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All Saints Day

Release - Middle English relesen, from Anglo-French relesser, from Latin relaxare to relax
First Known Use: 14th century

transitive verb
1
: to set free from restraint, confinement, or servitude (release hostages) (release pent-up emotions) (release the brakes); also : to let go : dismiss (released from her job)
2
: to relieve from something that confines, burdens, or oppresses (released from her promise)
3
: to give up in favor of another : relinquish (release a claim to property)
(From M-W.com)

For those who are not familiar with the workings of the LDS Church there needs a bit of explanation.

Callings and/or assignments in our Church are made by leaders who are themselves called to the positions in which they serve. They extend callings to those who are worthy and whom the Lord inspires these leaders to call. It is difficult to understand what happens in these rooms where the Lord's Spirit is present and where these callings are made. But it is not something that is sought, it is something that is received with faith and humility. Leaders are held to standards they did not establish. And every leader serves with humility and diligence.

Inherent in every calling, though, is the knowledge and expectation of an eventual release from that calling. The release comes by inspiration as well. There are no set time schedules, minimum or maximum, for any calling. I was fortunate to serve as a teacher in the Primary for five wonderful years - by far my longest and favorite calling! - which some might view as extensive. Releases come for many reasons, but it is always through inspiration of the Spirit.

I serve at the pleasure of the Lord and His divinely inspired servants. And I serve His children here on earth. Thus, it matters not where I serve, but how and whom.

I am grateful for the chance I had to serve as the bishop of our Ward. I fully and completely - with all my heart and soul - sustain our new bishop - Bishop Kinder - in his new responsibilities and opportunities. I know he's the right man for the job, and I know he'll do well.

I also know that additional opportunities will be forthcoming for me. Our Church is not a museum of saints but a church of workers. I'm ready to go to work!

Comments

Deb said…
What a wonderful system we have. Things always seem to work out the way they are supposed to. I confess it's nice to think of you as just my friend Bill again, though I loved having you as Bishop. Let's hang out.
November 3, 2010 at 7:00 PM
Bill Cobabe said…
Agreed.

It is wonderful. It is clearly inspired. The position is more important that the person, and the opportunity to serve is for all of us, not for the gratification of someone's pride. Personally, I have no pride. And I'm proud of that... :-)
November 4, 2010 at 5:28 AM
LivingstonClan said…
Wow--how did I just now know you were released?? HELLO??!! I am truly happy for you brother Bill. The Lord really does know far more than we do. You should call me sometime...you know, just because!
November 14, 2010 at 8:48 PM
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