MESA, Ariz. — Elder John H. Groberg of the Seventy and first counselor in the Sunday School general presidency was awarded Nov. 21 for the account of his mission that inspired the movie, "The Other Side of Heaven."
The award is a solid bronze sculpture of a young woman called CAMIE for "Character and Morality in Entertainment" and was given by CAMIE Awards Inc., a non-profit foundation dedicated to recognizing movie makers who create uplifting motion pictures without offensive content and to encourage more of the same.
"The Other Side of Heaven," produced and distributed by 3 Mark Productions and Walt Disney Entertainment, is the true story of John Groberg, a 20-year-old missionary sent to a remote Tongan island in the 1950s where he embarks on a harrowing, adventure-filled journey that changes him forever.
The award was presented in Mesa in conjunction with the "Defend Marriage and Family Gala Dinner" sponsored by United Families International.
Following a short clip from the movie, Christopher Barden introduced Elder Groberg as "a real hero and a great example." Elder Groberg's wife, Jean, accompanied him as he accepted the award and his first words were a tribute to her: "I want you to know that I love my wife, I always have and I always will."
He said he is often asked how accurately the movie portrays the real events of his mission. "The directors and producers did a great job," he said. "It was very close." He added, though, that his wife says he's not as good a dancer as he is portrayed in the movie.
In his brief remarks, Elder Groberg said, "Truth and love come from God, and truth will always prevail. If we stay the course and help others learn and live the truth, then we'll be just fine."
Prior to the event, Elder Groberg told the Church News that he has been very pleased with people's response to the movie. "I think it has done a tremendous amount of good," he said.