Counseling in our Councils

Hey Everyone!

This week in my FAML 100 class we learned about counseling in our councils.

We learned the technique that the quorum of the 12 uses.  They meet every Thursday.  An agenda is sent out in advance so everyone knows what will be discussed.  This gives everyone time to ponder their own thoughts.

When the quorum meets, they pray.  Then they take time to express love and appreciation for one another.


Next they begin to discuss the items on the agenda.  Each person gets a voice on each topic.  A couple of talks we listened to mentioned the very differing opinions and the strength with which they share these opinions.  There is boldness.  There is openness.  There is no decision made until there is complete unity.  If they can't reach total unity, the topic is tabled until the future.  They close with prayer, then spend time mingling and usually sharing a refreshment, often it is pie.

I know in our family that Dad and I tried to have family councils. And I've tried to be successful at feeding all of you pie!  But the model for our family councils that we followed was more, "This is what Dad and Mom have decided and we're letting you know."  Due to our ignorance, and lack of understanding that came later with more recent teaching from our leaders, we missed some of the amazing power that comes from counseling in our councils.  I do remember a few times when we felt that goodness and synergy.

If you're thinking we need an updated photo, you're right!

I appreciate all of you with your thoughts and suggestions through the years.  We are grateful for each of you, your talents, strengths and smarts!  This blog is a place to share some ideas and suggestions as well as events from our lives.  Jared's recent post is such an attempt to help us realize some things we may be missing.  It is certainly a challenge with such a big family to stay in touch with everyone's lives.  We know you all are working and striving in your own lives and with your own families.  I know that family reunions help us feel connected too.  I look forward to the one that we're planning for this summer.

What experiences have you had with counseling in councils?  What memories do you have from your growing up years of good or bad family councils?  I'd love to hear from you.

The work is hastening.  Time is accelerating.  We need to be sure to concentrate on the priorities.  You all are our priorities.  We love you!

Mom and Dad