SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced the passing of Russell M. Nelson, their oldest president, who died at 101 late Saturday night in Salt Lake City. Nelson’s tenure as president began in 2018, distinguished by notable reforms including urging members to abandon shorthand names like 'Mormon' and 'LDS.' He also repealed previous rules limiting baptisms for children of gay parents, though his administration continued to enforce traditional stances on same-sex marriage. Despite a more welcoming approach to the LGBTQ+ community, Nelson’s leadership drew criticism over policies restricting transgender individuals within the church. His aim was described as balancing ‘the love of the Lord and the law of the Lord.’
Under Nelson's guidance, the church saw significant changes, including a pivotal break from the Boy Scouts of America, with the establishment of an independent youth program following the Boy Scouts’ inclusion of LGBTQ+ members. Nelson also navigated challenges regarding the church’s handling of sexual abuse complaints, as investigations revealed potential misuse of a reporting hotline by church leaders. He championed reforms to increase sensitivity in interviews concerning identity and sexuality.
Looking toward the future, Dallin H. Oaks, a senior member of the governing Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, is tipped to succeed Nelson. As the next longest-serving member, Oaks is expected to lead the church through its next chapter.
Born in Salt Lake City in 1924, Nelson was a heart surgeon before ascending to church leadership and was recognized for his precision both in medicine and spiritual governance. He leaves behind a redefined church landscape and a legacy of pushing the limits of faith while remaining deeply rooted in doctrinal law and teachings.
Under Nelson's guidance, the church saw significant changes, including a pivotal break from the Boy Scouts of America, with the establishment of an independent youth program following the Boy Scouts’ inclusion of LGBTQ+ members. Nelson also navigated challenges regarding the church’s handling of sexual abuse complaints, as investigations revealed potential misuse of a reporting hotline by church leaders. He championed reforms to increase sensitivity in interviews concerning identity and sexuality.
Looking toward the future, Dallin H. Oaks, a senior member of the governing Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, is tipped to succeed Nelson. As the next longest-serving member, Oaks is expected to lead the church through its next chapter.
Born in Salt Lake City in 1924, Nelson was a heart surgeon before ascending to church leadership and was recognized for his precision both in medicine and spiritual governance. He leaves behind a redefined church landscape and a legacy of pushing the limits of faith while remaining deeply rooted in doctrinal law and teachings.
