Week 12 - The blessings of Heavenly Councils



I first learned about the importance and correct use of councils when I was called to serve in the Bishopric of my ward almost 20 years ago. My earlier idea of councils where reduced to two meeting types; the “boss” style, were a “boss” explains and gives the orders with a passive board taking notes and shaking heads, and a “chaotic” style, were there is no rules nor orders, were everyone have the same power, and great liberty to think creatively, but were normally there is no consensus and decision-making.

I learned that in church council’s decisions must be unanimous, that each voice of the council member is extremely important. Of course, all councils in church have an official that presides over the meeting (such as a Bishop, Stake President, Relief Society President, and so on) that have the responsibility of taking the last word, but, contrary to the “boss” style, this council president should preside by the principles established by the Lord: "the rights of the priesthood [presidency] are inseparably connected with the powers of heaven, and that the powers of heaven cannot be controlled nor handled only upon the principles of righteousness" (D&C 121:36), and the decision should be unanimous.

Similarly, those that participate in the church councils have the right to participate and give their own insights, and solutions. Although the “chaotic” style also promotes liberty for creative thinking, important for church councils too, it fails by not making decisions and reach consensus.

Faithfull church members and families that meet regularly in councils, and humbly invite the Holly Spirit to be their guide and divine counselor, that orderly and respectfully promotes the liberty of thinking and participation, that is also presided by a Christ-like official that represents the voice of the council and decide in unanimity, are preparing themselves to live accordingly to the Celestial order, and receiving the blessings thereafter. 

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