Ensign Article

Serving in the Church
Published in September 2016 Ensign Magazine
By John A. Grinceri

The Lord delights to bless us, and I have found that no matter how much I serve, I continue to be in His debt.

As I was being introduced as a speaker recently, the person conducting politely mentioned some of my more prominent past Church callings, such as bishop, mission president, and member of a stake presidency. This brother was being gracious, but the thought occurred to me, why not introduce me as a ward mission leader (my current calling) or by some of my less-public callings?

About the Author

John Grinceri was born and raised in Perth, Western Australia. He is a former high school teacher and businessman.

John joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at age fourteen along with his parents and siblings. He has served in numerous Church positions, including Missionary, Bishop, Mission President, Stake President’s Counsellor, High Priest Group Leader, Ward Mission Leader, and Multi Stake Director of Public Affairs, Area Seventy, Temple President and, now, as a Stake Patriarch.

John is the author of three books: Reflections of a Mission President, The House of Israel, and Joseph Smith – His Amazing Life, Mission, and Legacy. He and his wife, Vicki, have six sons and twenty grandchildren, and they feel blessed beyond measure. Their home is in Perth, Western Australia.