The Melchizedek Priesthood pulpits represent the line of authority in the Melchizedek Priesthood. 

• Across the front of the pulpits is a folding sacrament table shaped like an oxen yoke.  The initials P.E.M. on the table stand for Presidency Elders Melchizedek (Elders). 
• The first set of pulpits beyond the sacrament table have the intials M.H.P. standing for Melchizedek High Priesthood (High Priests).
• The second set of pulpits have the initials P.M.H. and stand for Presiding Melchizedek High Priesthood (Quorum of the Twelve)
• The last set of pulpits have the initials M.P.C. and represent Melchizedek Presiding Council (First Presidency).
  

 

Melchizedek Priesthood Pulpits and Veil

 

 

 

On April 3, 1836, Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery dropped the veil that separated the pulplits from the rest of the room and offered prayer.  In response to that prayer, one of the most important events of the restoration took place.  First, Jesus Christ, calling himself Jehovah, appeared.  After his appearance, Moses, Elias, and Elijah appeared committing the necessary keys to perform temple ordinances (see D&C 110).