President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints recently celebrated his 95th birthday. He was joined with over 20,000 friends and family at the Conference Center in Salt Lake City on Friday, September 6, 2019.
President Nelson was born on September 9, 1924, in Salt Lake City. He was called as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in April 1984. Additionally, he served as the Sunday School general president from 1971 to 1979. President Nelson became the 17th president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in January 2018. Many changes have happened within the Church since he became the new prophet. Namely, the shortened time frame for church meetings went from three hours to two hours.
There were several performing artists at the event, including Jenny Oaks Baker, Family Four, GENTRI, the Bonner Family, Nathan Pacheco, and Donny Osmond who all joined The Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square for the big event.
Those who shared in this wonderful night came away feeling so grateful they were able to attend and celebrate with their dear prophet.
Hosting the birthday celebration were S. Gifford Nielsen of the Quorum of the Seventy and former television news anchor, Ruth Todd.
President Nelson was once a renowned heart surgeon and is known by many throughout the world. Now, he is known as the prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Saints. President Nelson’s extensive career, along with his family and ministry have all given his life great meaning as a special disciple of Jesus Christ.
President Nelson’s family members shared how they feel about their father and grandfather. His grandson, Matthew Maxfield, said, “He is always moving, he has endless energy, but he always has time to pull us aside individually and see how we’re doing.”
Several songs from The Sound of Music were performed by the Baker family. Donny Osmond was delighted to be asked to perform for President Nelson and felt it was a great honor.
President Nelson was understandably overcome with feelings of warmth and kindness when it was his turn to finally stand and speak. He was grateful for all who were in attendance and all who performed.
He said, “If I have learned anything certain in my 95 years of life, it is that Jesus the Christ is the Son of God…my message to the world is simple and sincere. I invite all of God’s children on both sides of the veil to come unto their Savior, receive the blessings of the temple, have enduring joy, and qualify for eternal life.”
