Handbook of Instructions (1940): Behavior in Sacrament Meetings

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by Seattle Jon:

My youngest brother gifted me a Handbook of Instructions from 1940 signed by first presidency members Heber J. Grant, J. Reuben Clark, Jr. and David O. McKay. At 170 pages, the handbook is much shorter then our current versions (Handbook 1 alone is 186 pages) yet contains some interesting rules and regulations - and language - which I'll share over time.

Behavior in Sacrament Meetings

It should be the aim of every bishop and every member of the Church to develop good behavior and conduct in sacrament meetings. Those who attend these meetings should enter the building quietly, take seats in the place they select or as shown by the usher, briefly greet those who are near to them, and avoid further conversation. There should be no laughter or noise, nor should children be allowed to run up and down the aisles. Parents should see that children are seated with them. There should be no levity in the sacrament meeting.


Seattle Jon is a family man, little league coach, urban farmer and businessman living in Seattle. He currently gets up early with the markets to trade bonds for a living. In his spare time he enjoys movies, thrifting and is an avid reader. He is a graduate of Brigham Young University and the Japan Fukuoka mission field. He has one wife, four kids and five chickens.