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Source: Church History Vol. 3 Chapter 30 Page: 563 (~1870)

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563 requested by him to call meetings to do so at once, without delay. He has a right to inquire into the standing of any member in the branch, but it is his duty to make his inquiry of the officers of the branch. It is his duty to notify officers of branches of that which he requires of the branch; of all baptisms and confirmations to which he attends in their respective branches. He should give official notice of all specific changes in the business of the district conferences and other matters of general importance. He should see that all branches under his charge are properly instructed as to time and place of holding conferences, and should himself attend the sessions of conference. It is his duty to encourage the talent in the various officers of the various branches, and upon all suitable occasions call out and uphold those who are of lesser priesthood and talent. It is his duty to hear every official and proper complaint. It is his duty to discourage and refuse to hear every unofficial and fault-finding complaint, more especially should he do this in the priesthood, more especially still in the elders. It is his duty to keep his opinion of the merits of individual quarrels and differences to himself, except when called upon to decide officially; in fact, he is not fit to preside in the trial of any cause concerning the merits of which he has expressed an opinion. He should be a thorough Christian. Under this rule we embrace the following list of duties: It is his duty to be a good son, if he have parents; a good husband, if married; if not married he should be a gallant, but virtuous gentleman; a good father, if he have children. It is his duty to be courteous and friendly to all, remembering this rule more especially 'to the household of faith.' Remark: No natural churlishness of temper will make this rule any less imperative. It is his duty to be studious, active, energetic, unfailing; true as a brother, friend, neighbor, citizen, and child of God. It is his duty to be frank, kind, and firm; neither swerving from direct duty by entreaty of friends nor threats of enemies. It is not his duty to be eloquent and a great speaker, though if he possess these gifts it will be to his advantage. It is his duty to be sober. No drunkard or dram drinker is fit for

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