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The responsibilities of a twelve-year-old deacon in the Mormon church would not tend to be as great as the responsibilities of an adult deacon as described in 1 Timothy, but their assignments introduce them to the concept of service in the priesthood for the good of others, such as the passing of the sacrament trays of bread and water. I can see how you might object to the nomenclature of referring to these boys as deacons, but how could anyone object to the service they provide for the benefit of others (such as passing the sacrament)?

My initial comment in this piece was contrasting how 12 year old boys could be entrusted with deacon responsibilities in the Mormon Church; but if any woman dare advocate that females could carry these same "introductory" responsibilities in the Mormon Church, they are at risk of ex-communication!

If this is all so "grand" -- for 12-year-old BOYS to be introduced into "service they provide for the benefit of others" -- then why might you object to 12-year-old GIRLS who could be "introduced" into "service...provided for the benefit of others?"

Wouldn't this also be "wholesome responsibilities" to include girls -- if it's so "beneficial" for both the girls and others?

It certainly would be beneficial for girls to be introduced into the same responsibilities as the boys if it were the will of God that the priesthood should be extended to women as well as men. I think that is the central question here: should the priesthood be extended to women? The leaders of the church do not believe that women are supposed to hold the priesthood. Kate Kelly, the protester who was excommunicated, objected to the doctrine of a male-only priesthood, so there was an impasse. Apparently, she not only held an opinion contrary to the church leaders on this issue, but actively campaigned against the church doctrine by forming the group “Ordain Women,” and holding protests at church meetings. So her excommunication was the result of her actively fighting against the church on this position, not for merely holding the opinion. I am sincerely sad for Ms. Kelly, because she clearly did not want to be expelled from the church (according to the NY Times article I read), but I also see the position of the leaders. She is certainly free to join with others who have a similar view, and form a new church if she wishes.

If this is all so "grand" -- for 12-year-old BOYS to be introduced into "service they provide for the benefit of others" --

Well; if this dude had made it to an older age, and got to go on his mission; then #53 would have kicked in and he would NOT have shot ANYONE; except with spitballs or a slingshot.