was "serving " in leader capacity since 1959. one funny reaction after the rotating elder arrangement happened in 1974, when it was my turn to take on the "presiding" role. (among those in our cong were associateds to future branch and GB material) {not me}. anyway, on the last BOE meeting before the start of the 1975 service year I mentioned that little me, as of Sept.1 would spend the last year in this system by resuming my pioneer carriere.
well, one or two chins dropped. They did not like the idea that I would keep tap on all the goings on by being in constant contact with the pleb. The very capable professional leaders hated every moment of the years of their subservient role.
In 1975 the congregation discovered that I am a natural in languages ( I served in the "foreign language field", in a 3rd, quickly learned learned tongue. Needless to say that no better skills in the HH ministry could stem the decline in membership decline after 1975 paradise fizzle.
I think that wt i missed then a golden opportunity to come closer to embody the Ideals taught by Jesus.