Elder Henry B. Eyring
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It is estimated that nearly two million Latter-day Saints were given a new calling or new responsibilities in their current calling last year.
More than 30,000 missionaries were called and set apart in 1999.
"Someone who knows organizations in the world might predict failure for a rapidly growing church depending on so many novice lay members. Even those called may well have felt some apprehension. And yet, when they see through the eyes of faith, the challenge as it really is, confidence replaces fear, because they turn to God."
To the newly called, you will find confidence when you see your call for what it is, a trust from God. It is not an assignment to perform a task. At its essence, it is an obligation to watch over Heavenly Father's children.
"Because you are called by Jesus Christ to his service, you may go forward with great confidence. First, you may be assured that he knows you and your capacity to grow. He has prepared you. Calls will stretch you, often at the start and always over their course, but he will give you the Holy Ghost to be your companion."
To those who issue calls in the church, remember that if you do so without providing training, you fail both the person and the Lord.
And to those of us served by the newly called, our job is to watch and strengthen.
"Every meeting you attend, every class, every activity will have someone doing something that to them is at the limit of their capacities, or maybe a little beyond."
