Study Guide for "The Elders Quorum"

In his General Conference talk, Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles addresses significant changes to the structure and function of the Melchizedek Priesthood quorums within the Church. Announced by President Russell M. Nelson, these adjustments aim to unify and strengthen priesthood quorums to better serve and minister to Church members. Elder Christofferson elaborates on the implications of these changes, the organization of the new elders quorum presidency, and the overarching purposes behind these inspired modifications.

Before Reading

Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:

What significant changes to the Melchizedek Priesthood quorums were announced by President Russell M. Nelson?
How will the new elders quorum presidency be organized?
What are the purposes of the adjustments to the Melchizedek Priesthood quorums?
How do these changes affect the roles and responsibilities of high priests and elders?
What is the historical significance of these adjustments in the context of the Restoration?

Topics

Announcing the Restructuring of Melchizedek Priesthood Quorums

President Russell M. Nelson announced a significant restructuring of the Melchizedek Priesthood quorums to improve the effectiveness of the Lord's work. This restructuring combines the high priests and elders into a single elders quorum in each ward, with the stake high priests quorum being composed of those currently serving in specific leadership positions.

In each ward, the high priests and the elders will now be combined into one elders quorum.

These adjustments are inspired of the Lord. As we implement them, we will be even more effective than we have ever been previously.

What are the main changes announced in the restructuring of the Melchizedek Priesthood quorums?
How are the stake high priests quorums now composed?
How can you support the new elders quorum presidency in your ward?
What steps can you take to help unify the elders and high priests in your quorum?

Organizing the Elders Quorum Presidency

The new elders quorum presidency will be organized by the stake presidency, who will release current high priests group leaderships and elders quorum presidencies. The new presidency may include elders and high priests of varying ages and experiences, and this is not a takeover by high priests but a collaborative effort.

The new elders quorum presidency may include elders and high priests, of varying ages and experience, serving together in one quorum presidency.

Who is responsible for organizing the new elders quorum presidency?
Can both elders and high priests serve in the new presidency?
In what ways can you contribute to the success of the new elders quorum presidency?
What experiences and skills can you offer to support your quorum's leadership?

Understanding Priesthood Offices in the Elders Quorum

The restructuring does not change the priesthood office held by quorum members. An elder or high priest retains all previous ordinations, though they serve as elders while in the quorum. The priesthood is greater than its offices, and each office represents different areas of service rather than hierarchical levels.

The priesthood is greater than any of its offices. … The priesthood is not divisible. An elder holds as much priesthood as an Apostle.

Does the restructuring change the priesthood office held by quorum members?
How does President Boyd K. Packer describe the nature of the priesthood and its offices?
How can you better understand and appreciate the different areas of service within the priesthood?
What can you do to support and respect all priesthood offices in your quorum?

Directing the Work of the Elders Quorum President

The elders quorum president is directed by the stake president, who provides training and guidance. The bishop, as the presiding high priest in the ward, also meets regularly with the elders quorum president to counsel and give direction on how best to serve ward members.

The stake president presides over the Melchizedek Priesthood in his stake. Therefore, the elders quorum president is directly responsible to the stake president.

Who directs the work of the elders quorum president?
What roles do the stake president and bishop play in guiding the elders quorum president?
How can you support the elders quorum president in his responsibilities?
What can you do to foster effective communication and collaboration between the elders quorum and the bishopric?

Purpose of the Adjustments to Melchizedek Priesthood Quorums

The adjustments aim to unify priesthood holders to accomplish all aspects of the work of salvation. This includes temple and family history work, mentoring, and providing opportunities for experienced priesthood holders to support others. The changes are intended to enhance the effectiveness and vitality of priesthood service across the Church.

Having one Melchizedek Priesthood quorum in a ward unifies priesthood holders to accomplish all aspects of the work of salvation.

What are the purposes of the adjustments to the Melchizedek Priesthood quorums?
How will these changes impact temple and family history work?
How can you contribute to the unity and effectiveness of your elders quorum?
What opportunities do you see for mentoring and supporting others in your quorum?