Salt Lake City, USA - Mormon church president Gordon B. Hinckley said on Sunday he is in the "sunset of my life" and suffering from some residual health problems after undergoing major surgery earlier this year.
"I am totally in the hands of the Lord," Hinckley said, addressing the members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on the second day of the faith's twice-yearly conference.
Hinckley, 95, was hospitalized in January after doctors discovered a cancerous growth on his intestine during what was called a routine medical examination. He had surgery and spent nearly a week in the hospital recovering.
Hinckley, now in his 11th year as church president, has acknowledged he is slowing down with age. But he also made it clear that his sense of humor is as sharp as ever and that he didn't want church members to over-interpret his health concerns.
"I trust you will not regard this as an obituary," he said, drawing a laugh. "Rather I look forward to the opportunity of speaking to you again in October."
Mormons gather in April and October to hear from church leaders, in speeches designed to promote faith and give spiritual direction. Hinckley, whom church members consider a prophet of God, took a different approach Sunday, reflecting on his life and accomplishments in the church.
Hinckley asked for forgiveness Sunday for the personal nature of his speech.
Hinckley is the 15th church president and worked for more than half of the 14 men who preceded him in the office. He is credited with overseeing a rapid period of growth for the church and construction of more than 70 temples in more than 21 countries.
Membership in the Mormon church topped 12.5 million members worldwide this year, according to statistics released Saturday. Most of those were expected to participate in the weekend proceedings, which are broadcast in 83 countries in 86 languages.