The stake presidency should give each newly set apart group leader a certificate of appointment and a letter that outlines his responsibilities and authorizes him to preside over the group and conduct meetings. The letter should be similar to the following sample letter.

(Print on stake letterhead)

(Date)

To Whom It May Concern:

This is to certify that (name of group leader) is an ordained Elder and appointed to be the denomination lay-leader for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints assigned to (name of military unit or deployed location). He is authorized to work with the command and unit chaplains in meeting the religious needs of service members.

As a representative of the Church, he is encouraged to seek out Church members and invite them to scheduled Sunday services, group meetings, and activities. He is to perform responsibilities associated with being an ecclesiastical leader: providing religious services and instruction to those in attendance, supervising preparation and administration of the sacrament (communion), and counseling members.

We are grateful for and appreciate the command’s support in meeting the spiritual and religious needs of our armed service members. If you have any questions, please contact me at (phone number and e-mail address).

Sincerely,

(Signature)

(Name of Stake President)

Cc:  Military Relations Division
       50 East North Temple, Room 2050
       Salt Lake City, UT 84150