In the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), the Sacrament Meeting is a central part of worship. It is a time for members to come together to partake of the sacrament, listen to sermons, and participate in other spiritual activities. The Sacrament Meeting program is an important tool used to guide and organize the meeting. In this article, we will provide a template for creating a Sacrament Meeting program that can be used in LDS congregations.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Opening Hymn
- Invocation
- Sacrament Hymn
- Sacrament
- Speakers
- Closing Hymn
- Benediction
- Announcements
- Closing
Introduction
The introduction of the Sacrament Meeting program sets the tone for the entire meeting. It should include a welcome message, any special announcements or instructions for the congregation, and a brief overview of the meeting agenda. The introduction can be given by a member of the bishopric or another designated leader.
Opening Hymn
The opening hymn is typically sung by the congregation and sets a reverent and worshipful atmosphere for the meeting. Choose a hymn that aligns with the theme of the meeting or one that is uplifting and inspiring. The hymn number should be announced before it is sung to allow members to find it in their hymnals.
Invocation
The invocation is a prayer offered at the beginning of the meeting to seek the guidance and blessings of the Lord. The person offering the invocation should address Heavenly Father and ask for His spirit to be present throughout the meeting. It is customary to end the prayer in the name of Jesus Christ. The person offering the invocation should be assigned in advance or can be chosen on the spot.
Sacrament Hymn
The sacrament hymn is sung while the bread and water are being passed to the congregation. It should be a hymn that focuses on the Atonement of Jesus Christ and the significance of the sacrament. The hymn number should be announced before it is sung.
Sacrament
The sacrament is a sacred ordinance where bread and water are blessed and passed to the congregation as a symbol of the body and blood of Jesus Christ. It is administered by priesthood holders and is a time for members to reflect on their covenants and renew their commitment to follow Jesus Christ. The sacrament prayers should be recited and the bread and water should be passed to each member of the congregation.
Speakers
After the sacrament, members of the congregation are invited to give short sermons or talks on assigned gospel topics. The number of speakers and the length of their talks may vary depending on the needs of the congregation. Speakers should be prepared and have their talks written in advance. They should focus on teaching and testifying of gospel principles and providing spiritual insights and experiences.
Closing Hymn
The closing hymn is sung at the end of the meeting and should leave members with a feeling of gratitude and inspiration. Choose a hymn that uplifts and unites the congregation as they prepare to depart. The hymn number should be announced before it is sung.
Benediction
The benediction is a closing prayer offered to thank Heavenly Father for the blessings received during the meeting and to ask for His guidance and protection as members return to their homes. The person offering the benediction should address Heavenly Father and end the prayer in the name of Jesus Christ. Like the invocation, the person offering the benediction can be assigned in advance or chosen on the spot.
Announcements
After the benediction, any important announcements or reminders can be shared with the congregation. This may include upcoming events, service opportunities, or changes to meeting schedules. The person making the announcements should be prepared and have the necessary information to share. It is important to keep the announcements brief and relevant to the entire congregation.
Closing
The meeting is then officially closed, and members are free to socialize and continue in their worship. The closing may include a final comment or thought from a member of the bishopric or another designated leader. It is customary to end with a word of encouragement or a reminder of the Savior’s love and teachings.
By following this template, LDS congregations can create a well-organized and meaningful Sacrament Meeting program. The program helps to ensure that the meeting runs smoothly and provides a spiritual experience for all who attend. It is also a valuable resource for members to refer to during the meeting and to take home as a reminder of the messages shared.
