Prohibition against meeting together to learn and teach gifts of the spirit

[excellerant]

I had been considering forming a group to meet together to teach and learn gifts of the Spirit. There is so much to learn about these, and it IS a commandment, one that few understand or follow.  I've met many members who are actually afraid of their gifts, and prayed to be released from them. In discussing the possibility of forming a group, a concerned member of my ward informed my bishop and stake president.  My bishop called me in and informed me that meetings of this kind were not condoned.  He said the manual as well as several general authorities who spoke on the subject spoke against it.  I cannot find any these references.  A stake president from a neighboring stake prohibited the wards from playing any music in sacrament meeting that didn't come from the hymnbook. The local GA asked him to reconsider, which he did.  I'm wondering if this prohibition is local, regional, or churchwide.  Anyone know?

[NeedleinA]

1 hour ago, excellerant said:

I cannot find any these references. 

If I had to guess, this is where their concern arises:

Handbook 2 21.3.9

Self-Awareness Groups

Many private groups and commercial organizations have programs that purport to increase self-awareness, self-esteem, and spirituality. Some groups promise to enhance individual agency or improve family relationships. Some offer “experiential” or “empowerment” training.

Some of these groups falsely claim or imply that the Church or individual General Authorities have endorsed their programs. However, the Church has not endorsed any such enterprise, and members are warned against believing such claims. The fact that the Church has not formally challenged such an enterprise should not be perceived as a tacit endorsement or approval.

Church members are also warned that some of these groups advocate concepts and use methods that can be harmful. In addition, many such groups charge exorbitant fees and encourage long-term commitments. Some intermingle worldly concepts with gospel principles in ways that can undermine spirituality and faith.

These groups tend to promise quick solutions to problems that normally require time and personal effort to resolve. Although participants may experience temporary emotional relief or exhilaration, old problems often return, leading to added disappointment and despair.

Church leaders are not to pay for, encourage participation in, or promote such groups or practices. Also, Church facilities may not be used for these activities.

Leaders should counsel members that true self-improvement comes through living gospel principles. Members who have social or emotional problems may consult with priesthood leaders for guidance in identifying sources of help that are in harmony with gospel principles.

 

Here is a link to a thread from a couple of months ago related to this subject: