Boyd K. Packer - Saturday a.m. Sesson

[ehkape]

hi forum,

I have a question concerning Elder Packers talk, which I enjoyed listening to.

He is relating the story of a young soldier who is about to leave for Vietnam. He is asking Pres. Lee for a Priesthood blessing before he would have to leave. Pres Lee answers that his father should give him the blessing, the boy says the father wouldn't know how. Pres Lee says to tell the father that he should place his hands upon the boys head and say whatever comes.

I'm not sure if I understand the story correctly. Is the father a member/Priesthood Holder or can every father give a fathers blessings? (because of his fatherhood or whatever?) I have to admit I kind of like the idea... but am I on the right track???

Thanks for your answers,

ehkape

LDS.org - Media

*edit: clarification on the story*

Edited April 6, 2010 by ehkape

[john doe]

Any father can give a father's blessing to his children. It is a function and privilege of being the patriarch and head of his home.

[MisterT]

Even mothers are authorized to seek a blessing on their children in times of emergency when her husband or other priesthood authorities are unavailable.

[Just_A_Guy]

Anyone can pray that someone else receive a blessing. There is even precedent for non-priesthood-holding individuals (i.e. women) laying their hands on the head of their children; though I understand the practice is now discouraged.

But such blessings are realized by the power of faith, not by the authority of the priesthood. It would be improper, during such a blessing, for someone to invoke the authority of a priesthood they do not rightfully hold.

Edited April 6, 2010 by Just_A_Guy

[MisterT]

The practice is discouraged except when no priesthood authority is present and there is an immediate emergency.

[rameumptom]

Fathers can always give their children a father's blessing. Those without the MP cannot do it by that authority, but can invoke the Lord's blessings on their children through prayer and supplication.

[pam]

As others have stated..any father can give a family member a blessing. Those that do not hold the Priesthood can not do it by saying "By the Holy Melchizedek Priesthood which I/we hold."

[ehkape]

thanks,

that was new to me

what about blessing a baby/giving a name?

Can that be done the same way?

[john doe]

No, baby blessings/giving a name are church ordinances, which require Melchizidek Priesthood Authority to perform.