Sisters and Brothers –
One year ago, on the Sunday of President’s Day weekend, I was sustained as the fourth bishop of the River View Ward. It was an emotional day for me. Your sustaining votes — both in symbolic hand-raising and in everyday practice— has enabled me to not feel overwhelmed in a year where “overwhelmed” was probably the least I could plan on. Thank you.
Little did we know then that a year later, we would have shorter commute times, a variety of mask options and a longing for “fellowshipping one with another” we never thought we would have.
It has been an interesting time to be your bishop. I’m grateful for the one-on-one interactions I’ve still be able to have with so many in the ward. I enjoy meeting with the youth classes — in person and through Zoom — and sharing in their triumphs and challenges. I’ve been blown away at their grit and determination. I’ve learned from their resilience and reliability.
None of us knows what the next year will bring. Undoubtedly, we will continue to face challenges — physical, spiritual, emotional — and we will undoubtedly be able to handle them better when we do so with faith in Christ.
“And he shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind; and this that the word might be fulfilled which saith he will take upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people.
“And he will take upon him death, that he may loose the bands of death which bind his people; and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh, that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities.”
Alma 7:11-12
Renewing our covenants through the sacrament enables us to remember Jesus Christ, take His name upon us and remind us to keep His commandments. I look forward to joining those whose last names begin with M through Z in-person today. Those who aren’t in that group are invited to have the sacrament administered in their homes by worthy priesthood holders of the appropriate office.
Calendar
Friend to Friend for Children
Feb. 20, 11 a.m.
We invite children ages 3–11, their parents, and Primary leaders and teachers to participate in this event. It will include music and activities as well as messages by President Russell M. Nelson, members of the Primary General Presidency, and Elder Ulisses Soares.
For more information on the online event, reach out to Alisa Merrill, our primary president, or visit
https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/event/friend-to-friend-for-children
Self Reliance Devotional
Feb. 21, 7 p.m.
The stake will be hosting a virtual Self Reliance Devotional for all interested members. It is a kickoff for members participating in (or interested in) the self-reliance classes taught by the stake. Please view the fireside at the link below:
https://daviddrowley.zoom.us/j/94765323415?pwd=SVhibnR4bmlVQlkvZ0dvNHFRRTZWQT09
Thanks again for a wonderful year and I look forward to serving you all for many more.