The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- day Saints is mourning the loss of Russell M. Nelson, its oldest chairman in history, who passed away peacefully at his Salt Lake City home at the age of 101. A pioneering heart surgeon turned religious leader, Nelson’s life was marked by profound change, faith, and leadership that reshaped the church in numerous ways.
From Heart Surgeon to Spiritual Prophet
Russell Marion Nelson was born on September 9, 1924, in Salt Lake City, Utah. Before devoting himself completely to church leadership, he was a groundbreaking cardiac surgeon. Nelson was part of the platoon that developed the heart- lung machine in the early 1950s, helping revise heart surgery. At just 31, he performed the first open- heart surgery in Utah, a notable corner in medical history.
His transition into religious leadership came latterly in life when he was called as an Apostle in 1984. At 93, Nelson came the 17th chairman of the church in 2018, stepping into the loftiest part with surprising energy and vision despite his age.
A Presidency of Bold Changes and Global Outreach
Nelson’s administration was marked by significant reforms and a renewed focus on the church’s identity and charge. One of his foremost and most talked- about enterprise was prompting followers and the wider public to stop using the surname” Mormon,” averring on the church’s full name to recognize the sacred nature of its author’s training.
He also introduced practical changes like shortening Sunday services from three hours to two, and he emphasized a lesser connection to Jesus Christ in deification and community life. Nelson oversaw the advertisement of 200 new tabernacles worldwide, reflecting the church’s growing global footmark of further than 17.5 million members by 2024.
A Life Remembered for Humility and Devotion
Nelson’s leadership was n’t without challenges. During the COVID- 19 epidemic, he guided the church’s conservative approach, including temporarily closing meetinghouses and encouraging health measures. His term witnessed both praise for his compassionate way and some internal resistance.
Associates and church members flash back Nelson as gentle, humble, and deeply married to his faith. Dallin H. Oaks, Nelson’s first counselor, described him as “the gentlest and sweetest person you could ever hope to associate with.” Utah Senator Mike Lee shared that Nelson was a healer “of hearts and of souls,” recalling how Nelson operated on Lee’s grandparents, who went on to live many more years.
Legacy and Succession
Nelson passed on a legacy of transformation and spiritual guidance. His death ushers in a period of transition, typically led by the most senior Apostle. Church tradition points to Dallin H. Oaks, Nelson’s first counselor, as the likely next president.
Russell M. Nelson’s life journey from pioneering medical innovator to transformative religious leader remains an inspiring story of dedication, faith, and service to millions around the world.
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