Religious practices
There are special occasions in a Church member’s life when sacred ordinances or special blessings are given to them by priesthood holders. These priesthood blessings are often given by family members or those who are close to the individual being blessed.Naming and blessing of babies: Babies are given a special blessing shortly after they are born, in which their names are recorded and they are given words of blessing for their life on earth. This blessing is given by one who holds the priesthood, which in many cases is the infant’s father, or another priesthood holder close to the family. It is usually performed in sacrament meeting on the first Sunday of the month. Baptism: The Lord commands that all are to be baptised by one having priesthood authority: children at age eight or adults when they commit to join the Church of Jesus Christ. Baptismal services are usually held at the chapel in a baptismal font and are attended by friends and family members. For more information on baptism, see What is a baptismal service like? Priesthood ordination: The Church has a lay priesthood, with no professional clergy. A worthy young man can be ordained to the Aaronic Priesthood when he is 12 years old and to the Melchizedek Priesthood when he is 18 years old. Family members usually attend the ordination to show their love and support. Older men who join the Church as adults may receive the priesthood whenever they are prepared to accept the blessings and duties of the office. Blessing of the sick: Just as in New Testament times, those who are sick may call upon priesthood holders for a special blessing (James 5:14). The person is first anointed on his or her head with a few drops of olive oil that has been consecrated for the blessing of the sick. Priesthood holders then lay their hands upon the person’s head, seal (or confirm) the anointing, and pronounce a blessing through the authority of the priesthood. The fulfillment of priesthood blessings is always conditional on God’s will.
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The Church
