men lifting rock

21.

Ministering

21.0

Introduction

Ministering means serving others as the Savior did (see Matthew 20:26–28).

The Lord wants all members of His Church to receive such care. For this reason, priesthood holders are assigned as ministering brothers to each member household. Ministering sisters are assigned to each adult sister.

21.1

Responsibilities of Ministering Sisters and Brothers

Ministering sisters and brothers have the following responsibilities for the individuals and families assigned to them:

• Help them strengthen their faith in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.

• Help them prepare to make and keep sacred covenants with God as they receive ordinances.

• Discern needs and provide Christlike love, caring, and service.

• Help them become spiritually and temporally self-reliant.

21.2

Organizing Ministering

21.2.1

Making Assignments

Elders quorum and Relief Society presidencies prayerfully consider assignments for ministering brothers and sisters. They normally assign two brothers or two sisters as companionships. They seek the bishop’s approval for ministering companionships and assignments.

A married couple may be assigned to minister together to a person or family.

Ministering brothers and sisters are not called, sustained, or set apart.

21.2.2

Ministering Assignments for Youth

A young woman may serve as a ministering companion to a Relief Society sister when the young woman is willing and able. She may begin serving in the year she turns 14.

A young man serves as a ministering companion to a Melchizedek Priesthood holder when he is ordained to the office of teacher or priest.

21.3

Ministering Interviews

The elders quorum president and his counselors interview ministering brothers. The Relief Society president and her counselors interview ministering sisters.

These interviews are held at least once each quarter.

Their purposes are to:

• Counsel about the strengths, needs, and challenges of assigned individuals and families.

• Discuss ways to help persons prepare to receive ordinances if needed.

• Consider how the elders quorum, Relief Society, ward council, and others might help.

• Teach and encourage ministering brothers and sisters.

21.4

Coordinating Ministering Efforts

Relief Society and elders quorum presidencies meet together at least quarterly. They review what they have learned in ministering interviews (see 21.3). They also coordinate ministering assignments.

In units with few active members, the Relief Society and elders quorum presidencies may decide not to assign both ministering sisters and ministering brothers to some members.