There were many releases and sustainings today. Too many to get them all, so I'll mention the new callings, in no particular order:
Robin A as Ward Missionary; Erin C and June A as R.S. Teachers; Maureen C as R.S. Chorister and Family History Consultant; Roseanne W and Janice W to the Home Evening Committee; Brent W and Robin A to the Break-the-Fast Committee; and Steve K as Gospel Doctrine Class President.
Br. Pinto announced that he has accepted a new job in Philadelphia so will only be with us for a few more weeks. He and his wife, Akane, spoke in sacrament meeting. Their talks were delightful and served to remind us of what a loss it will be when they move away!
Akane spoke first and read excerpts from talks about timing and agency. Sometimes timing isn't of our own choosing, but is of the Lord's choosing and sometimes it is affected by the agency of others, who may choose differently than we wish. However, our faith prepares us for life's opportunities. Akane gave us a few words of advice. She suggested we make a list of the qualities we would like to have in a spouse. And then use that list on ourselves to develop those qualities in ourselves so that we will be ready to be a good spouse when thetime comes. She noted that we often think about what we want but forget what we need to do in order to get what we want. Akane also advised us all to look for the good in everything, especially for the good in others. We need to develop a positive attitude and outlook, and we especially need to notice (and point out) the good that is in everyone, refusing to dwell on the negative.
The Ward Choir had its first performance with our new choir director, Joyce Reid. The choir sounded wonderful and sang a very touching medley that inspired us to follow Christ and to treat others with kindness. It is great knowing that the outstanding musical traditions in our ward will continue!
Br. Pinto read his list of "What I have learned from the singles ward." This was a delightful, insightful, and often humorous list of his observations and lessons from nearly 2 years with the ward. I will not be able to repeat them all, but will pick out a few choice items to report. "The Lake Ward is full of loving, hard-working, talented members." He noted that a number of singles have not received callings in their conventional wards, and one of the main reasons they choose to attend the Lake Ward is for the opportunities to serve, though the reasons for attending are many and varied. "The priesthood is very important to single sisters" and he needs to remember to give more blessings. Br. Pinto learned that you just cannot keep up with the singles -- if you try they will wear you down! For example, the best time to catch a single at home is 10p.m., decorating for a dance ends at 2a.m., and clean up ends at 3a.m.! Br. Pinto also noted that singles like it when he kisses his wife, and we are all excited when someone no longer qualifies to be in the ward (because of marriage).
Br. Pinto's closing remarks were to note that, as members of the church, we love all people, not just those who are like us, and that attitude is exemplified no better than here in the Lake Ward.
Br. and Sis. Pinto both concluded their talks with tender testimonies of the gospel, their love for the wardmembers, and their gratitude for the opportunity of having served among them. We will greatly miss the Pintos.
Bishop Gardner
P.S. A number of ward members are working on either their initial temple recommend or renewing their recommends after a lengthy lapse. The stake offers wonderful temple preparation classes for just such occasions. The next sequence of classes begins next Sunday, March 27. They are taught by Br. Sonderegger, of the Northwood Ward. If you would like to attend, just let me know and I'll get you in touch with him.
