Ministering - A Way of Life

“From my first hearing of the announcement of Ministering in April 2018, my enthusiasm for Ministering has steadily grown.  I believe Ministering can make an incredible positive impact on the Church, and on our individual lives.

I would like to cite four personal experiences from my 95-year life, as they well illustrate the broad scope of Ministering.”

1. A neighbor had a washing machine to give away and a family was found who were in need.  It served that family for years.

2. Our 2 youngest boys when they were young became good friends with 2 boys who were new in the neighborhood. Many years later, I saw one of the boys from next door and said to him: “Bruce (McLaughlin), I don’t think you were a good influence on my boys; every time either one got in trouble you were always with them.” He replied: “No, no Bro. Maughan. They only took me along cause they could run faster than me”. Regardless, he turned out well. 

3. A shy 13-yr-old was called as and later blossomed as a Deacon Quorum President.  As a successful adult, if you asked him, he would tell you he would have accomplished nothing had he not been that Deacon Quorum President.

4. During a difficult time for the Maughan family in 1970, another couple in the Ward came by to visit.  They did not say much, no attempts to provide great wisdom.  They just shared our sorrow for a while.

My answer to the question “Can we do what Christ would do?” is, yes, maybe we can do about what He would do.

Ministering is something we just do as a natural part of our life. 

• Try to be a friend to everyone. We are told we should love our neighbor as ourself. Being a friend should be no burden.

• Be a special friend to those we are asked by Church leaders to care for.

  • Get to know them as a friend

  • Not intrude on their time, or personal matters

  • Share their good times and sorrows

  • Let PH/RS leaders know immediately of special needs

  • Be a true friend

Ministering can make an incredible positive impact on the Church, and on our individual lives.”

-Clyde Maughan, Schenectady Ward