Home Teaching and the Aaronic Priesthood

From the Presiding Bishopric and Young Men General Presidency

A great blessing for teachers and priests in the Aaronic Priesthood is to be companions with Melchizedek Priesthood holders as home teachers. These young men have the opportunity to learn from experienced priesthood holders as they literally fulfill their duty “to watch over the church” (D&C 20:53).

Melchizedek Priesthood holders have the responsibility to be home teachers. In this assignment, they are responsible not only for the families they are assigned but also for the young men given them as companions. By actively including young companions in home teaching and following through with assignments and opportunities for service, they help young men grow spiritually, better understand the gospel, and perform the work of the priesthood. As Aaronic Priesthood bearers visit homes and feel the Spirit, they also gain a witness of the truthfulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

The Lord said, “Feed my sheep” (John 21:16, 17). Part of the learning process as young men prepare to go to the temple, serve missions, marry, and become fathers is developing a sense of caring about others through serving the Lord’s flock. By faithfully attending to his home teaching duties, a young man learns to put service to others above himself. By being willing to care for others, he also experiences the Light of Christ in his own life. Such service helps nurture testimonies and gives young men experiences they can draw upon as missionaries.

An Aaronic Priesthood holder can prepare for this service each month by reading the message from the First Presidency in the Liahona or Ensign and discussing it with his senior companion, making appointments for visits, considering the needs of the families to be visited, accepting assignments to teach part of the discussion, and offering prayers in members’ homes.

Photo by Craig Dimond