Patriarchal Blessings
A patriarchal blessing is special blessing "given to worthy [Mormon] Church members by ordained patriarchs. A patriarchal blessing contains the Lord’s counsel for the person receiving the blessing and declares that person’s lineage in the house of Israel. Fathers may give special blessings as the patriarchs of their families, but such blessings are not recorded or retained by the Church."[1]
Every Mormon can recieve a patriarchal blessing once in their lifetime. This usually is done when the person is a teenager. The patriarch is set apart within each stake of the Mormon Church to give these blessings. The practice arises out of the blessings given by the Old Testament Patriarchs, such as Jacob, to his children (See Genesis 48-49). Before receiving this blessing, the individual must be interviewed by a bishop to determine the the person is worthy and that he or she understand the blessing. The blessing is considered highly personal and Mormons are counseled not share it with people outside of family members. The actual reception of the blessings is generally preceded by a period of prayer and fasting by both the patriarch and the individual.
A patriarchal blessing's primary purpose is to declare the recipient's lineage with the house of Israel and what blessings and responsibilities are theirs in this life. It can also reveal talents and strenths which the person should develop in this life. Often, individuals receive guidance about weaknesses or temptations they may face. Sometimes, but not always, prophecies may be made about the person's life. Other blessings are promised which are contingent upon the faith and obedience of the recipient.
Elder Richard D. Allred stated, “I can testify to you that these blessings are inspired and are personal revelations to the recipient. Patriarchal blessings are a guideline or similar to a road map that indicates the paths that may be traveled and destinations that may be reached if we stay within those paths. They may bring comfort and joy and encouragement when we have need to look, to listen, and to feel of the contents of these blessings so that we may go forward on life’s journey, not alone, but with the accompanying Spirit of our Father in Heaven" (Ensign, Nov. 1997, 27).
