Patriarchal blessing

In Mormonism, a patriarchal blessing (also called an evangelist's blessing) is a special blessing or ordinance given by a patriarch (evangelist) to a Mormon.

Patriarchal blessings in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
In the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, patriarchal blessings are usually given once in a lifetime. The purpose of a patriarchal blessing is (1) to identify the tribe of Israel to which a Latter-day Saint (LDS) belongs (usually Ephraim or Manasseh), and (2) to bless the LDS with special abilities and talents, and to foretell future events (often beyond mortal life), opportunities, and temptations in their life. The blessing is unique to each person, and its promises are conditional upon obedience to Church principles.

A Patriarch places his hands on a seated person's head and speaks the blessing aloud to allow for recording or dictation. Copies of all blessings are stored in Church records, and are available to the LDS who recieved the blessing or their families, and in some cases is publicly available to others after the death of the individual. 

LDS are given a copy of their blessing, and advised to consult it throughout their life, but not share them casually with others. Any worthy, spiritually mature LDS may receive a patriarchal blessing, but lifelong LDS usually receive the blessing in their adolescence.

According to former Church President [[Ezra Taft Benson, "A patriarchal blessing is the inspired and prophetic statement of your life’s mission together with blessings, cautions, and admonitions as the patriarch may be prompted to give." (Ezra Taft Benson, Ensign, May 1986, 43-44

Patriarchal blessings in the Community of Christ
In the Community of Christ, patriarchal blessings are referred to as evangelist's blessings, and are given by one holding the office of Evangelist. Evangelists give various kinds of blessings, including blessings on families, on congregations, and on individuals.

Related articles

 * Ordinance (Mormonism)
 * Patriarch (Mormonism)