When was Russell M. Nelson called as a general authority? This question is often asked by those who are curious about the history and progression of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Russell M. Nelson, a prominent figure in the LDS Church, was called as a general authority on April 4, 1982, marking the beginning of a distinguished career that would span over three decades.
Russell M. Nelson was born on September 9, 1929, in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was the son of a Mormon bishop and served as a missionary for the LDS Church in New Zealand. After returning from his mission, he attended Brigham Young University, where he earned a degree in biochemistry. Nelson’s academic and professional background in medicine and surgery would later play a significant role in his service to the Church.
His journey to becoming a general authority began when he was called as a member of the First Quorum of the Seventy on October 4, 1972. Over the next ten years, he served in various leadership roles within the Church, including as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. On April 4, 1982, at the age of 52, Nelson was sustained as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, becoming a general authority.
As a general authority, Russell M. Nelson played a vital role in the governance and administration of the Church. He was known for his dedication to the faith, his strong testimony of Jesus Christ, and his compassionate approach to ministry. During his tenure, Nelson served as a leader in the Church’s global outreach efforts, helping to establish and strengthen LDS congregations around the world.
One of Nelson’s most notable contributions to the Church was his work on the translation and publication of the Book of Mormon. In 1981, he was called as the president of the Church’s Book of Mormon Translation Committee, leading a team of scholars and linguists in revising the translation of the sacred text. This effort resulted in the publication of the 1981 edition of the Book of Mormon, which has since been widely used by Mormons worldwide.
In addition to his work on the Book of Mormon, Nelson also served as the president of the LDS Church’s Europe Area from 1987 to 1994. During this time, he traveled extensively throughout Europe, helping to strengthen the Church’s presence on the continent and fostering a spirit of unity among its members.
Russell M. Nelson’s calling as a general authority on April 4, 1982, was a significant milestone in his life and the history of the LDS Church. His dedication, leadership, and service have left an indelible mark on the faith and the lives of countless individuals. As a result, his legacy continues to inspire and uplift those who seek to follow in his footsteps.
