New Duty to God Program Announced

As announced during general conference, a new Duty to God program has been developed under the direction of living prophets to help young men build spiritual strength and fulfill their priesthood duties.

“[The new Duty to God program] is a powerful tool,” said President Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor in the First Presidency, during the Saturday morning session. “It will strengthen the testimonies of young men and their relationship with God. It will help them learn and want to fulfill their priesthood duties. It will strengthen their relationships with their parents, among quorum members, and with their leaders.”

The new Duty to God program has been simplified and focused. The requirements for all three age groups, along with instructions for parents and leaders, are contained in one book. The book and associated materials will be made available in 27 languages between June and August 2010. Additional translations of the materials will continue to be made available throughout the year.

Activities are organized to allow young men to learn about a gospel principle or priesthood duty, act on what they learned, and then share their thoughts and feelings with parents, Church leaders, or their quorum.

“As a deacon, teacher, and priest, you will participate in activities that will help you build spiritual strength and learn and fulfill your priesthood duties,” said David L. Beck, Young Men general president, during the priesthood session of general conference. “… The new Duty to God program will guide you on your journey to fulfill your duty to God and discover the magnificence of the Aaronic Priesthood.”

The program is designed to encourage young men to take responsibility for their own growth, but it also provides opportunities to strengthen relationships between the young men and their parents, leaders, and quorum members. Many of the activities can be easily integrated into family home evening and quorum meetings and activities.

“Parents, leaders, and quorum members play an important role in the Duty to God program,” Brother Beck told Church magazines. “Sunday quorum meetings will provide regular opportunities to learn, act, and share.”

Young men are encouraged to continue working in the existing program until the new program is implemented in their ward or branch. Once the new program is implemented, each young man should begin working on the section that corresponds to his current priesthood office. If he is close to completing the requirements for the certificate or medallion that applies to his office under the previous program, he may complete those requirements while beginning to work on the new program.

“Each activity in Fulfilling My Duty to God follows a pattern that will help you become the priesthood holder the Lord wants you to become,” Brother Beck said.

Additional information and materials will be made available online at DutyToGod.lds.org.