Priesthood Blessings

The priesthood is the power to act in God's name. In the Mormon faith, all worthy males over the age of twelve can hold the priesthood, not just a select clergy or chosen few. Anyone seeking divine counsel can receive a priesthood blessing. Priesthood blessings are given on a variety of occassions that include the blessing of babies, confirming members of the church, and ordaining men to the priesthood. Priesthood blessings can be given during times of illness or injury, or when a person is seeking comfort from the Lord. Each week a priesthood blessing is placed upon the bread and water, known simply as the Sacrament, to help members remember the sacredness and importance of their promises.

When a personal blessing is given, the priesthood holder seeks promptings from the Holy Ghost to know the needs of the individual and inspiration on what to say in the blessing. On certain occasions, consecrated or blessed oil is used in the blessing. In order to give priesthood blessings, priesthood-holders must keep themselves worthy of the divine and sacred power. The purpose of a priesthood blessing is to provide comfort and offer counsel to those seeking it. Women in the Mormon church do not hold the priesthood or give priesthood blessings but have other sacred roles within the Church. After a blessing is given, the recipient is encouraged to follow the counsel offered and feel a sense of peace.