In brief
Russell M. Nelson, the oldest president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, died at 101 in Salt Lake City. Known for his progressive changes in church policies, including the repeal of certain bans on LGBTQ+ member participation and a shift away from the shorthand names for the church, Nelson's leadership marked a significant era in its history. He led the church through the COVID-19 pandemic, established new youth programs, and took steps towards inclusivity while facing scrutiny regarding the church's handling of sensitive issues.
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Russell M. Nelson, the oldest-ever president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has died at the age of 101, as confirmed by church officials on Saturday night. Nelson passed away at his home in Salt Lake City, with a statement from church spokesperson Candice Madsen.
With a background as a heart surgeon, Nelson's presidency was marked by a series of transformative changes, especially during his first year in 2018. He made headlines with a call to stop using shorthand names like 'Mormon' and 'LDS,' moving towards a more formal recognition of the faith.
In 2019, he further evolved church policies by repealing rules that prohibited baptisms for children of same-sex parents, although he maintained a traditional stance on same-sex marriage. While this administration was considered more welcoming to LGBTQ+ individuals than previous ones, criticism arose regarding its strict policies for transgender members.
As the church continues to evolve, the next president is expected to be Dallin H. Oaks due to established protocols within the church. Presidents are seen as prophets, guiding members through revelations and divine insights alongside their counselors and governing bodies.
Nelson enjoyed a four-decade career in high-level church leadership after joining the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in 1984 and became president in January 2018 following Thomas S. Monson's death. Nelson was also the church's first president to reach the century mark in 2024.
His leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and the disassociation from the Boy Scouts of America were notable aspects of his presidency, as he developed new programs tailored to the church's youth for those around the world. Under Nelson, the religion faced a reckoning regarding its responses to sexual abuse allegations and instituted changes to improve protections for its members.
A long-time advocate for diversity, he appointed leaders from different backgrounds and sought to establish a collaboration with the NAACP, addressing historical issues related to race within the church. Nelson is remembered for his emphasis on law adherence and a commitment to the 'covenant path' that defines the members' spirituality.
Born in Salt Lake City in 1924, Nelson had a rich medical career before his extensive church leadership, serving as a surgeon and medical educator. He has left behind a legacy intertwined with the church's ongoing narrative, striving for inclusivity and transformation during his long tenure.
