6Understanding Patriarchal Blessings is an excellent source for all who seek information about the blessings which guide and influence Latter-day Saints throughout the world. It is especially valuable for those who are preparing to receive their own patriarchal blessing. The book gives answers for many frequently asked questions. It explains the office and calling of a patriarch, tells what a patriarchal blessing actually is, and describes what purposes the blessing is intended to achieve. Important objectives such as the declaring of lineage, understanding who we are and what we can achieve, and a blessing's function as an instrument for encouragement and comfort are carefully explained.