Getting Started

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bishop and two men

Welcome to your new calling! As a counselor in the bishopric, you have been called to help the bishop as he presides over the ward. You have been given the responsibility to act in Jesus Christ’s name, to receive revelation to help those under your care, and to help direct the work of salvation and exaltation within your ward. As you serve, let the Lord’s Spirit guide you in all that you do.

You Are Not Alone

You have been called to minister to the members of your ward, who are beloved sons and daughters of our Heavenly Father. As a newly called counselor in the bishopric, you will likely feel a range of emotions about your responsibilities. Remember that you are not alone. This calling is a partnership with the Lord. As you seek the Lord’s guidance in serving the members of your ward, He will magnify your efforts at home and in your calling. You will feel His love for you and for the individuals and families you serve.

Where to Start

Before You Are Sustained

Counsel with the member of the stake presidency who called you about where to begin.
Seek guidance from the Spirit through prayer, scripture study, fasting, and, if possible, temple attendance.
Read “The Bishopric,” chapter 7 in General Handbook: Serving in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (ChurchofJesusChrist.org), to understand your responsibilities as a counselor in the bishopric and the responsibilities of your bishopric. Also review chapters 1–4 in the General Handbook (ChurchofJesusChrist.org), which summarize the doctrinal foundation of God’s plan and give more guidance.

After You Are Sustained and Set Apart

With so many responsibilities, remember that your family is your first priority.
Continue to pray for guidance about your service.
Counsel with the bishop about your responsibilities and how he would like you to support him.
Meet with the outgoing counselor to learn about specific items in progress you may need to follow up on.
Participate in bishopric meetings (see “Participate in Bishopric Meetings” under “What Should I Focus On?”).
Attend leadership meetings, such as ward council and ward youth council (see “Participate in Ward Council and Ward Youth Council Meetings” under “What Should I Focus On?”).
Attend stake priesthood leadership meetings, stake high priest quorum meetings, and other stake meetings as invited.
Access reports and lists on Leader and Clerk Resources (LCR) or in the Member Tools mobile app to help your bishopric get to know members of the ward and be aware of the ward’s strengths and needs.
Participate in training from the stake presidency regarding your calling, and in other training as available.
To ensure the safety of children and youth, complete the training course found at ProtectingChildren.ChurchofJesusChrist.org. You are required to renew this training every three years.
Study the principles in Teaching in the Savior’s Way (2016).