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Joseph Fielding Smith Jr. (10th prophet):
The first thing in order to qualify as a worker in the genealogical work in the ward is to have a thorough knowledge of the principles of the gospel, a testimony of the mission of the Redeemer and of the mission of the Prophet Joseph Smith, and a firm faith in the efficacy of the work of salvation for the dead. This is the foundation on which to build.
Unless we are converted ourselves to any principle or to any truth, it will be impossible for us to teach it successfully to others. No person can understand temple work unless he has the abiding testimony of the Spirit of the Lord that the gospel is true, unless he is convinced in his heart that the principle of salvation reaches out and embraces every soul who is dead who is entitled to receive the remission of sins, and that the dead just as the living have that opportunity.
Next, a person in order to be a successful worker, whether it be in the ward or elsewhere in this work, should have the knowledge which is gained in the temple of the Lord. No person can fully qualify as a teacher or instructor or worker in genealogical work until he himself has been to the temple and received of the blessings there for himself. Then he will understand the necessity of these ordinances in behalf of the dead.
I realize that a person may be enthusiastic and may be converted to this work and may sense to some extent the necessity of it without having received the blessings of the house of the Lord himself, but he will not be fully equipped because he lacks knowledge and understanding, if he has not been to the temple and made himself familiar with the ordinances to be obtained therein.
Source: McConkie, Bruce R., ed. Doctrines of Salvation: Sermons and Writings of Joseph Fielding Smith, Vol. 2. 212 - 213. Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1954-1955.
Joseph Fielding Smith Jr. (10th prophet):
The ward genealogical worker should have some initiative, should be full of suggestions, should understand how, more or less, to read character, to discern the spirits of men and know how to approach individuals in order to impart unto them the message of salvation. All people cannot be approached alike: tact should be used. If a person is not converted to temple work, it would be impossible to go into his home and teach him temple work in the same manner that it would be possible to teach somebody who is already converted. A different approach would be necessary.
I regret to say that the idea has prevailed very largely in some quarters that a person who is good, but perhaps has never done anything very much, is suitable to act as a worker in genealogical work, either in the stake or in the ward. That idea, of course, is being overcome. But we have had to contend with that, more or less, in some stakes and some wards, because the presiding officers, perhaps the bishop, has felt that this was an honorary position only, and therefore he could call into this organization someone merely to give him a little honor, where there would be no labor attached to it. Therefore they have chosen individuals along in years who otherwise might be capable, but because of old age were not in a condition of health to visit among the people and to take this message of salvation to them.
Source: McConkie, Bruce R., ed. Doctrines of Salvation: Sermons and Writings of Joseph Fielding Smith, Vol. 2. 213 - 214. Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1954-1955.