This past Sunday, I was called to be the 2nd Councilor in the Valley View Ward bishopric. It was a surprise to me, since I expected the incumbent to be around for a while - it's only been a year since we reorganized the wards.

I was 2nd Councilor in the old 7th Ward when it was dissolved. So I have some experience with the calling. The year between has been good for me to experience a few things first hand. Plus, the ward has gotten to know me better, so I think they'll be more supportive. Not that they shouldn't be, but I think it makes the transition easier.

The call came through President Stanford, a councilor in the Stake Presidency. He requested an interview on Thursday. I wasn't sure what to expect, since I'd only been the Scout Leader for about 6 months. It was a relief to me to be able to still serve with the Young Men, particularly now that William is one of them.

They got me busy right away. It was our Ward Conference, so once I was sustained, my first assignment was to read the callings for sustaining. I didn't have to conduct, but I would have been fine with that. After the meetings, we have to process the tithing. It's comforting to be with the same people: Ken Redpath served as councilor with me under Bishop Leavitt, and Dan Drabick was the financial clerk then too.

The setting apart was planned for just after Sacrament meeting. By the time we gathered everyone together, it was getting too far into other meetings, so it was put off until after all of the meetings were over. That was good for me, since Joe and Dealia weren't coming until then, and I was hoping they could be there. Joe was able to stand in the circle.

Victoria remarked afterward that she figured I was called to the bishopric again to keep me from kissing her in Sacrament meeting all the time.

After everything ended, we gathered at my Mother's for dinner and spent the rest of the afternoon visiting. Glen and his family made it for dinner, but I didn't get the message to him in time for the setting apart.

The calling itself is considered by many as an honour, but I see it instead as a privilege to be able to serve. It seems a fitting change, seeing that Spring is nearly upon us.