In brief
Russell M. Nelson, the 17th president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, passed away at the age of 101 at his home in Salt Lake City. Known for his efforts to modernize the church, Nelson's tenure brought significant policy changes, especially concerning LGBTQ+ issues and the church's relationship with various communities. He was the first church president to serve past 100 years in age and was credited with navigating the church through the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as reshaping youth programs and initiating efforts to diversify leadership. He leaves behind a legacy of complex changes within the faith.
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, church officials announced late Saturday night. He passed away at his home in Salt Lake City, according to church spokesperson Candice Madsen.Nelson, who previously worked as a heart surgeon, held a pivotal role in the church starting from his selection to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in 1984. He became president in January 2018 following the death of Thomas S. Monson, marking the beginning of a transformative era.Best known for urging members to abandon the shorthand names Mormon and LDS in favor of the full name of the faith, Nelson's leadership was marked by progressive stances on several issues, including the repeal of restrictive policies regarding baptisms for children of gay parents. However, his administration faced criticism for not altering the official church stance on same-sex marriage.Amidst his advancements, Nelson's presidency was not without controversy. His administration faced backlash over measures perceived as marginalizing transgender individuals. Despite a softer approach towards the LGBTQ+ community, policies emphasizing traditional norms remain.Upon his passing, speculation has begun about his successor, likely Dallin H. Oaks, who is next in line within the church's Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.During his tenure, Nelson led the church through the COVID-19 pandemic and opted to disconnect from the Boy Scouts of America after the organization allowed LGBTQ+ members. His work included improvements to how the church manages child safety and abuse allegations, although questions about reporting practices persist.Born in Salt Lake City in 1924, Nelson became a prominent figure in both medicine and religious leadership. He is survived by his second wife, Wendy Watson, and their blended family, which includes ten children from his first marriage.
