Prepare the Way
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Before Reading
Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:
- What personal experience does Bishop Caussé share about his early career and priesthood service?
- How does Bishop Caussé describe the relationship between the Aaronic and Melchizedek Priesthoods?
- What example from the scriptures does Bishop Caussé use to illustrate the partnership between the two priesthoods?
- What specific roles and responsibilities of the Aaronic Priesthood are highlighted in the talk?
- How can Melchizedek Priesthood holders support and mentor young men in the Aaronic Priesthood?
Topics
Recognize the Impact of Early Priesthood Service
Bishop Caussé shares a personal story of how his early service in the Church prepared him for leadership roles both in the Church and in his professional life. He emphasizes the importance of active participation in priesthood duties from a young age.
The service I rendered during those teenage years helped me build my testimony and anchor my life in the gospel.
I was surrounded by good and compassionate men who were committed to using their priesthood to bless the lives of others.
- How did Bishop Caussé"s early priesthood service prepare him for future responsibilities?
- What lessons did he learn from serving with compassionate men in his branch?
- How can you actively participate in your priesthood duties to build your testimony?
- Who are the role models in your life that you can learn from in your priesthood service?
Understand the Unity Between Aaronic and Melchizedek Priesthoods
Bishop Caussé explains the inseparable partnership between the Aaronic and Melchizedek Priesthoods, using the relationship between John the Baptist and Jesus Christ as a model. He highlights the distinct yet complementary roles of each priesthood in the work of salvation.
The Aaronic Priesthood and the Melchizedek Priesthood are inseparable partners in the work of salvation.
John the Baptist was given one of the most noble missions to ever exist: "to prepare the way of the Lord."
- What is the relationship between the Aaronic and Melchizedek Priesthoods?
- How does the partnership between John the Baptist and Jesus Christ illustrate this relationship?
- How can you foster unity between the Aaronic and Melchizedek Priesthoods in your ward?
- What specific actions can you take to support the work of those holding the other priesthood?
Empower Young Men in the Aaronic Priesthood
Bishop Caussé encourages Melchizedek Priesthood holders to mentor and involve young men in the Aaronic Priesthood in meaningful service. He shares the story of Alex, a young priest who flourished through active participation and support from his ward.
Too often we try to entertain our young men and relegate them to a spectator role, when their faith and love for the gospel can be best developed by magnifying their priesthood.
By actively participating in the work of salvation, they will be connected with heaven and they will gain awareness of their divine potential.
- How did Alex's involvement in priesthood service impact his faith and confidence?
- What role do Melchizedek Priesthood holders play in mentoring young men in the Aaronic Priesthood?
- How can you involve young men in meaningful priesthood service in your ward?
- What specific tasks or responsibilities can you delegate to young men to help them grow spiritually?
Recognize the Sacred Authority of the Aaronic Priesthood
Bishop Caussé emphasizes the sacred nature of the Aaronic Priesthood and its role in the work of salvation. He encourages young men to recognize and honor the authority they hold and to prepare for future responsibilities in the Melchizedek Priesthood.
As you invite your younger brothers to "prepare the way," you help them recognize and honor the sacred authority they hold.
The Aaronic Priesthood is more than just an age group, a teaching or activity program, or even a term to designate the young men of the Church. It is power and authority to participate in the great work of saving souls.
- What does it mean to recognize and honor the sacred authority of the Aaronic Priesthood?
- How can young men prepare for future responsibilities in the Melchizedek Priesthood?
- How can you better recognize and honor the authority of the Aaronic Priesthood in your life?
- What steps can you take to prepare for receiving the Melchizedek Priesthood?
Strengthen the Link Between the Two Priesthoods
Bishop Caussé invites Melchizedek Priesthood holders to strengthen the connection with their Aaronic Priesthood counterparts by empowering them to "prepare the way." He encourages young men to serve diligently and recognize their divine potential.
Empower your Aaronic Priesthood youth to prepare the way before you. Tell them with confidence, "I need you."
To you young holders of the Aaronic Priesthood, I pray that, as you serve with your older brethren, you will hear the voice of the Lord telling you: "Thou art blessed, for thou shalt do great things."
- How can Melchizedek Priesthood holders strengthen their relationship with Aaronic Priesthood holders?
- What message does Bishop Caussé have for young holders of the Aaronic Priesthood?
- How can you strengthen your relationship with those holding the other priesthood in your ward?
- What actions can you take to empower young men in their priesthood duties?
