Did you know you can request digital copies of patriarchal blessings online? A couple years ago a new online request tool was introduced on lds.org that lets you do just that. It is so easy to use! However, I caution early on here that these should NOT be posted online; in particular, lds.org reminds us to NOT share them through electronic means such as in the memories section of FamilySearch or other family history programs, or on social media, websites, or blogs.

Requests are limited to your own patriarchal blessing or that of a deceased direct-line ancestor, deceased child, or deceased spouse. Just to be sure what was meant by a direct-line family member, I looked on lds.org:  “A direct-line family member is an individual within your direct ancestral bloodline, such as a parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent. This does not include siblings, aunts or uncles, cousins, foster parents, or in-laws. Deceased spouses and children are also considered direct-line family members.”

Here’s how to obtain a copy of your own blessing or the blessing of a deceased direct-line ancestor following the steps outlined by FamilySearch:

1. Sign in at lds.org with your LDS Account.
2. In the upper right portion of the screen, click My Account and Ward.
3. In the My Account column, click Patriarchal Blessing.
4. In the center of the page, click the icon directly above “My Blessings.”
5. Click the links to request a copy of your own blessing or that of an ancestor.

Patriarchal blessings were first recorded in the United States in 1833.  Blessings in England were recorded after 1837 and in Scandinavia after 1849.  More than 4.3 million blessings are preserved by the Church History Library; however, not all blessings may be in their collection.  Requests may take several days to several months to complete depending on the  circumstances.  See more about patriarchal blessings at lds.org and FamilySearch.     –by Debbie Brady