Policies and Announcements

The following First Presidency letter of 15 May 1997 was sent to stake presidents and bishops to be read in sacrament meeting:

Helping New Members

We are deeply concerned about many of our brothers and sisters of all ages who have received a testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ but have not felt the sustaining warmth of fellowship among the Saints. Too many are not receiving the blessings of the priesthood and the covenant promises of the temple.

Every new member needs three things—a friend, a responsibility, and spiritual nourishment through gospel study. All members are responsible to fellowship those who are new and to help them feel the strength of the gospel. Each new member should feel the influence of loving and caring friends within the Church. The personal influence of Church members is one of the most powerful factors in helping new members achieve an enduring conversion and continued activity in the Church.

This is a work for everyone. We ask each member, please help in this undertaking. Your friendly ways are needed. Your sense of responsibility is needed. Priesthood quorum and auxiliary leaders should include new members in the planning and carrying out of activities, giving them opportunities to work with and serve one another. Our constant, unwavering objective must be to assist our Father in Heaven in His work and glory, to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.

May each of us be blessed to fulfill this great and sacred trust.