On March 2, 2005, the Council of Twelve Apostles met in fasting, fervent prayer, and reflection. God graced our efforts and gave to each of us a testimony that Stephen M. Veazey is called to lead the church as prophet-president. We offer his name to the church for consideration, not of our own accord, but through what we know to be the Holy Spirit of Wisdom and Revelation. We know that our brother is divinely called by God to serve as the president of the high priesthood, prophet, and president of the church.

INDEPENDENCE, Mo. - The succession plan for the Community of Christ has always been simple: The church's leader designated his successor, and the membership accepted that choice.

Now, the resignation of W. Grant McMurray without naming a new president has forced the church and its 250,000 members into unfamiliar territory. And so they wait for "discernment" - in other words, for God to show them who the new leader should be.

Still, officials of the largest of the Mormon offshoot denominations say the challenge of selecting a new president - who also carries the position of prophet - is a necessary step toward maturity as a faith.

"People have had to think a little more carefully about their role in the process," said Steven M. Veazey, president of the church's Council of Twelve Apostles. "I see that as having a positive effect, because more people are engaged in reflecting carefully and deeply on what a church president needs for the future."

The Council of Twelve is now collecting names of possible successors - although only one member knows those names, Veazey said - and will begin a process of prayer and deliberation in late March. Anyone in the church may suggest a name.

Once the council and other church leaders reach a consensus, the person they select - who might not even know his or her name has been submitted, Veazey said - will be called as the next leader. If the designate accepts, delegates to a special world conference called for early June will be asked to confirm the selection.