It’s been almost two decades since Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf sauntered onto our television screens and began warming our hearts using airplane analogies. We were charmed from the start and we still can’t get enough.

His popularity created such a fan frenzy that he graced the pages of Church magazines for years. Now he’s taking home the Sexiest Man Alive crown.

“I’m glad it’s happening at this point in my life,” the Germany native, 83, tells People in this week’s cover story. “It’s nice to have the recognition, and certainly my ego takes a little bump, but it gives me the platform to use it for something positive.”

While many around the world are confused, those familiar with Uchtdorf are not surprised in the least. “I mean, the accent alone is enough for me,” said Kinzleigh Kensley, a junior majoring in Experience and Design Management.

“He’s a real PILF: a prophet I’d like to follow,” said local grandma Muriel Sanderson