Prior: Part 2: This is an Emergency!

They used to be called the “LDS.org Tools.” Now they are referred to as the “ChurchofJesusChrist.org Tools.” If you use them on a mobile device, they are typically called “Member Tools.”

Note: Member Tools does not display or contain all the functionality of the ChurchofJesusChrist.org Tools. Many of these tools are critically important in this blog series such as the location/building calendar.

These tools are MARVELOUS and can be massive time savers. They can reduce the workload of leadership dramatically if they are implemented and used properly. They can bless the lives of all members in multiple ways.

The tools have evolved over the past. Right now, we have the following:
  • Ward Directory and Map
  • Calendar
The Calendar is primarily the target of this blog series since its usefulness is under the control of local units, local leadership, and even local members.

When you sign on with your Church Account, you see the two options above although they include more options for both the stake and the ward. (See the Tools menu when you click on the 9-dot pad right next to your circle picture - top right corner.)

There is a stake directory and stake calendar and members can see directories for other units in the stake.

I have been following these issues and these tools for about two decades now. I was called as a Ward Website Administrator in 2007 and have had that calling in many units since.

The Ward Website Administrator was renamed the Communications Specialist in a June 4, 2020 letter from Church headquarters. A short time later it was changed to the Email Communications Specialist, presumably to distinguish it from the renamed Communications callings that used to be termed Public Affairs. I am guessing here as to why.

However, Ward Website Administrators still exist both in concept and in name. I will explain all of this.

Originally, when I lived in rural Kansas, I thought people were not using the tools because most people were not that digital there. I changed my mind after visiting my family members in Silicon Valley. I discovered the same exact problems. I thought, “If they aren’t using them in Silicon Valley, where are they using them?”

Unfortunately, the situation has not changed much, even though we exist now in a rich digital landscape where people are nearly universally digital.

So, why the present situation? What is the problem? I will cover that next when I get into the history.

Next: Part 4: History of the System - Why are We Here?

Assignment for Leaders: If you are not already familiar with the tools, visit the ward directory, map, and calendar and maneuver around. Try and explore something you are not yet familiar with. Click on the links and just see what comes up.

While viewing the Calendar, click on the “Gear” icon in the top right-hand corner. A drop-down menu with “Sync” and “Date Options” should come up. If something more comes up, you have digital access and responsibilities you may not realize. The computer gives you the tools to do the calling you have. If you have computer access, you have the responsibility. Click on the other options you have to familiarize yourself with what they may be.

Assignment for Members: If you are not already familiar with the tools, visit the ward directory, map, and calendar and maneuver around. Try and explore something you are not yet familiar with. Click on the links and just see what comes up.

While viewing the Calendar, click on the “Gear” icon in the top right-hand corner. A drop-down menu with “Sync” and “Date Options” should come up. If something more comes up, you have digital access and responsibilities you may not realize.

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