Priesthood Quorums

All matters pertaining to the Aaronic Priesthood under this heading are prepared under the direction of the Presiding Bishopric. Weekly Assignments of Duty The printed program for Priesthood conferences for 1928, issued for guidance of stake and ward authorities and priest- hood quorum officers, announces- as one of the topics for discussion, a talk by a ward supervisor on "The importance of having weekly assignments and having these assignments filled." From the report that has reached us from some stakes, we are wondering if the meaning of this topic is generally un- derstood. It appears that in discussing this topic some are of the opinion that it refers only to assignments of lessons to be discussed by individuals during the class period. While this stage of the question is an important one, and should have our careful consideration, the Lord has provided for and has instructed us through revelation to the effect that the Aaronic Priesthood is given as a pre- paratory priesthood, through which young men may learn how to serve by actu- ally serving in the Church. It is very important that they become familiar with the gospel teachings. There is a danger in making special lesson assignments, in that this phase of the work may be given to individuals showing a willingness to fill these assignments', while those who are careless, indifferent or timid may be deprived of an opportunity for develop- ment, through the neglect of the presid- ing officer. Lesson study is not the most important phase of this work. The duties of the deacons, teachers and priests are definitely and positively fixed through revelation and require that young men holding these of- fices visit with the Saints to perform the labors required. To do this properly, weekly assignments must be made, such as visiting delinquent members of the quorum, visiting the home of active Church members as teachers, where they may discuss gospel principles and become better acquainted with these teachings through actual contact and participation in the discussion of problems pertaining to Church government, discipline and doc- trine, especial attention being given to those who show a tendency to neglect this duty. It is with such assignments we should also deal in discussing this topic, keep- ing constantly in mind during the dis- cussion the great plan of our heavenly Father, which provides activity for us in our youth, that we may grow in a knowl- edge of the gospel and actually perform definite and assigned duties day by day. The Winning Ward Teacher The winning ward teacher knows his work so well that he likes it. He does it so well that others like it. He meets pleasant, welcome and happy response, and the charm of being efficient inspires him to seek out ways of being even more efficient. The winning ward teacher goes noth- ing on chance and luck; he succeeds by faith and works, — enough of works so that faith is made no cover for indolence. He discovers that, in most families of his beat, the majority are children, or young folks, more difficult to reach, and yet more susceptible than adults to reforming influences, and he prepares his appeal to that important majority. If the parents need reforming, this appeal to the chil- dren may be counted for them. The winning teacher refrains from any- thing formal or stiff in announcing his subject, and he makes no long, dry talk to older members while the children doze or play or contrive an escape, resolving

PRIESTHOOD QUORUMS 427 never to be found by the teachers again. Before starting for his sacred visit, the winning teacher considers carefully whom he is to meet, and what if any, will be the peculiar difficulties in his way. He is attuned to love by prayer and right living, and he gets his message, story or otherwise, so clearly in mind that he is free and easy with assurance of having made honest preparation. The influence of his love and freedom appeals to all members of the family, preparing them for his message. This winning teacher has proved the Master's words, "My yoke is easy and my burden is light." He knows that if his work is a burden to him, it is a bore to the people: that if he tries to dodge that burden then they, especially the children and young folks, will try to dodge him. The ten thousand or more ward teach- ers in the Church represent a big division of the army called to build Zion. How important that they be winners and not bores — that they love their work and do it so well that their people will love and accept their message. — Albert R. Lyman. Experience lis the one who has really had heart aches. Disappointment, and trouble, and pain, Who has known what it is to be lonely, Had bad luck again and again, Who can sympathize truly with those in distress, Give comfort and counsel, their wrongs help redress. Tis the man who has truly known pleasure Who can share with his brother his joy; Tis the man who remembers his own childish thrill Who can sympathize with his boy. It takes real experience to broaden our view And give us the vision of what we might do. So ask not alone for the pleasures of life, But the courage each trial to bear; lor perhaps in God's wisdom he gave you a cross That you might be helpful somewhere; For fortunate the one who can true service give; He's co-worker with God. and his mem'ry will live. A/psa, Arizona Ida R. Allijkkdge