A Patriarchal Blessing is a sacred rite of passage for Mormons. The designated Patriarch places their hands upon the member’s head and speaks “according to the spirit” (or intuition) to reveal God’s desires, reprimands, and anticipated blessings in store for the member. Those that joke that it is like fortune telling will be censured.

Members are encouraged to get their Patriarchal Blessing when they feel “ready,” but it typically happens for committed youth before they go on a mission or got married in the temple. I received my Patriarchal Blessing at age 16 on March 10, 2002.

Each stake (group of congregations) in Utah has their own Patriarch - a man with the priesthood power to speak for god about a person’s gifts, blessings, duties, and more. It was taught to me that the most important aspect of receiving this special blessing was to learn my lineage—Mormons believe that every human is a descendent of the twelve tribes of Israel. Most white Mormons are declared to be of the “House of Ephraim.”

Patriarchal blessings are considered to be so sacred that a person is encouraged to show them to no one, except maybe their closest family members and spouse. When in search for answers to prayers or peace of mind, members are encouraged to read the printed version of their blessing for answers and inspiration. I pored over my now well-worn patriarchal constantly, searching for any hint that might guide me in my difficult moments.