Suggestions for Ward Councils on how to be more effective from observations made by the stake presidency after visits in June 2013

Core Principles: A ward council is most effective when...
(1) agendas are followed to give structure and focus so you don’t try to cover too much in your meeting and yet enough for action to be taken;
(2) every discussion ends with one or more assignments being made;
(3) assignments are tracked by the ward clerk and follow up reports are given before the next meeting; and
(4) the needs of individuals or families are identified through inspiration prior to the meeting so the ward council can focus on seeking prayerful solutions.

Areas of Emphasis: Agendas should include discussions on several, if not all, of the elements of the “Work of Salvation” listed in Chapter 5 of Handbook 2, including (1) Missionary Work,
(2) Convert Retention, (3) Reactivation, (4) Temple and Family History Work, and
(5) Teaching the Gospel.

Use Reports: There is never enough time to discuss everyone. The bishop, or others to whom he delegates, will want to identify, by inspiration, a select number of individuals on each of the three key reports: (1) Investigator Progress Report listing all investigators (WML responsible), (2) Focus Reports listing less-actives (aka Focus Five; RS, HP, EQ responsible); both reports feed into the (3) New and Returning Member Report identifying those who are new members or new into activity (Bishop responsible).

Create a Ward Mission Plan: Every successful ward missionary program begins with a Ward Mission Plan created by the ward council. See guidelines in Handbook 2 - 5.1.8.

Devotionals: We recommend the devotional consist of a brief discussion, led by a member of the ward council, from the following sources: (1) scriptures listed in the 4-page stake document on conversion, (2) Preach My Gospel, or (3) other references from the Standard Works, as directed by the Bishopric.

Training: We recommend you draw from (1) Handbook 2, especially chapters 1-6, with emphasis on chapter 4 about ward councils, or (2) the principles taught in the Youth Curriculum.

Council Environment: Create an environment of discussion and equality of voice by arranging the chairs in a circle, semi-circle or around a table.

Function as a Council: Do not go around the room asking for organizations to report, but require members to contribute to the agenda beforehand and ensure all topics of discussion become the business of everyone.