Ministry School

[Lori]

First of all, let me tell you that I have horrible anxiety and panic attacks.  

 

Second,  I haven't participated in a part for the ministry school in a VERY long time due to that anxiety. 

But lately, I think I'd feel more like a part of the congregation if I were to accept a part. 

I was thinking that I could ask to be a householder a few times before jumping in. 

 

What do you all think?  

 

Any tips?    Advice?   Encouragement?    All would be welcome    

[dljbsp]

We’ve had several sisters start as the assistant in the part.

Little steps are often the best ones — otherwise, you can end up stumbling around uncoordinated.

 

If anxiety plays a role, remember: asking for assistance isn’t weakness. It’s wisdom. What better way to ease your anxiety than to invite someone to help? — Proverbs 13:10 (NWT).

 

We never hesitate to ask Jehovah for assistance, so why hesitate to request some from those training beside us? — Proverbs 3:5 (NWT).

 

And remember — it’s called the school for a reason. You’re there to learn, not to perform perfectly. — Proverbs 4:13 (NWT).

[LeolaRootStew]

 

I used to hold a pen when I gave talks because it help hide the shaking in my hands. Other things that helped the shaking: sitting down, having my forearms resting on either my leg or the table, gesturing while speaking, taking the time to breathe, never looking at the audience.

 

Remember that even if you are a worried little squirrel and everyone can see and hear how nervous you are THEY WILL LOVE YOU FOR DOING IT because it shows how much you value your relationship with Jehovah. We fear public speaking because we fear judgement; knowing that the worst-case scenario is that people love you more for the effort means you literally have nothing to lose.

[Dages]

4 hours ago, Lori said:

I was thinking that I could ask to be a householder a few times before jumping in. 

You can definitely ask the elder in charge about this very point.
That's my service in my cong and I'm very happy to do so when brothers and sisters ask.

[Ludwika]

7 hours ago, Lori said:

First of all, let me tell you that I have horrible anxiety and panic attacks.  

 

Second,  I haven't participated in a part for the ministry school in a VERY long time due to that anxiety. 

But lately, I think I'd feel more like a part of the congregation if I were to accept a part. 

I was thinking that I could ask to be a householder a few times before jumping in. 

 

What do you all think?  

 

Any tips?    Advice?   Encouragement?    All would be welcome    

In our congregation, anyone who's very nervous will be partnered as a householder with someone experienced to give them confidence. Talk to the brothers and they will make sure you feel comfortable, and rest assured, they won't throw you in the deep end. 🥰

[On the huh]

Starting as assistant (householder) is a great way to start.  When you are ready you can move on to the publisher role.

Would you give the part with anyone you are assigned with?  Or would prefer someone you are more comfortable with?  Speak with them about it, and with the overseer.  Maybe he can assign your first few assignments with that person(s).

Also some parts are only a 1 or 2 minutes long.  You could be assigned one of these short parts.

 

Another way is stand in as a volunteer at short notice.  Might sound strange, but the time between receiving the assignment and giving it, can make some worry and anxious.  This way, you don't have time to worry about it.

[carlos]

Lori, it's good that you wish to do more to feel part of the congregation. That way you are giving Jehovah something he can bless.  

 

All the comments have given good suggestions. Speak to the brother in charge of the school and explain him how you feel. He will be understanding. He can assign you a part as a householder with someone you feel comfortable with. It can be a short part, and it can be in the auxiliary classroom (if you have one). Tell him anything that may make you feel more comfortable and he will try to help.