Ward Council Model ~ an example of what a ward council could look like

We invited a group of currently serving members of ward councils to model for us some examples of how a ward council can effectively work together to meet the needs of their members and accomplish the purposes of the Church.
Brothers and sisters, welcome to this week’s ward council meeting. We, as a bishopric, appreciate you being here and on time. We’d like to start our meeting today by calling on Sister Jones, our Primary president, who will give us an opening prayer.
...
Brothers and sisters, this concludes our meeting today. I would just remind you of two things. Number one, the confidentiality of what we’ve spoken about, particularly as it relates to individuals and families. They are sacred to our Father in Heaven, and what we say here should remain sacred.
And as a bishopric, we just want to extend to you our great love and appreciation for what you do in serving the members of the ward, in your willingness to speak here, in love and in openness, and in concern, to bless the lives of our ward members.
Original:
www.churchofjesuschrist.org/m...
Transcript:
www.churchofjesuschrist.org/b...
#christian #JesusChrist

[@user-og2wt3le4j]

My ward councils often have auxiliary leaders complain and air grievances.
We have done fifth Sundays with youth and their parents. It has limited success. It is hard to compete with the internet, video games, and social media.

[@user-og2wt3le4j]

Reactivation of family at 21:07. We struggle to get youth interested in seminary classes. Giving adults calling has limited success. They may be gung ho or just drop off depending on the calling and person.

[@user-og2wt3le4j]

At 10:06. Young men in their seats ahead of time to bless and pass sacrament. Those are teenagers and it is hard to get them to church 30 minutes before the start time. In many cases adults have to step in to fill the gaps. When the church got rid of the Young Men Presidency that's when it all fell apart. It was their leadership that kept the young men on time and prepared for sacrament.

[@user-og2wt3le4j]

Garcia family at 19:07. Spanish families are hard to keep active.

[@GwPoKo]

I like this, but I really think there is a problem with this model. It only incorporates older members of the ward council. The bishop really should have a youth council involved too. Just getting the perspective of older members of the ward really doesn't get the entire perspective of the ward.

[@user-og2wt3le4j]

Their approach to youth activity solutions are not new ones. They have been tried for over 10 years. The stats are showing 86% of current youth will leave the church by the time they turn age 25.

[@user-og2wt3le4j]

This is like ward councils 20 years ago. Remember all callings are on a volunteer basis. In terms of reverence, anyone with small kids knows how hard it is to arrive on time to church.

[@user-og2wt3le4j]

Bishops are supposed to hold youth councils once per month. It is usually at least two youth and the bishopric.