SUGGESTIONS FOR STAKE MISSIONARIES
Suggestions for Stake Missionaries
Published by The Missionary Executive Committee of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints March,
1965
To: A L L S T A K E MISSIONARIES Stake Mission Presidencies Presidents of Seventies Quorums High Councilors having assignments with Seventies and Stake Missions Stake Presidencies
Dear Brethren: These Suggestions for Stake Missionaries should be studied with care by all stake missionaries. They should be used as a basis for training missionaries and others in how to find, teach, and fellowship converts. Organized training programs for this purpose should be held. Successful stake missionary work will result in large part from the enthusiasm, devotion, and leadership ability of those who direct the work in the stakes. Tliey will want to use initiative and insight in devising their own procedures for stake missionary work. Tlie information here presented is suggestive: it will serve as a general guide. All who serve in this great cause should catch the missionary spirit of urgency and devotion and should learn how to do the work effectively. Faithfully your brethren, MISSIONARY E X E C U T I V E C O M M I T T E E
HOW
T O USE T H E S E SUGGESTIONS
1. Seek the Spirit. There is only one way to convert people to the gospel, and that is by the power of the Holy Ghost. "And the Spirit shall he given unto you hy the prayer of faith; and if ye receive not the Spirit ye shall not teach." ( D . & C. 42:14.) 2. Desire to Save Souls. Love people. "Remember the worth of souls is great in the sight of God: . . . And if it so be that you should labor all your days in crying repentance unto this people, and bring, save it be one soul unto me, how great shall be your joy with him in the kingdom of my Father. And now, if your joy will be great with one soul that you have brought unto me into the kingdom of my Father, how great will be your joy if you should bring many souls unto me!" ( D . & C. 18:10-17.) 3. Study the Gospel. Know your message. Read the standard works regularly, particularly (because of their value in the missionary program) the Book of Mormon and the New Testament. 4. leam H O W to Present Your Message. a. Read and study all of these "Suggestions." b. Get the inspiration to use those which apply to your situation. Some will work under one set of circumstances, some under another: all have worked effectively somewhere in the Church.
c. Hold regular seminars, development meetings, or missionary training schools, to teach all stake missionaries H O W to put these suggestions into operation. d. Use initiative and devise ways of finding, cultivating, and teaching receptive people, ways that will use your talents and fit your situation. 5.
Teach the Proselyting
Discussions.
a. It is imperative that each stake carry forward an extensive, intensive, organized program to find new investigators, and to cultivate and prepare those who already know something about the Church, so that proper anangements can be made to present to them the regular proselyting discussions. b. A l l missionaries, both stake and full-time, are expected to use the standard proselyting discussions in presenting the gospel message to newly-found investigators. These discussions should be memorized verbatim so they can be presented fluently and persuasively, with freshness, spontaneity, conviction, and spirit. 6.
Devise Your Own Programs.
These suggestions merely point out ways and means of finding receptive people and of further cultivating and preparing those who already have done some investigating. It is recognized that conditions vary widely, and it is not intended that all stake missions use all of the suggestions offered. No attempt has been made to catalogue all appropriate approaches to nonmembers. Wliat follows is suggestive and illustrative. It has worked in many areas of the Church, and with proper promotion and direction will work in many more.
7. Go To Work. The time is short, and the field is white, ready to harvest. There are hundreds of thousands of honest and good people who await the gospel message, and who will receive it as soon as it is properly presented to them. "There are many yet on the earth among all sects, parties, and denominations, who are blinded by the subtle craftiness of men, whereby they lie in wait to deceive, and who are only kept from the truth because they know not where to find it." ( D . & G. 123:12.) I.
TESTIFY
AND
CHALLENGE
Your instructions from the Lord himself are: " I sent you out to testify and warn the people." ( D . & G. 88:81.) Also: "Those who desire in their hearts, in meekness, to warn sinners to repentance, let them be ordained unto this power. For this is a day of warning, and not a day of many words. For I , the Lord, am not-to be mocked in the last days." ( D . & C . 63:57-58.) Joseph Smith said: "It should be the duty of the Elder to stand up boldly for the cause of Christ, and warn the people with one accord to repent and be baptized for the remission of sins, and for the Holy Ghost: always commanding them in the name of the Lord in the spirit of meekness." (History of the Church, vol. 2, p. 262.) a. What It Means to Testify, Warn, and Challenge To T E S T I F Y is to bear record by the power of the Spirit of the truths of salvation: (I)
That Jesus Christ is the Son of God, through whose 3
atoning sacrifice all mankind may be saved by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the gospel; ( 2 ) That Joseph Smith is a prophet, through whom God has revealed in these last days the fulness of his everlasting gospel; : ( 3 ) That the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, as now constituted, is the kingdom of God on earth and the one place where the path and way to salvation may be found; and ( 4 ) That the doctrines of the gospel, as taught and presented by the Church, are part of the plan of salvation. To W A R N is to tell people that unless they believe in Christ, repent of their sins, are baptized under the hands of a legal administrator, receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, and then endure in good works to the end, they shall be damned. To G H A L L E N G E is to inspire and invite men to repent, to summon them to the cause of righteousness, to persuade them to be baptized and gain their salvation. b. Why You Must Teach hy Testimony "My sheep hear my voice." (John 10:27.) "He that is of God heareth God's word." (John 8:47.) "Everyone that is of the truth heareth my voice." (John 18:37.) Those who find it easy to accept the gospel do so because they developed, while in pre-existence, the talent of spirituality, of recognizing the truth. Their souls respond to the music of a testimony, just as the souls of those having musical talent respond to the strains of a symphony. c. To Whom You Must Testify "And the voice of warning shall be unto all people, by the mouths of my disciples, whom I have chosen in these last days." ( D . & C. 1:4.)
Testifying and challenging serves two purposes in our proselyting program: ( 1 ) To identify the lost sheep of Israel: to point out those who are ready to receive the gospel: to find new investigators: and ( 2 ) To encourage those who know about the message of the restoration to make the decision to repent and be baptized. d. Points to Cover When Testifying and Challenging to Find Investigators (1)
We are servants of the Lord.
(2)
Our Father in Heaven loves you.
(3)
He has sent us to tell you: (a)
That Jesus Christ is his Son:
(b)
That the same gospel which Jesus and the apos-
tles preached has been restored: and (c)
That you can accept this gospel, be baptized,
and gain salvation in the kingdom of God. ( 4 ) May we tell you the message which the Lord has sent us to give to you? ( 5 ) We bear testimony to you that we know that our message is true: T h a t . . . &c, &c, &c, (continuing on as circumstances warrant and as led by the Spirit). e. Sample Testimony and Challenge to an Investigator "Brother Brown: We have told you some of the basic truths about the restoration of the gospel in this day through the Prophet Joseph Smith. You have an understanding of our message. Now there is something we are obligated to tell you by way of testimony. We want you to know that we are the Lord's 5
servants; that we have been sent of God to bring you the message of life and salvation; and that this is your opportunity to accept that message. You have your agency and can accept or reject our testimony as you choose. But we want you to know that if you will believe our message, and be baptized, and endure to the end, you will be saved in the kingdom of God. If you do not believe this restored gospel, and are not baptized by those holding the authority which has been restored in this day, you will not gain salvation. This is the very message which Jesus sent his apostles to carry to the world in ancient days, and it is the message he has given us in this day. And we want you to know that we know and testify that God has restored his gospel in this day; that Jesus Christ is in reality the Son of God; that Joseph Smith was called of God; and that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is in very deed the one true Church on earth today. Now Brother Brown, we invite you to accept our message. We ask you to believe these truths, to repent, and to be baptized. Let's plan the day when you will be baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints." This is a sample only. Every testimony will be different. All testimony must be born as dictated by the Spirit. In teaching the discussions repeated testimony should be borne: " I know that what my companion has told you is true." " I know the Lord will give you eternal life by accepting and living this message." n.
REFERRALS
a. Every Member a Missionary President David O. McKay has asked every member of the Church to serve as a Missionary, to seek opportunity to share the gospel with his relatives, neighbors, and friends.
Every member of the Church makes the following covenant at baptism: " I covenant to stand as a witness of Christ at all times, and in all things, and in all places that I may be in, even until death, that 1 may be redeemed of God and numbered with those of the first resurrection and have eternal life." (See Mosiah 18:9.) The Lord says: "It becometh every man who hath been warned to warn his neighbor." ( D . & C . 88:81.) h. Types of Referrals. Type A :
Those met at a Church meeting or program.
Type B :
Those personally introduced by another member, investigator, or friend, preferably in the home of the one making the referral.
Type C .
Those to whom a written introduction is given.
Type D :
Those whose names only are provided, but where full approval is given for the missionaries to use the name of the one making the referral.
Type E :
Those where the name of one making referral cannot be used.
c. How Missionaries Get Referrals "Ask, and ye shall receive: knock, and it shall be opened unto you." ( D . & C. 4:7.) ( 1 ) Work with approximately 5 selected families. Through brief visits train them in how to find investigators. A family a week is what we seek. (2) Qualify yourself so others will trust their friends in your hands. Be sincere but not overbearing. (3) Express appreciation. Love people. Be a Christian lady or gentleman. 7
(4) Ask investigators, as soon as they have heard the first discussion, for an introduction to their friends and relatives. ( 5 ) Work with members of Aaronic Priesthood Missionary Committees and other missionary minded young people. (6)
Check List for finding investigators
(a) Anyone who has a close relative in the Church, particularly if the member is a recent convert. (b) Anyone who knows a member of the Church and respects him. (c) Anyone who is acquainted with the Church or its programs. (d) Anyone who has asked questions about the Church. (e) Anyone who has read church literature or studied the gospel. ( f ) Anyone in the process of choosing a church, particularly newlyweds or people who have moved into a new area. (g) Anyone who has expressed respect for the Church. ( h ) Anyone who has visited a ward, branch, auxiliary organization, etc. (i)
Anyone who has contact with or is friendly toward a Latter-day Saint. For instance; Tradesmen, professional acquaintances, club members, athletic associates, business contacts, those on Christmas card lists, neighbors, people moving into a neighborhood.
(j)
Nonmembers in part-member families (after checking with bishop or branch president),
( k ) Names on old investigator lists. (1) Anyone who simply lives a "Christian Life." (m) Anyone who tours church welfare projects, temple grounds, historic sites, church buildings, etc.
(n) Anyone who listens to the Tabernacle Choir. (0) Anyone dating LDS youth. (p) Anyone for whom a bishop or other church officer performs a marriage, (q) Anyone who participates in a church athletic program. (7)
Dialogue for finding investigators
Member: How much do you know about the Mormon Church? Friend: Oh, not much, why? Member: Would you like to hear more? Friend: Well, possibly. Member: I have two friends I'd like you to meet. Will you be home this evening? (Continue until appointments is made.) III. G R O U P
TEACHING
You increase your power and effectiveness and baptize more people in less time by teaching in groups. A group meeting consists of teaching two or more contacts at the same time who are not normally found together. a. To Arrange a Group Meeting (1) Ask contacts and/or members to invite friends into their home: Neighbors, relatives, business acquaintances, personal friends. (2) friends;
Give them the following dialogue to use with their
Member: How much do you know about the Mormon Church? Friend: Oh, not much. Why? 9
Member: Would you like to hear more? Friend: Why, yes, I would. Member: A couple of good missionaries from the Church are coming over to my home tomorrow evening. Bring your wife and come over. You will enjoy it! (Make definite appointment.) (3)
Commit them to invite their friends. (Get names.)
( 4 ) Follow-up by phone and visit before the meeting to make sure friends will actually attend. Where possible meet the investigators before the group meeting. (5)
Bring your own contacts together.
( 6 ) Find an organized group of non-members: Youth organizations, Bible study groups, etc. b.
To Teach, a Group
( 1 ) Begin with an informal conversation to relax the contacts and get to know them. Do not discuss controversial subjects. ( 2 ) Ordinarily a person should see the film strip, "What Is a Mormon," or hear the flip chart presentation, or receive some other preparatory material, before receiving the first discussion. (3)
Use Handbook discussions.
( 4 ) Encourage group participation. Direct dialogue questions to several individuals. ( 5 ) Get key commitments from more receptive contacts, then get general commitments from others, such as, "Does everyone agree?" C.
To Follow-up a Group Meeting
Contact every golden investigator in the group individually within a day or two after the first meeting. 10
(1)
Review commitments.
(2)
Answer questions.
(3)
Hold prayer with him.
Follow-up on the member who held the meeting, too. An effective, continual follow-up is absolutely essential to successful group teaching. I V . A A R O M C PRIESTHOOD
MISSIONARY
COMMITTEE
a. Why Youth Should Join the Church (1)
To gain salvation.
( 2 ) To increase the opportunity for all church youth to marry in the Church. (3) To enjoy the recreational, cultural, educational, and religious programs of the Church. (4) people.
To associate with other clean, outstanding young
(5)
To lead their parents and families into the Church.
(6)
To help build up and operate the Church!
b. Responsibility of Auxiliary Organizations ( 1 ) Make aU their regular activities—recreational, cultural, educational, religious—attractive to non-member youth. ( 2 ) Aid in the programs for reverence, church attendance, friendliness, and the like. ( 3 ) In the case of the MIA—provide special ward and stake activities as requested by the bishop or stake president. c. Responsibility of Aaronic Priesthood Misionary Committee (1)
Get converted to the Youth Missionary Program.
(2)
Recognize the need for more youth converts. 11
(3) Give vigorous and enthusiastic leadership to the Youth Missionary Program of the Church. (4)
Meet regularly, weekly where the need warrants.
( 5 ) Spread a spirit of missionary enthusiasm among A L L member youth so they will A L L be missionaries. (6) Invite non-member youth to recreational, cultural, educational, and religious programs of the Church. (7) Plan ways, means, and programs to interest non-member youth. (8) Set up and promote programs to get A L L member youth to bring non-members to church functions. (9)
Set up goals for A L L member youth.
(10)
Teach A L L member youth H O W to find investigators.
(11) tized.
Help fellowship youth who are converted and bap-
(12) Suggest special functions and activities which the MIA can use to attract and interest non-member youth. d. Responsibility of All Youth (1)
FIND INVESTIGATORS!
(2)
Interest everyone in the Church.
(3) Invite friends, schoolmates, relatives, acquaintances— everyone—to attend and participate in the recreational, cultural, educational, and religious programs of the Church. (4) Ask the Golden Questions everywhere—What do you know about the Mormons? Would you like to leam more? (5) Live the gospel. Prepare for missions. Love the Lord. Keep the commandments. Be an example of the believers. (6) Read the Book of Mormon. Study the gospel. Be proud of the Church and of Joseph Smith. Talk to everyone about these things. 12
(7) Participate in the programs sponsored by the Aaronic Priesthood Missionary Committee. (8) Bring others to Church with you. Tell them the Church is true. Sit by them in sacrament and other meetings. (9)
Attend the baptismal services of your friends.
(10)
Be reverent—always—in all church buildings.
(11)
Get referrals for the missionaries.
(12) Be a missionary. Remember, President McKay said: "Every Member a Missionary." e. How to Interest Your Friends These suggestions, published in "The Era of Youth" and addressed directly to young people, suggest how the youth of the Church can interest their non-member friends: (1) Be sincere, be genuine, be resourceful. After all, the gospel is the most precious gift you could give them. (2) Invite them to worship with you. Use special meetings and occasions as reasons to ask them. Conferences, dedications. Thanksgiving or Christmas Day services, and other special gatherings offer a wonderful opportunity. (3) Ask them if they know anything about the Church, and if they would like to. (4) Get your seminary principal or teacher to plan a special day or class period or social when you can take your friends with you as guests to observe what goes on at the seminary. The same thing could be done in Sunday School or MIA to provide a fine opportunity to get your friends acquainted with the Church. (5) Enlist your family in your program. A family meal or a family home evening with a family prayer and good family fellowship would be a revelation to some of them and a real 13
blessing to any of them. (It would be a great thing for the family, too!) ( 6 ) Plan to invite friends to attend or participate in athletic contests, operettas, plays, and other activities. (Do you know that in 1959 more than 1,400 girls were activated or brought into the Omrch through the girls athletic program?) (7)
Read and then pass on to them a fine book like Larry,
which includes the story of a wonderful teenager's introduction to Mormonism. A great book like A Marvelous Work and a Wonder might do the trick, too. ( 8 ) Use the Church publications to share good things with them. Some of the teen articles in the Era of Youth will make a fine conversation piece. If you really mean your friendship and interest, you could scrimp a little and present a subscription to the Era to a choice friend. (9)
Take advantage of good opportunities to talk about
serious things. Like you, all need to know the meaning of life, and if you are sincere and prepared, many of them will talk and listen. (10) The heart of the effort, of course, is you. Your sincerity, your knowledge, your faith, your testimony, your courage are the big issues. You won't want to impose on your friends, or to seem smug or arrogant. But if you love the gospel and love your associates, you'll know that there isn't any more joy available in the world than to see them get together. It may well be that you can start the wonderful process of convasion. (11) What you say is important. What you do is probably more important. What you are matters most of all. Learn and live and love the gospel . . . then you won't be content not to share it, and you'll bring great joy to others, and incidentally, find great joy yourself. H
f. How to Prepare for a Full-Time
Mission
Every worthy and qualified young man in the Church who is 19 years of age and older should be given the privilege of full-time missionary service. Circumstances will also enable many of our young women who are 21 years of age and over to enjoy this privilege. Aaronic Priesthood Missionary Committees should help prepare the youth of the Church for missionary service. As a guide to young people in preparing themselves for missionary service, the following questions, of the type that may be asked in missionary interviews, were published in the Era of Youth; 1. D O Y O U R E A L L Y W A N T T O G O O N A MISSION? Do you have a testimony that this is the Lord's work, that it is vital for all men, and that it is your personal responsibility to see that others have a chance to hear the message? Are you ready and willing to "seek first the kingdom of God?" . . . to be set apart for a time from the normal pursuits and ambitions and associations of your life? . . . to give your whole heart, mind, strength, and loyalty to this sacred cause? . . . to commit yourself all your life to the high standards of responsibility and devotion expected of one who has been a missionary? Do you have the deep desire to serve that will motivate you to do the demanding work required of a missionary, to meet discouragements and disappointments courageously and maturely? 2. A R E Y O U P R E P A R E D T O S E R V E AS A MISSIONA R Y ? Have you earnestly studied the gospel and prayed for a personal wimess? Have you read the standard works? Which books have you read that explain the basic principles of the gospel? How much have you read about the history of the 15
Church? Did you attend seminary? Institute? Have you been active in your quorums and the auxiliary organizations? 3. A R E Y O U W O R T H Y T O R E P R E S E N T T H E L O R D AS HIS MINISTER? Do you understand what it means to be morally clean? Are you morally clean? Have you ever been guilty of conduct which you understand to be immoral or improper or questionable? Are you thoroughly converted to the Word of Wisdom? Do you live it? Have you been honest and honorable in your relationships with others? Have you been in serious difficulty with the law? Do you understand the principle of repentance? Are you dependable? Do you know how to work? Will you follow counsel, accept instruction, obey established rules? 4. A R E Y O U W E L L P l i Y S I C A L L Y A N D E M O T I O N A L L Y ? Do you have any serious problems with your health? Do you understand and follow sound basic principles of nutrition, hygiene, sleep, and exercise?
Is your weight about what it
shoud be? Have you ever had a severe nervous or emotional disturbance or disorder? Do you like people and enjoy being with them? 5. W H A T IS Y O U R E D U C A T I O N A L B A C K G R O U N D ? How much formal schooling have you had? Did you do well in your studies? Can you read well? Memorize? Do you read much? Have you had any training or experience in a foreign language? 6. H O W W I L L Y O U B E SUSTAINED H N A N C I A L L Y ? Do you and your parents know how much a mission will cost? Have you earned and saved all or part of the money needed to sustain you? Are your parents able to supply all or part of your needs? Will you have other sources of income? 16
7. A R E Y O U I N F U L L H A R M O N Y W I T H T H E D O C T R I N E S A N D L E A D E R S O F T H E CHURCH? Have you ever had any association with groups or individuals who are apostate or who run counter to the established order of the Church? Do you have any reservations about the doctrines of the gospel? Are you in harmony with and do you sustain fully the leaders of the Church? g. Responsibility of Stake and Full-Time (1) (2) contacts.
Missionaries
Teach contacts found by youth. Encourage youth to participate with you in finding
( 3 ) Make suggestions to Aaronic Priesthood Missionary Committee, as invited by the Bishop or Branch President. ( 4 ) Encourage all member youth to find investigators, to bring their friends and others to church programs and activities, to help fellowship new converts, and to live the gospel. ( 5 ) Sincerely praise cooperating youth members both publicly and privately. ( 6 ) Help keep youth alert to the importance of bearing testimony and encouraging their contacts to be baptized. ( 7 ) Arrange for youth, after clearing with the Bishop or Branch President, to baptize their friends. (8) Set an example of reverence in all church meetings. Be seated quietly 5 minutes before the start of every meeting. Do not congregate in the foyer among yourselves or do anything to cause unnecessary commotion. (9) Do not participate in MIA unless by assignment for a particular proselyting purpose. (10) Get out and work the whole proselyting program and do not rely unduly on youth members to find contacts for you. 17
V . GOLDEN
QUESTION
CAMPAIGN
Ask, ask, ask—everywhere—everyone—all the time—over and over again—ask—ask the Golden Questions—ask about the Church—turn conversations to religion—ask and ask again. This is our Father's Business. There is nothing in heaven or on earth as important as the gospel. And every member of the Church is under solemn covenant to stand as a witness of its truth, "at all times, and in all things, and in all places, . . . even until death." (Mosiah 18:9; D . & C. 88:81; Deut. 6:4-9.) V I . INVESTIGATOR
FIRESIDES
Use firesides to strengthen your investigators' testimonies and assist them in making the social transition from one church to another. Use the regular MIA Firesides and organize your own Investigator Firesides. a. General Suggestions (1)
Limit to 20-25 people, not to exceed IV2 hours.
(2) Generally restrict attendance to contacts, recently baptized converts, and missionaries. (3) Subject to missionary supervision, let investigators arrange and participate in program and provide refreshments. b.
Program (1)
Welcome by person conducting.
(2)
Opening song and prayer.
(3) Everyone present introduce himself and tell what he likes about the Church. Lead off with members who will bear brief testimonies. (4) Speaker. (Secure best speakers available to speak on simple subjects with converting power.) (5)
Closing song and prayer. 18
( 6 ) Light refreshments and social mingling. Be a skillful host. See that all attending are mutually introduced. V I I . AREA HOME NIGHTS a. Purpose (1)
To cultivate investigators, fellowship new converts,
and reactivate inactive members. (2)
To get golden contacts and set up future group meet-
ings. b. Preparation ( 1 ) Plan a program with the member in whose home the Area Home Night will be held. ( 2 ) Both the member and missionaries invite new converts, other active members, inactive members, and non-members. (3) hours.
Limit attendance to 10-15 and total program to VA
c. Program (1)
Welcome by host.
(2)
Musical number.
( 3 ) Prayer (4)
Game or social activity, 20 minutes.
(5)
Spiritual message, 30 minutes.
(6)
Prayer
(7)
Light refreshments and brief socializing.
V I I I . THE CHURCH
ITSELF
Use the Church and all its programs, facilities, and accomplishments for their proselyting value. Give every proper 19
encouragement to non-members to attend and participate in sacrament meetings, share the gospel meetings, conferences, auxiliary organization meetings and programs, youth conferences, building tours, baptismal services, and so forth. Let the Church itself work for you in finding, teaching, and converting your present and future contacts. I V . MORMON
STORY
VISITING
Use T H E M O R M O N S T O R Y by Rulon S. Howells as a means of generating interest in the Church and its message, or use some other equivalent book—one with pictures, charts, and graphic presentations; one that will attract attention, center i n terest in the Church, and cause people to want to know more about us and our message. Read and become well acquainted with the information in the book. Show it to people in tracting. Point out such things as the pictures of Temple Square, which dramatize
the stability
strength and message of the Church. Weave into your presentation your testimony and invite (that is, challenge) people to leam more about the glorious message of restoration. Set up a first discussion. Leave the book for further study, if appropriate, and then call back to give added encouragement to people to investigate and leam more. Leam the technique of Mormon Story Visiting by tracting with an accomplished, senior missionary. 20
X . RELIGIOUS
SURVEYS
a. Purpose To see how familiar people are with the Church and to give them an opportunity to leam more. b. Preparation Select an area where people congregate or pass by. Clear with officials, if required. Station missionaries at convenient locations. Use clip boards and forms that look official and businesslike. c. Procedure ( 1 ) Be positive. The only thing to fear is fear itself. (2)
Concentrate on adults.
(3)
Do not stand in front of a door or window at a place
of business. (4)
Do not block the sidewalk while Interviewing.
(5)
Smile. Be friendly and courteous. Thank everyone.
(6)
Set up definite appointments with interested people
wherever possible. ( 7 ) Be sure that all names and addresses of interested persons are written clearly and correctly. Avoid flippant situations where false addresses will be given. d. Sample Questions Have you had an opportunity to leam about the Mormon Church? Did you know the Mormon Tabemacle Choir was a part of the Mormon Church? Do you know what makes the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints distinctive? (Devise any appropriate questions that fit your needs and situation.) 21
e. Sample Dialogue (1) Approach: "Pardon me, sir (madam), I am taking a religious survey; would you please answer a few brief questions for me?" (2) Use the last question in the Survey as a way to i n troduce your testimony—of Joseph, Smith, of the Book of Mormon, of the restoration of the gospel, of the truth of the Church, of the divine mission of the Savior; all as the Spirit directs. For example: Elder: Do you know what makes the Mormon Church distinctive and different from other churches in the world? Brown: No. Elder; Tlie Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a restored church which was organied by a prophet whom God called in modern times. This man, Joseph Smith, was a prophet just as literally and truly as were Moses and Elijah. WOULD I T B E IMPORTANT TO Y O U TO H N D OUT IF G O D HAS S P O K E N T O A P R O P H E T I N O U R O W N TIME? Brown; Yes, I suppose it would. Elder; I know that Joseph Smith was a prophet and that through him the Church of Jesus Christ and the authority to A C T F O R God have been once again restored to earth. W H E N C A N W E CALL B Y AND TELL Y O U MORE ABOUT T H E P R O P H E T JOSEPH SMITH? (Or the Book of Mormon, or the restoration, or whatever you have been lead by the Spirit to assert by way of testimony.) XI.
LENDING
LIBRARY
Stake missionaries in particular and members of the Church in general may well acquire for themselves a Lending Library consisting of several copies of books which will appeal to nonmembers, such as: 22
/
The Book of Mormon "The Mormon Story," by Rulon S. Howells " A Look at Mormonism," by Benjamin Alward "The America's Before Columbus," by Dewey Famsworth "Mormonism," by President Hugh B. Brown "What of the Mormons," by Elder Gordon B. Hinckley " A Marvelous Work and a Wonder," by Elder LeGrand Richards. These books should be loaned, for brief periods, to persons showing an interest in the Church, as a means of preparing them to receive a first discussion. It is wise to keep a record of all placements so books will not be lost. Keep them in circulation. Find places to put them. Loan them to your friends and acquaintances. Get youth to pass them around at school. Put one in a barber shop. Read them yourself as you ride the buses, so others will become interested, and then engage them in a conversation. Figure out ways to place these items. Pick them up after short intervals and use them again. Be alert for Lending Library opportunities. XII.
TRACTING
Tract in the most productive areas. Where possible find areas of rapid population turnover, new housing developments, middle and upper class homes. First impressions are extremely important. Concentrate on making each door produce a new contact. a.
Have the "Attitude of Success"
h. Sample Tracting Door Approach. "Good morning, Mrs. Brown. We are ministers. We have come to call on you this morning. May we step in?" Common excuses and suggested replies are as follows: 23
Mrs. Brown: I'm busy right now. Elder: Our short thought takes just a few moments, may wc come in? Mrs. Brown: We have our own Church. Elder: Wonderful! This thought is for people of all faiths, may we come in? Mrs. Brown: I'm not interested. Elder: We sincerely know you will be interested, may we step in? Mrs. Brown: What Church are you representing? Elder: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, sometimes called the Mormon Church, but our thought is for all people. May we come in? Mrs. Brown: My husband is away and would not like you in. Elder: there.)
(Make an appointment to meet when husband is
c. Call Back (1) When time will not permit contact to hear entire discussion, anange to call back. ( 2 ) When discussion is given to part of family, arrange to return and give to whole family. ( 3 ) Always establish a definite day and hour and commit contact to be at home at that time. (4) Call back at the earliest possible time. XIII. BOOK OF
MORMON
"I told the Brethren that the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book." Joseph Smith. 24
"The Book of Mormon . . . contains a record of a fallen people, and the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles and to the Jews also; . . . [it was] given by inspiration, and is confirmed to others by the ministering of angels, and is declared unto the world by them—Proving to the world that the holy scriptures are true, and that God does inspire men and call them to his holy work in this age and generation, as well as in generations of old; Thereby showing that he is the same God yesterday, today, and forever." ( D . & C . 20:5-16.) When people read the Book of Mormon, in the way directed by Moroni, they gain a knowledge, by the power of the Holy Ghost, that it is true. Since the Book of Mormon is true, it follows that Jesus is the Christ, that Joseph Smith is a prophet, and that the Church is true. Your aim is to place the Book of Mormon in every home to stand as a witness of your message. Seek to do so by selling it in the regular way in the course of the discussions, thus preparing those who receive it to read it in the preferred manner. If you are not able to present the discussions, then sell the Book of Mormon direct. In the course of your conversation say something to this effect: Elder: I know that Joseph Smith was a prophet and that the Lord revealed to him many truths which had been hidden for centuries. Some of these pertained to the ancient inhabitants of America. You as a Christian would surely be interested in knowing, for instance, about the ministry of Jesus, after his resurrection, among the ancient Americans. Wouldn't it be a wonderful thing if we all knew more about Jesus and his ministry on earth? Brown: Yes, I suppose so. Elder: I certainly agree with you, Mr. Brown, and I am sure you would like to know that the Prophet Joseph Smith brought 25
forth a new volume of holy scripture, the Book of Mormon, and that this sacred record tells about the ministry of Jesus on the American continent. If the Book of Mormon is the word of God, would it be important to you? Brown: It surely would. Elder: I know that the Book of Mormon is the word of God. We would like to place a copy of this book in your home so that you and your family may read it and leam of its tmth. We will be happy to pass it on to you for fifty cents, which is the cost of printing. Would you be interested in learning more about the ancient inhabitants of America and of the ministry of Jesus among them? Brown: Yes, I would. Elder: Fine: here is your copy of the Book of Mormon When you read it, will you pray and ask God to help you understand and know of its truth? I know that the Book of Mormon is the word of God, just as I know that Joseph Smith was a prophet, and that Jesus is our Savior. We would like to call back and tell you more about these things. Would Wednesday afternoon be all right? Since the Book of Mormon has been given by the Lord to prove to the world that he has called prophets in this day, missionaries should devise every appropriate and honorable way to get non-members to read and pray about this volume of holy scripture. Missionary teaching and testimony should repeatedly be tied in to the Book of Mormon. For instance: Tell a non-member about the apostasy, the restoration, the coming of the Father and the Son, the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, the restoration of the priesthood in this day, about latter-day revelation, about apostles and prophets in modem 26
times, or anything that is appropriate under the circumstances involved, and then say something to this effect: "The reason I know these things are true is because of the Book of Mormon." Or, "The reason I know Joseph Smith was a prophet is because of the Book of Mormon." Or, "The reason I know the Father and the Son appeared to Joseph Smith"—or whatever truth connected with the restoration is being taught—"is because of the Book of Mormon." Such an approach often will cause investigators to want to test the marvelous claims you have made by referring to the book itself. X I V . BOOK OF MORMON
GIFT
PROGRAM
Except in special cases, missionaries should sell, and not give away, copies of the Book of Mormon. Members of the Church, however, are encouraged to give copies of this book to their relatives, friends, neighbors and acquaintances. Christmas is the ideal time to give such a gift, in lieu perhaps of a Christmas card or other inexpensive present. Specially prepared Christmas cards, appropriate for use in giving copies of the Book of Mormon as gifts may be acquired. These cards might well quote Mosiah 3:8 and Luke 2:11, and also contain the following message: "We rejoice, as do Christians everywhere, in the coming of the Son of Grod. "We are grateful, as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, that He has given a new witness of His divine Sonship—a volume of Holy Scripture which tells of His ministry to His 'other sheep.' 27
"Please accept with our best wishes this copy of the Book of Mormon, which contains, as does the Bible, the fulness of His Everlasting Gospel." This message could also be written by members on cards of their own choosing. Records should be kept of all Book of Mormon gifts, and missionaries should call on the recipients after a reasonable lapse of time. Whether any reference is made to the gift of the member depends entirely upon the wishes of the member who gave the book. X V . H O M E TEACHING
PROGRAM
Seventies serving as Home Teachers to part-member families should follow a systematic program to prepare the non-members to receive the proselyting discussions. All Home Teachers should inquire regularly in the homes they visit to gain referrals and missionary teaching opportunities for the missionaries. Names of prospective investigators may be referred to the stake mission through the ward council. X V I . PARENTAL
PERMISSION
Baptize families. Wlien this cannot be done, and the husband is willing, baptize the wife. If neither parent qualifies for baptism, and they are willing to have their converted children join the Church, then baptize the children. When minors only are receptive, help them plan an affirmative program to gain parental approval for baptism. Among other things: Meet parents. Try to teach them. Explain the church program. Tell them about the auxiliary organizations and the youth 28
programs. Pray in their homes. Be friendly. Bear your testimony. Take other members with you. Get minor children to fast and pray and be positive in their desire to join the Church. Allow parents time to leam about the Church and discover the advantages their children will gain. Be sure children are really converted and that parents approve their continued activity and worship in the Church. Follow the Spirit. Sample dialogue for approaching parents: "We have enjoyed getting acquainted with your son Bill who has been active in the youth organizations of the Church. Bill is a fine young man and a aedit to your family. It is evident that he comes from a good Christian home. Now, Bill has expressed a desire to learn more about the Church. We prefer to give this instmction in his own home. We felt sure that you would like to be in attendance. Would it be possible to spend an hour with you on Wednesday or would Friday be more convenient for you?" X V I I . TOOLS F O R FINDING
INVESTIGATORS
Some people do not know enough about the Church to have an intelligent opinion as to whether they want to know more about us and the gospel. Others have been prejudiced against the Church by false teachings given in schools and other organizations. To prepare people to hear our message, we have a host of proselyting tools, such as: The examples set by members and missionaries who live their religion: The unique status of a people who, contrary to the course pursued by nearly everyone else, abstain from tea, coffee, tobacco, liquor, profanity, gambling. Sabbath day recreation, and so forth: 29
Visual and vocal teaching aids, such as projectors, tape recorders, film strips, 16 mm films, taped sermons of many of the Brethren, flip charts, pictures, displays, radio and T V programs; Books and publications, including Lending Libraries, the Era and other church magazines, the Church Section of the Deseret News, and favorable articles appearing frequently in the public press; AU of our proselyting literature; Church activities, meetings, conferences, socials, and recreational events. But above all we have ourselves—clean, upright representatives of the cream of the world's youth; young people with faith, fervor, and devotion who seek and gain the Spirit of the Lord. We have the tools; our need is to use them to the fullest extent. X V I I I . USE O F PROSELYTING
UTERATURE
a. Personal Testimony There is no substitute for the personal witness and testimony of the missionaries. Your commission is to teach, testify, and baptize. The souls of spiritually inclined persons respond to teachings given by the power of the Holy Ghost. b. Written Testimony In addition to our spoken testimony, however, we must leave a written witness for people to study and ponder over. The following procedure should be followed: ( 1 ) Approach every person with a view to setting up an immediate first discussion, using such literature or other things as may be necessary. ( 2 ) Present the first and all subsequent discussions in the regular way, leaving the recommended literature for each dis30
cussion, and selling the Book of Mormon when the second discussion is presented. ( 3 ) Get every person who will to read, in particular, "Joseph Smith's Testimony" and the Book of Mormon. ( 4 ) When people will not make an appointment for a first discussion, or will not carry forward into the second discussion, sell the Book of Mormon immediately. Then make subsequent call backs to see if reading the Book of Mormon has generated an interest in the gospel. (5) If they will not buy a Book of Mormon, leave an appropriate tract or pamphlet with your compliments. ( 6 ) If they decline to accept your free literature, leave with a friendly feeling. Perhaps you or some other missionary will able to touch their hearts at a future time. XIX.
PERSONAL
INITIATIVE
"It is not meet that I should command in all things; for he that is compelled in all things, the same is a slothful and not a wise servant; wherefore he receiveth no reward. Verily I say, men should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness. ( D & C. 58:26-27.) Preaching the gospel is a living, inspiring enterprise. Every person and every situation is different. Y o u must approach every person in the way best suited for him. There is no overall direction except to be guided by the Spirit. Use your initiative in advising ways and means of finding people. Salt your meetings with responsive people who will add their testimony at the proper time. Devise new ways to find investigators, new door approaches, new ways of getting into homes, new ways to succeed. 31
;
Set your personal goals and gain them.
Find new ways to use your Lending Library, the tracts, tapes, films, flip charts, and so on. Hold street meetings; use letters of introduction; send tracts by mail; present your message to sectarian Bible classes and other church groups; use displays; and so on, ad infinitum. Think—Plan—Pray—Originate—Create—Find a way to get your message over, to start people investigating. Do anything that is honorable and right, and the Lord will prosper your cause. XX.
G O O D NEIGHBOR
APPROACH
a. Be a Friend Love people. Help your neighbor; he also is one of our Father's children. Remember the Good Samaritan. b.
Bring a Friend Campaign
Let the Church and its programs help prepare people so they will investigate the message of the restoration. Invite friends and neighbors to church meetings, functions, and activities—Relief Society, Sunday School, MIA, Primary, seminary and institute classes, firesides, and so on. c. Use Special Occasions On every hand there are opportunities for gospel conversations and chances to invite people to church-connected events. (1) The groundbreaking, construction, or completion of a new meetinghouse—view it, explain how it will be used, attend services in it. (2) Dedications of meetinghouses and other church buildings—attend the services, point out the unique nature of our buildings (kitchens, cultural halls, "cry" rooms, class rooms, ex32
pandable chapels, and so on), tell how we will use the building, how it was built. (3) Visits of General Authorities, members of stake presidencies, high councilors, or other special speakers. (4) Church athletic programs and events—M Men basketball, the Softball league, various MIA tournaments. (5) News about the Church—articles on the welfare program or the missions, building of temples, appointments and releases of church officers. (6) Special Easter, Christmas, Thanksgiving Day programs. (7) Activities, programs, or achievements of the B Y U or any church educational institution. (8)
Any church-connected event, doctrine, policy, or hap-
pening—Why we build temples; why we don't use tea, coffee, tobacco, or liquor; how we build meeting houses with volunteer labor; why thousands of our young people volunteer for missionary service; salvation for the dead; living apostles and prophets; revelation in modem times; new volumes of scripture; miracles that happen now; and so on. d. Cottage Meeting Approach Go to the non-member home as a neighbor. Identify yourself. Tell where you live. Show that you belong to the area and are a permanent resident. Ask for an appointment at a specific time. Be business like about it. Fill your appointment. Be prepared. Tell your story. Come to the point; don't spend needless time in idle conversation. Use tact. Do not impose on your neighbors. You live among them. Study the family; make your first impression your best impression. If your time of coming is inconvenient, arrange for an33
other time. You are their guest; they are your host. Act accordingly. Don't wear out your welcome. e. Use a Card System In small nonmember population stakes and in selected areas of larger nonmember population stakes, make a card index for all nonmembers. List pertinent data about them. Arrange for selected neighbors to contact the family and interest its members in the Church through the be-a-friend approach and the use of the church programs and organizations. Have representatives of the various auxiliary organizations get the nonmembers interested in specially selected church activities. f. Use Sponsor Families Selected L D S families can be chosen and appointed to serve as sponsor families for nonmember families, for investigating families, and for recently baptized families. These sponsors can help the other families to the Church and to all its organizations and programs. XXI.
FOLLOW-UP a. Purpose When spiritually inclined people first leam of the restora-
tion, they begin to hunger and thirst for the word of revealed truth. They want you to call back on them frequently. Effective follow-up is essential; (1)
To teach them the gospel.
(2)
To fellowship them in the kingdom.
(3)
To complete their conversion before the enemy sows
tares in the field, before attempts are made to darken their minds against the truth. 34
b. Daily Follow-up ( 1 ) Four times a week by missionaries—twice to teach a discussion, once at a church meeting, and once for a special purpose. ( 2 ) Three times a week by members of the Church, as arranged and coordinated by missionaries. c. Mechanics of FoHow-up (1)
Check commitments made in discussions.
(2)
Take a Word of Wisdom substitute.
(3)
Leave tracts, the Era, or other printed material.
(4)
Get referrals.
(5)
Issue special invitations.
(6)
Pray with the contact.
(7)
Make a brief visit only.
X X I I . HELPING
THE ALCOHOL-TOBACCO
USER
Your contact will only live the Word of Wisdom when he has M A D E U P HIS MIND. This is your key to success. a. Help Him to Acknowledge the Problem (1) The contact knows the practice is harmful. Let him tell you so. ( 2 ) Let him explain to you how quitting will help both himself and those he loves. ( 3 ) Show love and make him feel welcome at church in spite of his problem. b. Let Him Tell You How to Quit (1) (2) MIND.
He must realize that delay makes it more difficult. Let him explain the importance of M A K I N G U P HIS
35
y
c. Commit Him (1)
Build his faith in himself. Express your confidence in . .
(2)
Help him to stay away from sources of temptation. I n -
him. '
troduce him to Word of Wisdom substitutes. (3)
Encourage prayer and fasting.
X X I I I . EXTENDED
TEACHING
PROGRAM
When the contact is not baptized after the six discussions, it may be necessary to continue teaching for several weeks. Use "Joseph Smith's Testimony," "Which Church is Right," and "The Book of Mormon" as sources of great converting power. Determine the contact's needs and teach to fulfil these needs. Go over the following questions to see where his testimony needs strengthening: 1. Does he believe the truth of the Godhead? 2. Does he believe Joseph Smith was a prophet of God? 3. Does he realize the necessity of baptism? 4. Does he understand priesthood? 5. Does he accept the apostasy? 6. Does he understand and realize his own testimony? Concentrate on the particular problem which these questions indicate. Do not use other lessons or materials. They confuse the contact. Sometimes a contact will not disclose his real objections so you can center on, and overcome them. To find out what these real objections are, get him to make two lists: one of all the things F O R T H E C H U R C H , the other of all things A G A I N S T T H E C H U R C H . After listing the favorable items, he will more readily list his objections. Then you can emphasize the importance of the items in the F O R T H E C H U R C H list and center on 36
overcoming the objections found in the A G A I N S T T H E C H U R C H list. After determining the contact's need, fulfil it and baptize him. Go to the topical scripture sequences below. Look under the topic to be discussed. These are scriptures and event combinations taken from the Bible, the Book of Mormon, and the pamphlets that establish identical truths. Use all three of these to establish the truth of the latter-day work. Take the scriptures from the Bible and the Book of Mormon, the story from the pamphlets, and explain them, using the outline below. 1. Relate the text to the subject being discussed. 2. Explain the background of the scripture, including information regarding the reason it was written. Help the contact realize the beauty of the truths in the text. 3. Commit contact to the truth of the scripture. Emphasize key words and phrases. 4. Bear your testimony on each point learned. 5. Let contact read and interpret the scriptures. Use "how" and "why" questions. Follow this plan through the series. Use such questions as, "What does this mean to you?" "How can you benefit from knowing these truths?" and "Why was Joseph Smith a prophet?" Leam this information and how to use it; it will be of value in making you a successful missionary. a. Sample Scriptures for Extended Teaching (1)
Joseph Smith a Prophet Heb. 9:16 Ezek. 37:16-17
Mosiah 17:10, 20 J.S. 28-3 0 2 Ne. 3:6-15 J.S. Life 37
(2)
Baptism is Necessary Matt. 3:13-17 Acts 8:38 John 3:5
(3)
2 Ne. 31:5-6 Luke 7:30 Alma 7:14
Authority is Necessary Acts 14:21-23 John 15:16 Acts 19:1-6 Mosiah 18:16-19
(4)
3 N e . 27:8 2 Ne. 31:17-21 4 N e . 1:25-26
J.S. 27-28 J.S. 21-22 J.S. 1
Catholic and Protestants—No Authority 2Tim. 1:14-15 2 Pet. 2:1-3 John 10:1-14
XXIV.
Alma 6:1-2 W . C . 5-6 3 Ne. 18:37-39 W . C . 13-14 Mosiah 21:33 W . C . 14 Mosiah 25:17-19
Only One Church Col. 1:16-18 Matt. 7:13-14 1 Cor. 1:10-15
(5)
J.S. 20-22 Mosiah 18:8-21 J.S. 20-22
ANSWERING
Morm. 1:13-14 Morm. 8:28-32 2 Ne. 9:41-43
YOUR
J.S. 4-5 J.S. 1 W . C . 15-16
INVESTIGATOR'S
QUESTIONS "Thou shalt declare glad tidings, yea, publish it upon the mountains, and upon every high place, and among every people that thou shalt be permitted to see. And thou shalt do it with all humility, trusting in me, reviling not again revilers. And of tenets thou shalt not talk, but thou shalt declare repentance and faith on the Savior, and remission of sins by baptism and by fire, yea, even the Holy Ghost." ( D . & C . 19: 9-31.) a. Postpone Answering Certain Questions You are the Lord's servant, sent with his message of sal38
vation, and it is your right to choose what you will discuss on every occasion. Your instructions are: (1) Present your message. Teach the first principles of the gospel. (2) "Of tenets thou shalt not talk," that is, you are N O T authorized to discuss principles of religion in general at the choice of those to whom you are sent. If such were done, you might talk about their beliefs rather than present your message. For instance: Do not discuss the matter of the "Sabbath Day" vrith the Seventh Day Adventists, or "Salvation by grace alone" with some else. Say instead: "We have some important information on that subject which we would like to prepare and present to you. Before we do so, may we present some discussions which contain background information that will prepare the way for a discussion of your question." Then proceed in the normal way. If the person gets a testimony, his question is probably answered without more; if not, in proper cases, answers may still be given. (3) There is no obligation to answer all questions. There are questions no one can answer. Many things remain to be revealed. Questions that do not involve a person's salvation are often of questionable importance. b. Help the Investigator Find an Answer to His Own Questions (1) Write a question on a 3 x 5 reference card, together with scriptural references and pages in approved texts where an answer may be found. (2) Explain that it will be more profitable for him to find the answer himself with your guidance. (3) Check at a later time to see if he has found the answer, but continue on with the presentation of your message at the time involved. 39
( 4 ) Explain. Do not argue. Teach and bear testimony. Avoid vain and foolish questions. Leave the mysteries alone. Follow the Spirit. XXV.
COMMIT
YOUR
CONTACT
TO
BAPTISM
"Choose ye this day, to serve the Lord Cod who made you." (Moses 6:33.) When investigators come to a knowledge of the truth, they are faced with innumerable pressures to keep them out of the Church. Often their family, friends, and minister combine to tell them why they should remain as they are. Appetites and worldly desires often discourage baptism. But the Lord wants his children to repent, be baptized and become heirs of salvation. As his servant you must encourage them, as strongly and persuasively as in wisdom you can, to repent and join the Lord's people. For the repentant, honest truth seeker, baptism is the greatest thing that can come into his life. X X V I . APPOINTMENT
DISCUSSION
Our aim and desire is to present our discussions to families rather than to individual members of families. It is better, when first contacting a family, to give the first discussion to the husband alone, rather than to the wife alone. In tracting, when the wife only is home, use the following dialogue to gain an appointment to return and give the first discussion when all members of the family are present. Elder: Cood morning. We are ministers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I am Elder Wrigley, and this is my companion. Elder Jones. May we come in? Mrs. Brown: Yes, how do you do? Elder:
(Take three or four minutes to get acquainted with 40
the person; then proceed with the following dialogue): It is a real privilege to be in your home. We have already met many fine people in your neighborhood. I n calling we do not attempt to sell anything or seek a contribution; but as ministers, we have a message of vital importance to you and your family. Mrs. Brown, how much do you know about the Mormon Church? Mrs. Brown: Not very much. I did have a neighbor that was a Mormon, though. Elder: We are frequently referred to as Mormons, although the proper name of the Church is the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The nickname Mormon originated from the Book of Mormon, which is a record of God's dealings with the people who anciently inhabited portions of the North and South American Continents. Missionary work has always been an important part of the Church. At present there are about 12,000 full-time missionaries throughout the world. In addition, there are many thousands who serve on a part-time basis. My companion and I are part of this group, being ordained as ministers and called to serve in this area. We are not required to do missionary work, but because of our personal convictions, we feel it both an honor and a duty to contribute our time and money to share the message of salvation with others. Mrs. Brown, have you ever met any Mormon Missionaries? Mrs. Brown: I have met when they came to my home.
a couple of
them before
Elder: The program we share has been received by many. Those who accept our message gain much joy and happiness, as we know that you and your family will. We would like to make an appointment to come back and share this message when your entire family is here. Mrs. Brown, how would you like to leam more about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints? (If 41
Mrs. Brown agrees, make the appointment, explain the flannel board, have a word of prayer, and leave.) Mrs. Brown: I don't know. I would like to talk to my husband first. Elder: Our message, Mrs. Brown, if you will permit us to say it, concerns the mission and calling of Jesus Christ. . . that he is the Son of God and is associated with our Father in Heaven in providing the plan of life and salvation for men. The Christian world professes to acknowledge him, but as we examine the confusion among the churches, we know that many of them deny his divinity and follow teachings which he never gave. What do you feel, Mrs. Brown, is the reason for so many different churches and teachings? Mrs. Brown: Different interpretations of the Bible, I guess. Elder: I am sure that is part of it. Take a teaching like baptism, for example. Some churches believe that it is necessary, while others do not. Some believe that it has to be done by immersion: others do it by sprinkling. Back in ancient times, when there were living prophets upon the earth, how did the Lord give men the answers to questions like this? Mrs. Brown: He spoke to the prophets and gave them the answers. Elder: And why were the statements of the prophets so valuable? Mrs. Brown: Because they spoke for God. Elder: Yes, they did. I am sure you have wondered what it was like to live back in the time of the prophets. Suppose you had lived then, and had a question about religion, why would you go to a prophet to get an answer? Mrs. Brown: His answer would come from God. Elder: Back in those times, why was it so important to have living prophets upon the earth? 42
Mrs. Brown: Because they spoke for God. Elder: 1 am sure that is right. Even today, how could a living prophet help us to find the true Church? Mrs. Brown: He'd be able to tell us for sure. Elder: And why are the statements of living prophets more reliable than our own opinions? Mrs. Brown: They know and their statements are not opinions. Elder: Y O U A R E R I G H T , T H E R E . AS Y O U T H I N K A B O U T T H E C O N F U S I O N B E T W E E N T H E CHURCHES, W H A T IS O N E R E A S O N W E N E E D A L I V I N G PROPHET? Mrs. Brown: To help us to find the true Church and better understand the Bible. Elder: It is thought by many that the calling of a prophet is confined to ancient times, to days spoken of in the Bible. But surely, Mrs. Brown, we know that God respects the needs of all his children. Couldn't he speak just as easily to us through a prophet today, as in any age? It is our sincere conviction that God has called a prophet in our day to lead us and give us guidance. May we have the opportunity to tell you and your family more about the calling of the Prophet Joseph Smith and the work which he accomplished? (If Mrs. Brown agrees, make appointment, explain the flannel board, have a word of prayer, and leave.) Mrs. Brown: Well, maybe. Elder: There are many churches in the Christian world all teaching different things. In fact, you have several in your own neighborhood. Have you ever wondered which one is right? Mrs. Brown: Yes, I have thought about it before. Elder: They all have different names, because their teachings are different. The purpose we have in coming into 43
your home is to tell you in all sincerity that the true Church of Jesus Christ has been restored to the earth. We feel it is our obligation to tell you the complete story of its restoration through the Prophet Joseph Smith. We would be most happy to come back some time this week and meet with you and your family. May we do that? Mrs. Brown: Yes. Elder: (Make appointment, explain the flannel board, have a word of prayer, and leave.) ' 1.
'
FELLOWSHIPPING
THE
CONVERT
CONVERSION
" A l l those who humble themselves before God, and desire to be baptized, and come forth with broken hearts and contrite spirits, and witness before the church that they have truly repented of all their sins, and are willing to take upon them the name of Jesus Christ, having a determination to serve him to the end, and truly manifest by their works that they have received of the Spirit of Christ unto the remission of their sins shall be received by baptism into his church." ( D . & C. 20:37.) "They were not baptized save they brought forth fruit meet that they were worthy of it. Neither did they receive any unto baptism save they came forth with a broken heart and a contrite spirit, and witnessed unto the church that they truly repented of all their sins. And none were received unto baptism save they took upon them the name of Christ, having a determination to serve him to the end." (Moro. 6:1-3.) a. Worthiness a Prerequisite to Baptism "See the ye are not baptized unworthily." (Morm. 9:29.) b. Conversion Is a Process Conversion is a continuing process. It begins with a testi44
mony; increases with added knowledge and experience; and, ordinarily, is not complete until long after baptism, until the "new convert" so-called has become a new creature of the Holy Ghost (Mosiah 27:24-26): until he has put off the natural man and become a saint through the atonement of Christ the Lord. (Mosiah 3:19.) Peter himself was not converted in the full sense until long after he was ordained as apostle. (Luke 22:32.) Conversion is two-fold:
2.
(1)
To our doctrine: and
(2)
To our method of worship and our way of life.
FELLOWSHIPPING
Of those who are baptized it is written: " Y e are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God." (Eph. 2:19.) Also: "And after they had been received unto baptism, and were wrought upon and cleansed by the power of the Holy Ghost, they were numbered among the people of the church of Christ: and their names were taken, that they might be remembered and nourished by the good word of God, to keep them in the right way, to keep them continually watchful unto prayer, relying alone upon the merits of Christ, who was the author and finisher of their faith." (Moro. 6:4.) a. Fellowshipping Before Baptism As part of the process of conversion, all investigators should: (1)
Study, pray, and attend church.
( 2 ) Participate in the appropriate auxiliary organization programs of the ward or branch in which they live. (3) Meet the Bishop or Branch President and the auxiliary organization officers. (4)
Find new friends who are in the Church. 45
( 5 ) Be baptized and confirmed, preferably, by a local church member. If the baptism immediately precedes the monthly Fast and Testimony Meeting, confirmation should take place in that meeting. b. Fellowshipping After Baptism (1)
Continue full church participation.
(2)
Receive a church assignment.
(3)
Brethren of the proper age, receive the priesthood.
(4)
Pay tithes and offerings.
( 5 ) Build up a personal library of church books, and read and study approved church texts. ( 6 ) Prepare for the temple. Live the gospel. Fit into the whole program of the Church. c. Missionary Responsibility in Conversion and Fellowshipping (1) Teach the six proselyting discussions, without combining or abbreviating them. (2)
Obtain all commitments, including the one on tithing.
( 3 ) Teach a special "Seventh Discussion," before baptism, and on a separate day from one on which any other discussion is taught. Tliis discussion consists of reading, paragraph by paragraph, with appropriate comments and explanations, the pamphlet, "After Baptism What?" This pamphlet should never be given to an investigator until after the 6th discussion is comlected. (4) Arrange for the Bishop or Branch President to meet and talk to the candidate before baptism. This is not a baptismal inten'iew. (5) After baptism assist in presenting the approved fellowshipping discussions. 46
3. LESSONS AND
LITERATURE
a. Use of Literature During the period of investigation it is important to center the contacts' interest in Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon. He should read "Joseph Smith's Testimony" several times and either all or a major portion of the Book of Mormon before baptism. Normally, in the course of the proselyting discussions, the investigator should be given only those tracts and pamphlets specifically listed for use with each discussion. If he is burdened with too many tracts and pamphlets, he may not center his attention in the Book of Mormon to the degree desired. Keep your contact reading the Book of Mormon. Give him extra items of literature only under exceptional circumstances until he gains a good knowledge of the Book of Mormon. Additional items of literature during periods of extended teaching before baptism may be given as needed. b. Literature and Tracts for Proselyting Discussions (1) First Discussion (The Church of Jesus Christ) — "Joseph Smith's Testimony" (2) Second Discussion ( A New Witness for Christ) — "The Mormon Idea of God" (Present as you close the review portion of the lesson and before starting on the portion dealing with the Book of Mormon.) " Y o u Can Be Happier," "The Book of Mormon" (3) Third Discussion ( Y e Shall Know the T r u t h ) - " A Word of Wisdom" (4) Fourth Discussion (The Gift of God is Eternal Life) — "Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ" (5) Fifth Discussion (Law of Eternal Progression)—"The Plan of Salvation" 47
( 6 ) Sixth Discussion (Be Ye Therefore Perfect)-"The Lord's Tenth" ( 7 ) Seventh Discussion (After Baptism What?)—"After Baptism What?"
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the United States of America