Sunday lesson summary: A introduction to Catherine

Sunday we expressed our gratitude to outgoing RS President Marguerite, her counselors,
Krys and Eva and secretary April. We have certainly felt of their love and stewardship, thank them for their dedication and wish them a restful release!

We then welcomed our new president Catherine, her counselors, Claudia and Dawne and secretary Elizabeth. We certainly look forward to their energy and inspiration.

Catherine began her remarks by placing four pictures of her family in front  of the Oakland temple on the board. At first glance they all looked beautiful identical, but Catherine pointed out that each one has a something a little off. She then noted that one of the biggest messages of these pictures is that we all start from where we are at and grow from there. Her oldest daughter is 10 and this is the first time she has taken her children to the temple. She hadn't thought about it previously until the divine inspiration offered in General Conference, and decided that she should heed this advice. She noted that many people have the perhaps misconception that she is entirely organized and together, but she wanted to illustrate that she is growing and hopes to grow further in this calling.

She then noted that there are many ways to respond to needs. Take tearful faces - one could need Bounty for big tear days, some may prefer Kleenex and other toilet paper. Some may be accostomed to fine linens. In the new presidency's service not everything will be perfectly fitted to everyone's desires or expectations. But their service will be heartfelt and prayerful to meet the needs of the sisters.

She then showed a goblet, lovingly smeared with peanut butter and blackberries...it was rather disgusting. She noted that the water inside was perfectly clear. Likewise, we should not be quick to judge the appearance, and miss the pure water inside each other and our acts.

We certainly look forward to sustaining our new presidency with our service to others.