President Frederick K. Balli and his wife Robyn R. Balli took over the leadership of the New Zealand Auckland Mission of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints this month.
They succeed President Paul Lekias and Sister Rebecca Lekias, who led the mission from July 2011 until June 2014.
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President and Sister Balli grew up in Salt Lake City, United States. They have spent the last 30 years in Denver, Colorado working and raising their five children. Three of their children are living in different parts of the United States, one is in Cairo, Egypt, and their youngest is currently serving a mission in Obregon, Mexico. The Ballis are the proud grandparents of eight.
President Balli says he enjoys the outdoors, boats, and water. He likes to travel and loves all cultures and people.
Sister Balli says she loves being a mother and grandmother. She also enjoys the outdoors, traveling, reading, studying the scriptures, and painting in watercolour.
Both are excited to be here. “We are thrilled to have been called to labour in the New Zealand Auckland Mission,” President Balli says. “We have been greeted so warmly and felt the power and strength of the missionaries and the members. We love the Lord and His gospel and consider it a privilege and a blessing to serve.”
Watch a video about Mormon missionaries.