Elder Ronald M. Barcellos

At 12 years old, Elder Ronald M. Barcellos read the Book of Mormon for the first time. When he finished reading, he approached the seminary teacher in his ward and asked if he could start attending seminary classes.

“I attended seminary from age 12 to 18 because I just loved being there and listening to the stories of the Bible and the Book of Mormon,” he said. “I have always felt this love for the gospel, and I just always felt it was true.”

Serving a mission later solidified his faith, and he vowed to always prioritize the gospel in his life.

“Stay close to [Heavenly Father], honor your covenants, and His plans for you will materialize,” he said.

Ronald Maldonado Barcellos was born in São Paulo, Brazil, on November 4, 1975, to Sérgio Barcellos Silveira and Marcia Maldonado Barcellos Silveira. He married Karin Spat Albino Barcellos Silveira in the São Paulo Brazil Temple on December 4, 1999. They are the parents of three children.

Elder Barcellos studied business administration at São Marcos University in São Paulo. His professional career included working for several companies in sales and marketing roles and as an entrepreneur. He cofounded several businesses, including GreenMile, LLC, where he was chief executive officer for several years.

Elder Barcellos recently concluded his service as mission president in the Portugal Lisbon Mission. He has also served as a stake presidency counselor, high councilor, stake Young Men president, bishop, bishopric counselor, high priests group leader, elders quorum president, and seminary teacher.