How Callings and Sustaining Work in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Explore the unique process by which members are invited to serve and supported in their volunteer roles within the Church.

By Garret Merkley · Explainer · Jun 4, 2026

Branched from Understanding the Role of a Bishop in Latter-day Saint Congregations

Quick take

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints serve in volunteer positions called 'callings.'
These callings are extended through prayerful consideration by priesthood leaders.
The 'sustaining' process involves presenting individuals to a congregation for a vote of support.
This system fosters unity, provides service opportunities, and signifies congregational consent.

In The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a 'calling' is an invitation for a member to serve in a specific volunteer capacity within the Church. The 'sustaining' process is the way members formally express their support and willingness to uphold those who have accepted these callings.

The Calling: An Invitation to Serve

Callings are extended by priesthood leaders, such as a bishop or a stake president, after prayerful consideration and often consultation with other leaders. They are not applied for, nor are they elected positions. Instead, they are seen as inspired invitations from God through His appointed leaders. A member is typically invited to meet with a leader, who explains the responsibilities of the calling and asks if the individual is willing to serve. While members can decline a calling, it is generally understood to be a sacred opportunity, and most accept if their personal circumstances allow.

The Sustaining: A Vote of Support and Commitment

Once a member accepts a calling, they are presented to the relevant congregation—such as a local ward (congregation) or a general conference of the Church—for a vote of sustaining. This is done by asking members to raise their right hand to signify their support. Sustaining is more than just a vote; it's a covenant to uphold, pray for, and cooperate with the individual in their new role. It signifies that the congregation recognizes the individual's authority and responsibility within that calling and pledges to help them succeed. If a calling is for a leadership position, such as a bishop or a General Authority, the sustaining vote often includes all members of the body over which that leader presides.

Setting Apart: Receiving Authority and Blessings

Following the sustaining vote, the individual is usually 'set apart' by priesthood leaders. During this ordinance, priesthood holders lay their hands upon the individual's head and pronounce a blessing, which may include conferring specific authority, spiritual gifts, and promises of divine assistance to help them fulfill the responsibilities of their calling. This act formally empowers them to act in their new capacity.

This entire process is central to how the Church functions, enabling its global volunteer-run structure. It ensures that leaders and teachers are chosen by divine inspiration and receive the formal support and commitment of the members they serve. It also provides myriad opportunities for members to grow, develop talents, and contribute to their community and the Church's mission.

Can someone decline a calling?

Yes, members can decline a calling. While it's generally understood as a sacred opportunity, leaders respect personal circumstances, family situations, or other significant life events that might make it difficult for someone to serve effectively at a particular time.

What happens if someone doesn't sustain a calling?

If a member feels they cannot sustain an individual (e.g., due to a serious concern about their worthiness or ability), they are encouraged to speak privately with the presiding leader (such as the bishop or stake president) to express their concerns. Public dissent during the sustaining vote is uncommon and typically handled privately afterward.

How long do callings last?

The duration of callings varies greatly. Some, like a Sunday School teacher, might last a few years, while others, like a bishop, typically serve for about 5-7 years. Callings for General Authorities are generally for life. Callings are extended and released as needs change and as inspired by priesthood leaders.

Who extends callings?

Callings are extended by priesthood leaders who preside over the organization where the service is needed. For local ward callings, this is usually the bishop or members of his bishopric. For stake-level callings, it's typically the stake president. For general Church callings, it's the First Presidency.