Caring for One Another
Ministering is how we follow the Savior's example — caring for individuals and families in a personal and meaningful way.
What Is Ministering?
In April 2018, Church President Russell M. Nelson introduced the ministering program, replacing home and visiting teaching. Ministering is a higher, holier approach to caring for one another — inspired by the Savior's example of personally caring for those around Him.
Each member of the Clarkston Ward is assigned ministering brothers (from the Elders Quorum) and ministering sisters (from Relief Society) who are charged with getting to know them, being a friend, and helping with temporal and spiritual needs.
Relationships built on genuine care and Christlike love, not obligation.
Contact in whatever way is most meaningful — a visit, text, call, or act of service.
Strengthen faith, share a scripture, offer a prayer — meeting spiritual needs.
Report to your quorum/RS leaders quarterly so the bishopric can know how members are doing.
How It Works
Assigned by the Elders Quorum presidency, ministering brothers are men of the Melchizedek Priesthood (or Aaronic Priesthood under senior companion supervision) assigned to watch over and minister to individual families and members.
Assigned by the Relief Society presidency, ministering sisters are women called to care for the women and families in their assigned households. They offer friendship, service, spiritual support, and connection to ward resources.
Each quarter, the Elders Quorum and Relief Society presidencies conduct brief interviews with companionships to discuss those they minister to and share any needs with the bishopric. These are confidential and focused on individual welfare.
When a family or individual has a temporal need — a meal after a hospital stay, help with a move, or just companionship during a difficult time — ministering companions are the first line of support, coordinating with the bishopric as needed.
The most important thing you can do as a ministering brother or sister is to simply get to know the people you are assigned to. A genuine friendship built on Christlike love is more powerful than any formal visit.
If you have questions about your ministering assignment, or if your circumstances have changed and you need to discuss your assignment, contact the Elders Quorum or Relief Society president, or speak with a member of the bishopric.
Need Assistance?
If you or someone you know is in need — temporal, spiritual, emotional, or otherwise — please reach out. The Clarkston Ward bishopric and ministering leaders are here to help. No need is too small.