The expectation for priesthood to continually magnify their callings through spiritual growth, study, exemplary generosity, ethical choices, and fully accountable ministry is always present. How can the Spirit fill vessels that are unwilling to expand their capacity to receive and give according to a full measure of God’s grace and truth?—Doctrine and Covenants 163:6c

by Becky L. Savage, First Presidency

When I was ordained to elder in 1991, women had been serving as ordained priesthood for nearly six years. I was eager to understand what serving in priesthood meant and how it was different from serving as a member and faithful disciple. It was apparent early in my preparations that there were important differences and responsibilities.

The required preordination Temple School courses were well taught, informative, and interesting. Despite the coursework I sensed the need for more understanding, yet I could not articulate what was missing.

I thought it might be the difference of how women approach ministry with a diversity of perspectives and life experiences. The women ordained in the six years preceding me were still learning what it meant to be priesthood members in each specific office. There was insufficient time for these priesthood pioneers to share from their limited experience.

Doctrine and Covenants 163:6 provides answers to my earlier quest: “Priesthood is a sacred covenant involving the highest form of stewardship of body, mind, spirit, and relationships.” Priesthood members are reminded to “continually magnify their callings” in a holistic manner focused on “a growing capacity to bring blessing to others.”

The counsel focuses on spiritual connectedness with God. Relationships are emphasized as essential for the well-being of the faith community. For Community of Christ, the faith community consists of disciple and priesthood members focused on the mission of Jesus Christ.

Who we are is described in our mission statement and Enduring Principles. What we do is defined in our five Mission Initiatives: Invite People to Christ; Abolish Poverty, End Suffering; Pursue Peace on Earth; Develop Disciples to Serve; and Experience Congregations in Mission.

Our understandings of Enduring Principles and Mission Initiatives are expanded in a brochure released at the 2013 World Conference titled Ministry and Priesthood. Sections of the brochure include “Ministry,” “Priesthood,” and “Mission Initiatives.” Two additional components of the brochure offer specific guidance.

“Covenant Principles for Faithful Priesthood Ministry” define specific expectations for priesthood members. A foldout chart, “Serving Together to Fulfill Christ’s Mission,” visually depicts how disciples and priesthood members partner in mission.

Your field apostle is planning how best to share the information in Ministry and Priesthood. The First Presidency encourages all disciples and priesthood to participate in mission center gatherings, priesthood training classes, and the numerous other offerings planned by your field leaders.

We need to understand how our commitment as disciples and priesthood members in covenant with God/Jesus Christ/Holy Spirit is essential to the ongoing fulfillment of Christ’s mission on Earth. Join us on this next phase of our journey in holistic covenant.