In brief
Russell M. Nelson, revered as the oldest president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, died at his home in Salt Lake City at the age of 101. Known for his dynamic presidency since 2018, Nelson's leadership saw critical changes in church policies regarding LGBTQ+ communities, as well as significant organizational reforms, including disassociation from the Boy Scouts of America. His death marks the end of an era for a church navigating the complexities of modernity while holding to its foundational beliefs. With the next presidency expected to transition to Dallin H. Oaks, the future direction of the church remains a point of interest.
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.
Nelson passed away at his home in Salt Lake City, according to church spokesperson Candice Madsen.
Known for his vibrant and transformative leadership since 2018, Nelson made significant announcements that included a call for members to refrain from using shorthand names like Mormon and LDS. This change followed decades of previous leaders promoting the abbreviated terms.
In 2019, Nelson repealed policies that banned baptisms for children of same-sex couples, a significant shift away from earlier church positions that had sparked criticism.
Although his administration adopted a more welcoming approach to LGBTQ+ individuals, the church’s official stance on same-sex marriage remained unchanged.
During his tenure, he also worked to limit the participation of members pursuing gender-affirming medical procedures, prompting concerns about the marginalization of transgender individuals.
Nelson’s contributions included leading the church through the COVID-19 pandemic, severing ties with the Boy Scouts of America to create a unique global youth program, and addressing criticisms surrounding the church's handling of sexual abuse reports.
Looking ahead, Dallin H. Oaks is anticipated to succeed Nelson, adhering to church protocol for transitions of leadership.
Born in Salt Lake City in 1924, Nelson's journey began as a skilled surgeon, later ascending to a prominent role in church governance for decades, until his presidency commencing in 2018.
His legacy is expected to influence the church's future as it navigates broader societal issues amidst evolving beliefs.
