"We believe that man must be called of God, by prophesy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof." Article of Faith 5
Numbers 27:18-23 By the laying on of hands, Joshua is called and set apart to lead Israel.
Acts 19:1-6 is an example of Paul using the laying on of hands. to administer an ordinance.
1 Timothy 4:14 Paul warns agains neglecting gifts (callings) given by prophecy and the laying on of hands.
"The procedure of laying on of hands has always been used by priesthood holders. Adam ordained his righteous male descendants by the laying on of hands, Doctrine and Covenants 107:40-50. When Jacob pronounced blessings on Ephraim and Manasseh, he laid his hands on their heads, Genesis 48:14-19...The Apostles Peter and John bestowed the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands, Acts 8:14-17." lds.org
Many times I've been blessed with healing, insight, and/or strength by the laying on of hands by those with priesthood authority. I'll ever be grateful to my Father in Heaven for restoring the priesthood to the earth and allowing me to have to be blessed by its presence in my home. When I was young, I didn't fully understand the blessing and privilege of the priesthood in my home. After some trying times in my life, I now understand and am comforted by it.
