Expect the Unexpected as You Lead | A How I Lead Interview with Calvin Griffin

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May 14, 2025

Calvin Griffin, president of the Denton, Texas stake, shares his inspiring conversion story and extensive leadership journey. He emphasizes the importance of aligning with prophetic keys and staying attuned to the Spirit in leadership roles. Griffin discusses the unexpected challenges leaders face and the power of commitment in faith. He also reflects on personal integrity and the significance of nurturing relationships within the church community, urging listeners to embrace vulnerability as a source of spiritual growth.

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ANECDOTE

Faith Overcomes Speech Impediment

Calvin described overcoming his speech impediment with faith and the Lord's help during early leadership callings.
He testified that God's grace made his weaknesses into strengths as he fulfilled assignments.

ANECDOTE

Inspired Bishop Calling

Calvin recounted a story of praying for a bishop calling and receiving a clear impression about the right person.
The quick confirmation and that person already knowing it showed the Spirit's unmistakable guidance in leadership.

ADVICE

Vetting Callings With Counsel and Prayer

Do vet candidates carefully by checking faithfulness, family situation, and counsel with bishops before extending callings.
Wait until counselors agree and then pray for confirmation before presenting names to the high council.

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Calvin Griffin was born in Northern Mississippi, where he grew up and attended high school and college. After graduation he became a franchisee of a successful national pizza chain in New Orleans, and also became engaged to Avemaria Champagne. President and Sister Griffin joined The Church one month apart from each other and have been faithful members for 37 years. They were both professionals in the pharmaceutical industry, and President Griffin worked as a senior category manager for a national pharmaceutical wholesale company. They have five children, ages 24 to 34 years.

President Griffin has a strong testimony of Jesus Christ and His role as Savior & Redeemer. He has served in a stake mission presidency, as a ward mission leader, Sunday School teacher, Young Men basketball coach, in an elders quorum presidency and high priest group leadership, as a bishop and stake high councilor, and as a stake presidency counselor. He currently serves as president of the Denton, Texas stake, loves the gospel, and extends an invitation to all to come unto Christ.

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Highlights

President Griffin shares his conversion story and leadership journey. He discusses his experiences as a leader and emphasizes the importance of aligning oneself with prophetic keys and the Spirit. President Griffin highlights the need to expect the unexpected in leadership. He also shares how he connects with and cares for his ward members, despite his busy calling.

Highlights coming soon

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