More Priestly
I have been thinking a lot about the Church’s recent announcement about expanding the youth’s responsibilities in the temples.
[Editor’s note: Priests in the Aaronic Priesthood will now perform baptisms for the dead and act as witnesses for the baptisms. Young women who have limited-use (non-endowed) temple recommends can perform the matronly roles in assisting with temple baptisms.]
Of course, my first thought was about my three teenagers. They have been very involved in temple and family history work since our temple was dedicated this year. But with this change, all of the sudden my 17-year-old son seemed more priestly. And the two others seemed to straighten up a little when they heard it. I read this gem in Ether yesterday, and I am sure it is connected somehow: “We know that thou art able to show forth great power, which looks small unto the understanding of men.” I think our youngsters are finding great power in small-looking things.
-from FoJG JRL-in-AZ
Bookslinger
December 26, 2017
There is definitely a trend, starting with the raising of the bar in 2002, Preach My Gospel, the changes in the youth curriculum (or how it was to be taught) starting in 2008, the mission age change in 2012, and now this.
One of the things I have suggested is getting the youth to church “early” (at least 15 minutes before sac mtg starts) and greet members and visitors, and getting to know members by name. This will help to prepare them for leaving behind electronic devices, and actually talking to strangers face-to-face on their mission.
JRL in AZ
January 3, 2018
Went to the temple this morning. The font was full of young priests baptizing, including mine. There was plenty of supervision, this being only the second day.
G.
January 3, 2018
We are headed out in a couple of weeks, I’m pretty excited about it.