Gospel Principles
Unit 8: Family Salvation
Chapter 40: Temple Work and Family History
Concept 5: Family History--How We Begin Helping Our Ancestors
"Latter-day Saints are encouraged to participate in family history activities. Through these activities we learn about our ancestors so that we can perform ordinances for them. Family history involves three basic steps:
1. Identify our ancestors.
2. Find out which ancestors need temple ordinances performed.
3. Make certain that the ordinances are performed for them.
Most wards have family history consultants who can answer questions and direct us to the resources we need. If a ward does not have a family history consultant, the bishop or branch president can provide direction.
Identify Our Ancestors
To perform temple ordinances for our ancestors, we need to know their names. Many wonderful Resources are available today to help us identify our ancestors" names.
A good way to begin gathering information about our ancestors is to see what we have in our own homes. We may have birth, marriage, or death certificates. We may also find family Bibles, obituaries, family histories, or diaries and journals. In addition, we can ask relatives for information they have.
How much we learn will depend on what information is available to us. We may have only a little family information and may be able to do no more than identify our parents and grandparents. If we already have a large collection of family records, we may be able to identify ancestors from generations further back in time.
We can keep track of the information we gather on family group records and pedigree charts. Samples of these forms are shown at the end of this chapter.
Find Out Which Ancestors Need Temple Ordinances Performed
Temple ordinances have been performed for the dead since the early days of the Church. Consequently, some ordinances for our ancestors may have already been done. To find out which ancestors need temple ordinances, we can look in two places. Our own family records might have information about what has been done. If not, the Church has a record of all ordinances that have been performed in the temple.
Make Certain the Ordinances Are Performed
Many of our ancestors in the spirit world may be anxious to receive their temple ordinances. As soon as we identify these ancestors, we should arrange for this work to be done for them.
One of the blessings of family history work comes from going to the temple and performing ordinances in behalf of our ancestors. We should prepare ourselves to receive a temple recommend so that, when possible, we can do this work. If our children are twelve years or older, they can share in these blessings by being baptized and confirmed for their ancestors.
If it is not possible for us to go to the temple to participate in the ordinances, the temple will arrange to have the ordinances performed by other Church members.
Discussion
How do we go about performing ordinances for our ancestors? What help is available if we need it?"