Resources

Handbooks and Training Materials

General Handbook: Serving in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
- Chapter 25: Temple and Family History Work in the Ward and Stake
Temple and Family History Leadership Instruction Sessions

Each year, General Authorities and General Officers of the Church instruct ward and stake leaders as well as those with temple and family history callings and responsibilities in a live streamed event. These events are recorded for future reference.
FamilySearch.org is the Church’s main tool for finding and preparing names for temple ordinances and preserving family information and memories. The following tools will be especially helpful to you in serving others:
- Helper Resources: Helper Resources is located in the Help section of FamilySearch.org. It gathers into one location key family history resources, such as the latest updates, media resources, and instructional material.
- Planner: Planner is a tool located under Helper Resources. It is used to prepare temple and family history experiences for others. When using Planner, you can view another person’s family tree and identify opportunities for them to learn about their ancestors and contribute to their family history.
- Indexing Help: FamilySearch Indexing Help provides knowledge articles and various resources to help answer many frequently asked questions related to indexing.
- RootsTech “Help for Leaders and Callings”: In these training sessions, you’ll receive ideas and training that will be beneficial in understanding how to fulfill your calling.
Share brief quotes or videos that will teach principles of temple and family history work. Examples:
- “The Promised Blessings of Family History, Part 2” (video), 2022 Temple and Family History Leadership Instruction, ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
- “The Holy Temple” (video), 2022 Temple and Family History Leadership Instruction.
The following resources can help you find answers to questions you may be asked during your service:
- FamilySearch Help Center: The Help Center provides access to all types of help offered by FamilySearch. It is an online library with answers to common questions.
- FamilySearch Blog: Learn what’s new at FamilySearch and get tips for helping others.
- Temple and Family History Network: Consult with people in your area who can help you.*
- FamilySearch Center or Library: Seek help from staff members.
- FamilySearch Community: Reach out for help online.*
- FamilySearch Research Wiki: Find information and links to additional resources.
- FamilySearch Support.

*In communities and online sources, you may see suggestions from individuals who are in situations different from yours. Before adopting their ideas, be sure that you and your leaders consider them prayerfully to ensure they will meet the needs of your ward members.

Additional Resources for Your Calling

General Conference Messages on Family History
Minister through Temple and Family History
Share Family Stories
Gospel Topics, “Family History,” topics.ChurchofJesusChrist.org
Gospel Library: Temple and Family History
Preach My Gospel: A Guide to Missionary Service (2019)