Receiving the Melchizedek Priesthood and Going Through the Temple

Receiving the Melchizedek Priesthood

In the Church today, worthy male members may receive the Aaronic Priesthood beginning at age 12. These young men, typically ages 12–17, receive many opportunities to participate in sacred priesthood ordinances and give service. As they worthily fulfill their duties, they act in the name of the Lord to help others receive the blessings of the gospel.


Upon reaching the age of 18, the higher priesthood, or Melchizedek Priesthood, is conferred upon faithful male members of the Church.  Through the laying on of hands, the office of "Elder" was conferred upon the new "Elder Copeland."  Through this office of the Melchizedek Priesthood, he may administer in higher ordinances such as giving the gift of the Holy Ghost to newly baptized members, healing the sick, and naming and blessing children.

Elder Copeland's father, Kevin Copeland, conferred the Melchizedek Priesthood and ordained him to the office of Elder by the laying on of hands with other Melchizedek Priesthood holders on Sunday, May 21, 2017.  This line of authority dates back to Jesus Christ.

Attending the Temple for the First Time

Elder Copeland  attended the Draper Temple on Saturday, May 27, 2017.  In addition to his parents, he had other family and friends attend with him.

 Elder Copeland with his parents, Kevin and Angie Copeland

 Elder Copeland with his brothers, Connor and Taylor
 
 Elder Copeland with brother Taylor and Taylor's wife, Ellie

 Copeland family:  Brother Taylor, Sister-in-law Ellie, Elder Copeland, Mother Angie, Dad Kevin, and brother Connor.

 A very good friend, Elder Conner Prosser, who will be laboring in the Argentina Mendoza Mission, attended the temple the same day as Elder Copeland

 Elder Prosser and Elder Copeland with their mothers.

 Elder Copeland with his Grandparents Robert and Marti Johns.

 Another very good friend, also, attended the temple this day:  Elder Ammon Hanneman, going to the California Roseville Mission.

 Elder Prosser, Elder Hanneman, and Elder Copeland

For a better understanding of why temples are so important in the lives of every individual, please click on the link below:

Why Mormons Build Temples