Basics and Definitions
What is a patriarchal blessing?
A personalized inspired Priesthood blessing given by an ordained Patriarch.
How many tribes of Israel are there?
12
Who gives a patriarchal blessing?
An ordained Patriarch
Give me two examples of things that can be found in a patriarchal blessing
Ex: promises, counsel, admonitions, warnings, direction, and spiritual gifts
What Priesthood office do patriarchs hold?
The office of patriarch in the Melchizedek Priesthood
What distinguishes a patriarchal blessing from other Priesthood blessings?
A patriarchal blessing is distinct because it is individual, recorded, declares lineage, and contains council, not just general Priesthood blessings.
What is declared in every patriarchal blessing?
Your lineage/your tribe in Israel
When is one ready to receive a patriarchal blessing?
When one is spiritually, emotionally, and doctrinally ready, not simply by age.
If a blessing doesn’t mention an event, should one assume it won’t happen?
No, absence of mention does not mean something won’t happen.
Who calls and ordains patriarchs today?
The Stake President calls and ordains, with approval from the Quorum of the 12 Apostles.
Why is a patriarchal blessing considered “personal scripture to you”?
Because it is revelation given for that individual, guiding, encouraging, and directing.
Do all descendants receive their lineage by blood?
No. Lineage does not always mean you’re a direct descendant from that tribe.
What preparatory steps are involved?
Be worthy, meet with the Bishop for a recommend, pray/fast/prepare spiritually, then schedule with the Patriarch.
Will all promises always be fulfilled in this life?
Not always. Some promises may be fulfilled in the next life if not here.
Who is our current Stake Patriarch? (We have two)
Patriarch McNamara and Patriarch Whitworth
Can a patriarchal blessing answer all life questions?
No, it should not be expected to resolve every question.
Why is the lineage declaration helpful in life?
It helps a person understand their identity, divine heritage, and their role in God‘s work.
Is there a certain minimum age to receive it?
No. There is no minimum age.
How should one treat counsel or admonitions given in one’s blessing?
One should ponder them prayerfully, act in faith, and strive to live worthy, so that blessings may be realized.
Is it appropriate to read a deceased relatives patriarchal blessing?
Yes, if you are a direct descendent you can request a copy of your deceased relative patriarchal blessing.
Where does the guidance and council in a patriarchal blessing come from?
The guidance and council come from Heavenly Father through the Holy Ghost.
Can members of the same family have different tribes of Israel declared?
Yes, two siblings could be assigned different tribes in their blessings.
Who is it appropriate to share your blessing with?
Immediate family. They should not be read aloud in public or read or interpreted by others not even the patriarch, bishop, or branch president should interpret it.
How should a person study their blessing throughout their life?
Study them frequently, humbly, with prayer, ponder, and seek to align one’s life with their council.
Who was the first ordained Patriarch?
Joseph Smith Sr.