Sacred Nature of the Calling
“A bishop is a faithful disciple and witness of Jesus Christ. He is true to his covenants. He is loyal to his wife and considerate of her. He sets an example of righteousness for his children, the ward, and the community. His counselors are men of the same character.” (General Handbook, 6.1.1)
- Ward members look to the bishop as the primary spiritual leader in the ward. (General Handbook, 6.1.1)
- Live each day to be close to the Spirit and act on promptings received.
- Enhance daily spiritual habits including prayer, scripture study, and temple attendance.
- Study regularly and be familiar with the General Handbook of Instruction.
- Understand what it means to hold priesthood keys. Priesthood keys are the authority to direct the use of the priesthood on behalf of God’s children. The use of all priesthood authority in the Church is directed by those who hold priesthood keys (see Doctrine and Covenants 65:2). (General Handbook, 3.4.1)
President of the Aaronic Priesthood
13. The second priesthood is called the Priesthood of Aaron, because it was conferred upon Aaron and his seed, throughout all their generations…
15. The bishopric is the presidency of this priesthood, and hold the keys or authority of the same.
“The Lord’s youth battalion is led by a bishop, a dedicated servant of God. His first and foremost responsibility is to care for the young men and young women of his ward” (Russell M. Nelson, ‘Witnesses, Aaronic Priesthood Quorums, and Young Women Classes’, Ensign, November 2019, page 39)
Be with the youth. Regularly attend quorum meetings, youth activities, and high adventure. Be a true president of the Priest quorum. Work closely with the Young Women Presidency. Attend Young Women classes and activities periodically. Budget funds equally based upon youth numbers (General Handbook, 34.7.2.1).
Presiding High Priest
The Bishop directs the work of salvation and exaltation in the ward (General Handbook, chapters 17, 23, & 25). Consider the following:
- Have ‘Gathering Israel’ be on the agenda of every leadership meeting in the ward.
- Direct and support Elders quorum and Relief Society presidencies in their appointed role in the gathering.
- Be familiar with the First Presidency letter, Strengthening Missionary and Temple and Family History Work in the ward, dated May 26, 2020.
- Read “The Bishop and His Counselors” by Elder Boyd K. Packer
The bishop presides over and ensures an effective ward council. During the meeting, the bishop explains each matter being considered, but he does not normally decide how to resolve the matter until he has heard the discussion. He encourages discussion without dominating it. He asks questions and may ask particular council members for their suggestions. he listens carefully before making a decision. These discussions should foster a spirit of inspiration. (General Handbook, 7.6.1)
The Bishopric is responsible for spiritually uplifting sacrament meetings that are focused on the Savior, Jesus Christ. Be sure that the sacrament is adequately prepared before the meeting starts. Please be familiar with the meeting planning guidelines and the speaking assignment template.
Delegation of responsibilities and tasks is of high importance (General Handbook, 4.2.6). Lean on Melchizedek priesthood leaders and Relief Society leaders to meet the needs of adults in the ward.