"The priesthood is the power and authority of God given for the salvation and blessing of all - men, women, and children."

We sometimes overly associate the power of the priesthood with men in the Church.  The priesthood is the power and authority of God given for the salvation and blessing of all - men, women, and children.

We sometimes overly associate the power of the priesthood with men in the Church.  The priesthood is the power and authority of God given for the salvation and blessing of all - men, women, and children.

A man may open the drapes so the warm sunlight comes into the room, but the man does not own the sun or the light or the warmth it brings.  The blessings of the priesthood are infinitely greater than the one who is asked to administer the gift.

There are special blessings from God for every worthy person who is baptized, receives the Holy Ghost, and regularly partakes of the sacrament.  The temple brings added light and strength, along with the promise of eternal life.

We know that God loves all His children and is no respecter of persons.  "He denieth none that come unto him, ... male [or] female; ... and all are alike unto God."

As surely as we know that God's love is "alike" for His sons and His daughters, we also know that He did not create men and women exactly the same.  We know that gender is an essential characteristic of both our mortal and eternal identity and purpose.  Sacred responsibilities are given to each gender.

We know that the power of the holy priesthood does not work independently of faith, the Holy Ghost, and spiritual gifts.  The scriptures caution: "Deny not the gifts of God, for they are many. ...  And there are different ways that these gifts are administered; but it is the same God who worketh [them] all."

Another thing we know is that there is an abundance of priesthood blessings in families where a righteous mother and father are united in guiding their children.  But we also know that God eagerly provides these same blessings to those in many other situations.

A mother, carrying the weight of providing both spiritually and temporally for her family, sensitively explained that calling her home teachers to bless one of her children requires her humility.  But she insightfully added that it requires no more humility than that of her home teachers as they prepare to bless her child.

Sincerely asking for and listening to the thoughts and concerns by women is vital in life, in marriage, and in building the kingdom of God.

Not surprisingly, before President Monson's prayerful decision about the age change for missionary service, there were many discussions with the general Relief Society, Young Women, and Primary presidencies.

Bishops, as you follow the example of President Monson, you will feel even more abundantly the guiding hand of the Lord blessing your sacred work.

As men and women, sisters and brothers, sons and daughters of God, we move forward together.  This is our opportunity, our responsibility, and our blessing.  This is our destiny - to prepare the kingdom of God for the return of the Savior.

http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2013/10/power-in-the-priesthood?lang=eng