Bishop realizes honor of his calling

Robert Hook feels blessed to be Bishop of Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints First Ward in Minden.

For the Latter-day Saints, a bishop is called by the Lord's inspiration to be the leader of a ward, then ordained by a stake president. Hook's ordination took place Jan. 21.

"I have received a tremendous amount of support and spirit from the congregation," Hook said. "This is a testimony of the Lord on how much He loves us and is willing to do for us."

Hook's ministry is not paid. His temporal duties include keeping records of all church business and overseeing use and security of the church. He will also conduct tithing settlement and receive other contributions from church members.

Bishops also care for the spiritual well being of the congregation, and act as common judge. A common judge conducts worthiness interviews, counsels members and administers church discipline. In order to help them with these duties, the Lord has promised bishops and branch presidents the gift of discernment.

"Sunday messages are spoken after calls are made to invite two youth and two adults to speak in sacrament," Hook said. "They will speak on whatever we feel needs to be discussed on Gospel-related topics."

Hook said it is amazing to him to see a 12-year-old speak in front of a congregation of 200.

"They have support of teachers, family and the congregation," he said. "And they tend to be leaders in school.

"It's easy to look at the community and see so much negative. But at our youth, I see a group of kids doing great in the community. And it does give you more faith they're not a negative aspect in our society."

Hook, 57, moved to Minden in 1992 with his family - wife, Donna, and children Dustin, Jesse, Andrea, Melissa and Travis. He also has three grandchildren, from Andrea.

"What we (Latter-day Saints) profess about the Bible is the same as the Gospel of Jesus Christ," Hook said, his emotion bringing tears to his eyes.

"The Lord blesses us for everything we do right."

Hook's ordination was shared with his family and he said it was a marvelous experience.

"Is my testimony any stronger that before? You bet. I put forth testimony of faith - it's a giving thing."

Hook said anyone is welcome to attend Sunday service at the ward, at the corner of Spruce and Desert streets in Minden. Service is held at 10 a.m. There are three wards in Carson Valley; ward one has 458 members. For information, call 782-4234.

"If people just stopped and asked themselves what's it all about - the purpose of life - what is said to them is the truth. It's their chance to find and build a relationship with Jesus Christ.

"Everyone is welcome to just come and listen. It was the greatest thing that happened to me."

• Contact Rhonda Costa-Landers at rcosta-landers@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1223.