Priesthood Power
“In a coming day, only those men who have taken their priesthood seriously, by diligently seeking to be taught by the Lord Himself, will be able to bless, guide, protect, strengthen, and heal others. Only a man who has paid the price for priesthood power will be able to bring miracles to those he loves and keep his marriage and family safe, now and throughout eternity” (Russell M. Nelson, “The Price of Priesthood Power,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2016, 68)
Priesthood Keys and Authority
“Priesthood authority is governed by priesthood holders who hold priesthood keys, and since the scriptures state that “all other authorities [and] offices in the church are appendages to this [Melchizedek] priesthood” (D&C 107:5), all that is done under the direction of those priesthood keys is done with priesthood authority (Dallin H. Oaks, “The Keys and Authority of the Priesthood,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2014, 50).
“Jesus Christ holds all the keys of the priesthood pertaining to His Church. He has conferred upon each of His Apostles all the keys that pertain to the kingdom of God on earth. The senior living Apostle, the President of the Church, is the only person on earth authorized to exercise all priesthood keys (see Doctrine and Covenants 43:1–4; 81:2; 107:64–67, 91–92; 132:7). . . .
“Under the direction of the President of the Church, priesthood leaders are given keys so they can preside in their areas of responsibility.” (General Handbook: Serving in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3.4.1)
How to Perform Ordinances and Blessings
“Brethren, we hold the holy priesthood of God! We have His authority to bless His people. Just think of the remarkable assurance the Lord gave us when He said, ‘Whomsoever you bless I will bless’ [Doctrine and Covenants 132:47]. It is our privilege to act in the name of Jesus Christ to bless God’s children according to His will for them. Stake presidents and bishops, please ensure that every member of the quorums within your stewardship understands how to give a priesthood blessing—including the personal worthiness and spiritual preparation required to call fully upon the power of God” (Russell M. Nelson, “Ministering with the Power and Authority of God,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2018, 69).
Learn from the official instructions for performing priesthood ordinances and blessings.
Learn More about Your Duties
Important scripture passages on the priesthood for Melchizedek Priesthood holders to study in relation to their duties: