When your boys turn twelve, the will join the Aaronic Priesthood. It is important to realize that as they receive the Aaronic priesthood, they receive a greater responsibility and accountability. Young men will advance through the offices of the Aaronic Priesthood as they grow older and remain worthy of holding the Priesthood. There are three offices of the Aaronic Priesthood.
The first office of the Aaronic Priesthood is that of deacon. A deacon helps to collect fast offerings. A deacon also helps to pass the Sacrament to the congregation on Sundays. Deacons need to treat these responsibilities seriously. They should arrive at church a little early, and dressed appropriately to pass the Sacrament.
The second office of the Aaronic Priesthood is that of teacher. A teacher is responsible for preparing the Sacrament (setting out the trays, and covering them) and cleaning up the Sacrament. Teachers can also stand at the doors during Sacrament to help people to remain quiet. Teachers take on the added responsibility of home teaching. They will be assigned several families to visit with a companion. A teacher can assist in the duties of a deacon as well.
The third office of the Aaronic Priesthood is that of priest. A priest gains the additional responsibility of blessing the Sacrament on Sundays. Once he is ordained, he also can baptize members into the church. He will continue home teaching as well. A priest can help perform the duties of a teacher and deacon as well.
As your son will move up through the different offices of the Priesthood, he takes on added responsibility. It is important that you show continual support for his duties. It is also important that you help him understand the responsibility that he is accepting, as he is ordained to the Priesthood. The Priesthood can bless lives in many different ways.
Related Articles:
Helping Your Son Honor His Priesthood
The Blessings of the Priesthood
General Conference: “A Priesthood Quorum”