Policies and Announcements

Tithing Settlement Attendance

The following appeared in a letter from the First Presidency sent to Church leaders, dated 2 December 1980:

“As the period for the settlement of tithes and offerings approaches, we desire to reemphasize to the membership of the Church the importance of the law of tithing.

“Accordingly, we are asking that every bishop and branch president take this opportunity to visit personally with each family in his unit and teach the principles of tithes and offerings and the blessings promised by the Lord when we are obedient to the law (see 3 Ne. 24:10–11). … We also ask that the following statement be read in your next sacrament meeting:

“‘All members, whether full-, part-, or non-tithe payers, should meet with their bishop or branch president at tithing settlement to declare their tithing status and make sure their donations have been recorded correctly.

“‘We encourage members to seek a personal conviction of paying tithing. Tithing is a law of God and is required of his followers. To fail to meet this obligation is to fail in a very weighty matter. It is a transgression, not an inconsequential oversight.

“‘We bear our testimony and witness to the divinity of this important principle, and pray our Heavenly Father to bless you and all the Saints with this same testimony.’

“May the Lord bless you as you visit with the membership of the Church and teach these sacred principles.”

Monthly Home Teaching Messages

The following information appeared in a letter sent by President Ezra Taft Benson to Church leaders, dated 1 December 1980:

“Effective January 1, 1981, we suggest that the First Presidency Message carried in the Ensign magazine be considered for use as a monthly home teaching message. These messages enable the First Presidency to communicate regularly with Church members on important subjects. To assist home teachers in using the message more effectively with the families they visit, each message will be accompanied by some suggestions entitled ‘Ideas for Home Teachers.’

“Because the May and November issues of the Ensign contain the addresses given at general conferences, no special First Presidency Message will appear in those issues. One of the conference addresses would be appropriate to discuss in those months.

“We suggest that instructions be given to the home teachers by their priesthood leaders on the use of the monthly message in the Ensign. We encourage home teachers to have access to the Ensign magazine in their homes.

“We appreciate your effort to put into effect this valuable aid to the home teaching program.”