David O. McKay, American religious leader, 9th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (b. 1873)

David Oman McKay (September 8, 1873 – January 18, 1970) stands as a monumental figure in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. An esteemed American religious leader and distinguished educator, he served as the ninth President of the Church from 1951 until his passing in 1970, guiding the global faith through a period of significant growth and transformation.

Before ascending to the Church's highest office, President McKay established a remarkable career in education. His dedication to learning and youth development was evident in his service as the superintendent of Latter-day Saint Church schools. This background profoundly influenced his later leadership, fostering an emphasis on spiritual education and family-centered gospel living throughout the Church.

David O. McKay's journey into senior Church leadership began in 1906 when he was ordained an Apostle and became a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. This governing body of the Church is composed of twelve apostles who serve as special witnesses of Jesus Christ throughout the world, acting under the direction of the Church President.

President McKay's tenure as a general authority of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was extraordinary, spanning nearly 64 years. This unparalleled length of active service as a senior, full-time ecclesiastical leader is longer than anyone else in the Church's history. While Eldred G. Smith held the office of Patriarch to the Church for a longer nominal period (66 years), his active duties in that role concluded earlier, making President McKay's duration of active, executive general authority service uniquely long and impactful.

During his nineteen-year presidency, President McKay initiated several pivotal advancements. He championed the principle of "Every member a missionary," empowering individual members to share their faith and contributing significantly to the Church's global expansion. Under his leadership, the Church expanded its international footprint, establishing new missions and dedicated temples in various countries, emphasizing the universal reach of its message. He consistently taught the importance of the home as the foundational unit of society and the primary place for gospel instruction, a theme that continues to resonate deeply within the Church.

His unwavering faith, visionary leadership, and emphasis on moral values left an indelible mark on millions of members worldwide. President David O. McKay's legacy is characterized by his profound influence on the internationalization of the Church, his focus on education, and his enduring call for members to live lives consistent with their spiritual convictions.

Frequently Asked Questions about David O. McKay

Who was David O. McKay?

David O. McKay was an influential American religious leader and educator who served as the ninth President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1951 to 1970. He is remembered for his long tenure in Church leadership and his global vision for the faith.

What were David O. McKay's key contributions as President of the LDS Church?

As President, David O. McKay notably emphasized "Every member a missionary," which significantly propelled the Church's international growth. He also focused on the importance of the family and home as centers for gospel living and expanded Church education programs globally.

How long was David O. McKay a General Authority?

David O. McKay served as a General Authority of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for nearly 64 years, from his ordination as an Apostle in 1906 until his death in 1970. This represents the longest active service period among all General Authorities in the Church's history.

What is a General Authority in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?

A General Authority is a senior, full-time leader in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. These leaders, which include the First Presidency, the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and other quorums, have administrative and spiritual responsibilities that extend throughout the global Church, teaching and overseeing its operations worldwide.