What an amazing time to be involved with the work of Relief Society! In the past several months, we have seen several changes that directly impact us as sisters and how we approach and participate in Relief Society. The new curriculum, including the opportunity for council Sundays, and now the announcement of Ministering to replace Visiting Teaching, both place more responsibility for how the work of the Lord moves forward on us as individuals, rather than so much on the shoulders of the leaders.
It will take time for each ward/branch to adjust for the assignment changes that may occur with Ministering. We know that each ward/branch Relief Society presidency will be working as quickly as possible to understand the changes, coordinate with the new Elder's Quorum presidents and with the Bishops and then have the needed conversations with assigned sisters. Please be patient with them as they do their best to implement these changes.
If you visit the Church website, you can find resources to help you understand how the shift in focus to Ministering will help you better fulfill your stewardship. I have tried to gather useful links here to help us in our study and preparation to participate better in this work.
As we move ahead and gain experience, I think it will be helpful to share our experiences with one another. If you are willing to share your new Ministering experiences with your sisters of the Stake, please email me at loriepierce.rs@gmail.com, so I can include them in future blog posts.
- Lorie Pierce
Ministering to Replace Home and Visiting Teaching
Be With and Strengthen Them by Elder Jeffery R. Holland
Ministering as the Savior Does by Sister Jean B. Bingham
Ministering - First Presidency Letter
Ministering with Strengthened Melchizedek Priesthood Quorums and Relief Societies
Relief Society Homepage
