What Is An Elder In Mormon Church

An elder in the Mormon Church, officially known as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is a conferred priesthood office upon worthy male members who are at least 18 years old. This role carries specific responsibilities and significance within the church's structure and mission, encompassing spiritual leadership, service, and the administration of ordinances. Understanding the role of an elder requires looking into the qualifications, duties, and the broader context within the Church's organization.

Introduction to the Office of Elder

In The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the priesthood is the authority delegated to man to act in God's name. The priesthood is divided into two main divisions: the Aaronic Priesthood and the Melchizedek Priesthood. The office of elder is an office within the Melchizedek Priesthood, which is considered the higher or greater priesthood. The term "elder" is biblically rooted and reflects a position of respect and spiritual maturity. In modern Mormonism, an elder is more than just a title; it is a call to action, service, and spiritual growth. Men who hold this office are expected to be examples of Christ-like living and to dedicate themselves to the work of the ministry.

Qualifications to Become an Elder

Becoming an elder in the Mormon Church is a significant step that involves meeting specific qualifications. These qualifications are designed to ensure that those who hold the office are prepared to fulfill its responsibilities with integrity and dedication. The primary qualifications include:

• Male Membership: Only male members of the Church can hold priesthood offices, including that of an elder.
• Age Requirement: Typically, a male member must be at least 18 years old to be considered for the Melchizedek Priesthood and the office of elder.
• Worthiness: Worthiness is a crucial aspect. A prospective elder must live in accordance with the teachings and standards of the Church. This includes being honest, morally clean, and keeping the commandments of God.
• Faith and Testimony: A strong and abiding faith in Jesus Christ and a testimony of the restored gospel are essential. The individual should have a personal conviction of the truthfulness of the Church's teachings.
• Church Activity: Regular participation in Church meetings, activities, and service is expected. This demonstrates a commitment to the Church community and a willingness to serve others.
• Interview and Recommendation: The individual is interviewed by local Church leaders, typically the bishop of the ward (local congregation). If found worthy, the bishop recommends him to the stake president (leader of a group of congregations), who then conducts a further interview.
• Priesthood Ordination: If approved, the individual is ordained to the office of elder by a Melchizedek Priesthood holder who has the authority to perform the ordination. This is usually done by the stake president or someone he authorizes.

Duties and Responsibilities of an Elder

The duties of an elder are varied and encompass spiritual leadership, teaching, service, and the administration of certain ordinances. These responsibilities are central to the functioning of the Church and the spiritual growth of its members. Key duties include:

• Teaching and Exhorting: Elders are called to teach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to exhort others to live according to its principles. This includes teaching in Church classes, giving sermons, and sharing their testimonies.
• Visiting and Ministering: Ministering is a key responsibility, where elders are assigned to care for individuals and families within the ward. This involves visiting them regularly, offering support, and helping them with their spiritual and temporal needs.
• Administering to the Sick: Elders have the authority to administer to the sick through the laying on of hands and anointing with consecrated oil. This is done in faith, with the belief that God can heal and comfort those who are suffering.
• Participating in Priesthood Blessings: Elders can participate in giving priesthood blessings, such as blessings of comfort, counsel, or healing. These blessings are given under the direction of the Spirit and are intended to provide guidance and support.
• Administering Ordinances: Elders can perform certain ordinances, such as the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost (under the direction of the bishop) and dedicating graves.
• Setting an Example: Elders are expected to set a positive example of Christ-like living. This includes being honest, morally clean, and dedicated to their families and communities.
• Strengthening the Church: By fulfilling their duties, elders play a crucial role in strengthening the Church and helping it to grow. They contribute to the spiritual well-being of the members and the overall mission of the Church.
• Missionary Work: Many young men serve as full-time missionaries, typically at age 18. As missionaries, they preach the gospel, teach investigators, and invite others to come unto Christ.

The Elder as a Ministering Brother

In recent years, the Mormon Church has emphasized the concept of "ministering," which is a more personalized and comprehensive approach to caring for members. Elders play a vital role as ministering brothers, focusing on the individual needs of those they are assigned to serve. This involves:

• Knowing Those They Serve: Ministering brothers strive to know the individuals and families they serve, understanding their needs, challenges, and strengths.
• Personalized Service: Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, ministering is tailored to the specific needs of each individual or family. This might involve helping with practical tasks, offering emotional support, or providing spiritual guidance.
• Regular Contact: Ministering brothers maintain regular contact with those they serve, whether through visits, phone calls, texts, or other means. The goal is to build meaningful relationships and provide consistent support.
• Reporting Needs: Ministering brothers are responsible for reporting any significant needs or concerns to the ward leaders, so that the Church can provide additional assistance if necessary.

The Role of Elders Quorum

The Elders Quorum is a body of elders within a ward, presided over by a president and his counselors. The purpose of the Elders Quorum is to:

• Organize and Coordinate Service: The quorum organizes and coordinates the ministering efforts of the elders in the ward.
• Provide Training and Support: The quorum provides training and support to help elders fulfill their duties effectively.
• Fellowship and Brotherhood: The quorum provides a sense of fellowship and brotherhood among the elders, fostering unity and mutual support.
• Study the Gospel: The quorum meets regularly to study the scriptures and discuss gospel principles, deepening their understanding and strengthening their testimonies.
• Service Projects: The quorum often organizes service projects to benefit the ward and the broader community.

The Elder and Missionary Service

One of the most significant roles for an elder in the Mormon Church is serving as a full-time missionary. Young men, typically at the age of 18, have the opportunity to serve a two-year mission. Missionary service involves:

• Preaching the Gospel: Missionaries preach the gospel of Jesus Christ to those who are not members of the Church.
• Teaching Investigators: They teach individuals and families who are interested in learning more about the Church.
• Inviting to Baptism: Missionaries invite investigators to be baptized and become members of the Church.
• Service to Others: They engage in various forms of service to the community, helping those in need and spreading goodwill.
• Personal Growth: Missionary service is a transformative experience that fosters personal growth, spiritual maturity, and a deeper understanding of the gospel.

The Elder and Temple Service

Temples hold a special place in Mormonism as houses of the Lord where sacred ordinances are performed. Elders play a key role in temple service, including:

• Temple Attendance: Worthy elders are encouraged to attend the temple regularly to perform ordinances for themselves and on behalf of deceased ancestors.
• Performing Ordinances: Elders can participate in ordinances such as baptisms for the dead, endowments, and sealings.
• Temple Work: Some elders serve as temple workers, assisting with the operation of the temple and helping others to have a positive experience.
• Family History: Engaging in family history research is closely tied to temple service, as members seek to identify their ancestors and perform ordinances for them.

Scriptural Basis for the Office of Elder

The office of elder is rooted in biblical teachings, both in the Old and New Testaments. In the Old Testament, elders were leaders and decision-makers in Israel. In the New Testament, elders were appointed to lead and care for the early Christian congregations. In Mormonism, the office of elder is also based on modern revelation, as found in the Doctrine and Covenants, a book of scripture used by the Church. These revelations outline the duties and responsibilities of elders in the context of the restored gospel.

The Significance of Priesthood Authority

Priesthood authority is a cornerstone of Mormonism, and the office of elder is a key component of this authority. Priesthood authority is understood as the power and authority of God delegated to man to act in His name. This authority is necessary to perform certain ordinances and to lead the Church effectively. Elders are expected to exercise their priesthood authority righteously, in love and service to others. They are to use their authority to bless, heal, and strengthen those around them.

Challenges and Rewards of Being an Elder

Serving as an elder in the Mormon Church comes with both challenges and rewards. Some of the challenges include:

• Time Commitment: Fulfilling the duties of an elder requires a significant time commitment, which can be challenging for those with busy lives.
• Personal Sacrifice: Serving others often requires personal sacrifice, such as giving up personal time or resources.
• Dealing with Difficult Situations: Elders may encounter difficult situations as they minister to others, such as dealing with illness, grief, or personal crises.
• Maintaining Worthiness: Maintaining worthiness to hold the priesthood requires ongoing effort and commitment. The rewards of being an elder, however, are great. These include:
• Spiritual Growth: Serving as an elder fosters spiritual growth and a deeper connection with God.
• Joy of Service: There is great joy in serving others and making a positive difference in their lives.
• Fellowship and Brotherhood: The Elders Quorum provides a sense of fellowship and brotherhood, offering support and encouragement.
• Eternal Blessings: Faithfully fulfilling the duties of an elder can lead to eternal blessings, as promised in the scriptures.

How the Role of an Elder Differs From Other Priesthood Offices

Within the Melchizedek Priesthood, there are other offices besides that of an elder, such as high priest, seventy, and apostle. Each office has specific duties and responsibilities, although there is some overlap. Here's how the role of an elder differs:

• High Priest: High priests typically serve in leadership positions, such as stake presidents, bishops, and counselors. They also have the authority to perform all the ordinances that elders can perform.
• Seventy: Seventies are called to assist the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in preaching the gospel and building up the Church throughout the world.
• Apostle: Apostles are special witnesses of Jesus Christ and are called to lead the Church worldwide. While each of these offices has unique responsibilities, they all work together to accomplish the mission of the Church. Elders form the backbone of the Church's local congregations, providing essential service and leadership at the ward level.

Modern Adaptations and Changes

The role of an elder in the Mormon Church has evolved over time to meet the changing needs of the Church and its members. Some modern adaptations and changes include:

• Emphasis on Ministering: As mentioned earlier, the shift to a ministering approach has emphasized personalized care and service.
• Technology: Technology is increasingly used to facilitate communication and coordination among elders and those they serve.
• Global Church: As the Church has grown globally, elders are serving in diverse cultural and linguistic contexts, requiring adaptation and sensitivity.

Conclusion

The office of elder in the Mormon Church is a sacred calling that carries significant responsibilities and opportunities. Elders are called to be spiritual leaders, teachers, servants, and examples of Christ-like living. By fulfilling their duties, they play a vital role in strengthening the Church and helping others to come unto Christ. Understanding the qualifications, duties, and significance of the office of elder provides valuable insight into the structure, mission, and values of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The role of an elder is not just a title, but a way of life, characterized by faith, service, and dedication to God and His children.