D&C 18:15

I generally scan The Church News to see if I know any of the newly called church leaders from the country of Venezuela. Once in a while I will recognize a name. Sometimes, I will browse the church directory of organizations and leaders to see whether I recognize any names. Sunday, I had a name catch my eye: David Alberto Godoy Ramirez.

36 years ago my companion and I taught this young family.


Sunday, I sent this message on Facebook:

RE: Rafael Antonio Godoy & Luisa Elena Ramirez de Godoy

I saw your name in the Church directory of Leaders.

Forgive me, for my Spanish is very poor so I am writing to you in English. It has been many years since I have used Spanish fluently. I served a mission in Venezuela (1972-1974). During that time I served for 11 months in Maracaibo.

Please allow me to introduce myself. I am Lance D. Walker from Orem, Utah. I believe that my companion (David G. Pope, Jr.) and myself taught your parents the missionary discussions.

We baptized and confirmed them on 08 March 1974. They were a young family about our age and they had a seven month old baby boy named David. I am wondering if that is you.

Nothing on Monday, but today I received the following:

My name is David Alberto Godoy Ramirez, i live in maracaibo, my father is Rafael Antonio Godoy and my mother luisa elena ramirez duarte, i was born ago (Augusto) 4th, 1973. With tears in my eyes and answer you that the baby in the picture is me, and thanks for sending that picture. I stusied 4 years in seminary, went to a mission at age 19, got married at 22, was father at 23, since that i`ve been member of stake high council (3 years), second counselor in stake presidency(4 years) and bishop (almost 6 years and counting). My mother passed away about 15 years ago, and my father in living in utah with his wife, and my 3 brother lives there with their families. my email is xxxxxxxxx, please use it. my phone number is xxxxxxxxx, im an industrial engeener.

Thanks for writing

David Godoy