In 1940-45 the second World War was being fought. Male help (18-45 years) was impossible to hire, because of the draft. At this time (1943) John and Grace decided to pull up their roots and leave for a higher calling. They were called to serve in the Central States Mission with headquarters in Independence, Missouri. This was supposed to have been only for six months, but because of the war being fought, there was a great shortage of missionaries so John and Grace willingly stayed for a two-year term.
Most of this time, John served as Mission Secretary to President Thomas C. Romney. His years of experience in the business world was valuable here. He always dealt fairly and friendly with co-workers and investigators.
President Romney’s wife had poor health, her heart was in a bad condition and she was bed-ridden much of the time. Grace was asked to assume the duties of the Mission home. Her training in her early years (and throughout her life) provided the experience that was needed here. She acted as hostess when many prominent visitors (many church authorities) made a visit to the Mission field.
Taken from Lona Roghaar Peterson - Family History of John & Grace VanderHeide Roghaar, Family Search, Memories
