Many of you may know me from my service in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), either as a General Authority or as the Chief Financial Officer of the Perpetual Education Fund. But behind those titles lies a life filled with experiences that shaped who I am. Today, I want to share some reflections on those experiences, the lessons I’ve learned, and the gratitude I hold in my heart.

Early Days and Growing Up

I was born and raised in Pleasant Grove, Utah, in 1930. It was a simpler time, a time of hard work and close-knit communities. My family instilled in me the values of faith, service, and education. These values would become the guiding principles of my life.

After graduating from high school, I enrolled at Brigham Young University (BYU). BYU not only provided me with a strong academic foundation but also nurtured my spiritual growth. It was there that I met my sweetheart, Mary. We were married in 1953, and together we embarked on a journey that would take us across the world and bless us with four wonderful children.

A Career in Business and a Call to Serve

Following graduation, I began a career in finance. I worked my way up the ranks at Ford Motor Company, eventually becoming a General Assistant Controller. While I enjoyed the challenges and rewards of the business world, a deeper sense of purpose tugged at my heart.

In 1997, a defining moment arrived. I was called to serve as a General Authority of the LDS Church, specifically as a member of the Second Quorum of the Seventy. This calling was both humbling and exhilarating. It meant leaving behind the familiar world of business and venturing into a new chapter of service.

Opening Doors in Mongolia

One of the most significant assignments during my time as a General Authority was serving as the first mission president in Mongolia. Mongolia, a country with a rich history but a challenging past, was just beginning to open its doors to religious freedom. The opportunity to help establish the Church there and share the message of the gospel with the Mongolian people was a privilege I will never forget.

Those years in Mongolia were filled with unforgettable experiences. We witnessed firsthand the resilience and kindness of the Mongolian people. We saw the gospel take root in their hearts and communities. It was a time of growth, both for the Church and for me personally.

Supporting Education: The Perpetual Education Fund

Following my service as a mission president, I was called to serve as the Chief Financial Officer of the Perpetual Education Fund. This remarkable program provides financial assistance to Church members around the world seeking to pursue education and improve their lives.

Working with the Perpetual Education Fund was deeply rewarding. It allowed me to combine my financial expertise with my desire to serve others. Seeing the positive impact of the program on individuals, families, and entire communities was truly inspiring.

Lessons Learned and Looking Forward

Throughout my life, I’ve learned many valuable lessons. One of the most important is the power of faith. Faith has been my constant companion, guiding me through thick and thin. It has given me strength in times of difficulty and hope in times of uncertainty.

Another important lesson is the importance of service. Serving others, whether in the Church, in my community, or simply in everyday interactions, has brought me immense joy and satisfaction. It has also helped me connect with others and build meaningful relationships.

Finally, I’ve learned to appreciate the blessings of family. Mary has been my rock, my partner in all things. Together, we’ve raised a beautiful family who have brought us endless joy.

As I reflect on my life, I am filled with gratitude. Gratitude for my family, my faith, and the many opportunities I’ve been given to serve. I am grateful for the lessons I’ve learned and the experiences that have shaped me.

While this chapter of my life draws to a close, I look forward to what the future holds. I will continue to serve my family, my community, and my Church in whatever way I can. And I will carry with me the cherished memories and the profound lessons learned along the way.

In Closing

This blog post is just a glimpse into my life’s journey. There are many other experiences, both big and small, that have contributed to who I am. If you have any questions or would like to share your own experiences of faith, service, or simply life lessons, please feel free to leave a comment below.

Thank you for taking the time to read my reflections.

Sincerely,

Richard E. Cook