[MUSIC PLAYING]
We all experience challenges. Whether great or small,
long-term or short-term, they inevitably come. These difficult
circumstances do not have to define those who suffer. Yet the way we respond can
in some ways define us. As members of The Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we are asked
to bear one another's burdens and comfort those
that stand in need of comfort. In fact, we are to actively seek
out and care for those in need. You have a unique
blessing and opportunity as a member of the
Relief Society presidency to share Christ's
love with those who require temporal assistance. This could be due to illness,
birth, death, personal crises, job loss, or other
financial setbacks. The assignment to assess
their temporal needs is normally extended
by the bishop. He may ask you to prepare a
bishop's order for commodities. This form should
be filled out based on immediate temporal
needs and, once completed, submitted to the
bishop for his approval. When meeting with a member
to discuss a potential need, it's important to realize that
for some members of the Church, asking for help
may be difficult. Begin by expressing love. Each individual
circumstance is different and requires inspiration. Gently ask questions. Help them assess
their own needs. Explore their strengths and
identify priorities together. Assure the family that
you and your presidency are there to support and that
you will treat this process with confidentiality. As you do this,
you open the door for their spiritual
progression, bringing them closer to Jesus Christ. After your visit, discuss your
assessment with the bishop and suggest what other
help might be provided. In addition, you can
seek further assistance by coordinating efforts with the
elders quorum or ward council members to find useful
resources and supporting members with various needs.
Christ has shown us how
to care for individuals with sincere love,
always seeking the one. And He invites each
of us to do likewise through prayerful preparation. As members experience your
genuine love and concern, they will find that our
Savior offers refuge from the storms of life. [MUSIC PLAYING]
