Jefferson Ward EQ Spotlight

Spencer Hankins

(Elders Quorum 2nd Counselor)

- Describe yourself in one or two paragraphs:

I'm Spencer John Hankins. My middle name is from my Mom's dad who I never met. He was a race car driver and sailor. He died at sea right after my mom and dad were married. I was born in Bakersfield, CA. My family moved to Murray when I was in second grade. Blakely and I met at the same time because my family moved into her ward. We have known each other for 25 years. Our daughter, Scotty, is 5 years-old, and our son, Rockwell, just turned 3. Our kids are awesome! Scotty literally thinks she is a princess, and Rocky is at the age of just wanting to break, tackle, destroy everything! It's fun over here!

Growing up I played a lot of sports, but basketball was definitely my favorite. Went to Murray High, SLCC, and then studied Mining Engineering at the U of U. I am a huge BYU fan, so it was really hard to go to that school. Blakely is a big Utah fan, so it's definitely a split household. 

I was lucky enough to be called to serve in the Philippines Cebu Mission. I learned the Cebuano language. I loved every second of being in the Philippines. Warm, sunny, lots or rice, and extremely nice people. Everyone in the Philippines is Christian, so it was really easy to teach people everyday about the restoration of the Church of Jesus Christ. My testimony was definitely solidified while being in the Philippines. I was blessed to see the Lord's miracles firsthand and know that this Church truly has Jesus Christ in charge. 

- How long have you lived in the ward?

7 years.

- Where did you grow up?

I grew up just down the street! 5900 South and 700 West in the Murray Parkway Stake. Went to Viewmont Elementary, Riverview Jr. High, and Murray High School. Just stayed in Murray!

- What are a few of you favorite pastimes and hobbies?

Sports. Especially basketball. 

What is something unique about you?

I'm ambidextrous. I play sports right handed, but write with my left hand.

What is your favorite breakfast food?

Bacon. 

What is your favorite book?

I truly don't read unless I have to. I love Preach My Gospel though. It is the only book that I don't complain about reading.

How do you like to spend your leisure time?

Watch and play basketball.

Who do you look forward to hearing from most during General Conference and why?

I love hearing from Elder David A. Bednar. He gave a very influential talk about Becoming a Missionary right before I left on my mission. That talk, and many more, have made me always look forward to Conference to hear Elder Bednar.

What do you like most about our ward?

Our ward seems to always step up to the plate. It doesn't matter what the need or assignment is because our ward always has people helping. 

What do you like most about church?

I like testimony meeting. It always lifts me up to hear others testimonies about Christ. 

What are some of your favorite foods?

Steak. 

What are some foods that you hate?

A few years ago I made a new years resolution to re-try all of the foods that I had learned to hate. It is the only new years resolution that I have actually kept! My taste buds had changed quite a bit! I now love broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus, and brussel sprouts! But the one thing I still hate is mushrooms. Mushrooms are disgusting.

What is the biggest challenge you have had to overcome?

Learning the Cebuano language was the hardest thing I have ever had to do. I felt soooo  behind compared to everyone else in my MTC class and especially all of the other missionaries when I got to the field. It was an extremely humbling experience for me. I learned a lot about leaning on and putting trust in the Lord. It took a while, but I also consider learning Cebuano one of the greatest accomplishments that I have completed.