Perfecting the Saints

      As Melchizedek Priesthood holders we hold a specific charge and responsibility as it relates to, "Perfecting the Saints". Although Home teaching is a strong tool to move this work forward, (important enough to get its own page on the blog), there is so much more we need to be doing. In this post we will discuss some of the other ideas of how we, as elders, can help to "Perfect the Saints".

Administering sacred ordinances :  In the church, an ordinance is a sacred, formal act performed by the authority of the priesthood. Some ordinances are essential to our exaltation. These ordinances are called saving ordinances. They include baptism, confirmation, ordination to the Melchizedek Priesthood (for men), The temple endowment, and the marriage sealing. It is our responsibility to prepare, administer,  and teach the brethren to receive the Priesthood and these ordinances.

Temporal Welfare: This includes but is not limited to caring for the needy, teaching self reliance, and fostering responsible financial management through helping with job training, employment and preparation. Some examples might include helping with food storage projects, church welfare programs and the church employment website.

Spiritual Welfare:  We spiritually feed the ward members as we serve diligently in our respective callings. When teaching classes or leading discussions in Quorum meetings we should teach basic sound gospel principles, inspired by prayerful preparation. The bearing of our testimonies, paying tithes and offerings, participation and prayer in church meetings all help to strengthen and invite the spirit into the lives of our ward family. Regular temple attendance and family history work is essential to our spiritual well being.

Personal and Family Focus:  It all starts at home! Regular family home evening, family prayer, family scripture study, and sabbath day observance will build a strong gospel foundation. 

Member Participation:  Regularly attending "all" of our church meetings will have a large impact on our spiritual walk. How important must this principle be if it made the Temple interview questions list. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is a participatory church. Only by loving our ward members, working together, and serving one another can we begin perfecting ourselves and those we care about so that one day we are worthy to stand in our heavenly fathers presence. We can bless the lives of others as well as ourselves by participating in service projects like, move ins, move outs, temple sealing assignments, and other opportunities. Too often a few diligent are left to carry the load. Additionally, attending church social functions, firesides and activities are a great way to fellowship with great people that share great values.

       These are just a few ideas that relate to the scriptural principle of "perfecting the saints". I feel very fortunate to be associated with and influenced by "The Desert  Breeze Ward Elders". Never have I seen such a selfless, caring and loving group of brethren. Each of you has  touch my life and influenced my family in so many ways. I am encouraged and uplifted by your example. My prayer is that you know of my love for each and every one of you, and if I can ever help in anyway, you feel comfortable enough to contact me and allow me the opportunity to serve you as you have served me. I leave you with my testimony of these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Danny Moore 

Desert Breeze Elders Quorum