Prince’s Research Excerpts: Priesthood & Mormonism – 1935

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PRIESTHOOD, 1935.

1935: 18 Jan.: Twelve removed from auxiliary boards.

“For some time past it has been evident that the growth of the Church and the ever-increasing demands upon the time and strength of the General Authorities would make imperative the releasing of the First Presidency and of the Council of the Twelve from direct responsibility of presiding over the general boards of the auxiliary organizations. It has been seventeen years since one of the First Presidency so officiated.

It is now deemed advisable, indeed absolutely necessary, to relieve members of the Twelve of their duties not only as presiding officers, but also as members of the general boards. The duties of the Apostleship, as well as the health of the individuals, demand that this action be taken without further delay.

Accordingly, at the regular weekly meeting of the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve held in the Salt Lake Temple, Thursday, January 10, Elders George Albert Smith, Richard R. Lyman, and Melvin J. Ballard, were honorably released as Superintendent, First Assistant, and Second Assistant Superintendent, repectively, of the Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Association of the Church. This action was accompanied by a keen and heartfelt appreciation of the able and untiring devotion of these brethren to a great and noble cause. Under their leadership the M.I.A. work has achieved high and worthy distinction. Most truly their accomplishments should bring to their souls the satisfaction and peace that come from successful achievement.

With the consideration of the necessity of relieving the Twelve, there has been associated also the advisibility of reorganizing all of the general boards of the auxiliary organizations. Such a course seems to possess much merit; first, because to require persons to contribute so much of their time to what might, without occasional changes, grow to be considered a life-long position is hardly fair; and secondly, because of the personal development acquired, others should be given an equal opportunity with their associates to serve in these responsible positions of leadership.

This policy to reorganize the auxiliary boards has been unanimously approved by the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve.” (First Presidency, 18 Jan., 1935, IE 38(3):134, Mar., 1935)

Jan.: 1st duty of quorum presidency: teach members duties

“A new item in the order of business provided for Aaronic Priesthood quorums is suggested by the Presiding Bishopric for the coming year. This item includes ‘Instructions in duties and in filling assignments.’ This feature is expected to result in additional stress being given to the responsibility placed upon each quorum by revelation–to teach each quorum member his duties. The revelation contained in Section 107 of the Doct. and Cov. reads as follows:

And again, verily I say unto you, the duty of a president over the office of a deacon is to preside over twelve deacons, to sit in counsel with them, and to teach them their duty–edifying one another as it is given according to the covenants.

. . . .

This makes clear the fact that the first duty of the quorum presidency is to teach the members their duties and to sit in council with them.

This new item in the order of business contemplates special attention being given during the activity period of each quorum to the teaching of the duties of each member and discussing the filling of assignments, all of which are in line with the duties of the members. It is believed that increased activity and better results in many ways will be secured if this matter is given special attention in the quorums.

The Presiding Bishopric has again urged that all quorums follow the regular order of business outlined in each lesson manual. Where this is done quorums make progress and the work of each group is completed in an efficient manner. Where it is neglected, many of the important phases of Aaronic Priesthood supervision are overlooked.” (“Aaronic Priesthood,” IE 38(1):38, Jan., 1935)

Jan.: Changes in AP policies.

“PRESIDING BISHOPRIC ANNOUNCES CHANGE IN TIME OF WARD PRIESTHOOD MEETINGS

Under date of December 7 the following bulletin was issued by the Presiding Bishopric.

PROPOSED TIME AND ARRANGEMENT FOR HOLDING WEEKLY WARD PRIESTHOOD MEETINGS

After consideration of this important matter by the Council of the Twelve and the Presiding Bishopric, the recommendation has been made to the First Presidency and approved by them that hereafter the weekly ward priesthood meetings be held on Sunday morning during the Sunday School period for not less than one-half hour from 11:25 a.m. to 11:55 a.m. Physical or other conditions in some wards may not permit of this arrangement.

The plan proposed is that, after the preliminary exercises and the sacrament, the regular Sunday School classes will form and carry out the Sunday School class work, after which the women and girls will return to the main assembly for a special program and members of the Priesthood will meet in separate quorums for one-half hour as indicated above.

It is very important that during that half hour for priesthood work the Aaronic Priesthood Quorums and classes shall proceed promptly and systematically with the order of business, so that every phase of that work shall be given proper attention. The schedule proposed to be carried out in each separate quorum meeting during that half hour is as follows:

(1) Prayer–by members of quorum in rotation.

(2) Audible roll call.

(3) Consideration of means to get absent members to attend regularly.

(4) Reports of various assignments performed during previous week.

(5) Assignments of variety of duties to all members for ensuing week.

(6) Instructions in duties and in filling assignments.

(7) Consideration of social and fraternal activities of the quorum.

(8) Brief instructions by members of the bishop or supervisor on habits and virtues.

(9) Brief review of Priesthood lesson for the week.

By proper coordination of the supervisor with the quorum presidency all of these matters can be given due consideration during that period, and a very profitable meeting held.

It is to be understood that for the monthly teachers report meetings, a suitable time will be arranged by the ward bishopric.

FURTHER DETAILS REGARDING THE HOLDING OF THE HALF HOUR AARONIC PRIESTHOOD MEETING ON SUNDAY MORNING DURING SUNDAY SCHOOL. ITEMIZED DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING EACH OF THE VARIOUS ITEMS LISTED IN THE ORDER OF BUSINESS FOR THE WEEKLY AARONIC PRIESTHOOD QUORUM MEETING

(1) Prayer–by members of quorum in rotation. It is very important that every member of the quorum shall be taught to pray publicly and to be taught how to pray appropriately.

(2) The purpose of the audible roll call is to call the attention of every member of the quorum to those that are absent as well as those that are present. The effort should be to get every member who cannot be present to send in an excuse. Those who are absent should be noted and an effort be made through the membership of the quorum to get them to attend the meeting regularly.

(3) Consideration of means to get absent members to attend regularly: Effective ways include sending quorum members as missionaries to visit absentees, special invitations from supervisors and members of bishopric, occasional contacts with parents and appeals to special interests of members.

(4) Reports of various assignments performed during previous week: As the roll is called each member, in answering should give the assignments filled during the week; or a special check-up on assignments filled may follow the roll call. The important thing is to get an accurate record each week of assignments filled by each member.

(5) Assignments of variety of duties to all members for ensuing week: Using the rollbook as a guide, assignments of duties should be made to all members in rotation. The list of assignments printed in the rollbook should be referred to frequently and as wide a variety of assignments as possible should be made. All members, if possible, should be induced to fill assignments. Occasionally it is helpful to have members tell their experiences briefly in filling particular assignments.

(6) Instruction in duties and in filling assignments: One of the principal obligations of the quorum officers is to teach each member his duties and to encourage him in their fulfillment. New members, particularly, should be given careful instructions in their duties and responsibilities and should be taught the best methods of doing the things assigned to them.

(7) Consideration of social and fraternal activities of the quorum: Quorum unity and morale may be promoted by a definite social and fraternal program. Occasional gatherings by quorums or grades of Priesthood should be held. Stake gatherings for all Aaronic Priesthood members are helpful. Visiting and assisting sick members and expressing sympathy in time of trouble assist in developing the fraternal spirit.

(8) Brief instructions by members of the bishopric or supervisor on habits and virtues: Each member of the bishopric should prepare for his group definite suggestions and instructions regarding personal habits, Church standards, etc. A brief message each week will stimulate thoughts and actions along proper lines and help members to overcome temptations.

(9) Brief review of Priesthood lesson for the week: Each lesson should be assigned for home reading at least once. The supervisor, after careful preparation, should conduct a brief review to develop the important messages of the lesson. The limited time makes home reading on the part of members and intensive preparation on the part of the supervisor doubly necessaryto insure satisfactory results. Members studying the lesson at home should be credited with an assignment filled.

AUTHORIZED AGES FOR ORDINATION TO OFFICES IN THE AARONIC PRIESTHOOD

The First Presidency of the Church has authorized the following schedule for ordination to and advancement in the Priesthood.

Three years experience and training for the Deacons–12, 13, 14.

Two years experience and training for the Teachers–15 and 16.

Two years experience and training as Priests–17 and 18. Under the new plan Priests are eligible, if worthy, to be ordained to the office of Elder at 19 years of age.”

(IE 38(1):40, Jan., 1935)

Feb.: Order of business in Bishopric meetings.

“It is suggested that each Sunday morning at 9:30, or earlier if desired, that a meeting be held to be attended by the following: The Bishopric, group leader of the high priests, seventy and elders; the presidents of the teachers and deacons quorums; the Aaronic Priesthood supervisor and any others whom the bishopric wishes to invite.

In this meeting the order of business will be as follows:

1. Opening prayer.

2. Reports on assignments previously made, if any.

3. Assignments to various priesthood groups.

4. Choosing of one of the three Melchizedek Priesthood group leaders to present these instructions to the combined priesthood groups at the 11:25 a.m. meeting. (Note: In those wards in which Melchizedek quorums meet separately this assignment need not be made as each group leader will present the message in the meeting of his group.)”

(“Melchizedek Priesthood,” IE 38(2):101, Feb., 1935)

Feb.: Changes in ordaining young men to the priesthood.

“The presiding authorities have directed that the following change be made in relation to class study in the Sunday Schools of the Church and in the ordaining of young men to the Priesthood:

That a definite time be fixed for the ordaining of Priests to the office of Elder in the Melchizedek Priesthood, and that this age be 19, thus affording Elder the privilege of two years of training and experience before they become eligible for ordination to the office of Seventy.

The following order is also authorized for advancement in the Aaronic Priesthood:

Three years experience and training for the Deacons–12, 13, 14;

Two years experience and training for the Teachers–15 and 16;

Two years experience and training for the Priests–17 and 18.

A two-year course is provided in missionary-training for Elders and young women of 19 and 20 years of age who are prospective missionaries.

Under this arrangement worthy young men may be ordained Elders at 19 years of age, and after completing this two-year course, or during the time if necessary, they may be called on missions and be ordained Seventies before departing for their mission fields.” (“Melchizedek Priesthood,” IE 38(2):101, Feb., 1938)

1 Feb.: Women do not hold the Priesthood.

“Something should be said to inspire people to do their duty by their kindred dead. I hope to be able to do this by impressing upon your minds the importance of the blessings received by the dead when we go into the temple and do their ordinance work for them: They receive membership in the Church and Kingdom of God and they receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Those who hold the Priesthood and have authority from God to represent Him, while they are in the spirit can point the way to eternal life to those who are in spiritual darkness.

This relates to the men holding the Holy Priesthood, not women. Women are not ordained to the Priesthood, but any woman that is the faithful, sealed wife of a faithful man who holds that Priesthood will enjoy all the blessings of the Priesthood. They shall be saved with their husbands, and that should be enough for any sister.” (George F. Richards, address given at Leadership Week, Provo, 1 Feb., 1935; UGHM 27:148-149, Oct., 1936)

Mar.: Negligence in holding missionary training class.

“By action of the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve Apostles taken in November, 1934, the following changes in relation to ordination to the Priesthood were made:

That a definite time be fixed for the ordaining of Priests to the office of Elder in the Melchizedek Priesthood, and that this age be 19, thus affording Elders the privilege of two years of training and experience before they become eligible for ordination to the office of Seventy.

Three years experience and training for the Deacons–12, 13, 14;

Two years experience and training for the Teachers–15 and 16;

Two years experience and training for the Priest–17 and 18.

It was expected that this plan be put into operation in all the wards of the Church in January, 1935.

It was also approved that there should be a missionary class in the Sunday School and the following instruction has been published in relation to this class:

The presiding authorities have directed the General Sunday School Board to make a change in the Missionary-training classes in our schools, beginning January 6th. In accordance with their desire a two-year course will be prepared for Elders and other young men and women of 19 and 20 years of age. The personnel of this class will not be chosen by the Bishop and approved by the Stake President and taught in a stake group as formerly required, but will be a ward Sunday School class the same as other departments. The lesson, however, will be suitable for prospective missionaries.

Under the new rule worthy young men will be ordained Elders at 19 years of age, and after taking the two-year Missionary-training course, if called upon a mission, will be ordained Seventies.

It has come to our attention that this class has not been organized in some of the wards of the Church. The holding of this missionary class is mandatory. It cannot be dispensed with without doing injury to the missionary plan. The course of study must be, also, the course prepared under the direction of the General Authorities of the Church as it is given in the Sunday School. The outline of study for this class is published.

Under the ruling of the General Authorities, missionaries going into the field will be ordained Seventies, but before this can be done they must have received the missionary instruction in the class provided. There may be occasions when young men will be called to the mission field before they reach the age of 21 years, and this will be an exception to the rule. Such young men may be called during the period of the two-year course of study, but as far as possible the two-year period of missionary training should be completed before young men and women are called to foreign missionary labor.

The brethren of the High Priests, Seventies and Elders will study in the Gospel Doctrine classes as heretofore. A full period of forty-five minutes is alloted to this study. At the close of the Gospel Doctrine class at 11:25 the sisters will assemble as outlined in previous instruction while the brethren will engage in their Priesthood activity meetings. These activity meetings will close at 11:55.

It is not the prerogative of a class instructor in these Priesthood classes to set aside the authorized course of study and substitute lessons of his own choosing. These lessons are prepared under the supervision of the General Authorities of the Church.” (“Melchizedek Priesthood,” IE 38(3):162, Mar., 1935)

Apr.: Modern apostles vs. ancient prophets.

“The question has arisen at times, ‘Do the apostles hold greater authority and keys than were given to ancient prophets?’ The answer to this question is that they do not. Many of the prophets of old had conferred upon them the fulness of the power of the Priesthood.” (Joseph Fielding Smith, “The Twelve Apostles,” IE 38(4):209, Apr., 1935)

Apr.: History of the Seventy.

“We are wont to say that the first quorum of the Seventy of our dispensation was organized by the Prophet Joseph Smith on the 28th day of February, 1835, just a century ago. On this day forty-five men were selected, ‘blessed and ordained’ to form the nucleus of the First Quorum. It is difficult to determine just what is meant by ‘blessed and ordained.’

Among these forty-five were the following men, all of whom became the Presidency of the quorum: Hazen Aldrich, Joseph Young, Levi W. Hancock, Leonard Rich, Zebedee Coltrin, Lyman Sherman, Sylvester Smith.

If we had no further information we would, likely, conclude that all these men were set apart on this occasion to their respective positions, for it is stated that they were blessed and ordained, but we learn that Joseph Young and Sylvester Smith were ‘made presidents of the seventy’ the next day, March 1, and, furthermore, that the date upon which Zebedee Coltrin was made a seventy is unknown. This leaves us rather in the dark as to just what happened on the 28th of February. The selection of these forty-five men was, however, the first official gesture towards the organization of the Seventy.

The Doctrine and Covenants tells us in Section 107:93-96, the following:

And it is according to the vision showing the order of the Seventy, that they should have seven presidents to preside over them, chosen out of the number of the Seventy;

And the seventh president of these presidents is to preside over the other six;

And these seven presidents are to choose other seventy besides the first seventy to whom they belong, and are to preside over them;

And also other seventy, until seven times seventy, if the labor in the vineyard of necessity requires it.

Accordingly about the beginning of the next year, it was deemed proper to organize another quorum and on the 3rd of February Alva Beaman handed in seventy names of members of his quorum, which must have been a quorum of Elders, to make up another Seventy ‘if God will,’ and a few days later a meeting was held in which some of these men were ordained Seventy. When the full seventy were ordained we do not know but we have more detailed information as to the third quorum the organization of which began Dec. 20th, 1836, when twenty-seven men were ordained seventies under the hands of Hazen Aldrich, Joseph Young, and Zebedee Coltrin. Men were ordained into this quorum in parties of from two to nine until by Feb. 21st, 1837, there were forty-seven members in it. We are left to presume that this continued until the quorum had seventy members for on May 6, 1839, forty-five men were ordained seventies without designation to any particular quorum.

There are two interesting things to be noted here as to the manner of government of the Seventies. First, only the First Quorum had a presidency and they presided over all the others. Second, replacements to any quorum were taken from the one next lower in rank. The First took its new men from the Second and the Second got them from the Third, and so on.

Meanwhile a very difficult question had arisen in the ranks of the Priesthood. Just where should these Seventies stand? Some thought they were High Priests with a special calling and they had even been referred to as Seventy Apostles and their calling as Apostolic. The question finally reached the ears of the Prophet and on the 6th of April, 1837, a meeting was called and five of the presiding seven of the First Quorum were asked to give up their presidencies and go into the High Priests’ quorum under a ruling that a High Priest should not preside over the Seventy. Other men were taken to fill their places and in the change Joseph Young emerged as the Senior President.

It would appear that until the 8th of October, 1844, there were no other quorums organized but the spirit of the Seventy seems to have been working as a leaven and on the date mentioned great changes were brought about.

There being seventy men in the First Quorum it was decided to use them all as Presidents and organize other quorums to accommodate them, the net result being the organization on this day of enough quorums to bring the total up to number eleven, which means that there were ten active quorums as the number one quorum was represented henceforth only by the Presiding Council; until the present time the First Quorum has never been reorganized.

On the date mentioned (October 8, 1844) there were forty men ordained for the Twelfth quorum which was given a presidency and thenceforth the number of quorums increased until at present we are contemplating the organization of the 249th quorum. This is not to be taken to mean that we now have that number of active quorums, for some of them have been disorganized but the number is at present a large one.

After the removal of those members who had been ordained High Priests before their choice to head the first quorum of the Seventy, as has already been stated, Joseph Young was the senior member of the First Council and under his wise direction the organization made its earlier development. He seems to have been the directing force in development and upon his demise his son, Seymour B., came into the First Council to perpetuate his name and carry on his good work and now his son, Levi Edgar, is honored with a position on the Council. This, it would appear, is unique so far as the First Council of the Seventy is concerned, for its duplicate cannot be cited.” (Antoine R. Ivins, First Council of Seventy, “The Seventy,” IE 38(4):213-214, Apr., 1935)

Apr.: Missionaries should be 70s, not Elders.

“As may already have been gleaned from the foregoing, the main purpose of the Seventies, and the only real reason for their being brought together as an organization, is the dissemination of the Gospel and when a man ceases to be a missionary he ceases to be a real Seventy. Their duties are set forth in the 107th section of the Doctrine and Covenants where it may be learned that they are qualified to do very much the same things which the Twelve are to do so long as they are operating under the direction of the Twelve. It will be seen that the main purpose of each organization is to preach the Gospel to the nations of the earth, the Twelve laboring under the direction of the First Presidency and the Seventies under the Twelve. It was so well understood that the labor of the Seventy is preaching that President Brigham Young is quoted as having said at the time of the reorganization above referred to (Oct. 8, 1844), ‘If an Elder wants to go preaching let him go into the seventies. You are all apostles to the nations to carry the gospel.’ Right along this line is the 38th verse of Sec. 107 of the Doctrine and Covenants. ‘It is the duty of the traveling high council to call upon the Seventy, when they need assistance, to fill the calls for preaching and administering the gospel, instead of any others.’

The time came when, for some reason, the outgoing missionaries were mostly Elders. Perhaps that was because they are mostly young men, often not having attained to their majority. Right now the pendulum seems to be swinging back on its stroke and more and mroe of the outgoing missionaries are going equipped with the priesthood of a Seventy which seems entirely concordant with the revelations we have upon the calling of missionaries.” (Antoine R. Ivins, First Council of Seventy, “The Seventy,” IE 38(4):215, Apr., 1935)

Apr.: Success of Adult Aaronic Priesthood program.

“This is essentially a missionary Church. Its missionary activities extend into many fields both in and out of the Church. One of the most fruitful missionary activities within the Church today is the

Adult Aaronic Priesthood Plan. This movement, inaugurated two years ago is designed to bring into renewed activity men over twenty years of age who still hold the Aaronic Priesthood. The plan now being followed is more successful than any of the many plans followed in the past with the same objective in view.

A study of the summary of the plans and restuls in wards and stakes representative of the Church as a whole has developed some rather definite principles which thus far have been successful. These include the selection of two or more men, each with the true missionary spirit, the setting of a time for meetings which is different from the meeting time of other organizations of the ward, and a definite plan or outline for class procedure. Best results apparently are being secured in wards where a considerable amount of missionary work precedes the actual formation of the class and where a definite outline or study-course is adopted in advance.” (“Aaronic Priesthood,” IE 38(4):251, Apr., 1935)

Apr.: “AP Correlation Plan Makes History.”

“Two definite accomplishments have been credited to the Aaronic Priesthood Correlation Plan since its inauguration by the Presiding Bishopric in April 1932. The first is the establishment and development of a wholesome and beneficial spirit of cooperation between all agencies of the Church supervising the activities of young men twelve to nineteen years of age. The second is the creation of a spirit of ‘boy mindedness’ in practically the entire Church membership. The objective of the plan, that of reaching and bringing into activity all members of Aaronic Priesthood Quorum age, is based upon the missionary spirit of the Church.

As a Church-wide, cooperative movement its accomplishments have fully justified the judgment of Church leaders in the establishment of a new activity.

An analysis of results covering nearly three years, indicates that the four agencies involved–the Aaronic Priesthood, Sunday School, M.I.A., and the Seminary–have benefitted to a gratifying extent.” (“Aaronic Priesthood,” IE 38(4):251, Apr., 1935)

22 May: Keys vested in the President of the Church.

“The fulness of the keys of the Priesthood are vested in the President of the Church. The Apostles hold all authority and keys, but cannot exercise the authority which is vested in the President, except in case where the Apostle is elevated to the Presidency. There cannot be two authorities in the Church with equal jurisdiction at the same time, although there may be two quorums holding the same Priesthood and authority.” (22 May, 1935; Rudger Clawson “Book of Decisions-2”; in Widtsoe, Priesthood and Church Government (1939 edition), p. 252)

Jun.: Quorum meetings not to adjourn during summer.

“The definite recommendation of the Presiding Bishopric is that all Aaronic Priesthood quorums and classes meet regularly during the entire year. There should be no adjournment during the summer months. It is felt that in addition to the fact that the Priesthood is expected to function in the lives of its members at all seasons of the year that many of the usual restraints and safeguards are removed during the summer vacation period making frequent contact with the Church doubly desirable.

Many quorums engage in additional activities during the summer designed to promote a social and fraternal spirit among quorum members.” (“Aaronic Priesthood,” IE 38(6):373, Jun., 1935)

Jun.: Time for adult class meetings.

“In setting the time for Priesthood activity meetings from 11:25 to 11:55 on Sunday mornings, it was not intended that this plan should affect Adult Aaronic Priesthood classes throughout the Church. These adult classes are more in the nature of missionary service and many of those affected have definite objections to attending services while other groups are in session. Best results have come almost universally when these brethren are permitted to meet at some other time. This is the intention and bishops are requested to set a time which will be most desirable for this particular purpose and most agreeable to the group.” (“Aaronic Priesthood,” IE 38(6):373, Jun., 1935)

Sep.: New Editorial Policy of Improvement Era.

“3. Departmental messages.

a. Priesthood (both Priesthoods and their activities under one general heading.)”

[The “Aaronic Priesthood” and “Melchizedek Priesthood” pages were combined into a “Priesthood” page for only two issues–September and October–then the prior division was resumed.] (IE 38(9):inside front cover, Sep., 1935)

Sep.: Concerning Adult Aaronic Priesthood.

[Program for Priesthood Conferences]

“Topic: ‘Progress of the Members of the Aaronic Priesthood in Our Ward,’ by a Bishop.

. . . .

g. Number of men holding the Aaronic Priesthood who are over 21 years of age.

h. Have you an Adult Aaronic Priesthood Class in the Ward?”

(“Priesthood Conferences, Season of 1935-36,” xerox)

5 Sep.: Failure to carry out Church programs.

“September 5, 1935

To Presidents of Stakes, Bishops of Wards, and Presidents of Melchizedek Priesthood Quorums.

Dear Brethren:

It has come to our attention that in some of the stakes and wards and quorums of the Church there has been failure to carry out in full the program and instructions which have been given by the General Authorities of the Church for the guidance and development of the brethren holding the Priesthood.

Whenever instructions and counsel are sent out from the presiding councils of the Church it is the duty of all brethren concerned to do their best to carry out such instructions and counsel to the fullest extent. It is impossible for the brethren of the First Presidency and the councils of the Apostles and Seventy to visit each ward and quorum and give instruction by personal visits. It is necessary, therefore, that instructions issuing from the General Authorities be placed in the hands of the presiding officers in the stakes, wards and quorums, with the request that they, as presiding officers, teach and direct all matters pertaining to the functions and activities of the Priesthood.

We feel it our duty at this time again to call attention to some of the problems which confront us, and to renew the request that you brethren take these matters in hand, and see if we can more nearly conform to the requirements and suggestions which have been previously circulated and published, which are vital to the welfare of the quorums of the Priesthood.

1. Every presiding officer should have a copy of the ‘Priesthood Manual, A Handbook for the Quorums of the Melchizedek Priesthood.’

This Manual has been prepared for the guidance of all the brethren holding the Priesthood, and especially for those who are called to presiding positions. It contains detailed information in relation to the many problems which concern the quorums and the activities of the brethren who hold the Priesthood. No quorum can properly function without giving careful and constant attention to the matters which this pamphlet contains.

2. Every man holding the Priesthood should have in his possession the complete issues of The Quorum Bulletin. This Bulletin is issued quarterly and contains (a) the lessons for the Gospel Doctrine Classes in the Sunday School, (b) the lessons for the Monthly Quorum Meeting of the Priesthood Quorum, (c) the outline for the weekly Activity Meeting of the quorums or segments of quorums in the wards, and (d) helpful suggestions for the benefit of the Priesthood quorums. Successful work cannot be accomplished in any of these departments unless the brethren are studiously following these outlines and the instructions in The Bulletin.

3. The present arrangement in the Sunday School provides for a period of 45 minutes for the Gospel Doctrine Class, or from 10:40 to 11:25. This time is not to be infringed upon in any way by other duties or activities.

4. The weekly quorum or group Activity Meeting is to be held each Sunday immediately following the Gospel Doctrine period, and is to occupy thirty minutes, or from 11:25 to 11:55. This meeting should not be interfered with in any way. If, after the assignments and reports are made and all matters attended to which pertain to this Activity Meeting, there should be remaining time, suggestive topics have been prepared to be presented in that remaining time of the activity period.

5. On the Fast Day provision has been made by the elimination of a portion of the Sunday School exercises so that the Fast Meeting may be held immediately following the Sunday schools in the wards where this privilege has been granted. It is requested that the Fast Meeting be not held at such time that the full periods cannot be given to the Gospel Doctrine Class and the Weekly quorum Activity Meeting. In some wards this Activity Meeting has been dispensed weith on the Fast Day in order that the Fast Meeting may be held at 11:00 o’clock. This plan is not approved and is unnecessary.

6. The Missionary Training Class in some of the stakes and wards is not organized. Near the close of the year 1934, the First Presidency issued the following instruction:

A two-year course is provided in missionary-training for Elders and young women of 19 and 20 years of age who are prospective missionaries.

It is the intention that all young men, as far as possible, shall receive this two-year course of training before they are called to any mission field. After completing this course they are eligible to ordination as Seventies. If this course is not given so that the young men may receive this training, then they may have to go out in the field as Elders rather than as Seventies. It is imperative, therefore, that this class be organized so that the young men 19 and 20 years of age, and sisters of corresponding ages, may have this instruction. It is hoped that each ward or stake where this class is not functioning will see that the matter is attended to at once.

The question has been asked: ‘Is it proper for the Weekly Activity Meeting to be opened and closed by prayer?’ We feel that it is well to have prayer in this manner, thus lending a spirit of solemnity to the occasion. While this meeting is held within the Sunday School period yet it is a separate and distinct meeting in itself.

Now, brethren, will you take all these matters in hand, and any others that need attention which we have not mentioned, but which may be found outlined in the Bulletin and Manual, and help us to make our Melchizedek Priesthood od Quorums all that we can expect. The Lord has laid the burden upon us with the admonition that every man holding the Priesthood should ‘learn his duty, and to act in the office in which he is appointed in all diligence. He that is slothful shall not be worthy to stand, and he that learns not his duty and shows himself not approved shall not be counted worthy to stand.’

The responsiblity of the Priesthood is a most solemn and sacred thing. Let us carry our duties in an acceptable manner before our brethren and before the Lord.

Very sincerely yours,

Rudger Clawson,

In behalf of the Council of the Twelve.”

(“Priesthood,” IE 38(10):624-625, Oct., 1935)

10 Sep.: Half-hour quorum business meetings.

“Beginning in 1935 another plan provided for half-hour quorum business meetings and separate sessions for sisters to follow directly after the Sunday School lessons.” (Richard O. Cowan, “The Priesthood-Auxiliary Movement, 1928-1938,” BYU Studies 19(1):117, Fall, 1978; referenced to Council of the Twelve circular letter, 10 Sep., 1935)

Nov.: 70s to study Old Testament in 1936.

“In order properly to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the printing of the complete Holy Bible, Seventies of the Church have been asked to make Bible study a project for next year. The Old Testament is to be the special field for study.” (“Church Moves On,” IE 38(11):683, Nov., 1935)

Nov.: Adult Aaronic Priesthood Study Course.

“A special course of study for Adult Aaronic Priesthood classes is now being prepared for early publication to meet the widespread demand from all over the Church. This new movement in the Aaronic Priesthood has shown such excellent results that it is now being urged by the Presiding Bishopric for use in all wards of the Church.

The new outline will contain, in addition to lessons for the entire year 1936, suggestions for operating adult classes based upon the most successful experiences throughout the Church. It is expected that the new publication will be ready in ample time to begin with January 1st. In the meantime it is urged that classes be organized in every case where it is possible to do so.” (“Aaronic Priesthood,” IE 38(11):698, Nov., 1935)

Nov.: AP quorum outlines for 1936.

“A new series of Aaronic Priesthood Quorum lesson outlines for Priests, Teachers, and Deacons to harmonize with the plan adopted at the beginning of this year in connection with the Sunday School classes will be ready for use throughout the Church with the beginning of the new year. The lessons will deal more directly with subjects pertaining to the Aaronic Priesthood and its application in the lives of its members. It will also include the history of the Aaronic Priesthood and its importance in the Church both in ancient and modern times.” (“Aaronic Priesthood,” IE 38(11):698, Nov., 1935)

Nov.: Fundamental features of AP program for 1936.

“The three fundamental features of the Aaronic Priesthood program as outlined by the Presiding Bishopric are to be stressed in the plan announced for 1936 at the Aaronic Priesthood convention held in connection with the semi-annual conference held in Salt Lake City in October. These three features are: Aaronic Priesthood Quorum supervision, the Aaronic Priesthood correlation plan and the adult Aaronic Priesthood plan. Special emphasis is to be placed upon the orderly, systematic and effective conduct of Aaronic Priesthood Quorums, following the order of business printed elsewhere in this department. This is the plan provided and recommended by the Presiding Bishopric of the Church. In order to follow it successfully it is important that quorum supervisors act as advisors to the quorum officers in advance of weekly meetings in order that the officers themselves may properly conduct the work of the quorum. The plan is to stress the recommendation that in all quorums the quorum officers preside and conduct the meeting in its details except the discussion by the members of the Bishopric and the presentation of the lesson by the Supervisor.

The Aaronic Priesthood correlation plan is to be given special attention during the year in an effort to reach every inactive member of the Aaronic Priesthood between the ages of 12 and 18 inclusive. A large number of the wards of the Church are now following this plan with outstanding results. In other cases, through misunderstanding or lack or appreciation of its importance, the plan has not been followed consistently. During 1936 regular reports are to be requested and followed up where results are not up to standard.

The third phase of the program, that of Adult Aaronic Priesthood classes, is to be given additional impetus with the publication of a special guide and course of lessons. The results secured by the large number of wards now following this plan have proved its worth and it is now a permanent part of the program for the Aaronic Priesthood of the Church. It is intended to reach all adults who still hold the office of Priest, Teacher, or Deacon.” (“Aaronic Priesthood,” IE 38(11):698-699, Nov., 1935)

1 Nov.: Priesthood Sunday School Procedure.

“To Presidents of Stakes, Bishops of Wards and Presidents of Melchizedek Priesthood Quorums–

Dear Brethren:

It has come to our attention that in some of the stakes and wards and quorums of the Church there has been a failure to carry out in full the program and instructions which have been given by the General Authorities of the Church for the guidance and development of the brethren holding the Priesthood.

Whenever instructions and counsel are sent out from the presiding councils of the Church it is the duty of all brethren concerned to do their best to carry out such instruction and counsel to the fullest extent. It is impossible for the brethren of the First Presidency and the Councils of the Apostles and Seventy to visit each ward and quorum and give instruction by personal visits. It is necessary, therefore, that instructions issuing from the General Authorities be placed in the hands of the presiding officers in the stakes, wards and quorums, with the request that they, as presiding officers, teach and direct all such matters pertaining to the functions and activities of the Priesthood.

We feel it our duty at this time again to call attention in detail to some of the problems which confront us, and to renew the request that you brethren take these matters in hand, and ssee if we can more nearly conform to the requirements and suggestions which have been previously circulated and published, which are vital to the welfare of the quorums of the Priesthood.

1. Every presiding officer should have a copy of the ‘Priesthood Manual, A Handbook for the Quorums of the Melchizedek Priesthood.’

2. Every man holding the Priesthood should have in his possession the complete issues of The Quorum Bulletin. This Bulletin is issued quarterly and contains (a) the lessons for the Gospel Doctrine Classes in the Sunday School, (b) the lessons for the Monthly Quorum meeting of the Priesthood Quorums, (c) the outline for the Weekly Activity meeting of the Quorums, or segments of Quorums in the wards, (d) and helpful suggestions for the benefit of the Priesthood Quorums. Successful work cannot be accomplished in any of these departments unless the brethren are studiously following these outlines and the instructions in the Bulletin.

4. The Weekly Quorum or Group Activity meeting is to be held each Sunday immediately following the Gospel Doctrine period, and is to occupy 30 minutes, or from 11:25 to 11:55. This meeting should not be interfered with in any way. If, after the assignments and reports are made and all matters attended to which pertain to this activity meeting, there should be remaining time, suggestive topics have been prepared to be presented in that remaining time of the activity period.

5. On the Fast Day provision has been made by the elimination of a portion of the Sunday School exercises so that the Fast Meeting may be held immediately following the Sunday School in the wards where this privilege has been granted. It is requested that the Fast Meeting be not held at such time that the full period cannot be given to the Gospel Doctrine Class and the Weekly Quorum Activity meeting. In some wards this activity meeting has been dispensed with on the Fast Day in order that the Fast Meeting may be held at 11:00 o’clock. This plan is not approved and is unnecessary.

6. The Missionary Training Class in some of the stakes and wards is not organized. Near the close of the year 1934 the First Presidency issued the following instruction:

“That a definite time be fixed for the ordaining of Priests to the office of Elder in the Melchizedek Priesthood, and that this age be 19, thus affording Elders the privilege of two years of training and experience before they become eligible for ordination to the office of Seventy.

A two-year course is provided in missionary training for Elders and young women of 19 and 20 years of age who are prospective missionaries.

The question has been asked: ‘Is it proper for the Weekly Activity meeting to be opened and closed by prayer?’ We feel that it is well to have prayer in this manner, thus lending a spirit of solemnity to the occasion. While this meeting is held within the Sunday School period yet it is a separate and distinct meeting in itself.

Now, brethren, will you take all these matters in hand, and any others that need attention which we have not mentioned, but which may be found outlined in the Bulletin and Manual, and help us to make our Melchizedek Priesthood Quorums all that we can expect. The Lord has laid the burden upon us with the admonition that every man holding the Priesthood should ‘learn his duty, and act in the office in which he is appointed in all diligence. He that is slothful shall not be worthy to stand, and he that learns not his duty and shows himself not approved shall not be counted worthy to stand.’

The responsibility of the Priesthood is a most solemn and sacred thing. Let us carry our duties in an acceptable manner before our brethren and before the Lord.

Very sincerely yours,

Rudger Clawson,

In behalf of the Council of the Twelve.”

(Instructor 70(11):477-478, 1 Nov., 1935)

1 Nov.: Conforming to Priesthood-Sunday School plan.

“Superintendent Milton Bennion called attention to the letter sent out by President Rudger Clawson addressed to Stake, Ward and Priesthood leaders, urging compliance with the new plan. Hr urged Sunday School workers to sustain the recommendations of the General Authorities of the Church. The plan, he said, should be followed until modified or revoked by the authorities who established it. (The full text of the letter of President Clawson is printed in this issue of The Instructor.)

In answer to questions, he explained that the Priesthood activity period was designedly placed after the Sunday School class period and that this order should be observed; that instances of non-observance of the recommendations of the General Authorities should be reported to the stake authorities for adjustment; that no one should be compelled to remain for Fast Meeting when that meeting is held immediately after Sunday School. It is better to undertake to persuade everyone to attend rather than to compel any one.” (Report of DSSU Conference, Instructor 70(11):480, 1 Nov., 1935)

9 Nov.: 1st Pres. statement on welfare.

“To the Presidents of Stakes and Counselors

Dear Brethren:

1. We refer to the meeting held in the Salt Lake Tabernacle on Monday morning, October 7, 1935, at the close of the last October conference, and to the remarks made by Bishop Sylvester Q. Cannon and ourselves on that occasion.

2. We refer also to our letter to you brethren of August 28, 1933, and to the observations, exhortations, and instructions therein made and incorporated, all of which are to be considered as part of this letter in so far as the same are now pertinent.

3. We request you to read and study with greatest care the letter of August 28, 1933, and this letter and the accompanying instructions, so that you may become thoroughly familiar therewith. If there be any matter which you do not thoroughly understand, we ask you immediately to communicate with the Presiding Bishopric.

4. We quote here certain portions of our letter of August 28, 1933, as they still represent our feelings and convictions on the matter of caring for our infirm and unemployed.

5. ‘The Lord will not hold us guiltless if we shall permit any of our people to go hungry, or to be cold, unclad, or unhoused during the approaching winter. Particularly He will consider us gravely blameful if those who have heretofore paid their tithes and offerings to the Church when they had employment shall now be permitted to suffer when the general adversity has robbed them of their means of livelihood. Whatever else happens, these faithful persons must not be permitted to come to want or distress now.’

6. Reports show generally that crops have been harvested, which, if duly conserved and wisely distributed, will amply supply the full necessities of the people.

7. As heretofore stated, the Church organizations, if properly coordinated by the bishops and presidents of stakes, are qualified by purpose, jurisdiction, ability of membership, and experience to carry on adequately during the coming winter the work of caring for Church members. In rendering assistance to those in need, Church officers should have one prime consideration in mind–that relief, except to the sick, infirm, or disabled, should be furnished so far as possible through make-work projects. To this end private industry should put forth helpful effort. As you know, the Government is seeking to create employment for able-bodied men, particularly heads of families, with the view of enabling and encouraging all to gain independent support. We think it advisable for members of the Church to accept their just share of work thus supplied.

8. In addition to this, stake and ward officers and presidencies of quorums should exert themselves in an effort to devise ways and means of furnishing employment to those in need. Help rendered in this manner is far preferable to that which is given without compensatory services.

9. The Church stands ready to assist the wards in this relief work to the utmost of its ability, though the Church itself must of necessity look now as always to the wards themselves to do the bulk of this relief work, raising, for the considerable part of this added service special funds from those who are able, and particularly from people who do not pay regularly their full tithes and offerings. Manifestly every person in the ward should be willing to cooperate in these commendable efforts to render necessary aid to individuals and families in distress. The raising of these special funds from sources indicated is obligatory because the tithes must be available for the missionary, educational, Temple work and other indispensable and general activities of the Church which cannot otherwise be carried on, and because the regular offerings must be used to care for the ill and incapacitated. Unless there is a most generous, free giving by the people of all materials necessary for relief purposes, we can hardly hope to care for the needy. All relief will be extended through the wards or stakes.

10. We wish the presidency of each stake immediately to undertake, through the bishops, a detailed and exhaustive study of the actual condition of every ward in his stake. The greatest care and painstaking effort should be used in making this survey. We are forwarding herewith blanks with detailed instructions for making the survey. When this survey is finished we desire each president of stake to forward his report to the Presiding Bishopric of the Church.

11. We appreciate that the making of these surveys will require a considerable amount of careful and exacting work by the bishops and their aids and by the presidencies of stakes, but there appears to be no other feasible course if we are to plan adequately for caring for the needy during the coming winter.

12. The reports called for in the accompanying forms should be in the hands of the Presiding Bishopric not later than November 30, 1935.

13. We ask that all persons assisting in gathering the information and making record of it shall do their work with the greatest possible accuracy. In these times of emergency, we must not be forced to shape our course by false or inaccurate data. If any attempted relief work is to be successful, it must be founded upon actual facts.

14. We ask that you have in mind two classes of individuals who will need help:

(a) All deserving active members who are ill or otherwise incapacitated, physically or mentally, for work. This is the class that in normal times is cared for by the ward organizations. We will designate them ‘Class 1 Needy.’

(b) All deserving active members who are able-bodied but unemployed and in need, that is, in danger of actual want. These, generally speaking, make up the group that needs help only during the depression. We will speak of them as ‘Class 2 Needy,’ and for whom work may be supplied as indicated in Paragraph 7.

15. If members of these two classes of needy can be supplied with relief that shall keep them from actual want, that is, if they shall be supplied with the actual necessities, they will be receiving as much aid from relief as the actual needs of all the people will permit. There must be no overreaching, no favoritism, and no imposition. Bishops will be scrupulously careful in this matter.

16. Presidents of stakes and bishops are charged with the responsibility of seeing that the foregoing principles are strictly observed throughout the Church.

Invoking the blessings of the Lord uopn you in this work of mercy and justice to those of the Lord’s people in distress, we are

Faithfully your brethren,

H. J. Grant

J. Reuben Clark Jr.

David O. McKay

First Presidency”

(9 Nov., 1935, First Presidency Circular Letters, LDS Archives, CR 1/1)

Dec.: Training 11-year olds for the Priesthood.

“An important part of the work of the Aaronic Priesthood Supervisors is the plan provided by the Presiding Bishopric for contacting eleven year old boys and preparing them to receive the Priesthood. It becomes the responsibility of the Bishopric and the ward Aaronic Priesthood Committee to see tht every twelve year old boy is properly trained, prepared and worthy to receive the Priesthood when he becomes twelve years of age. During the period between his eleventh and twelfth birthdays every boy in the Church should be contacted by the Supervisor of the Deacons who should encourage his attendance at the Primary Association meetings and supplement this work with special training in preparation for the time when the boy will be eligible to receive this great honor.” (“Aaronic Priesthood,” IE 38(12):764, Dec., 1935)