One last hurrah? A letter to bishops about their keys to the preparatory gospel — the gospel of repentance

5 March 2021

Dear Bishops and Branch Presidents…

One last hurrah?

You may remember the attached slide presentation at our Bishopric Training last month in which we discussed how you and the young Aaronic Priesthood holders exercise the keys of the Preparatory Gospel, which prepares members to receive the blessings of the higher priesthood, even the blessings of exaltation.

There was one more thing I wanted to share.

As you noticed, the preparatory gospel “...is the gospel of repentance and of baptism, and the remission of sins.” (D&C 84:27)

All three reference the stunning blessing of cleansing God’s children of sin.

Have you ever wondered why bishops are set apart as Judges in Israel, "a common judge” (a judge among all people) as explained in D&C 107:72-74? And why is it that you can’t share this responsibility or duty with elders quorum presidents, with their newly delegated responsibilities?

Because you and you alone hold the full keys of the preparatory gospel—“the gospel of repentance and of baptism and the remission of sins." When you receive confessions and then counsel with members in helping them back onto the covenant path, you are using your keys as the president of the Aaronic Priesthood and thus the keys to the preparatory gospel—the gospel of repentance.

You are also ordained a High Priest in the Melchizedek Priesthood so you can preside and judge among all within your ward (common judge). 

I’m not sure why I’m sharing this. It’s just something that has lingered with me since that training. I hope in some way it will be helpful to each of you in recognizing how very special and sacred is your calling…and how you are functioning in a very import Aaronic Priesthood role.

Maybe it will also help you lift and bless the young men in your wards to recognize their role in helping all of God’s children to repent, be baptized (and renew that and other covenants with the sacrament each Sunday) and enjoy the peace and joy that comes from a remission of sin.

You are all mighty men in Israel and it’s been such a joy and honor to meet often with you and serve with you.

With love and admiration for the work you are doing. You’ll continue to be in my prayers.

Crismon Lewis