When engineer Jim Schechter was born in Uruguay in the late 1950s, he didn’t know he was continuing a legacy propagated by not only his parents but by other branches of his family tree. Schechter will recount the exploits of his famed uncle William Sears in a retrospective called “God Loves Laughter” at the Centerville Public Library, 45 S. 400 West in Centerville, Saturday, June 8 at 2 p.m.

Sears left a successful career in media in the U.S. to serve as a missionary to parts of Africa for his adopted religion, the Baháʼí Faith. He traveled the world, clocking miles that would eventually equal 20 circuits of the globe. Using his trademark humor, he inspired Baháʼís and friends to bring about world peace that is the keystone of Baha’i teachings.

Jim and Karen Schechter from San Diego, relatives of the Sears, will be passing through the Salt Lake City area sharing a presentation based on Sears’ “God Loves Laughter.” The program covers all of life’s journey, its ups and downs, our search for meaning, and our pursuit of spirituality.

They will give a second presentation, “Bill and Fred’s Excellent Adventure,” covering Sears’ work with Jim’s father Fred Schechter, at a private home in the area at 6:30 p.m. Refreshments will be served at both events. The public is invited.

For questions and the address of the private home, please call Karen at 801-513-6860 or Paul at 801-513-6861.