What happens

[Toby]

Now that I returned after being away for 9+ yrs. Do I have to talk to the bishop? Do I have to be accepted back to into the ward by the ward? I'm sitting in the Gospel Principles class. Do I have to confess my sins all over again? Although I was temple worthy when I left I know I have to work back to being temple worthy again. I just don't know what to expect now that I'm back.

[beefche]

Most likely, the bishop will ask to speak wtih you at some point. However, this is more of a get to know you and how can I help you talk rather than a confess your sins now talk. If you feel inclined to discuss with him something deeper, then do so.

When members return to activity, there is no formal re-introduction or anything. The bishop will want to talk with you (especially if you are a priesthood holder or potential priesthood holder) to assess where you are in your journey and how best to help you along the path.

Going to Gospel Essentials is a great way to come back to activity. Likely, you may see an increase in personal contact from individuals. Perhaps someone greeting you at church, or home teachers or missionaries coming by your home. You may be asked to help with various things--such as reading a scripture, or giving a prayer, or taking the trash out after a ward function.

I would suggest you reaching out the bishop first. Ask to speak with him. Then let him know where you are and how you would like to proceed back into activity and temple worthiness.

Welcome back.

[estradling75]

Toby,

A bishop is going to want to see sincere effort and desire to turn away from you prior path and sins.

By coming back to church you are showing exactly this, he is going to be happy for you and want to help you continue to move forward. He will not throw unnecessary blocks in your way, he will help show you the path forward... Some blessing will take awhile to be restored, that is what the path forward is for.

Go to your bishop and unburden yourself if you are carrying guilt. Tell him your basic story and answer the questions he asks. He will ask for what he needs to know and none of us here can promise you exactly what he will need to know, because it is not our place.

[Dravin]

Do I have to confess my sins all over again?

This question stood out to me. If the sin is repented of there isn't a reason to confess it to your Bishop unless you're looking for advice against a relapse or want to share it for some other reason. The caveat would be that it'd need to be properly repented of, which depending on the sin would have involved discussion and counseling with your Bishop.

Edited July 21, 2012 by Dravin

[applepansy]

This question stood out to me. If the sin is repented of there isn't a reason to confess it to your Bishop unless you're looking for advice against a relapse or want to share it for some other reason. The caveat would be that it'd need to be properly repented of, which depending on the sin would have involved discussion and counseling with your Bishop.

It stood out to me too. If its something you've repented of there is not need. But if there is a question in your mind the best person to ask is your Bishop.

[kartvines]

Recently returned and have have been attending regularly for approx 2 months, I just started going and nobody has said much of anything, I am happy that the Bishop allowed me to meet with the High Priests during Priesthood meeting due my being closer to there age, and when I stopped going approx 40 years ago I was 18 and only made it as far as being ordained a Priest, I don't know if the Bishop will eventually pulled me into his office for a chat, he welcomes me every so offend when I show up early for the Sacrament meeting, so I guess it all depends on the Bishop, and Ward.

Is there any real policy of the church in this matter?

[NeuroTypical]

Hi Toby,

I remember when I came back to the church after 6 years. I absolutely went and talked to the Bishop, telling him my exact situation, letting him know what I needed and what I didn't need, what I was ready for and not ready for. He was very receptive and grateful to hear everything I had to say. I recommend going and seeing him, telling him everything you've told us, and getting the answers to your questions from him.

[NightSG]

Is there any real policy of the church in this matter?

Yes. You must wear a very silly hat to an important event.

See how much better this guy feels?

http://www.fun-shop.com/show_image.php?im=/img/08/81004.jpg&size=300