Let me share a secret with all the bishoprics out there…
You’ll be amazed at how much easier your calling becomes when your ward council has high morale.
The number one way to increase their morale?
Shorten the calling turnaround time.
Consider this: When the Primary submits a name for a teacher, how long does it take until the sustaining occurs?
Chances are, you could do it faster.
It’s not just about speed, though.
It’s about maintaining clear communication with all parties involved throughout the process.
With that said, here are 5 ways bishoprics can dial in the calling process and increase morale of the ward council:
- Implement a project management system. I recommend Asana, but choose your favorite. You need a way for the bishopric to communicate on tasks outside of meetings. This prevents delays in moving tasks forward.
- Be more proactive in extending callings. While bishoprics have many responsibilities, extending most ward callings falls to them. Don’t wait for the next Sunday or a chance meeting at church. Extend callings in members’ homes when possible, or make appropriate phone calls. The handbook only states that callings should not be extended “in a casual manner” (30.2), which doesn’t rule out a phone call.
- Keep ward council members informed. Even if the process takes time, regular updates go a long way. A simple text or quick email can prevent people from feeling left in the dark about the progress of callings.
- Set a bold standard. Agree on a target number of days for your bishopric’s calling turnaround process. Hold everyone accountable and be aggressive about meeting these goals.
- Empower ward council presidencies. Bishoprics often overcomplicate the process by shouldering too much of the responsibility for selecting names. If the Young Women president needs a new counselor, let her prayerfully submit a name and proceed from there. Be proactive – if there are questions about a submitted name, address them promptly rather than waiting for the next bishopric meeting.
Some might view these suggestions as excessive or aggressive.
However, it’s not about rushing a sacred process.
Even the sacred temple ceremony has been condensed to about 60 minutes.
The goal is to show the ward council that you’re committed to working efficiently for them.
When they see you as a team player, they’re more likely to reciprocate.
This approach establishes a better culture in ward council and keeps everyone engaged in your vision.
See what others are saying about this message HERE.
Sincerely,
Kurt Francom
Executive Director
Leading Saints
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