Tuesday, November 1, 2011

The Baptisms - The Callings~

Take A Moment and Read This Great Story on 1st Baptism in Uvira RDCongo
This Is Very Sweet; A Must Read!
By Emily W. Jensen, For the Deseret News


5. We believe that a man must be called by God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands of those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof.

Every member who is called to a position in our church are lay members and do not receive any money for their service. When we are issued a calling to serve in our church we believe that the calling comes from God through inspiration to those who have prayed and asked our Heavenly Father who should do this particular assignment.
When we receive a call we are set apart in this position by the laying on of hands by those who have the priesthood authority over us. We receive a blessing associated with that calling.
Sister Coleen K. Medlove, Primary General President stated the following:
"Some may think people are called to a position in the Church because they have perfected talents and abilities that suit them for the calling. I am learning that perhaps we are sometimes called because we need to develop specific talents and attributes. The Lord knows us, and He knows which callings or opportunities will help us grow to spiritual maturity."
"A call to serve is an invitation from Heavenly Father for greater spiritual growth. It is a call to overcome fear with faith and to learn greater humility as we accept the Lord’s will. The call can bring the peace and joy of eternal progression. It is an opportunity to be part of the miracle and wonder of this great cause and kingdom that is sweeping over the earth, blessing the lives of people wherever it reaches."

Here are some scriptures on callings:
Called of God: Luke 6:13; John 15:16; Heb. 5:4
The laying on of hands: Acts 6:5–6; 1 Tim. 4:14; Alma 6:1
The proper authority: Acts 14:23; Alma 49:30; D&C 42:11


Through the years I have received many opportunities to serve in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I have felt the spirit testify to me at the time of the calling that I was suppose to do this assignment. I have felt unqualified to serve in positions and wondered how I could do what was ask of me. Through faith in the Savior and much prayer I have been able to serve to the best of my abilities.
I have had the sweet opportunity to serve in leadership positions where I have had to go to Our Heavenly Father in prayer to choose other women to serve with me in a Presidency. One time I had a list in my mind of several women's names that I felt would be good to serve in this presidency. I had fasted and prayed and gone to the temple. While there I prayed to know who the Lord wanted in these postions. I knew right away who should be the Secretary and 1st counselor; but I couldn't figure out who the 2nd Counselor should be. I continued in prayer and then the name came to me and it was clear who I was to have in that position. Her name had not been on my list of women because she was serving in another area. I felt such joy and peace when my decision was made. I knew beyond doubt that these were the women that should serve. I gave these names to our Bishop and he too felt through the spirit that these were the right names.
 After these dear sisters were called and sustain by the Ward Membership; we received our setting apart blessings.The spirit was so wonderful in that room  as we were set apart by the laying on of hands and then given blessings to aide each of us in the positions we were called to.
I have a strong testimony of the Fifth Article of Faith. I know that our callings come from God through the Spirit of the Holy Ghost. Right now my husband and I are called to serve a part-time Inner City Mission. We know that this is where our Heavenly Father wants us to serve at this time. It has been a sweet experience to serve these humble brothers and sisters in our assigned ward area.
If you want to learn more read here:  Called of God by Prophecy  by President Boyd K. Packer


11 comments:

Pitterle Postings said...

OH, I love this one today!!Often I have experienced that myself. It can be so overwhelming to receive a calling, and it seems to me as if each and every one that I accept, has been such a beautiful blessing. It doesn't matter anymore where I serve, the important thing is that I serve with a willing heart and that I do the best I can.

Susan Anderson said...

Very well explained. Great job!

=)

Barb said...

Hi LeAnn!

What a beautiful story of the baptism of the members in RDCongo! I think that we sometimes take so much forgranted! I loved the last picture of the three men coming out of the water - tender mercies!

I also have felt so unqualified for so many positions! My current position in YW is a little overwhelming - but I love it!! The Lord does give us so many blessings, and helps us realize our talents in so many ways - thank you for sharing, I needed this today!

Hugs and Love,
Barb

Joy For Your Journey said...

This post really touched me. I have received a new calling that is going to be a huge change as well as a challenge for me. I have been feeling totally overwhelmed by it but keep trying to keep in mind the words of the person who extended the call. He said, "Trust in the Lord because He trusts you." That meant a lot to me. Still, this is going to be hard!

I am glad you are enjoying your mission. I miss hearing my sister's stories from there. Although her stories from Uganda are also wonderful.

Best wishes always!

Marie Rayner said...

Another beautiful Post Leanne. I have loved all my opportunities to serve in our church. I have been able to serve in all the auxiliaries through the years, but my favourite calling was when my husband and I were called as Stake Missionaries. It was the best. Hoping one day we can go on a mission ourselves. That would be lovely. xxoo

Darlene said...

Good job in letting everyone who might not be LDS learn about baptism. You are a very good missionary. This is missionary month for us in our ward. This would be a great article to read in one of our classes.

Unknown said...

It is a wonderful blessing to serve others. God bless you LeAnn, and thank you so much for linking your wonderful post at Women of Noble Character.

I've been a little unavailable for the past two days, but will get in touch with you tomorrow.

Beth at Aunties said...

Beautifully written as usual. It is so true. I have gained a strong testimony when called to a position which required me to pray about who the Lord wanted to serve with me in presidency, when humbly going to him in fasting and prayer, the names seem to float across your mind or even jump off of the page.
I didn't know or hadn't even ever seen a certain sister, who become a choice eternal friend, and who served with me much of 5 years until she walked into the stake center to be set apart!
I love how the Lord works! And the feelings I get when I read your blog.
Thank you for sharing your heart with us!~♥
ps I loved reading sweet Averi's inspiring story after meeting her first on Barb's blog several years ago.

Pamela said...

What a beautiful ministry God has given you. Intercity missions need special people to care for these people God loves. May God bless you for giving your love to others.

Blessings,
Pamela

Grumpy Grateful Mom said...

Wonderful post! You explained things so well. I definitely feel like my recent callings haven't been my strength, but I'm sure that's a good thing. Hopefully I'm learning what I need to. :)

Mom of 12 said...

Love the Articles of Faith! We started memorizing them together in FHE because my Autistic son was struggling with them. Now even my littlest kids can recite most of them. What a great way to learn about our religion!
Sandy