From time to time I hear comments about ward callings being “pre-ordained” and, because of that, one should never refuse a calling. Some elements of that are probably true, but I still think it puts a lot of pressure on a member, especially a convert looking at their first calling. I remember attending a new members gathering as part of stake conference. The Bishops were encouraged to issue callings to everyone having been a member for as little as two weeks. Some are eager for that type of service, others not so. In fact, it may play a part in some converts quickly going inactive.

That is an excellent post.

Passing the mantle is a little different for us than it was for Elijah, because we’re not riding off into the sunset, we’re just changing roles. Not too long ago I was released from a bishopric in order to serve as scoutmaster. We had considered another man in the ward who was already working with the deacons as the natural fit, but for some reason it didn’t feel right. We actually went without a scoutmaster for a few months trying to find who the Lord would call, while the guy who we’d considered for the call did his best to cover the vacuum. When finally it became clear the Lord’s finger was pointing at me, it was a little hard. I loved serving in the bishopric. I couldn’t help but think in my mind “Gee, Lord, that other guy would have been a great scoutmaster — he certainly can do anything I can do.” Guess who was called as the new counselor? Yep. That guy. The same guy I’d worked so closely with as the counselor over the youth. And he’ll be great. It’s me I’m worried about. Scoutmaster is a little overwhelming compared to bishopric counselor! I guess he’ll just have to mentor me, as I did him.