In order to be united as one in priesthood responsibility, "let us consider our callings, reflect on our responsibilities, let us determine our duty and let us follow Jesus Christ, the Lord," counseled President Thomas S. Monson.

Addressing priesthood meeting Saturday evening, President Monson, second counselor in the First Presidency, introduced to the Young Men of the Church a new Church booklet, For the Strength of Youth, as he had the week before to the Young Women of the Church. (See Church News, Oct. 6.)He referred to it as a "new road map to help you chart an undeviating course toward eternal life."

Included in the First Presidency introduction, he noted, is the assurance that, "We have great confidence in you. We desire everything in this world for you that is right and good. You are choice spirits. . . ."

"You can avoid the burden of guilt and sin and all of the attending heartaches . . . as you keep the standards outlined in the the scriptures and emphasized in this pamphlet.

"We pray that you - the young and rising generation - will keep your bodies and minds clean, free from the contaminations of the world, that you will be fit and pure vessels to bear triumphantly the responsibilities of the kingdom of God in preparation for the second coming of our Savior."

The booklet outlines 12 points, including dating; dress and appearance; friendshipping; honesty; language; media: movies, television, radio, videocassettes, books and magazines; mental and physical health; music and dancing; sexual purity; Sunday behavior; spiritual help; and repentance.

Among the points he emphasized: "A Latter-day Saint young man lives as he teaches and believes. He should be honest with others, himself and with God.

President Monson related an account of a student who cheated his way through business school with "a well-trained toe, prepared with glycerine," that he used to flip through the pages of a book on the floor, and obtain answers. This young man received high grades, but later during his comprehensive examination, failed a surprise oral examination.

"Our favorite toe-trained expert found that he had his foot in his mouth on that occasion and had to return to school another year," said President Monson, as the congregation laughed.

In reference to media, he said that pornography is especially dangerous and addictive, and cautioned that, "Curious exploration of pornography can become a controlling habit, leading to coarser material and to sexual transgression." He counseled the young men if they have any question about whether a particular movie, book or other form of entertainment is appropriate, "don't see it, don't read it, don't participate."

Concerning sexual purity, President Monson admonished, "Because sexual intimacy is so sacred, the Lord requires self-control and purity before marriage, as well as full fidelity after marriage.

"Don't put your eternal life at risk," President Monson said, in explaining repentance. "Keep the commandments of God. If you have sinned, the sooner you begin to make your way back, the sooner you will find the sweet peace and joy that come with the miracle of forgiveness."