We need to elevate our efforts in caring for New Converts, Youth, and YSA. Please counsel together on how to improve retention and care in your ward and stake.
Elder Peter F. Meurs
This page outlines current spiritual and administrative priorities as directed by the Pacific Area Presidency. These priorities are to be taught in councils, discussed in leadership meetings, and implemented under local inspiration and stewardship.
NEW CONVERT PRIORITIES | YOUTH & YSA PRIORITIES | ADDITIONAL PRIORITIES
NEW CONVERT PRIORITIES
New converts should receive a limited-use temple recommend, be ordained to the Aaronic Priesthood (if male), and attend the temple within their first few weeks of baptism. This should become the standard practice in every ward and branch.
PRIORITIES WITHIN THE FIRST WEEK OF BAPTISM:
- Issue a limited-use temple recommend
- Ordain every male convert to the Aaronic Priesthood
- Assist every convert in setting up a FamilySearch account
PRIORITIES WITHIN THE FIRST MONTH OF BAPTISM:
- Help every convert attend the temple to perform baptisms (if a temple is accessible)
LEADER INVITATION: The Area Presidency invites ward and stake councils to counsel together and receive inspiration on how to fulfil these priorities. A printable Ward Council Focus Sheet is available below to support your planning and follow-through.
YOUTH & YSA PRIORITIES
Our youth and young single adults deserve intentional care, timely ordinances, and consistent spiritual support. Leaders are invited to counsel together on how best to help them stay anchored to Jesus Christ through sacred experiences and meaningful relationships.
PRIORITIES FOR YOUTH:
- Every child should receive a temple recommend as soon as they turn 11 years old
- All eligible young men should be ordained at the beginning of each calendar year
- At least one member of the bishopric is present with the youth each Sunday
PRIORITIES FOR YOUNG SINGLE ADULTS (YSA):
- YSA are encouraged and supported in receiving their temple endowment at or near age 18
LEADER INVITATION: The Area Presidency invites wards and stakes to counsel together regularly about how to implement these priorities. Use council meetings and presidency discussions to receive revelation, plan with intention, and support each individual with love and consistency.
ADDITIONAL PRIORITIES
In alignment with the Pacific Area Focus, all leaders and members are invited to assist in strengthening participation, increasing covenant belonging, and hastening the Lord’s work through the following key indicators.
AREA-WIDE PRIORITIES
- Increase weekly sacrament participation
- Support members in holding a current temple recommend
- Invite and prepare individuals and families for baptism and confirmation
- Support the call and preparation of young and senior missionaries (25 in 25)
LEADER INVITATION: Each of these priorities reflects our desire to help more individuals and families make and keep sacred covenants. We invite you to discuss these in your councils and consider what actions the Lord would have you take.