The priesthood is the power and authority of God. Worthy young men may have the Aaronic Priesthood conferred upon them beginning in January of the year they turn 12. At that time, they are also ordained to the office of deacon—an office they typically hold until the year they turn 14.
Deacons are organized into quorums in their wards and branches. Each quorum is presided over by a deacon who is set apart as president and who holds priesthood keys to lead the quorum (see General Handbook: Serving in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 10.1.4; Doctrine and Covenants 107:85).
The bishopric is the presidency of the Aaronic Priesthood (see Doctrine and Covenants 107:15). The second counselor in the bishopric counsels with the deacons quorum and teaches them the duties of their office.
A deacon’s responsibilities include the following (see General Handbook, 10.1.3.1):
He passes the sacrament.
He is “appointed to watch over the church” (Doctrine and Covenants 84:111). He is also to “warn, expound, exhort, and teach, and invite all to come unto Christ” (Doctrine and Covenants 20:59). This responsibility includes fellowshipping quorum members and other young men, notifying members of Church meetings, speaking in meetings, sharing the gospel, and bearing testimony.
He assists the bishop in “administering … temporal things” (Doctrine and Covenants 107:68). This responsibility may include gathering fast offerings, caring for the poor and needy, caring for the meetinghouse and grounds, and serving as a messenger for the bishop in Church meetings.
He assists the bishopric in other ways consistent with the office of a deacon. He also assists teachers “in all [their] duties in the church … if occasion requires” (Doctrine and Covenants 20:57).
“The Priesthood—a Sacred Gift”
“Sacred Keys of the Aaronic Priesthood”
“A Quorum President (Dayton’s Legs)”
“Aaronic Priesthood,” Handbook 2, 8
“Brand-New Deacon,” Friend, October 2013
“Embracing Ethan, Accepting Autism,” Ensign, January 2013
“Passing Up Passing the Sacrament,” New Era, May 2006
“The Deacon with the Big Smile,” New Era, July 2005
“Becoming a Deacon,” Ensign or Liahona, January 2005
“The Deacons Quorum,” Ensign, January 2005
“The Deacons of Coventry,” New Era, January 2005
“Deacon in Motion,” New Era, September 2003
“Deacon Power,” New Era, May 1975
“Be Not Dismayed—Jake Bullock,” Enduring It Well, episode 54