Russell M. Nelson, the esteemed President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has passed away at the venerable age of 101. The news of his demise was confirmed by a statement from the church, revealing that Nelson breathed his last at his residence in Salt Lake City on Saturday, September 27, around 10 p.m. local time. His leadership in the church began in January 2018 when he was appointed as its President, becoming the oldest individual to hold this position.
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Nelson’s legacy extends beyond his religious role, as he previously worked as a distinguished heart surgeon. He was notably the pioneer of the first open-heart surgery in Utah in 1955 and also served as the president of the Society for Vascular Surgery. However, it was his spiritual leadership that defined his later years, emphasizing the full name of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and promoting unity and understanding across diverse communities.
The late President is survived by his devoted wife, Wendy Watson, along with eight out of their ten children, a remarkable 57 grandchildren, and over 167 great-grandchildren. Under his stewardship, the church underwent significant transformations, including groundbreaking decisions such as allowing the baptism of children with LGBTQ+ parents and introducing a global youth program. In a move showcasing his commitment to inclusivity, the church ended its long-standing association with the Boy Scouts of America in 2019.
During his tenure, Nelson also addressed sensitive issues such as transgender rights within the church, implementing policies that restricted certain privileges for transgender individuals. Despite facing criticism for these decisions, Nelson remained steadfast in his vision for the church, advocating for compassion and understanding amongst its members. His efforts towards fostering peace and dialogue were evident in his public appearances and writings, where he encouraged empathy and unity in a divided world.
Tributes pour in from various quarters following Nelson’s passing, with Utah Governor Spencer J. Cox hailing him as “a prophet of God, a gentle leader, and a voice for peacemaking.” The void left by Nelson’s departure will undoubtedly be felt across the global community of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, as they prepare to select a successor in the coming days. As the church mourns the loss of a visionary leader, his teachings on empathy and bridge-building are set to endure as part of his lasting legacy.
In a touching article penned for Time magazine on his 101st birthday, Nelson reflected on the power of reconciliation and understanding in a world plagued by division. His words resonate even more poignantly now, as his absence leaves a profound impact on those who revered him as a figure of guidance and wisdom. As the church navigates this period of transition, the indelible mark left by Russell M. Nelson on its history and principles serves as a lasting testament to his unwavering commitment to faith and community.