Leadership Learned by Following the Savior

Leadership in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints begins with the personal example

that leaders themselves set in following the Savior. This pattern, of being a faithful disciple in

order to help others become faithful disciples, is the purpose behind every calling in the Church.

The Puchong Branch in the greater Kuala Lumpur area in Malaysia is under the direction of

valiant Priesthood leaders who strive to follow the Savior by living the gospel in such a manner

that will ensure their return to live with Heavenly Father. They look to the Savior and follow in

His ways. They know that only when they themselves are worthy, are they then able to lift

others spiritually and help others to qualify to receive all the ordinances of the temple, which is

the objective of Church leadership.

Unity and harmony are sought in council meetings, where members are encouraged to share

feelings and ideas. Clear communication is the desired outcome, as all are invited to listen and

contribute. Then the Holy Ghost is able to attend and guide them. D&C 38:27 reads “Be one;

and if ye are not one ye are not mine.” Individuals needing spiritual and physical help are

discussed. Solutions are presented and then acted upon, together.

With the recent celebration of Father’s Day, there was acknowledgement of and appreciation for

the impact a father has upon the lives of his children. President James E. Faust said, “Noble

fatherhood gives us a glimpse of the divine attributes of our Father in Heaven.” Members of the

Puchong Branch honored their Priesthood brethren for teaching and living the gospel, for

preparing others to be leaders and teachers, and for sharing their strong testimonies of the

truthfulness of the gospel.

Regular Sunday worship service in the Church includes Priesthood instruction. The brethren

meet together to learn of their different responsibilities, as well as to teach one another the

doctrine of the kingdom. This doctrine is found in the scriptures, in Church instruction manuals

and is repeated in modern revelation given by living apostles and prophets. Administering the

Church, Handbook 2 states, “Priesthood holders magnify their callings as they minister in their

own homes and to other Saints and as they conscientiously fulfill assigned responsibilities. The

Lord counseled, ‘Let every man learn his duty, and to act in the office in which he is appointed,

in all diligence’ (D & C 107:99). Priesthood holders magnify their callings as they serve with

diligence, teach with faith and testimony, and lift, strengthen, and nurture convictions of

righteousness in the lives of those for whom they have responsibility.”