question to be determined
fasting and prayer.
by competent medical authorities.
Members should not engage in Leaders offer special concern and
hypnosis for demonstration or blessings to those who are deciding
17.2.5 entertainment purposes. whether or not to remove life support
17.2.8 for a family member.
17.2.6 Medical and Health Practices
17.2.9 Self-Awareness Groups
Members must not use medical or
health practices that are ethically Many private groups and commercial
and legally questionable. Local organizations have programs that
leaders should advise members who aim to increase self-awareness, self-

193
esteem, and spirituality. Some harmony with gospel principles.
groups are committed to improving
individual action or improving family Stillborn Children (Children
relationships. Some offer who die before birth)
“experiential” or “empowerment”
training. Grieving parents whose child dies
before birth should receive emotional
Some of these groups falsely claim and spiritual support.
or imply that general church or
individual authorities have approved Temple ordinances are not
their programs. However, the Church performed for stillborn children.
has not endorsed such an However, this does not negate the
undertaking, and members are possibility that a dead child may be
cautioned against believing such part of the family in the eternities.
claims. The fact that the Church has We encourage parents to trust in the
not formally challenged such an Lord to resolve these cases in the
undertaking should not be perceived way He knows is best. The family
as an endorsement or tacit approval. can record the name of a stillborn
child in the family group record
Church members are also warned followed by the word stillborn in
that some of these groups advocate parentheses.
concepts and methods of use that
may be harmful. Additionally, many Memorial or graveside services may
of these groups charge exorbitant be held as determined by the
fees and encourage long-term parents.
commitments. Some intermingle
It is a fact that a child has life before
worldly concepts with gospel
birth. However, there is no direct
principles in ways that can
vision when the spirit enters the
undermine spirituality and faith.
17.2.10 body.
These groups tend to promise quick
Word of wisdom
solutions to problems that normally
require time and personal effort to The only official interpretation of "hot
solve. Although participants may drinks" ( D&C 89:9 ) in the Word of
experience temporary emotional Wisdom is the statement made by
relief or euphoria, old problems often Church leaders that the term "hot
return, leading to disappointment drinks" means tea and coffee.
and added despair.
Members must not use any
Church leaders are not to pay for, substance containing illegal drugs.
encourage participation in, or Nor should members use harmful or
promote any such groups or drug-dependent substances except
practices. Also, Church facilities may under the care of a competent
not be used for these activities. 17.2.11 physician.
Leaders must counsel members that
true self-improvement comes
through the principles of the living
gospel. Members who have social or
emotional problems can consult with
priesthood leaders for guidance in
17.3 Policies on moral
identifying sources of help that are in
194
 The position of the Church is that
issues abuse cannot be tolerated in any
form. Those who abuse or are cruel
abortion to their spouses, children, other
family members or anyone else
The Lord commanded: "You shall
violate the laws of God and man. All
not... kill, nor do any such thing" (D.
members, especially parents and
and C. 59:6). The Church opposes
leaders, are encouraged to be alert
elective abortion for personal or
and diligent and do everything
social convenience. Members must
possible to protect children and
not submit to, perform, organize, pay
others from abuse and neglect.
for, consent to, or encourage an
abortion. The only exceptions are Members who have abused others
possible when: are subject to Church discipline.
They should not be given callings
1.
and may not have a temple
Pregnancy is the result of rape or recommend until they have repented
incest. and all Church discipline has been
resolved.
2.
A person whose membership record
A competent physician determines is noted as having sexually or
that the life or health of the mother is physically abused a child should not
in serious danger. be given any calling or assignment
involving children or youth.
3. Additionally, careful consideration
should be given to other tasks, such
A competent doctor determines that
as home teaching or visiting
the fetus has serious defects that do
teaching. These restrictions must
not allow the baby to survive beyond
remain in place until the First
birth.
Presidency authorizes the removal of
Even these exceptions do not the annotation (see 6.13.4 for more
automatically justify abortion. information on annotations).
Abortion is a more serious matter
In cases of abuse, the Church's first
and should be considered only after
responsibility is to help those who
the responsible persons have
have been abused and to protect
consulted with their bishops and
those who may be vulnerable to
received divine confirmation through
abuse in the future. Victims of sexual
prayer.
abuse (including rape) often suffer
Members of the Church who severe trauma and feelings of guilt.
undergo, perform, arrange, pay for,
Victims of the evil acts of others are
consent to, or encourage an abortion
not guilty of sin. Church leaders must
may be subject to Church discipline.
be sensitive to such victims and
In what has been revealed, a person provide care to help them overcome
can repent and be forgiven for the the destructive effects of abuse.
17.3.1 sin of abortion.
Stake presidents and bishops do
their best to counsel those who have
17.3.2 Abuse and cruelty been involved in abuse. These
leaders can consult the Responding
195
to Abuse: Helps for Church Leaders being abused.
brochure and the Spouse Abuse
Prevention and Response and Child 3.
Abuse Prevention and Response
Become aware of viewing,
brochures. The Child Protection:
purchasing or distributing child
Responding to Child Abuse DVD
pornography.
also describes the responsibilities of
leaders and other members in By calling the helpline, leaders will
preventing and responding to child be able to consult with professional
abuse. All ward councils are counselors and legal specialists who
requested to watch this DVD and can help answer questions and
discuss according to the guide on formulate next steps. A bishop must
the back of the DVD box. also notify his stake president of
cases of abuse.
In addition to inspirational help from
Church leaders, members may need In countries that do not have a
professional help. In the United helpline, a bishop who learns of
States and Canada, stake presidents abuse should contact his stake
and bishops can contact LDS Family president, who will seek guidance
Services to identify resources to from the Area Presidency.
provide such counseling in harmony
with gospel principles (1-801-240- If confidential information indicates
1711; 1-800-453-3860 , extension 2- that a member's abusive activities
1711; or ldsfamilyservices.org ). have violated applicable law, the
Outside the United States and bishop or stake president should
Canada, stake presidents may urge the user to report these
contact the Area Presidency for activities to the appropriate
guidance. If the offender is an adult government authorities. Leaders can
who has committed a sexual obtain information about local
transgression against a child, the reporting requirements through the
behavior may be deep-rooted and helpline. Where information is
the process of repentance and required by law, the leader
reform may be lengthy. encourages the member to secure
qualified legal advice.
In the United States and Canada, the
Church has established a hotline to To avoid implicating the Church in
assist stake presidents and bishops legal matters for which it is not a
in cases of abuse (1-801-240-1911 party, Church leaders should avoid
or 1-800-453-3860, extension 2- testifying in civil or criminal cases or
1911). . These leaders should call other proceedings involving abuse.
the helpline if: For specific instructions, see
01/17/26 .
1.
17.3.3 Artificial insemination
Become aware of physical or sexual
abuse involving members of the
The Church strongly discourages
Church.
artificial insemination with semen
2. from anyone but the husband.
However, this is a personal matter
Believing that a person may have that should ultimately be left to the
been a victim of abuse or is at risk of judgment of the spouses. The

196
 responsibility for the decision lies violate the Lord's law of chastity or
exclusively with them. who influence others to do so are
subject to Church discipline.
Artificial insemination of unmarried
sisters is not approved. Unmarried 17.3.6 Homosexual behavior and
sisters who deliberately refuse to
follow the advice of Church leaders
same-sex attraction
in this matter are subject to Church
Homosexual behavior violates God's
discipline.
commandments, is contrary to the
For information on sealing children purposes of human sexuality, and
who were conceived by artificial deprives people of the blessings that
insemination, see 3.6.2 . can be found in family life and in the
saving ordinances of the Gospel.
Natality control Those who persist in such conduct
or who influence others to do so are
It is the privilege of married couples subject to the discipline of the
who are able to have children to Church. Homosexual behavior can
provide mortal bodies for God's be forgiven through sincere
spiritual children, whom He then repentance.
takes care of feeding and rearing.
If members engage in homosexual
The decision about how many
behavior, Church leaders must help
children to have and when to have
them have a clear understanding of
them is extremely intimate and
faith in Jesus Christ, the process of
private and should be left between
repentance, and the purpose of life
the couple and the Lord. Members of
on earth.
the Church should not judge each
other in this matter. While opposing homosexual
behavior, the Church reaches out
Married couples must also
with understanding and respect to
understand that sexual relations
people who are attracted to those of
within marriage are divinely
the same sex.
approved not only for the purpose of
procreation, but also as a way of If members experience same-sex
expressing love and strengthening attraction but do not engage in
the emotional and spiritual bonds homosexual behavior, leaders
17.3.4 between husband and wife. should support and encourage them
in their decision to live the law of
17.3.5 Chastity and fidelity chastity and control unjust thoughts.
These members can receive callings
The Lord's law of chastity is
from the Church. If you are worthy
abstinence from sexual relations
and otherwise qualified, you may
outside of marriage and fidelity within
also hold temple recommends and
marriage. Sexual relations are
receive temple ordinances.
appropriate only between a man and
a woman who are legally and When counseling members who
legitimately married, as husband and have same-sex attractions, stake
wife. Adultery, fornication, presidents and bishops can consult
homosexuality or lesbian the pamphlet God Loves His
relationships, and every other Children.
ungodly, unnatural, or impure
practice are sinful. Members who
197
 In addition to inspirational help from The Church opposes pornography in
Church leaders, members may need all its forms. Indulgence in
professional help. In the United pornography damages individual
States and Canada, stake presidents lives, families and society. Such
and bishops can contact LDS Family indulgence drives away the Spirit of
Services to identify resources to the Lord. Members of the Church
provide such counseling in harmony must avoid all forms of pornographic
with gospel principles (1-801-240- material and oppose its production,
1711; 1-800-453-3860 , extension 2- dissemination and use.
1711; or ldsfamilyservices.org ).
Outside the United States and When members of the stake
Canada, stake presidents may presidents and bishops counsel
contact the Area Presidency for people who are involved with
guidance. pornography, they can consult the
booklet Helping Those Who Struggle
In vitro fertilization with Pornography. The booklet Let
Virtue Grace Your Thoughts also
The Church strongly discourages in provides advice on how to avoid and
vitro fertilization with semen from overcome problems with
anyone but the husband or an egg pornography.
from anyone but the wife. However,
this is a personal matter that should In addition to inspirational help from
ultimately be left to the judgment of Church leaders, members may need
the spouses. The responsibility for professional help. In the United
the decision lies exclusively with States and Canada, stake presidents
them. and bishops can contact LDS Family
Services to identify resources to
For information on sealing children provide such counseling in harmony
who were conceived by in vitro with gospel principles (1-801-240-
17.3.7 fertilization, see 3.6.2 . 1711; 1-800-453-3860 , extension 2-
1711; or ldsfamilyservices.org ).
Hidden Affiliation Outside the United States and
Canada, stake presidents may
Members of the Church should not contact the Area Presidency for
engage in any form of Satan worship guidance.
or affiliated in any way with the
occult. "These types of activities are Same sex marriages
some of the works of darkness
spoken of in the Scriptures. They are As a doctrinal principle, based on
designed to destroy faith in Christ, Scripture, the Church affirms that
and will jeopardize the salvation of marriage between a man and a
those who knowingly promote this woman is essential to the Creator's
evil. These things should not be plan for the eternal destiny of His
persecuted as games, whether children.
topics of Church meetings, or delved
into private and personal Sexual relations are appropriate only
conversations" (First Presidency between a man and a woman who
17.3.8 Letter September 18, 1991). are legally and legitimately married,
as husband and wife. All other
17.3.10 sexual relations, including those
17.3.9 Pornography
between persons of the same sex,

198
 are sinful and undermine the divinely website itsaboutlove.org for more
created institution of the family. information.
Therefore, the Church affirms that it
defines marriage as the legal and Bishops should be mindful in
legitimate union between a man and reference to parents waiting for LDS
a woman. Family Services (where available).
LDS Family Services provides
Sex education counseling at no cost to expecting
parents and their families, regardless
Parents have the primary of whether the parents choose to
responsibility for the sexual marry, place the child for adoption,
education of their children. Teaching or the child's father remains
this topic honestly and clearly at unmarried.
home will help young people avoid
serious moral transgressions. To When a man and woman conceive a
help parents teach this sensitive and child out of wedlock, every effort
important information, the Church should be made to encourage them
has published a Parent's Guide. to marry. When the likelihood of
success in marriage is unlikely due
Where schools have undertaken sex to age or other circumstances,
education, parents should seek to unmarried parents should be advised
ensure that the instructions given to to work with LDS Family Services to
their children are consistent with place the child for adoption,
17.3.11 sound moral and ethical values. providing an opportunity for the baby
to to be sealed to the fathers-worthy
Pregnant single mothers temple. Adoption is a selfless and
loving decision that blesses both the
and fathers
birth parents and the child in this life
Church members who are single and and in eternity.
pregnant are encouraged to go to
If LDS Family Services is not
their bishop. By virtue of their
available in the area, leaders should
priesthood office and vocation, they
encourage placement of the child for
can counsel with them as they make
adoption to a worthy temple couple
important decisions that affect their
through a local agency. LDS Family
own well-being and that of the child.
Services can be of assistance in
It can also help begin the repentance
identifying reputable, licensed
process, if applicable.
adoption agencies. Licensed
Due to the social and emotional agencies are designed to protect the
problems inherent in these types of best interests of the child, screen
situations, bishops may consult with adoptive partners prior to placement,
LDS Family Services counselors and provide necessary supervision
(where available) to help evaluate and counseling. .
the circumstances, determine the
Unmarried biological parents should
need for professional help, and
not be advised to support the child
identify resources. This service is
as a condition of regret or out of a
free. In the United States and
sense of obligation to care for one's
Canada, bishops can contact the
own. Furthermore, grandparents and
LDS Family Services office that
other family members should not feel
17.3.12 serves their area or call 1-800-537-
obligated to facilitate the raising of
2229. Bishops can also go to the
children by single parents, since the
199
 child would generally not be able to sperm donation.
receive the blessings of the sealed
covenant. Additionally, single Suicide
parents are generally unable to
provide the stability and nurturing It is a mistake to take a life, even
environment that a married mother your own. However, a person who
and father can provide. Unmarried commits suicide cannot be
parents should prayerfully consider responsible for his or her actions.
the best interests of the child and the Only God can judge such a matter.
blessings that may come to a baby
Leaders should counsel and
who is sealed to a mother and father
compassionately comfort the family
(see First Presidency Letter, June
members of a person who has
26, 2002).
committed suicide. The family, in
If a prospective parent decides to consultation with the bishop,
raise children, Church leaders and determines the location and nature
other members should treat the of a funeral service for a person who
parents and child with care and has died under such circumstances.
compassion and seek to reinforce Church facilities may be used. If the
parenting skills. LDS Family Services person was gifted, he or she may be
can help in these circumstances. buried in temple clothing.
Leaders encourage parents so that
The bishop must counsel a person
the child receives a name and a
who has seriously thought about
blessing (see Handbook 2, 20.2).
suicide or attempted suicide. The
For information about whether a bishop may also encourage the
pregnant young woman should 17.3.14 member to seek professional help.
attend Relief Society or Young
Women meetings, see Handbook 2, Surgical sterilization
10.12.4. (including vasectomy)
LDS Family Services has The Church strongly discourages
established a toll-free hotline for surgical sterilization as a form of
single expectant parents and others contraceptive method of choice.
to obtain help with pregnancy and Surgical sterilization should be
related issues (1-800-537-2229). considered only if (1) medical
The helpline is available in all areas conditions seriously endanger life or
of the United States and Canada. health, or (2) congenital defects or
Members and non-members can call serious trauma have rendered a
directly or call the local LDS Family person mentally incompetent and not
Services office. If leaders do not responsible for their actions. Such
know the local office number, they conditions must be determined by
can call the helpline or go to competent medical judgment and in
itsaboutlove.org . That website accordance with the law. Even then,
provides useful information for those those responsible for this decision
who are single, pregnant, and must consult with each other and
considering their options. with their bishop and must receive
divine confirmation of their decision
sperm donation 17.3.15 through prayer.
17/03/13
The Church strongly discourages
17.3.16 Surrogate motherhood
200
 The Church strongly discourages Baptism and Confirmation Record (in areas that
surrogacy. If parents want to have a have Church record-keeping software, the form
child born to a surrogate mother be is printed at local units, for full-time missionaries
sealed to them, the stake president and areas that do not have record-keeping
refers the matter to the Office of the software, the number of item is 35971)
First Presidency.
Basic principles of well-being and self-reliance
Manual 1: Stake Presidents and Bishops refers (brochure, 08288, DVD, 08287)
to many other materials produced by the Church.
An alphabetical list of these materials is provided Guide Basic Unit Program (36717)
below. If item numbers have been assigned, they
Bishop's Order Forms Commodities (items vary
are included in this list and not in the manual
by area)
text. Most of these materials are available
through Church distribution services. Contact Branch Guide (31179)
information is provided below:
Certificate of Appointment (33120)
Distribution Services 1999 West 1700 South Salt
Lake City, Utah 84104-4233 Phone: 801-240- Songs for children (35395)
3800 (Salt Lake City area) 1-800-537-5971 (US
and Canada) 1-801-240- 1126 (other countries) Church Facilities catalog illustrations (contact
Internet: www.ldscatalog.com facility manager)

Aaronic Priesthood Ordering records and Confidential Report on proposed Temple Worker
certificates (in areas that have Church form (04768)
maintenance record software, the record and
Priesthood Duties and Blessings, Part B (31112)
certificate are printed in local units, in other
areas, the item number is 35857) Gifted from Above: Temple Preparation Seminar
Teacher's Manual (36854)
A Guide to Seminary and Institute Graduation
Exercises (available online at seminary.lds.org) Facilities Management Guidelines for
Meetinghouses and Other Church Property
Prepare everything that is necessary: The family
(United States and Canada, 35,860; outside the
economy (04007)
United States and Canada, 36,485)
Prepare everything that is necessary: Storage at
Family Guide (31180)
home (04008)
For the Strength of Youth (brochure, 36550,
Annual History for Guardians and Districts
card, 36551)
(32299)
God loves his children (04824)
Guide for Parents (31125)
Group Leader Kit (08208)
Application to the First Presidency form (in areas
that have Church maintenance record software, How to Help Those Struggling with Pornography
the form is printed in local units; in other areas, (00461)
unit leaders may obtain copies from the Area
Presidency; 35789 ) Hymns (31243)

Baptism and Confirmation Certificate (in areas Information and suggestions for patriarchs
that have Church maintenance record software, (31257)
the certificate is printed at local units, in other
areas, the item number is 35920) Instructions for clothing the dead who have
received their endowments (31461)

201
Let not your heart be troubled DVD (54616) Prevention and Response to Child Abuse
(35665)
Let virtue adorn your thoughts (00460)
Prevention and response to Spousal Abuse
Limited use of recommendations (04.138, use (35869)
the order form in the recommend book to order
additional recommends) Of the priesthood and auxiliary organizations of
the Guide' (31178)
Melchizedek Priesthood Ordering records and
certificates (in areas that have Church Prevent the Child: Responding to Abuse DVD
maintenance record software, the record and (06616)
certificate are printed in local units, in other
areas, the item number is 35858) Providing the Lord's Way: Summary Guide for
Wellness Leaders (08257)
Member's Guide to Temple and Family History
(36795) Quarterly Report (in areas that have Church
maintenance record software, the form is
LDS and Military Women Military ID Tag accessed and submitted electronically; in other
(33.118) areas, the assigned administrative office submits
the form to units)
Military writing set (31197)
Recommendation for the Church-Missionary
Missionary Manual (35996) Service Form (available online at lds.org/csm,
item number 35813)
Missionary Recommendation Forms (in areas
that do not use the online missionary referral Recommendation for the New Bishop form (in
system, the item number is 36549) areas that have Church maintenance registration
software, the form is printed at local units, in
Mission President's Manual (36203)
other areas, the item number is 31747)
Needs and form Resource Analysis (32290)
Recommendation for New Counselor for Stake
Needs and form Resource Analysis Supplement President Form (in areas that have Church
(32291) maintenance record software, the form is printed
in local units; in other areas, the item number is
New Patriarch Recommendation form (31674) 31746)

Officer Sustainment forms (in areas that have I recommend it for life ordinances (04102, use
Church maintenance record software, these the order form in the recommend book to order
forms are printed in local units; in other areas, additional recommends)
the item numbers are as follows: participation,
32300, district, 32301; ward or branch in play, It is recommended to make an Ordinance form
32,302; branch in mission, 32303) (32595)

Patriarchal Blessing of Recommendations (in Report Administrative Action form (in areas that
areas that have Church maintenance record have Church maintenance record software, the
software, the form is printed in local units, in form is printed at local units, in other areas, the
other areas, the item number is 32017) item number is 32427)

Preach My Gospel: A Guide to Missionary Church Disciplinary Action Form Report (in areas
Service (36617) that have Church maintenance record software,
the form is printed at local units, in other areas,
How to prepare to enter the Holy Temple the item number is 33493)
(36793)
Ordinance Information Request Form (32388)
202
Application for Supplemental Financial A Guide to Seminary and Institute Graduation
Assistance for Full-Time Missionary Form Exercises (available online at seminary.lds.org)
(31964)
Prepare everything that is necessary: The family
Responding to Abuse: Help for Church Leaders economy (04007)
(32248)
Prepare everything that is necessary: Storage at
Serving Your Country (Booklet, 35937, DVD, home (04008)
01684)
Annual History for Guardians and Districts
Stake and District Organization Application Form (32299)
(34203)
Guide for Parents (31125)
Teaching Guide (34595)
Application to the First Presidency form (in areas
Temple Recommendations (04101, use the that have Church maintenance record software,
order form in the recommend book to request the form is printed in local units; in other areas,
additional recommends) unit leaders may obtain copies from the Area
Presidency; 35789 )
Tithe and other offerings form (items vary by
area) Baptism and Confirmation Certificate (in areas
that have Church maintenance record software,
True to the Faith: A Gospel Reference (36863, the certificate is printed at local units, in other
item number for units ordering this publication as areas, the item number is 35920)
a free technical item 37 054)
Baptism and Confirmation Record (in areas that
Ward and Branch Organization Application Form have Church record-keeping software, the form
(34,202) is printed at local units, for full-time missionaries
and areas that do not have record-keeping
World Leadership Training Meeting: The
software, the number of item is 35971)
Patriarch (brochure, 25240, DVD, 25241 090)
Basic principles of well-being and self-reliance
(brochure, 08288, DVD, 08287)
Manual 1: Stake Presidents and Bishops refers
Guide Basic Unit Program (36717)
to many other materials produced by the Church.
An alphabetical list of these materials is provided Bishop's Order Forms Commodities (items vary
below. If item numbers have been assigned, they by area)
are included in this list and not in the manual
text. Most of these materials are available Branch Guide (31179)
through Church distribution services. Contact
information is provided below: Certificate of Appointment (33120)

Distribution Services 1999 West 1700 South Salt Songs for children (35395)
Lake City, Utah 84104-4233 Phone: 801-240-
Church Facilities catalog illustrations (contact
3800 (Salt Lake City area) 1-800-537-5971 (US
facility manager)
and Canada) 1-801-240- 1126 (other countries)
Internet: www.ldscatalog.com Confidential Report on proposed Temple Worker
form (04768)
Aaronic Priesthood Ordering records and
certificates (in areas that have Church Priesthood Duties and Blessings, Part B (31112)
maintenance record software, the record and
certificate are printed in local units, in other Gifted from Above: Temple Preparation Seminar
areas, the item number is 35857) Teacher's Manual (36854)
203
Facilities Management Guidelines for Needs and form Resource Analysis (32290)
Meetinghouses and Other Church Property
(United States and Canada, 35,860; outside the Needs and form Resource Analysis Supplement
United States and Canada, 36,485) (32291)

Family Guide (31180) New Patriarch Recommendation form (31674)

For the Strength of Youth (brochure, 36550, Officer Sustainment forms (in areas that have
card, 36551) Church maintenance record software, these
forms are printed in local units; in other areas,
God loves his children (04824) the item numbers are as follows: participation,
32300, district, 32301; ward or branch in play,
Group Leader Kit (08208) 32,302; branch in mission, 32303)

How to Help Those Struggling with Pornography Patriarchal Blessing of Recommendations (in
(00461) areas that have Church maintenance record
software, the form is printed in local units, in
Hymns (31243)
other areas, the item number is 32017)
Information and suggestions for patriarchs
Preach My Gospel: A Guide to Missionary
(31257)
Service (36617)
Instructions for clothing the dead who have
How to prepare to enter the Holy Temple
received their investitures (31461)
(36793)
Let not your heart be troubled DVD (54616)
Prevention and Response to Child Abuse
Let virtue adorn your thoughts (00460) (35665)

Limited use of recommendations (04.138, use Prevention and response to Spousal Abuse
the order form in the recommend book to order (35869)
additional recommends)
Of the priesthood and auxiliary organizations of
Melchizedek Priesthood Ordering records and the Guide ' (31178)
certificates (in areas that have Church
Prevent the Child: Responding to Abuse DVD
maintenance record software, the record and
(06616)
certificate are printed in local units, in other
areas, the item number is 35858) Providing the Lord's Way: Summary Guide for
Wellness Leaders (08257)
Member's Guide to Temple and Family History
(36795) Quarterly Report (in areas that have Church
maintenance record software, the form is
LDS and Military Women Military ID Tag
accessed and submitted electronically; in other
(33.118)
areas, the assigned administrative office submits
Military writing set (31197) the form to units)

Missionary Manual (35996) Recommendation for the Church-Missionary

Service Form (available online at lds.org/csm,
Missionary Recommendation Forms (in areas item number 35813)
that do not use the online missionary referral
system, the item number is 36549) Recommendation for the New Bishop form (in
areas that have Church maintenance registration
Mission President's Manual (36203) software, the form is printed at local units, in
other areas, the item number is 31747)
204
Recommendation for New Counselor for Stake World Leadership Training Meeting: The
President Form (in areas that have Church Patriarch (brochure, 25240, DVD, 25241 090)
maintenance record software, the form is printed
in local units; in other areas, the item number is
31746)

I recommend it for life ordinances (04102, use

the order form in the recommend book to order
additional recommends)

It is recommended to make an Ordinance form

(32595)

Report Administrative Action form (in areas that

have Church maintenance record software, the
form is printed at local units, in other areas, the
item number is 32427)

Church Disciplinary Action Form Report (in areas

that have Church maintenance record software,
the form is printed at local units, in other areas,
the item number is 33493)

Ordinance Information Request Form (32388)

Application for Supplemental Financial

Assistance for Full-Time Missionary Form
(31964)

Responding to Abuse: Help for Church Leaders

(32248)

Serving Your Country (Booklet, 35937, DVD,

01684)

Stake and District Organization Application Form

(34203)

Teaching Guide (34595)

Temple Recommendations (04101, use the

order form in the recommend book to request
additional recommends)

Tithe and other offerings form (items vary by

area)

True to the Faith: A Gospel Reference (36863,

item number for units ordering this publication as
a free technical item 37 054)

Ward and Branch Organization Application Form

(34,202)

205