New Calling

Sue was sustained today as the Moraga Ward Relief Society President.

Mallory Peirce (secretary), Sue Severson (president), Heather Callister (1st counselor) & Diane Hoopes (2nd counselor)

Our new Bishop of two weeks, Mike DeLange came by on Wednesday evening with his counselors (Chris Severson and Mike Linney) to extend this call to me. I can understand why he was anxious to find new RS president to replace his wife serving as the current one. I was totally overwhelmed by the prospect as it did not seem possible, given the many other responsibilities I have in the church (Northern CA Area Family History Advisor, ward family history consultant and part time Oakland FHL consultant as needed), not to mention community volunteer as Orinda City Council member, Orinda Community Foundation trustee, co-chairing citywide Orinda in Action community service day, plus responsibility for three major OCF fundraising events, etc. Oh and lest I forget to mention adoring all my wonderful 16 grandchildren, Cozy Earth venture, Kellyn's April BYU graduation and May wedding, etc. It seemed an impossibility to accept another job on top of everything else. That was the logical response. Surely God could not expect more of me. There are so many other capable ladies in our ward.

Bishop DeLange was kind in his approach encouraging me to take time to think and pray about it. Thursday was a day of sincere prayer and fasting. In response to my pleading to Heavenly Father, if this was the right calling for me, and the right timing for this call, I received the most dramatic outpouring of the spirit. I cannot fully comprehend why this calling now, but I do know the gospel is true beyond any doubt. In my testimony today in Sacrament meeting after being confirmed, I related that the initial thought came to me that I would have to proceed as the saying goes, "on a wing and a prayer." Then I came to realize, that as Nephi learned having the faith to do the seemingly impossible things the Lord has asked, a way will be provided for you to accomplish the heavenly task. I now understood that on the wings of angels and with the prayers of saints, I too could be successful in doing what seemed impossible and that it will bless the lives of many in some unique way only I can provide. I am truly grateful for this blessing and pleased all my immediate family have chosen the path of righteousness.