Youth Consultants Called to Work in FamilySearch Centers

According to a FamilySearch blog post by Lisa McBride, in response to Elder David A Bednar’s counsel found in his talk given in the October 2011 General Conference, The Hearts of the Children Shall Turn, many Family History Centers now have youth consultants called by stake and ward leaders. Centers are reporting that the youth are great assets to their staff and to their wards and stakes.

Quoting from Elder Bednar's talk:

It is no coincidence that FamilySearch and other tools have come forth at a time when young people are so familiar with a wide range of information and communication technologies. Your fingers have been trained to text and tweet to accelerate and advance the work of the Lord—not just to communicate quickly with your friends. The skills and aptitude evident among many young people today are a preparation to contribute to the work of salvation. 

Parents and leaders, please help your children and youth to learn about and experience the Spirit of Elijah. But do not overly program this endeavor or provide too much detailed information or training. Invite young people to explore, to experiment, and to learn for themselves.

Parents and leaders, you will stand all amazed at how rapidly your children and the youth of the Church become highly skilled with these tools. In fact, you will learn valuable lessons from these young people about effectively using these resources. The youth can offer much to older individuals who are uncomfortable with or intimidated by technology or are unfamiliar with FamilySearch.

Elder Bednar has further said to the youth:

You have been prepared for this day and to build up the kingdom of God. You are here upon the earth now to assist in this glorious work. I know the youth of the rising generation have a key role to play in this great endeavor.” Ward and stake leaders can play an important role in helping youth act on this invitation and secure the blessings promised to them.

We have had young Church Service missionaries at the Mesa FamilySearch Library for the past few years and they have made an outstanding contribution to the Library. Some of them have even been given the opportunity to teach the other missionaries and help patrons with their genealogy, depending on their personal skills and abilities. All of them, regardless of their abilities have been faithful and helpful additions to the Library staff.

I would think it would be a good idea to call youth from each age group and let them assist the High Priest's Group leaders and the regular Family History Consultants in their callings. This would be a unique and valuable opportunity for all.