94-year-old Maori member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Tol Te Whata, says his relationships with God and his wife have helped him to enjoy a long and happy life, according to a report in The New Zealand Herald.
The article reports that: “The Ngai Tu kaumatua and devout Mormon credits his relationship with his God for his longevity. ‘I think the Heavenly Father has looked after me.’”
“Mr Te Whata, who celebrates his 95th birthday on November 30, said his wife, Martha, 70, who he married in 2004, was a special part of his happiness. ‘She's been good to me.’”
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He also cites his decision to quit smoking as a very young man as a factor contributing to his health and long life.
Read the entire article, titled ’94-year-old a symbol of trends in population.’
Read more about Mormon beliefs regarding marriage and family, and health practices.