Disabilities
Frequently Asked Questions about Participating in Church

“Frequently Asked Questions about Participating in Church,” Disability Services: Individuals (2020)

“Frequently Asked Questions about Participating in Church,” Disability Services: Individuals

Frequently Asked Questions about Participating in Church

Image
Girl in wheelchair with family at temple

  • Can I be baptized? If you have a desire to be baptized, talk with someone you trust, such as your parents, your caregiver, or a friend, about your desires. Also communicate your desire with your bishop or branch president. They will be able to help you make the best decision. In general, ordinances are not withheld if you are worthy, have a desire to receive them, and can demonstrate an appropriate degree of responsibility and accountability (see General Handbook: Serving in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 38.2.1.8; Katie E. Steed, “Is My Child with a Disability Ready to Be Baptized?” Ensign, June 2020, 50–53).

  • Can I participate in temple ordinances? If you have a desire to go to the temple, communicate that desire to your bishop or branch president. He will be able to help you make the best decision about receiving temple ordinances and will help you prepare to receive these ordinances at the appropriate time. In general, ordinances are not withheld if you are worthy, have a desire to receive them, and can demonstrate an appropriate degree of responsibility and accountability. You should also be able to understand the purposes and eternal significance of temples. Once you have received a temple recommend, prayerfully consider any help you may need because of your disability. Be sure to communicate your needs in advance with someone you trust or with a temple worker when you enter the temple. In every temple there are temple workers who are available to help those with disabilities.

  • Can I receive the priesthood? All worthy priesthood-age males are encouraged to receive the priesthood. If you have a desire to receive the priesthood, talk with your parents and discuss your desires with your bishop or branch president. In general, the priesthood is not withheld if you are worthy, have a desire to receive it, and demonstrate an appropriate degree of responsibility and accountability (see General Handbook, 38.2.5.4).

  • Can I serve a mission? Many mission opportunities are available for members with disabilities who have a desire to serve a mission. If you feel the Spirit prompting you to serve a mission, communicate your desire with your parents and bishop or branch president. To learn about missionary opportunities for members with disabilities, please visit ChurchofJesusChrist.org/service-missionary.