On 1st April 2017 at the General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 36 newly called Area Seventies were announced, including Elder Paul N Lekias.
Born and raised in Perth WA, he credits his upbringing to a faithful mother who raised six children on her own. His mother taught him very early in his life that charity never faileth as he watched his single mother time after time assist families in his local wards and branches. Whether it was the weekly seminary run, missionaries to dinner, housing those in need or general service in the community, "Mum taught her children what mattered most”.
Elder Lekias has always had a love for the gospel. As one of two Latter-day Saints in his high school, he felt a protecting guidance and a certain path to follow. He served a mission in the New Zealand Christchurch Mission, and it was there that a love of obedience was instilled in his life. Reflecting on his mission Elder Lekia said, "I have always felt that Lehi’s Book Of Mormon promise 'If you keep the Lord’s commandments, you will prosper in the land' is true and I have tried to pattern my life after this great promise."
He married Rebecca Liddicoat in the Sydney Temple, and they have four children. He recalls the years of traditions built on hard work, consistent efforts at home, at church and at play that have united their family. The joy they felt then is felt now as he and Rebecca watch their children establish family traditions with their own families. “One of our greatest joys is watching our children ‘grow up in the Lord’ and continue the traditions we started many years ago”.
Elder Lekias has served in many callings over the years, including elders quorum president, bishop, stake president and mission president in the New Zealand Auckland Mission.
Elder Lekias has said, "One of the greatest responsibilities of church service is striving to become an instrument in the Lord’s hands. It means allowing our will to be swallowed up in the will of our Father in Heaven. It means striving to become a disciple of Christ and it means reaching out and rescuing the one. Above all, it means loving the Saviour. I know He is my Redeemer, our Advocate with the Father. He is in the details of our lives, He loves us and I love Him. This is His work and I feel very humbled to be invited to assist in whatever capacity I can."