subgenius wrote:"The term elders is used in various ways in the Bible. In many instances in the Old Testament it has reference to the older men in a tribe, usually entrusted with the governmental affairs. Their age and experience made their counsel sought often. This was not necessarily a priesthood calling. Gen. 50:7, Ruth 4:2, Matt. 15:2, and Acts 4:5 are examples of this usage.
There were ordained elders in the Melchizedek Priesthood in Old Testament times, as in Ex. 24:9–11 and Num. 11:16. Among the Nephites there were also ordained elders in the priesthood (Alma 4:7, 16; 6:1; Moro. 3:1; 4:1; 6:1, 7). In the New Testament, elders are mentioned as priesthood offices in the church (Acts 14:23; 1 Tim. 5:1, 17, 19; James 5:14–15). The term elder as used in the New Testament is from the Greek presbyteros. The detailed duties of the ordained elders in the Church today have been defined by latter-day revelation (D&C 20:42–45; 42:44–52; 46:2; 107:12).
Elder is the proper title given to all holders of the Melchizedek Priesthood. Thus an Apostle is an elder in this sense, and it is proper to speak of members of the Quorum of the Twelve or the Quorums of the Seventy by this title (D&C 20:38; see also 1 Pet. 5:1; 2 Jn. 1:1; 3 Jn. 1:1). See also Ministry."
http://www.lds.org/scriptures/bd/elders?lang=eng
feel free to provide reference where a female is considered an 'elder'
So what are you going with in terms of babies getting blessed by 'elders'?
A. Older Mormons
B. Anyone ordained an Elder
C. Anyone with the Melkywhatnot
Because it really isn't doctrinally clear from the scriptures.
Let's see what the official line is:
https://www.lds.org/handbook/handbook-2-administering-the-church/priesthood-ordinances-and-blessings?lang=engParticipation in Ordinances and Blessings
Only brethren who hold the necessary priesthood and are worthy may perform an ordinance or blessing or stand in the circle. Those who participate are usually limited to a few, including priesthood leaders, close family members, and close associates such as home teachers. Inviting large numbers of family, friends, and leaders to assist in an ordinance or blessing is discouraged. When too many participate, it can become cumbersome and detract from the spirit of the ordinance. Those who perform an ordinance and those who preside are the only ones required. Others provide support and sustain the spokesman.
When several brethren participate in an ordinance or blessing, each one places his right hand lightly on the person’s head (or under the baby being blessed) and his left hand on the shoulder of the brother to his left.
Even though only a limited number of brethren stand in the circle when a person receives an ordinance or blessing, family members are usually invited to attend.
Leaders encourage worthy brethren who hold the necessary priesthood to perform or participate in ordinances and blessings for their family members.
Now that doesn't preclude mummy from sitting there holding the baby whilst the brethren stand in their circle and perform the blessing.
And that's official!