Additional explanation about each of the purposes of the Aaronic Priesthood is provided in the following paragraphs. Most of this material is excerpted from "Aaronic Priesthood," section 2 of the Church Handbook of Instructions, Book 2: Priesthood and Auxiliary Leaders (1998), 177-78.

1. Become Converted to the Gospel of Jesus Christ and Live Its Teachings

An Aaronic Priesthood holder becomes converted and grows spiritually as he exercises faith in Jesus Christ, learns the gospel through prayerful study of the scriptures, prays daily, and obeys the commandments. He also should be morally clean, live the Word of Wisdom, strengthen his family, and participate in Church meetings and quorum activities. Quorum instruction and activities should inspire him in these efforts.

2. Serve Faithfully in Priesthood Callings and Fulfill the Responsibilities of Priesthood Offices

An Aaronic Priesthood holder should magnify his priesthood callings and faithfully fulfill the responsibilities of his priesthood office. As he does so, he grows spiritually, receives blessings from the Lord, and prepares for additional responsibilities in the Lord's service. Quorum instruction and activities should inspire him in these efforts.

3. Give Meaningful Service

Aaronic Priesthood holders have a responsibility to serve others. They do this by assignment and on their own initiative. Service helps them grow spiritually and bless others. Quorum instruction should teach them how to use the priesthood in serving others, and quorum activities should give opportunities to serve.

4. Prepare and Live Worthily to Receive the Melchizedek Priesthood and Temple Ordinances

The Aaronic Priesthood is the priesthood of the preparatory gospel (see D&C 84:26). As brethren honor the Aaronic Priesthood, they prepare to receive the Melchizedek Priesthood and the ordinances of the temple. Quorum instruction, service, and activities should help Aaronic Priesthood holders in this preparation. Such activities may include being baptized and confirmed for the dead.

5. Prepare to Serve an Honorable Full-Time Mission

Aaronic Priesthood holders have the responsibility to "invite all to come unto Christ" (D&C 20:59) by teaching faith, repentance, and baptism for the remission of sins. Quorum instruction and activities should teach young men how to share the gospel and help them be worthy and prepared to serve full-time missions.

6. Obtain as Much Education as Possible

The Lord expects Aaronic Priesthood holders to educate their minds and improve their skills and abilities. Education will help them be influences for good. It will also help them provide for themselves, their loved ones, and those in need. Aaronic Priesthood holders should be willing to work diligently and make sacrifices to obtain education. They should also study the words of the Lord and continue learning about the plan of salvation.

7. Prepare to Become a Worthy Husband and Father

Heavenly Father wants each of His sons to marry in the temple and establish an eternal family. The roles of husband and father are the most important roles a man will ever have. Quorum instruction and activities should help young men learn to respect women and prepare for the roles of husband and father.

8. Give Proper Respect to Women, Girls, and Children

Aaronic Priesthood holders should honor and respect women, girls, children, and the elderly. Honoring and respecting mothers, brothers, and sisters is particularly important. Quorum instruction and activities should emphasize this regularly.