Meet the Bedford Ward Bishopric
Bedford Ward Bishopric, Stephen Bradshaw (left), Bishop Michael Smith (middle), Charlie Smith (right).
The Hurst Texas Stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced boundary changes, leading to the restructuring of the Bedford Ward and the appointment of a new Bishopric. These changes, made after thoughtful consideration and prayer, are intended to support the Church's ongoing work and encourage members to adapt with faith.
By Sandra Cooper
The Greek philosopher Heraclitus is credited with saying, “the only constant in life is change.” On Sunday, May 26th, the Hurst Texas Stake held a special conference where boundary changes to several ward congregations were announced. In the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, congregations are called wards with up to about 500 members and a group of congregations is called a stake, like a tent stake. Boundary changes often happen and are part of the ongoing work of The Church of Jesus Christ. Shane Keil said: “It’s natural for members to feel excited, apprehensive, uncertain, or all three at once, when organizational changes are announced. It may help to know that these changes came after a great deal of consideration, discussion in council, and prayer and faith on the part of many stake leaders. What’s more, those same principles of counseling together in families and wards, pondering, praying, and exercising faith can help each of us to adapt to new circumstances.”
Whenever boundary changes happen, a ward is often restructured. What was formerly known as the Bedford 1st Ward is now restructured and renamed to Bedford Ward. This restructuring also included the release of Bishop Randy Fonua and his two counselors, Charlie Smith and Israel Amaya. Michael Smith, Stephen Bradshaw and Charlie Smith were called as the new Bishopric of the newly named Bedford Ward. The new ward boundaries include part of what was previously Bedford 2nd Ward. The rest of Bedford 2nd Ward was blended into the North Richland Hills Ward and the River Trails Ward. President Jarom John of the Texas Fort Worth Mission said, ”This is the Lord’s church. Change is inevitable, and changes come about to help fulfill the Lord’s work.”
Meet the Bedford Ward Bishopric
Bishop
Bishop Michael Smith grew up in San Jose, California where he graduated from high school and worked 10 years in the oil and gas field prior to moving to Texas. Bishop Smith then worked for Southwest airlines for 27 years before retiring in October of 2016. He and his wife were introduced to the church by his wife’s sister Pat in late 1990, and they were baptized on January 26, 1991. Bishop Smith is the youngest of four children (by two minutes), and has been married to his wife Linda for what he calls 40 glorious years; together they have one daughter Claire. Some of Bishop Smith’s hobbies include golf, working in the yard, and dabbling with ham radio. When asked about his call to be bishop, he said: “I was a bit shocked and surprised when President Growald extended the call. However, I feel that this is the time in my life the Lord has chosen me to lead the Saints in the Bedford Ward.”
First Counselor
Stephen Bradshaw (First Counselor) was born and raised in San Diego, California. He spent his younger years surfing, skateboarding, and sailing. He met Arlene Alder while in the MTC. After the completion of their respective missions, they each wanted to look each other up. Arlene found him first! Together they have raised six children. Brother Bradshaw’s favorite scripture is Ether 12:27 “And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them.” He explained: “I am aware of my constant need for change in my life and am grateful for my covenant relationship with God that allows me to accomplish that with His help.” When asked about his calling, Brother Bradshaw had this to say: “I am grateful for the wonderful youth who teach me so much by their good examples.”
Second Counselor
Charlie Smith (Second Counselor) grew up in Balch Springs, Texas. He is the oldest of six (all sisters!) and was raised in the church from birth. Brother Smith enjoys camping and playing games which include board games, role playing games, and occasionally video games. Brother Smith first married at age 19 and after a few years divorced. He fell away from the church until his son came into his custody at age 11. Brother Smith said: “I was drawn by my son to become active again.” Brother Smith’s life path eventually led him to being remarried two years ago and together he and his wife have been navigating this new phase of their lives with a firm foundation in faith. Brother Smith was a searcher for a long time for signs of God. He spent time looking into other religions and philosophies for truth. This is why Alma’s statement "All things denote there is God." found in Alma 30:44 is a favorite of his. Brother Smith believes in “searching for the truth.” He further explains that, “if you are willing to see the actual inherent truth you will see the truth of God in every small thing. This is something I try to encourage young men to do when we go out camping. Look to Nature to see the truth of our God and his creation.” Brother Smith finds joy in service. He said, “When we moved into the Bedford Ward a few years ago we felt very connected to it. I want to do everything in my power to help everyone from the youngest to the oldest feel like they belong and know that they are loved.”
Sandra Cooper serves as a Hurst Stake Website Editor and Reporter. She is foremost a daughter of God who knows she is loved by Him. She delights in nothing more than striving to be a disciple of Jesus Christ and to honor His name. Nothing brings Sandra more joy than being a wife and mother. She is by nature a home body where she enjoys living a simplified life.
