"And he commanded them that there should be no contention one with another, but that they should look forward with one eye, having one faith and one baptism, having their hearts knit together in unity and in love one towards another." (Mosiah 18:21)

"Just as described in the setting at the Waters of Mormon, in this day the Saints strive to be one. Despite the diverse activities, work, fun and challenges that we all face, the quorum still provides us with a haven where we can feel unity. It is, as described in the last General Conference,'...a class, a fraternity and a service unit'"
Elder Todd Christofferson, October 3, 1998.

The priesthood is the power and authority of God. By His priesthood power the heavens and the earth were created. By this power the universe is kept in perfect order. Through this power He accomplishes his work and glory, which is "to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man." (Moses 1"39)

Our Heavenly Father shares His priesthood power with worthy male members of the Church. The priesthood enables them to act in God's name for the salvation of the human family.

Men cannot buy and sell the power and authority of the priesthood. Nor can they take this authority upon themselves. In the New Testament we read of a man named Simon, who became converted and was baptized into the Church. Simon did not have the priesthood, and he knew it. So he went to Peter and offered to buy the priesthood. But Peter, the chief Apostle, said, "Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money." (Acts 5:20)

As Elders we should each use our priesthood to bless the lives of our Heavenly Father's children here on earth. The Lord has told us that the power of the priesthood cannot be controlled except in righteousness. We must always be mindful to use our priesthood "by persuasion, by long-suffering, by gentleness and meekness, and by love unfeigned." Let us each use our priesthood power to bless the lives of those in our family, our Ward, and our communities.

Elders

Elders are called to teach, expound, exhort, baptize, and watch over the Church. All Melchizedek Priesthood holders are elders. They have the authority to bestow the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands. Elders should conduct meetings of the Church as they are led by the Holy Ghost. Elders may administer to the sick. They are commanded to bless little children. Elders may preside over Church meetings when there is no high priest present.

"There is no greater Church calling than that of a home teacher. There is no greater Church service rendered to our Father in Heaven's children than the service rendered by a humble, dedicated, committed home teacher."
President Ezra Taft Benson, May 1987, p. 48

Inspirational Talks and Speeches:

Web Sites Of Interest: