The Family History Department emphasizes that priesthood leaders can strengthen and even accelerate their work of “perfecting the saints” by increasing spirituality and retention among the members with proper administration of priesthood Family History procedures.
For example, the second online lesson for priesthood leaders with Family History callings states:
“Family history can help priesthood leaders in their efforts to strengthen members and perfect the saints.
“Members who participate in family history activities and provide temple ordinances for their ancestors are likely to live gospel-centered lives. These members are likely to hold a current temple recommend and attend the temple regularly.”
Elder Boyd K. Packer has testified that “Family history work [not only] has the power to do something for the dead,” but that it also “has an equal power to do something to the living.”
He also emphasized that “Family history work of Church members has a refining, spiritualizing, tempering influence on those who are engaged in it.” (“Your Family History: Getting Started,” Ensign, Aug 2003, p. 17)
The official priesthood “Administrative Guide for Family History” amplified Elder Packer’s statement when it explained:
“Members who participate in family history and provide temple ordinances for their ancestors are more likely to live gospel centered lives.
“They are more likely to hold personal and family prayer, personal and family scripture study, and regular family home evening.” (Page one)
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