Sacred Ground

By President Thomas S. Monson

First Counselor in the First Presidency

From an October 2005 general conference address.

Photograph by Busath Photography

President Monson recalls an act of priesthood service that changed his life.

I recall the time when I was ordained a deacon. Our bishopric stressed the sacred responsibility which was ours to pass the sacrament. Emphasized were proper dress, a dignified bearing, and the importance of being clean inside and out. As we were taught the procedure in passing the sacrament, we were told how we should assist Louis McDonald, a brother in our ward who was afflicted with a palsied condition, that he might have the opportunity to partake of the sacred emblems.

How I remember being assigned to pass the sacrament to the row where Brother McDonald sat. I was fearful and hesitant as I approached this wonderful brother, and then I saw his smile and the eager expression of gratitude that showed his desire to partake. Holding the tray in my left hand, I took a small piece of bread and pressed it to his lips. The water was later served in the same way. I felt I was on holy ground. And indeed I was. The privilege to pass the sacrament to Brother McDonald made better deacons of us all.

Things to Think About

At first President Monson was fearful of passing the sacrament to Brother McDonald. Why? How did his feelings change? Why?
Why do you think President Monson felt he was on holy ground? How do you think Brother McDonald felt?
What have you learned about partaking of the sacrament? If you are preparing to receive the Aaronic Priesthood, what have you learned about passing the sacrament?
What else did you think about as you read this article?

Illustration by Daniel Lewis