Melchizedek Priesthood

Members of the Melchizedek Priesthood are called to focus on the spiritual ministries, helping people grow into relationship with the living Jesus Christ.

The Melchizedek Order of Priesthood is made up of two focus area ministers:  Elder and High Priest.  Both can be generically referred to as "elders".  Each of these offices has specific duties and responsibilities, yet are all called to minister to the spiritual needs of the people in the name of Jesus Christ.

• The Elder is a "spiritual leader" for the church, helping to focus the church on moving closer toward Jesus, through worship, sacraments & spiritual guidance.

• The High Priest is a "visionary", helping the church focus on the vision of becoming God's community on earth, learning and teaching its members to become citizens of the Kingdom. 

Specialties:

Within each office are one or more "specialization" ministries.

• Among the Elders, you'll find congregational leaders, missionary-focused ministers, healing-focused ministers, and the Seventy: formally called and ordained to work in seeking out and inviting the lost to encounter the Christ, working closely with the Apostles.

• Among the High Priests, you'll find leaders of larger congregations and  Mission Centers, as well as other "specialization" ministries, which include:

  • Evangelists - Ministers of Blessing, bringing God's presence and blessing to individuals, families, congregations, communities

  • Bishops - Ministers of temporalities, responsible for helping to teach the laws of stewardship: the managing of our time, talents and treasures, for God's purposes

  • Apostles - the primary Missionary leaders of the church around the world

  • Prophet & Counselor - the spiritual guide for the global church

Members of the Melchizedek ministries may serve either as "standing ministers" in their own congregation, and/or as "traveling ministers", providing support to other groups and congregations as circumstances allow.

More details about each office, and the areas of specialized ministry within each office, can be found on our International Headquarters website's priesthood page.