On April 6th I was asked to be the "bishop" of the local congregation of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This is similar to being a pastor. I was told by the men who oversee the congregation that they asked me because they felt in their hearts that this is what God wanted. What can a person say besides yes, when we are being asked by God (through other people) to serve.
On April 13th I began serving as the bishop. Image, being responsible for all aspects of a congregation of 380 people, while having a busy full time job, being a father of 3, and taking care of all other aspects of life. I am helped with this responsibility by two men who are assistant pastors and by nearly all of the members of the congregation, who each have assignments to help. Much of my role is to direct the efforts of others and to seek to understand God's will for our ward (congregation). I also play an active role in ministering to the boys who are 16 - 19 years of age.
It has been an amazing experience, an experience that I wish everyone can have. Through serving as the bishop I have seen the following blessings:
- I have felt inspiration from the Holy Ghost about things that our congregation needs to do
- I frequently feel God's love for the people within my stewardship
- My family has been blessed with greater peace, despite the fact that I am out of our home more
- I feel blessed to be able to prioritize and to be more efficient in my professional duties
- I am amazed to see the faith, strength, and diligence of my wife
- My relationship with Jesus Christ has become much more personal
I am excited to see how the blessings, growth, and challenges, which will come over the next few years.
Anyone is welcome to join us on Sundays at 11 am on Waverly Drive in Albany, OR.
David Blunck
