PROPERLY EXTENDING CALLINGS & RELEASES Many callings are extended informally. Members are sometimes not properly oriented with what’s expected of them. Usually, this results to non-performance of duty and leads to a frustrating relationship between you and the member. By extending callings properly and after the manner prescribed in the handbook, you can prevent misunderstanding. When releases are not also properly handled, they can cause ill feelings sometimes leading one into inactivity. As a church leader, you can and should do more than just inform somebody he is called or released. We should use these opportunities to teach, inspire, build faith, and strengthen each other. It’s also a very good time to introduce the gospel culture. You must have already sought the Spirit and have counseled with others to determine whom to call. You may have also conducted a preliminary interview with the member to ascertain if one’s interests, work and personal circumstances are favorable in extending the proposed calling. In certain cases you need to obtain approvals as outlined in the “Chart of Calls” while at the same time you keep the matter strictly confidential. You have already received authorization and you are now ready to proceed.
1. Open the interview with a prayer. “Sis. Morales, thank you for accepting my invitation to talk to you. Before we begin, can we have an opening prayer? Would you please offer the prayer for us?” It really doesn’t matter who says the prayer but I suggest that you ask the interviewee to say the opening prayer. In that way, you can be the voice later expressing your love and concern for the interviewee in the closing prayer.
2. Determine willingness to serve and member’s worthiness. If you have not had the chance to conduct a preliminary interview to determine member’s willingness to serve as well as his or her personal circumstances, this is the time to do it. “I am looking at some opportunities where you might be able to serve in the ward, would you please tell me what are your personal interests and hobbies? What about your time availability? What is your school or job schedule like?” These questions will help you determine if the intended calling is appropriate. This is more ideally done prior to this interview so that when you have the approval all you need to do is extend the call. After you have received the information you need, you may proceed to the next phase.