Should I ask to be released?

[GrandmaAng]

I didn't know where else to ask this question so here I am! 

Is it right to ask to be released from a calling? I have lived in my ward for 20 years and have always been one of the three or four organists. I've never been released from this calling, not even when I was Primary President or counselor in RS. I currently have 4 callings, organist being one of them. But I only play once every three weeks. I am also a Family History Consultant, Primary permanent substitute, and Stake Women's Volleyball Specialist (only 9 weeks out of the year). I don't think any of the bishops that have served in my ward over the past 20 years have ever considered releasing me, even though we have several other people in our Ward (not including the current other 2 organists)  that are capable organists. And there are also two youth that have been playing the organ only for prelude.

I don't mind playing, but I am beginning to think this is a lifetime calling. I have been an organist since 1989 in two other wards as well, but in the other wards there were only one or two people that could play.

I should mention that when I was first called I had never played the organ, just piano. I lived in the same ward as my mother in law and she was the only organist at the time. She was moving so the Bishop called me and she taught me how to play for about a month before she moved.

That was a long explanation, sorry! I don't mind playing but even after all this time I still get so nervous every time It's my turn. 

I recently heard from a lady in my ward that the Bishop told her I had held the longest calling of anyone in the ward....Organist....Then she said they all had a good laugh about it. 

So, do I ask when I don't really have a good reason? Or just plan on this being a lifetime calling? ?

 

 

[person0]

Church service is voluntary, if there is something that is uncomfortable for you or causing you undue stress you may withdraw from that calling/activity at any time, the bishop nor anyone else should look down on you as a result.  Alternatively, perhaps discuss with the bishop the fact that you have four callings and see what he says/does without bringing up organist specifically. Then bring it up if he doesn't because for all you know he thinks it is your favorite thing in the world!

That being said, if you personally feel you don't have an appropriate reason to be released from any of your callings (especially organ), perhaps the Lord has kept you in that calling because he does need you there, either for others or because there is something else he wants you to learn.  Do any of the other organists get nervous like you as far as you are aware?  Perhaps you are saving someone else from being nervous twice each month 

Edited April 2, 2017 by person0

[zil]

I think it cannot hurt to discuss the issue with the bishop.  He doesn't know what you don't tell him, and sometimes, we mortals need facts before we're able to understand or even ask for revelation.

[GrandmaAng]

Person0, no the other two organists love playing. 

[GrandmaAng]

zil, I haven't spoken to our current Bishop about it, he was called 18 mo ago. I did talk to my previous Bishop but he didn't take me very seriously. I will talk to my current Bishop though ?

Edited April 2, 2017 by GrandmaAng

[Jane_Doe]

Even God took a day of rest.  Don't feel about about that.

[zil]

4 minutes ago, GrandmaAng said:

zil, I haven't spoken to our current Bishop about it, he was called 18 mo ago. I did talk to my previous Bishop but he didn't take me very seriously. I will talk to my current Bishop though ?

Well, just keep in mind he's a man, and probably not getting enough sleep.  Clues, hints, or trying to be accommodating may leave him wondering why you even wanted to talk, or thinking you just wanted to unload a little and now all is well...  He'll probably appreciate a direct approach.

[person0]

5 minutes ago, GrandmaAng said:

zil, I haven't spoken to our current Bishop about it, he was called 18 mo ago. I did talk to my previous Bishop but he didn't take me very seriously. I will talk to my current Bishop though ?

I would be glad to speak with the bishop on your behalf, in exchange for some delicious GrandmaAng Cookies! 

[Sunday21]

I suggest an email if your bishop is an email type of person. I would state clearly that you would like to be released from organ playing. I would make the email very brief and in short clear sentences. Bishops are frequently overwhelmed by detail. I did this so I am now down to two callings.