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You need to talk to your bishop about any issue that would affect your worthiness to participate in priesthood ordinances or to serve in the | You need to talk to your bishop about any issue that would affect your worthiness to participate in priesthood ordinances or to serve in the | ||
− | Church. You should talk to the bishop if you need special | + | Church. You should talk to the bishop if you need special counsel about problems, concerns, and questions in your life. It is probably wise to conclude that if you are wondering about whether or not you need to talk to your bishop, then it is probably a good idea to do so, even if the result is nothing more than a better understanding of your bishop's role and closer relationship to him. |
No one—including FAIR—should be permitted to usurp the bishop's role, since he holds the keys to such matters for the members of his ward. | No one—including FAIR—should be permitted to usurp the bishop's role, since he holds the keys to such matters for the members of his ward. |
This article is a draft. FairMormon editors are currently editing it. We welcome your suggestions on improving the content.
This page is based on an answer to a question submitted to the FAIR web site, or a frequently asked question.
I understand that some sins need to be discussed with my bishop, and other sins can be resolved on my own with the Lord. How do I know when I should talk to my bishop?
Bishops are set apart as judges in Israel, and as such they have the responsibility to administer that portion of the kingdom of God within their stewardship. Bishops are responsible for discerning and judging regarding member worthiness to partake of priesthood ordinances (such as baptism, sacrament, priesthood ordination, and temple ordinances) and for serving in the Church. In their capacities as judge in Israel and presiding high priest they also minister to people who are struggling with sin and other issues.
Bishops do not forgive sins or absolve the sinner in the eternal sense---that is an issue for the Savior. However, if a person is unwilling to confess sins to his or her bishop, who is Christ's authorized representative charged with such things, then the person is probably drifting somewhat away from Christ, which could itself have eternal ramifications. Bishops also aid members who find themselves in a circumstance in which they may have difficulty being guided by the Holy Ghost (e.g., after serious sin).
You need to talk to your bishop about any issue that would affect your worthiness to participate in priesthood ordinances or to serve in the Church. You should talk to the bishop if you need special counsel about problems, concerns, and questions in your life. It is probably wise to conclude that if you are wondering about whether or not you need to talk to your bishop, then it is probably a good idea to do so, even if the result is nothing more than a better understanding of your bishop's role and closer relationship to him.
No one—including FAIR—should be permitted to usurp the bishop's role, since he holds the keys to such matters for the members of his ward.
The list below is not exhaustive, but prophets and apostles have consistently taught that any difficulty listed below should be discussed with our bishop:
In addition, some non-sin issues should be brought to the bishop's attention:
When it doubt, it is wisest to make an appointment to discuss any matters of concern with our bishop. He is best situated to give inspired guidance about what issues need addressed in each member's specific case.
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