Reminder to bishoprics about referring to men as "the priesthood"

8 May 2017

EMAIL TO THE YSA BRANCH PRESIDENT TRENT WESTOVER

President Westover,

This is not to be a criticism, but a reminder of training we’ve tried to give to all bishoprics and branch presidencies:

We try to avoid calling priesthood holders as “the priesthood.” It’s common in the church, but it can actually be offensive to women when we suggest the priesthood is a man when it’s an authority. It can be offensive to women because it suggests it’s a “man only thing” when both women and men share in the blessings and authority of the priesthood, as confirmed in the temple even though women are not ordained to an office in the priesthood.

Also please avoid excusing the brethren who administer and pass the sacrament after the administration of the sacrament. Just notify them before hand that once they’re done, they are to get up and return to the congregation without being directed or even acknowledged.

We’re trying to eliminate needless traditions like, “We thank and excuse the priesthood and invite them to sit in the audience.”

Please pass along to your branch presidency.

Thanks,

PrL