Gordon B. Hinckley, American religious leader and author, 15th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (b. 1910)

Gordon B. Hinckley: A Legacy of Growth and Vision for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Gordon Bitner Hinckley (June 23, 1910 – January 27, 2008) was a distinguished American religious leader and prolific author, widely recognized for his impactful service as the 15th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (often referred to as the LDS Church). He held this esteemed position from March 1995 until his passing in January 2008, at the remarkable age of 97. Revered by church members as a prophet, seer, and revelator—titles signifying a divinely appointed spiritual leader with the capacity to receive revelation—President Hinckley made history as the oldest individual to preside over the Church in its entire history.

A Transformative Presidency: Expansion and Outreach

President Hinckley's thirteen-year tenure was marked by unprecedented growth and a dynamic expansion of the Church's global footprint. His leadership is most notably associated with a monumental surge in temple construction and dedication worldwide.

• Global Temple Expansion: A defining characteristic of his presidency was the aggressive, yet carefully planned, building of temples. During his time, more than half of all existing temples were either constructed or dedicated. When he became President, there were 47 operating temples globally; by his death, that number had soared to 124. This massive undertaking made sacred temple ordinances accessible to a vastly increased number of Latter-day Saints around the world, fulfilling a long-held vision of the Church.
• Key Architectural Projects: Beyond the worldwide temple building program, President Hinckley also oversaw other significant construction projects. These included the meticulous reconstruction of the Nauvoo Illinois Temple, a historically pivotal edifice originally built in the early 1840s by Latter-day Saint pioneers and later destroyed. Its modern reconstruction symbolized a reconnection with the Church's heritage. He also championed the building of the iconic 21,000-seat Conference Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. This expansive venue serves as the primary gathering place for the Church's semi-annual General Conferences and other major events, accommodating a vast audience and facilitating global broadcasts.
• "The Family: A Proclamation to the World": In September 1995, a landmark document, "The Family: A Proclamation to the World," was issued under his direction. This pivotal declaration outlines the Church's core doctrine regarding the eternal nature of the family unit, the sanctity of marriage between a man and a woman, and the divine roles of mothers and fathers. It serves as a foundational statement for Church members and continues to be a crucial guide in an ever-changing world.
• Establishment of the Perpetual Education Fund: Demonstrating a profound commitment to self-reliance and education, President Hinckley established the Perpetual Education Fund (PEF) in 2001. Inspired by the 19th-century Perpetual Emigration Fund, the PEF provides loans to young Latter-day Saints in developing nations, enabling them to pursue higher education or vocational training. The goal is to empower individuals to break cycles of poverty, secure better employment, and become contributing members of their communities and the Church.
• Membership Growth: The impact of his leadership on Church membership was profound. At the time of his passing, approximately one-third of the Church's total worldwide membership had joined the Church under his guidance, reflecting a period of significant missionary success and global outreach.

Distinguished Accolades and Public Recognition

President Hinckley's influence extended beyond the Church, earning him numerous accolades and widespread respect:

• He was awarded ten honorary doctorate degrees from various academic institutions, recognizing his intellectual contributions and leadership.
• In 2004, he received the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom from then-U.S. President George W. Bush. This is the highest civilian award in the United States, presented to individuals who have made especially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, world peace, cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.
• He also received the Boy Scouts of America's highest adult volunteer award, the Silver Buffalo Award, acknowledging his long-standing support for youth development and scouting programs.
• Throughout his leadership, he served as chairman of the Church Boards of Trustees and Education, overseeing the Church's vast educational institutions and properties.

Passing and Succession

President Gordon B. Hinckley died peacefully of natural causes on January 27, 2008, leaving behind a monumental legacy. His beloved wife of 67 years, Marjorie Pay Hinckley, had preceded him in death in 2004. According to established Latter-day Saint doctrine and practice, upon the death of the Church President, the First Presidency is automatically dissolved. The President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles—the senior apostle—then becomes the new President of the Church. Consequently, Thomas S. Monson, who had served as his first counselor in the First Presidency and, more crucially, was the President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, succeeded President Hinckley as the 16th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a succession that was both orderly and anticipated.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gordon B. Hinckley

Who was Gordon B. Hinckley?

Gordon B. Hinckley was the 15th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving from March 1995 until his death in January 2008. He was widely regarded as a spiritual leader, author, and was the oldest individual to serve as Church President.

What were Gordon B. Hinckley's most significant achievements as Church President?

His presidency was characterized by a rapid expansion of temple building worldwide, the reconstruction of the Nauvoo Illinois Temple, and the construction of the Conference Center in Salt Lake City. He also oversaw the issuance of "The Family: A Proclamation to the World" and the establishment of the Perpetual Education Fund.

What is "The Family: A Proclamation to the World"?

"The Family: A Proclamation to the World" is a foundational document issued by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1995, affirming the Church's doctrine on the family unit, marriage between a man and a woman, and the divine roles of parents.

What is the Perpetual Education Fund (PEF) that President Hinckley established?

The Perpetual Education Fund, established in 2001, is a Church initiative that provides loans to young Latter-day Saints in developing countries to help them obtain education and vocational training, fostering self-reliance and improving their economic prospects.

How is the President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chosen?

Upon the death of the Church President, the First Presidency is dissolved, and the senior apostle, who is the President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, automatically becomes the new President of the Church. This process ensures an orderly and established succession.