[89] A few days before this, Nelson and his counselors met with the national leaders of the NAACP. Welcome to the Church News podcast. Russell M. Nelson Jr.: But and then, you know, another, since were talking about fishing, a related memory to that is he would, you know after we would clean the fish out. Absolutely not. Were pretty low maintenance, but maybe we had sisters or whatever. I love the fact that just this year before conflict broke out between Russia and Ukraine in Eastern Europe, he had given a message and directed it to all the Saints in Europe, and told him that the future was bright for the Church in Europe. And he honored us as women, as well, and as potential mothers. That was always No. 2:04 Gloria Irion: Thank you, Sarah. Hes always doing something, always engaged.. But, you know, to witness his preparation and preservation and the ongoing revelation and guidance that he is given. Russell M. Nelson Jr.: Oh, I dont know, Ive got a couple of funny stories, but I dont know. And then in what felt like a very vulnerable moment. [54], In 2016, as president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Nelson declared that the church's governing council had received a revelation from God forbidding minor children of same-sex couples from being baptized without First Presidency approval. He is proud of who we are and who we have become and for our own accomplishments, Russell Nelson Jr. said. I think shes a great sounding board for Daddy and plays a critical role.. [73], The first trip, called a global ministry tour by the church, occurred in April 2018, when Nelson along with his wife, and Jeffrey R. Holland and his wife, met with Latter-day Saints in London, England; Jerusalem; Nairobi, Kenya; Harare, Zimbabwe; Bengaluru, India; Bangkok, Thailand; Hong Kong; and Laie, Hawaii. And a constant forever is that routine of coming home and finding mother and greeting her and then having dinner together was always a great thing. And I think that was a blessing to have him home. In 1966, Nelson became head of the thoracic residency program that combined resources from the University of Utah Medical School, LDS Hospital, Primary Children's Hospital and the VA Hospital in Salt Lake City. And there was a high expectation that we would be an eternal family and we were going to be working together to see how we could get that goal accomplished. [63], In August 2010, Nelson journeyed to the dedication of the Kiev Ukraine Temple. And Ive watched him help and love a lot of people along the way. And the director approached him as he was, in his sophomore year, to invite him to come back and participate. And so, well, his health and strength is due in large part to her efforts and all the things that she does, in ways to support him that we dont know the half of, Im sure. And hes good at it. [120], In June 2018, the University of Utah endowed a chair in cardiothoracic surgery named after Nelson and his first wife, Dantzel. Laurie Marsh: I think for me, too, I just have, as weve gone through those times that are more difficult, Ive just held on the example of my parents. He said, Well, its like being a father. Were so grateful that you would share him with us so that he could teach us so much about the Savior Jesus Christ. Family bonds were also strengthened through holiday traditions and large gatherings. He knew everything that could have been done was done. He earned an M.D. [105] His travels have been punctuated by several temple dedications, most notably the Rome Italy Temple in March 2019, which was attended by all current members of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. And they were sitting on the sofa together holding hands. He lived that saying.. Come, Follow Me. Dr. Russell M. Nelson holds a model of the human heart. Sarah Jane Weaver: And when I think about your fathers ministry as president of the Church, its sort of compartmentalized for me. Here he is giving countless messages, reaching out via technology, thinking about members in very, very specific ways. And I just kind of said, What do you, what do you want us to do now? Asking from a point of, How can we help you? He loves to be up on the latest technology. You have nine daughters, and your mothers gone in the morning to perform with the choir. [37], After returning to Salt Lake City, he was called as priest quorum advisor in the Garden Park Ward, working with over 50 boys ages 16 to 18. They have agreed to talk to us about President Nelson in his role as a father. [118], Dantzel Nelson died unexpectedly at their home in Salt Lake City on February 12, 2005, at age 78. He knew decades before I did that there was such a thing as airdropping photos, Irion said of her 98-year-old father. Children(s) Emily Nelson Wittwer, Brenda N. Miles, MORE [X] Biography. [52], Nelson made his first international trip as quorum president to Central America from August 2031, 2015. Gloria Irion: I remember him coming over, we would have him over for a meal or something after mother had passed away. We just we land and thats what time it is and we move on. So Gloria Irion: I love in Sheri Dews biography, she quoted Wendy, after they came home from one of the world tours. And it actually goes along with what were talking about when we asked him about his decision to let members of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve, dedicated temples. And that, by no coincidence, is tied to the word disciple. We still have our family newsletter that everybody contributes once a month a little article. And he did always emphasize how important education is, but as far as career choice goes, he never pushed one way or another. Nelson began his presidency two days after his ordination with a short broadcast to church members in January 2018 before then holding a press conference. [109] Nelson took all the church's apostles with him to Rome for that dedication. Back row are doctors Lester R. Sauvage, Sigmund A. Wesolowski, President Nelson, Alton Ochsner, Jr. and Henry H. Balch. And thats how they met, I think the play was called Hayfoot Strawfoot. So that was, we liked that play and love that story. Sarah Jane Weaver: And since were on the topic, Im interested in knowing how your father treated your mother. Or did he just want you to follow any path that was what you chose? Marsh has learned the importance of developing a relationship with Jesus Christ and following the prophet. She, like my mother, is a very Christ-centered person. And we go to pull this massive wire out of the box and the whole bundle of wires comes out in the shape of a box. [55] "It was our privilege as apostles to sustain what had been revealed to President Monson," Nelson said. from the University of Utah in 1947, shortly after completing his medical degree. He wrote a letter to me, right after I was born. Nothings ever too hard. The children agreed that both parents made education a high priority and fostered a love of lifelong learning. They each had their specific roles but one couldnt operate properly without the other. Hed come in the door. He talks about losing his wife to a heart attack after having spent his whole career studying and treating and operating on the heart. The children learned from their father about keeping an eternal perspective when dealing with the loss of their mother Dantzel Nelsondied Feb. 12, 2005 and two sisters. Russell M. Nelson Jr.: One quality I always think of about our dad is active. He always is going and doing things, whether were freshly landed on a, from an airplane, and rather than sitting in the hotel room, or sit, he likes to go out and walk, or do the dishes after a meal, or what have you. I think he counsels well with others. While on duty, he was assigned to a research group formed by the commandant of the graduate school at Walter Reed, Col. William S. Stone and led by Dr. Fiorindo A. Simeone, a professor of surgery at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland who had been a clinical investigator in the Mediterranean Theater during World War II. But we, we had him come over for dinner. Thanks to our guests, to my producer, KellieAnn Halvorsen, and others who make this podcast possible. So, those are words that I think describe him well. Famous Military Physician Russell M. Nelson was born on September 9, 1924 in United States. That doesnt sound like fun at all now as an adult, but somehow he made it seem like it was something that obviously, it needed to be done. And so that was always at the top of the priority list, is to treat, not only my mother, but my sisters, and all women with respect. And now, the 96-year-old father of 10, has a new title: great-great-grandfather. He was set apart as a counselor in the bishopric by Joseph Fielding Smith, whose son-in-law was the bishop. And she just kind of slumped over. Laurie Marsh: I just think the way hes leading the Church is exactly an example of the way we were raised. Nelson served in that bishopric for over five years at a time when the ward had over 1,000 members. In the general conference talk " Covenants ," President Russell M. Nelson teaches that "when we realize that we are children of the covenant, we know who we are and what God expects of us." The covenants we have made direct our lives and give us a deeper purpose. In 1992, it was identified he was on the Strengthening Church Members Committee, alongside fellow apostle James E. And so a lot of these adjustments that the Church has gone through over these past five years or so its been interesting, for me having been, I was 12 years old when he was called to be in the Quorum of the Twelve. They both played the piano and the organ. He was a very calm, patient and loving father. His father worked for the Deseret News in the past. And I had quite a collection, so I thought, What would Mother love, a string of these for a necklace. So I got a needle and thread and strung those beautiful pearly looking things together for my mother and gave it to her. That was fun. At the same conference, Dallin H. Oaks was sustained as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve. Prophet Asks "Let me ask one question," said President Russell M. Nelson to youth assembled in the visitors' center in Palmyra. Were there other things that you did on a regular basis that you enjoyed doing together? Nelson's tenure as church president has been defined by an increased focus on worship within LDS temples. Sarah Jane Weaver: Is there anything about your fathers service as President of the Church that surprised you or that caught your attention? Shes been a marvelous companion for him since day one, I believe. And the first thing he would do was look for, and find, and greet my mother. He wanted that to be their own inspired decisions, his son said. "Who are we? Thats why were here, but they dont need to be a trial of our faith. Russell M. Nelson was born on September 9, 1924, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Floss Edna (ne Anderson; 18931983) and Marion Clavar Nelson (18971990). Despite his own sorrow, President Nelson encouraged his children to be with their children, to love them and teach them about the gospel of Jesus Christ and the plan of salvation. He knew everything, he said. Copyright 2023 Deseret News Publishing Company. She, like my mother, is a very Christ-centered person. And I think we had as much fun after we came home from our dates as we did on the dates. Nelson's father was a reporter for the Deseret News and later became general manager of Gillham Advertising, Utah's earliest advertising agency. And I remember as a 14-year-old thinking, Man, are we ever gonna go home? Because we are in a different place, a different country, a different something every day, every night. From left: Marjorie Lowder; Elder Michael T. Ringwood, a General Authority Seventy; Sister Rosalie Ringwood; and Wendy Maxfield. The hymn practice time in Sunday School was also renamed to worship through music. So really, by and large, we all came all the time. He had a good way of making very mundane and plain things feel like it was great to do, and great to do together, Russell Nelson Jr. said. He would come find that baby in the crib, pick her up, nuzzle his nose in her neck, hold her and smell her and sing to her and coo to her, and put her back down, Irion said. They agree she has been a marvelous companion for President Nelson. Shes precious, and an angel mother, as he called her. [You] will . Jointly published by the Deseret News and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, its content supports the doctrines, principles and practices of the Church. Laurie Marsh: Besides having all of his sisters think that were talking to our dad when its really our brother! But there was also no question that our mom was the heart of the home. [114] The following year, Nelson married Wendy L. Watson (b. Next, Nelson ended home teaching and visiting teaching, replacing the programs with a focus on ministering, and shifting both the focus and methods of tracking them. Anyway, do you know more of the story? She has this, this spirit of Elijah with her shes just so aware and, you know, just so focused on the temple and temple work and just such a great example. Elder Nelson's previous marriage was to Dantzel White Nelson, who died 12 February 2005. In April 2006, he . What was discipline like in your home growing up? https://www.lds.org/general-conference?lang=eng Russell M. Nelson delivers a message titled "Children of the Covenant." Almost a fishy-smelling string of pearls. And even so, he was going to do what he was called on to do and I knew he loved her and was grieving. Gloria Irion: Yes, I think thats very well said. Its been five years since President Nelson was sustained and set apart on Jan. 14, 2018, as the Churchs 17th President. [30], In 1965, the University of Chicago offered Nelson the position as head of their department of thoracic surgery. Most of the children learned to play the piano and at least one additional instrument. Neither Nelson nor the Church is. The unnamed plaintiffs alleged that Richard and Brenda Miles, son-in-law and daughter of Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints president Russell M. Nelson, hosted "touching parties" in the 1980s where children as young as one-year-old were . He doesnt look for anybodys approval, but the Lords. President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints hugs children after a devotional in Asuncin, Paraguay, on Monday, October 22, 2018. None of the Nelson children was told they must go to weekly church services. He set a great example of studying and doing well in school, but we never felt that it was tied to their feelings for us.. Laurie Marsh: You know, nothing that my dad does surprises me. [83][84], The first few months of Nelson's leadership of the LDS Church saw many significant changes to church policy, although many had at least been heavily discussed before he became church president, and some were continuations of policies instituted by his predecessors. And a husband and a wife work together in a family. Sarah Jane Weaver: You have been listening to the Church News podcast. He made everything look easy. Yeah, he might watch a bowl game and we were just Gloria Irion: It was the only time I saw him turn on the TV. The children noticed when their father complimented their mother. They were not untouched by tragedy. President Russell M. Nelson is the father of nine daughters and one son and has 57 grandchildren. President Russell M. Nelson with daughter Sylvia Webster and three great-grandchildren. As He Would Love "When we follow Jesus Christ, we act as He would act and love as He would love."President Russell M. Nelson, "The Work of Salvation: Parable of a Father at Bedtime" Day of Decision "Each day is a day of decision, and our decisions determine our destiny."President Russell M. Nelson, "Decisions for Eternity" Divine Destiny 1972). Russell M. Nelson Jr.: Even, a long time ago, I was 14, right after my freshman year of high school, I was the only one at home. We were traveling with President Nelson on his global ministry in Uruguay. Those grandchildren are now having their own children, President Nelson wrote in an Instagram post on July 7. [106] With the temple in Nicaragua, Nelson fulfilled an apostolic promise he had made to church members there six years earlier. [74], In June 2018, Nelson traveled to Alberta, Canada, where his second wife was born and raised, and gave three devotional addresses in three consecutive evenings. This was highlighted by shortening the length of Sunday church meetings to 2-hours from the previous 3-hours. In the 2021 Friend to Friend event, President Russell M. Nelson gave this message to children around the world. And so he was always very loving and caring. In addition to the large crowd in attendance, the devotional was broadcast across the state. I received the assignment in 2018 to write about your fathers global ministry. They had a wonderful married life. On Monday, September 9th, President Russell M. Nelson will be celebrating his 95th birthday. President Russell M. Nelson was called as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on April 7, 1984. And I think shes a great sounding board for Daddy and plays a critical role. He and his wife, the former Dantzel White, have ten children. Im interested if there is one moment or one memory that each of you can share about your father that can help us just get to know him just a little bit better. He later had a practice at the Salt Lake Clinic with admission privileges at LDS Hospital. Just like a heart and a brain worked together to keep your body going, thats how I felt our mom and dad ran our home, he said. Russell Nelson was born in Salt Lake City, Utah on September 9, 1924. Sarah Jane Weaver: Well take any stories. Nelson and Oaks filled the vacancies in the Quorum created by the deaths of LeGrand Richards and Mark E. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER DAY SAINTS [Laughing]. [71] On August 8, 2022, Nelson became the church's oldest apostle ever, surpassing David B. Contents. [65] While there, Nelson visited government officials, was interviewed by Yuzhnaya Stalitsa television, and dedicated that country for the preaching of the gospel. "[94][95][96], In the October 2018 general conference, Nelson adjusted the balance between a home-centered, church-supported form of worship. Now, your father graduated from medical school at age 22, first in his class. And after about two weeks, I thought, Man, Im, Im getting tired and Im 14 years old. So hes, its pretty remarkable in that regard. I think the world at large has seen that hes been preserved, but to see the preparation that has happened, and to hear from him about receiving instruction, receiving guidance, following that guidance, is such a testimony to me about the prophet and the Lord communicating with the Church through the prophet and communicating with the world. And see each other as a family be together kind of remotely. But I really feel like their love for us was not tied to any kind of accomplishment at all. [90] That same weekend Nelson gave a devotional to LDS youth in which he urged them to more fully commit to the church. Friends by Mail. Please remember to subscribe to this podcast and if you enjoyed the messages we shared today, please make sure you share the podcast with others. Shes very strong. While at Minnesota, he was a member of surgeon Clarence Dennis's pioneering research team developing the heart-lung machine that in April 1951 supported the first human open-heart surgery using cardiopulmonary bypass. And so that way we can kind of keep up on what hes doing and he can read what were doing. In timing with this milestone, three of President Nelsons 10 children Irion, Marsh and son Russell Nelson Jr. recently discussed with the Church News growing up in the Nelson home and his role as a father. I once saw Russs birth announcement and it had a picture of nine girls on the front and said, Boy, oh, boy. I remember to when he had business trips, Im not sure how long this lasted, but I remember quite a few times, he would take one or two of us along when he had to go give a paper somewhere or something. At one point, the team came close enough to the front that they received fire from enemy artillery positions, which missed them. They love to watch sports. [107], In October 2018, Nelson concluded a 10-day trip to South America by dedicating the Concepcion Chile Temple. And so that was one-on-one time with him, or one-on-two, if there was someone else with you. But there was also no question that our mom was the heart of the home. Daddy was able to participate in the school musical up at the University of Utah his freshman year. Doing taxes doesnt sound like fun at all as an adult, but its something we just did together and had fun doing together.. Its really hard. It was a real love of my parents. And I think thats something that I treasure. [111], In April 2020, Nelson announced plans to build a temple in Shanghai, China. Laurie Marsh The way hes leading the Church is exactly an example of the way we were raised. Image The Lord Jesus Christ, by Del Parson To not join in meant missing out on something fun. . Sarah Jane Weaver: He committed pretty fast? Sarah Jane Weaver: Im so glad you mentioned technology. [114] Together they had ten children: nine daughtersMarsha, Wendy (19512019),[115] Gloria, Brenda, Sylvia, Emily (19581995),[116] Laurie, Rosalie, and Marjorieand a son, Russell Jr. (b. What was your house like, when you were children? Gloria Irion: Well, we always did, like almost everyone else, Im sure, did fun summer trips, whether we rented a cabin up at Brighton or, you know, went to the beach in California or drove up to Canada. Subscribe for free and get daily or weekly updates straight to your inbox, The three things you need to know everyday, Highlights from the last week to keep you informed. Russell M. Nelson Jr.: So much of our activities had to do with just being together, whether it was, you know, very early on, we would have monthly family parties, Christmas traditions, we could almost dictate the whole month of December by the traditions that we would do day by day and week by week. So, I mean, that leaves a lot of, I guess a lot of weight. Find us on your favorite podcasting channel or with other news and updates about the Church on TheChurchNews.com. Elder Russell M. Nelson. I said, How can you walk away from that that was your life? Days later, the Shanghai Municipal Ethnic and Religious Affairs Bureau responded saying it "knew nothing about the American Mormon Church . So even though were not physically together, were still very emotionally attached. [129], Media related to Russell M. Nelson at Wikimedia Commons, "Russell Nelson" redirects here. Sarah Jane Weaver: And I never hear him use words like, must or should. Its something that Ive paid a lot of attention to, because we write his quotes in the Church News. Its just part of who I am and, and the way I was raised. Youve made such an impact in that world of open heart surgery. And he says, Quite frankly, Laurie, I havent had time to think about it. There was no question he was the head of the home. And there was a high expectation that we would be an eternal family. He took the lens out of the fishs eye out and said, Look, this is the lens and held it up over a newspaper that was right nearby and showed how it kind of magnified the print on the newspaper. The Church News is an official publication of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Since then, he has embarked on a fast-paced global ministry, traveling to more than 35 nations, extending countless invitations, leading the Church through a global pandemic and overseeing the continued Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ. The Church News is an official publication of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. How do you sum up a lifetime of being taught? Russell Nelson Jr. said. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They consistently had family scripture reading. And of course, its true. He really didnt raise his voice. During the 1950s, Dantzel was a member of the Tabernacle Choir. Often on Mothers Day, President Nelson bought his wife a corsage. [4][17], After medical school, Nelson went to the University of Minnesota for his medical residency. And we have a couple of things in place. But something that we just did together and had fun doing together. How did his studies ripple into the home? [91] On June 18, the First Presidency created committees assigned to form a unified hymnbook and children's songbook for the worldwide church membership, with each language edition having the same hymns (and other songs) in the same order, and that these committees would be taking submissions and collecting surveys until July 2019. And he said, No, I, I walked through the door and I closed it behind me. Can you share with us what you observed from that time in his life, where he leaves this career that he had prepared so much for, and turned into full-time church service? And it was fast-paced and it was hard to keep up with him, but it was also filled with so much love and beautiful moments. First, he would find and greet his late wife, Dantzel Nelson. That just like, you know, because hes very medical, having gone through all of his years of training and surgery and, in his career and profession, just like a heart and brain work together to keep your body going, thats how I felt like our mom and dad ran our home. Church President Russell M. Nelson and his wife, Sister Wendy Nelson, pose for photographs with family members after a press conference at the Church Office Building in Salt Lake City on Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2018. She was 78 at the time of her sudden death. President Nelson, the leader of almost 17 million Latter-day Saints worldwide, has traveled to 35 nations, changed Church organization, utilized technology, led the Church through a pandemic, issued historic invitations Baptism. In today's world, marriage and the choice to raise children require increasing faith - but the blessings, mortal and eternal, of families are well worth it. Jointly published by the Deseret News and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, its content supports the doctrines, principles and practices of the Church. And he said, Oh, no, Im just good at taking instruction. [15] Nelson began his first year of medical school while still an undergraduate, and completed the four-year MD program in only three years. Explore Russell M. Nelson net worth, birthday, height, age, bio, salary, 2023! Sarah Jane Weaver: It is great to have you with us today. But there was a deep level of grief all three times and very apparent, helped us navigate it too. We, one time, I had gotten all the Christmas decorations out of the attic. I kind of joke around that its kept me good, but I think it really has, because I dont want to do anything to take away from who he is and what hes done. [47] He also made several other visits to that continent, including one to Kenya in 2011. The children were grateful to see their fathers cheerful countenance return after he married Wendy Watson. And, but yeah, I think he set a great example of, you know, studying and doing well in school. Gloria Irion: They had an opportunity, you know, there was no ultrasound in those days, they had an opportunity nine times to consider the name Russell Marion Nelson Jr. and never considered it, never considered it until Daddy met him. During that period, the Latter-day Saint Prophet has embarked on a fast-paced global ministry that has taken him to 35 countries, guided the Church through a pandemic, extended many invitations and continued to oversee the ongoing restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ. If he didnt have other responsibilities or obligations, he was fully present. Afterwards, in September, he traveled to church meetings in several European countries. [79], On March 9, 2019, Nelson met with Pope Francis at the Vatican. Gloria Irion: He was kind of busy with his own church callings, too. Russell M. Nelson was set apart as the president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on January 14, 2018. Laurie Marsh: I felt like from both of my parents the importance of our education that that was stressed. I have felt during his leadership, the importance of living our lives focused on the Savior and that that should be our number one priority, no matter what were doing. Gloria Irion: I think he took those, you know, those circumstances happen so seldom, that I feel like he really tried to take those opportunities to teach us and to help us focus on the eternal, like you, like you said. On January 29, 1995, Emily died of cancer when she was 37 years old. How to Have Joy. If we can be obedient, and make and keep our covenants, well be able to live eternally as a family with Heavenly Father again, she said. Programa: Welcome to the weekly MormonNewsRoundup where Al & Dives ruminate on the great and spacious Beehive!, ep. and M.D. You know, I said a little bit earlier that I was always taught to respect women, especially our mother and my sisters. And this little boy, he couldnt have been 12. [45][46], Nelson's assignments as an apostle have included supervisory responsibility for the LDS Church in Africa. He then moved to the Yale Second Ward, still in the Bonneville Stake, and was called as a member of the stake high council. And so we love to sing together. And then we experienced the pandemic and there was great effort to make sure that President Nelson stayed well. Hes very driven, very bright and catches on fast. Number two, he would look around to turn off any electrics, that were extra, you know, like the TV or more lights than he felt should be on. He was set apart as President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles by President Thomas S. Monson on July 15, 2015. It is a worldwide church and it is the Church of Jesus Christ and its for everyone. First, the high priests groups at the ward level were dissolved, making all Melchizedek priesthood holders in wards and branches part of the elders quorum. But in a way, it was comforting, to me, to see the level of grief that he was experiencing. I feel like we were so secure because we knew they were secure. The event marked the first time in history that a pope and an LDS Church president met face-to-face. President Russell M. Nelson sits down with a puzzle in his spare time. The visible sadness was gone. An example I know a lot of us have shared with each other is doing taxes at the end of the year. And shes always a cheerleader for Daddy in front of us, for sure. President Russell M. Nelson will mark five years as President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Jan. 14, 2023. Laurie Marsh: There was always somebody to talk to, somebody to play with, play dolls with, or talk about problems or whatever. And so the two of them working together was just a really nice example of how a husband and wife and a mother and father worked together. May we always honor that heritage - in every thought and deed.". I mean, I can remember having so many fun experiences. Just like that. They dated for three years, then married on August 31, 1945, in the Salt Lake Temple. When he was home, it was time for the family.. And he just said, Wow, my pre-med studies are pretty rigorous. degrees from the University of Utah and his Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota. [48], From 2007 to 2015, Nelson was as a member of the Church Boards of Trustees/Education, the governing body of the Church Educational System, and the chairman of its executive committee. In 2011, Nelson Sr. returned to Russia to organize the first church stake in that country, headquartered in Moscow. You know, we talk about the things that are positive and the things that my parents did great. And so I think that was very much an emphasis in our home. But. "I feel pure joy every time I welcome a new member of our family into the world." Monson. Their family includes 10 children, 56 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. During his tenure the Sunday School developed a unified 8-year-cycle of covering the LDS Church's scriptures in its curriculum. Is there something that you have learned from observing his Church leadership? But I love the idea that whats important is, we all go through trials, right? He had this folding table that we would pull out from under a bed, and he would set it up and start taping up all these Gloria Irion: Spreadsheets. I feel like there was a high level of love in our home. But no, its been an honor. President Russell M. Nelson. You must do this. Instead, he seems to invite us as members of the Lords Church to follow the commandments and then claim all the blessings that we can get from that. And then number three, we normally would wait for Daddy, to have dinner together as a family. Gloria Irion: He modeled so well how we are supposed to treat her, because of the way he treated her. And so he does seem to always know what to do at the right time and that has become a hallmark of his ministry. When he was home, he was home, Marsh said. Sarah Jane Weaver: We have a tradition at the Church News podcast. He just goes forward and learns what he needs to learn and takes all of the experience with him to help. He used it as a teaching moment for us, to help us and comfort us, Irion said. So I think the takeaway for me in that, is, you know, our number one job is just to try to learn how to become an eternal family and enjoy all the blessings that Heavenly Father wants to give each and every one of us. [7] In 1984, Nelson and the American jurist Dallin H. Oaks were selected to fill two vacancies in the LDS Church's Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Russell Nelson Jr. described another lesson he learned in the home that wasnt deliberately expressed but something he observed through his parents daily example. But we just, out of love and not wanting to be left out. But so much of it was just about being together and taking the time to strengthen those relationships. I had a flashback of when mother had kind of gotten a baby, usually a girl, at that point in time, to sleep, finally, at night. I don't know how long Wendy has been sick, but because . The way he is leading the Church is exactly an example of the way we were raised, a daughter said. "All are children of God." 1:29 Can You Feel My Love? Russell M. Nelson Jr.: Right after our mom passed away, that was the first time in my life that Id ever seen him visibly sad, or not the cheerful countenance that he usually had for that year plus, after our moms passing. And if you chose not to come, youd be missing out on a really great opportunity to be together and do something neat. Sarah Jane Weaver: Yeah, Ive heard him say it, too. He still, to this day, who knows the number of our members in our family, I dont know, off the top of my head. [20] Nelson was also the director of the University of Utah thoracic surgery residency program. He tended to walk through their home, turning off extra lights or the television, before sitting down to dinner with the family. So when mother sang in the choir, I must have been, I dont know, 7 or 8 or something. So we all have that exact same opportunity. My parents consistently had family prayer, family home evening, family scripture reading, and we were invited, with all their love, to come and participate, she said. His wife and my mother had an amazing role in that as well, she said. Petersen. I think its important to note, yeah, they encouraged us to do our homework and would be happy to help if we needed it. And so is his wife and my mother had an amazing role in that, as well. Sarah Jane Weaver: Im Sarah Jane Weaver, editor of the Church News. Shes precious and an angel mother, he called her, Irion said. I just feel like, wow, he did that so well and just exemplified that. But I would say, I know that a key part of life is to learn and to grow, and to love love one another, love the Lord and enjoy the blessings that come from Him as we keep our covenants. [85], In March 2018, the First Presidency issued a letter on preventing and responding to abuse. It was one way he modeled how their mother and women in general should be treated. Occasionally, you had to miss you know, you were sick, or you know, didnt hear your alarm or whatever. Laurie Marsh: I have to mention, because to me, its his biggest life is his focus on the Savior. Wendy Nelson Maxfield died of cancer in 2019. Professional Life Prior to his service as head of the Church, President Nelson served as president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles from July 15, 2015, until his call as the Church's leader. President Russell M. Nelson during his career wiht a team of doctors: Gen. Sam F. Seeley, and Lt. Col. Edwin J. Pulaski, front. In Massachusetts, Nelson was the secretary for the adult Aaronic priesthood organization in his Boston-area branch. Laurie Marsh: But Daddy still will hand-write a birthday card and mail it to every single member of the family and Christmas and wedding anniversaries. And so I saw him the Sunday after they came back from their honeymoon. I think hes good at making decisions and moving forward. In 2018, Nelson announced 19 new temples, seven in April and 12 in October, among which were the first in India, Nicaragua, Russia, and Cambodia. Russell M. Nelson Jr.: And we were just, and we would just love to help him and doing taxes. Both parents knew how to teach their children about the why of things, their son said. He had a confirmation right then that this was a blessing that she went in a twinkling of an eye, basically, and kind of had to start accepting that. Obedience or adherence to rules and laws came with the understanding of why we were doing it, Russell Nelson Jr. said. But I do have that visual image. And I think I have learned from my own, personal experiences, that God calls prophets to lead and guide us while were on this earth. He and his wife, the former Dantzel White, have ten children. All rights reserved. Russell M. Nelson Jr.: Maybe, yeah, maybe upon my first arrival it was a little chaotic and a lot of people coming and going, but you know as I aged up to a point where I can start remembering things and it actually was a more quiet home. Russell Nelson Jr. knew he could ask his father anything and he would always provide the answer. Sarah Jane Weaver: What are some of the other things you did I know as a family you like to ski? And the rest of us are thinking, Oh., Gloria Irion: My mind would like to think that, but my bodys going, Are you kidding me?. What can we do for you? And he just said, Just go home and be with your, your children and love them and teach them. And so that right there was to me a good window into the eternities of how we just keep going. Ive been so grateful for the teachings that our parents have given us about the importance of being centered in Jesus Christ. I thought, What a commitment for a large family to make, for her to have that opportunity to go and be gone one night a week and then on Sunday mornings. And so Im totally interested in how that worked at your house. His health and strength is due in large part to her efforts and all the things she does to support him, Russell Nelson Jr. said. And that if we can be obedient, and make and keep our covenants, well be able to live eternally as a family with Heavenly Father again. And hes more personable. At least I can say this, from my perspective, I know that my dad loves me. This marked the first time since 1985 that a new church president had not retained a previously-serving counselor. In a May 2020 interview with the Church News, President Nelson said, "Even through clouds of sorrow, there can be silver linings found.". Ray Goldrup. the 17th president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, receives hugs from family members after he and his councilors President Dallin H. Oaks, first counselor, and President Henry B. Eyring, second counselor held a press conference at the church office building in Salt Lake City Utah on Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2018. Did you focus on science and math? Sarah Jane Weaver: And you have nine girls, then Russ comes along. Russell is a prophet, Baptised at sixteen, His parents were less active; He was very keen. Jointly published by the Deseret News and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, its content supports the doctrines, principles and practices of the Church. All rights reserved. Peoples lives depend on me getting sleep, kids. And so anyway, he tried, but we did, we always love to be together still do. And when he was home, it was time for the family. And they were talking a little bit about themselves and their callings. Sarah Jane Weaver: Share a little more about what your father taught you about women and being raised in this home with so many women. On February 12, 2005, Nelson lost his first wife unexpectedly. This team was focused on ways to improve the treatment of wounded and was sent to all five MASH units active in Korea along with two major evacuation hospitals, several field station hospitals, a prisoner of war camp and larger evacuation hospitals in Japan, Hawaii, and the mainland United States in order to implement such improvements. President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with his wife, Sister Wendy Nelson, exits the Cottonwood Heights Utah Brighton Stake Center as the casket is placed into the hearse after President Nelson spoke at funeral services for his daughter Wendy Nelson Maxfield, on Saturday, Jan. 19, 2019. In 1960, he performed one of the first-ever repairs of tricuspid valve regurgitation. Russell M. Nelson Jr.: I think one of the things that both of them, and especially our dad was really good at, is teaching us why we do things, less about the how and more about the why. And so, obedience or adherence to rules, laws, whatever came with that understanding of why we were doing it. "Have faith to keep all the commandments of God, knowing that they are given to bless His children and bring them joy. [34] He was also a director of the American Board of Thoracic Surgery. And in that letter, he committed that he wouldnt do anything to besmirch our name. You just dont hear him say that. We, we participated. Laurie Marsh: Thank you. And Gloria, lets start with you. I love this idea that she was the first person he looked for when he came home. In my remembrance, I think Daddy kind of had a routine. And I acknowledge that we love Wendy. Gloria Irion: We knew he had notoriety, because of his research and the things that he had accomplished and always kept accomplishing. Here he is in his 90s and always up on the latest technology with the great help that he gets. And so after they were married, they lived in her home for a little bit. In the five years since then, he has embarked on a fast-paced global ministry traveling to 35 nations, extending countless invitations, leading the Church through a global pandemic and overseeing the continuing restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ. So hed leave the stake center and come and pick us up. Russell M. Nelson Jr.: And so, there was a time I wanted to be a doctor and I think he was kind of proud of that. Nothing is ever too hard, just have faith in the Lord, do your best, and everything is going to be OK, she said. Copyright 2023 Deseret News Publishing Company. Sarah Jane Weaver: And since 1984, when your father was called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, you have had to share him with millions of Latter-day Saints across the globe. [92], In August 2018, Nelson issued a statement urging the use of the church's full name. But he would also buy us daughters a corsage with a note with love as a potential mother. It also adjusted previous policies forbidding adult males to teach classes of children or youth alone to apply to all adults. And weve had the blessing. And we were going to be working together to see how we could get that goal accomplished. This is the way we treat this person. You know, we do a lot of Zoom calls. Yeah, he doesnt believe in it. President Russell M. Nelson, the 17th president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, sits with his counselors, President Dallin H. Oaks, first counselor (left), and President Henry B. Eyring, second counselor (right), at a press conference in Salt Lake City, Utah, on Tuesday, January 16, 2018. We just loved to help him. [67] In 1995, Nelson went to Beijing, along with Neal A. Maxwell and other LDS Church leaders, on an official invitation of Li Lanqing, the Vice Premier of China.[68]. [39], Nelson later served for four and a half years as a regional representative. I feel like the way he is leading the Church is exactly an example of the way we were raised, Marsh said. And as the evening was winding down, it was time for us to go and go back to our homes. Prophet, physician, husband and father: A look at the life of President Nelson, 98 statements of counsel from President Nelson in honor of his 98th birthday, Church News podcast, episode 118: Three of President Russell M. Nelsons children celebrate his 5 years as prophet, offering a glimpse into his role as a father, Invitations President Nelson has given since he became Prophet, President Russell M. Nelsons prophetic ministry: 5 years of historic leadership, revelation and invitations, A fulness of joy: President Nelson shares message of eternal life at his daughters funeral, President Nelsons family gathered virtually to celebrate his birthday and hear his hopes for them, The 2 things President Nelson wants his family to know this Christmas, President Nelson is now a great-great grandfather. But my dads always been well-known, well-known renowned heart surgeon or stake president, or general Sunday School president. [65], When he was Sunday School General President, Nelson attended a meeting where Kimball urged those present to learn Chinese. Gloria Irion: Its been wonderful to have. And then go to Laurie and end with Russ. Hes curious. The tender memory of President Russell M. Nelson as a young father is also reflective of how he has led The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, said Laurie Marsh, another daughter. But we never felt that it was tied to their feelings for us. [119] Watson, originally from Raymond, Alberta, was a professor of marriage and family therapy at BYU prior to her retirement in 2006. Dantzel suddenly died in 2005, and Russell immediately married another woman, Wendy L. Watson, in 2006. Hes always had a lot of responsibilities. I think he used it as a teaching moment for us to help us and comfort us. He was ordained an apostle on April 12, 1984, by Gordon B. Hinckley. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Youth Jesus Christ Friend to Friend 2021 A Visit with Sister Joy D. Jones, the Primary General President Activity: Draw a Child Praying Activity: Learn to Make Pictures from Rocks Faust. He doesnt look for anybodys approval, but the Lords right. [28] Later, he performed the same operation on future LDS Church president Spencer W. Kimball, replacing his damaged aortic valve. President Nelsons children admire their father for his discipline, optimism and activity, among many other qualities. Sarah Jane Weaver: And for our listeners who havent heard the story of how they met, will you share that with us, Gloria? [25], In March 1956, he performed the first successful pediatric cardiac operation at the SLGH, a total repair of tetralogy of Fallot in a four-year-old girl. He loves to learn. And I think thats a sentiment that is shared by all of our listeners, as well. Music was something we love to do together, Irion said. And so I think we had a lot of stuff going on on Saturdays to prepare for Sunday. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Sarah Jane Weaver: Now I heard your father once describe your home growing up. I mean, you can imagine we always had so much fun, and he would come down and try to get us to go to sleep. Russell M. Nelson Jr.: One of the main things that was taught, and it wasnt so much deliberately or explicitly expressed in this way, but again, it was mostly by example of how a mother and a father work together. President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with his wife, Sister Wendy Nelson, exit the the Cottonwood Heights Utah Brighton Stake Center as the casket is placed into the hearse after President Nelson spoke at funeral services for his daughter, Wendy Nelson Maxfield, on Saturday, Jan. 19, 2019. "[112], While a student at the University of Utah, Nelson met and began dating fellow Utah student Dantzel White (19262005). So thats not surprising, but its been neat to see. It has been four years since Russell M. Nelson became prophet and president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This episode of the Church News podcast features three of President Nelsons 10 children: Gloria Irion, Laurie Marsh and Russell Nelson Jr. But yeah, its less than, less than ideal, but in a lot of ways, there are some advantages to the Zoom calls too. He always is going and doing things, Russell Nelson Jr. said. And that always meant a lot. . But none of us were ever forced to come, everyone would still get together. Sarah Jane Weaver: I think thats a really beautiful thing. [80][81][82], In August 2019, Nelson visited Guatemala, Colombia, Ecuador, Argentina and Brazil. He was sustained in a Solemn Assembly on March 31, 2018. . I mean, we were all so grateful, including him, that it wasnt a day or so before someone found her. [108] Following the December 2018 dedication of the Barranquilla Colombia Temple by Dallin H. Oaks, Nelson presided over the three-day dedicatory services for the Rome Italy Temple from March 1012, 2019. Just have faith in the Lord, do your best and everythings going to be okay. Fishing. They can feel that he loves them and its not so distant. Parents shouldn't have to bury their children, and in President Nelson's life, he has had this heavy duty twice. I also feel like if somebodys got a job to do, let them do it and I think hes a good cheerleader. President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and his wife Sister Wendy Nelson, are interviewed in Salt Lake City on Friday May 29, 2020. The call to serve in this position had been extended to Nelson by Richard L. Evans, an apostle and the lead figure over publicity efforts on Temple Square. ", "Meet LDS Church President Russell M. Nelson, a Renaissance man with perfect pitch and pure faith", "Elder Russell M. Nelson: Applying Divine Laws", "SVS Past Presidents | Society for Vascular Surgery", "Pamela Atkinson: President Nelson's work has been saving lives and souls", "President Nelson Honored as "Pioneer" of Heart Surgery - Church News and Events", "Elder Russell M. Nelson Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles", "What I know now that I learned from President Russell M. Nelson", "First Presidency statement cites scriptural mandate for Church committee", "Religious Leaders Hold A 2d World Parliament", "Elder Russell M. Nelson Celebrates 90th Birthday - Church News and Events", "NEWS STORY: State Department names religious freedom advisory committee", "LDS Church Apostle, his wife and 2 other couples attacked in Mozambique - KSL.com", "Elder Nelson Completes Trip to Africa in Kenya - Church News and Events", "LDS Business College appoints new president", "Inauguration for LDS Business College's 13th president", "President Boyd K. Packer Dies At Age 90", President Nelson counsels Central American members to claim the blessings of the temple, live the gospel, LDS Apostle dedicates newly developed Priesthood Restoration Site, "Mormon leader says policy against gay marriage was word from God", "LDS Apostle: Policy on same-sex couples was revelation from God", "Mormon LGBT ban was 'revealed' to the prophet as God's will, says Elder Nelson", "LDS Church dumps its controversial LGBTQ policy, cites 'continuing revelation' from God", "First Presidency Shares Messages From General Conference Leadership Session", "New Mormon President: Who is Russell M. Nelson, set to become 17th Leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints? Crowd in attendance, the Shanghai Municipal Ethnic and Religious Affairs Bureau responded saying it knew. Nelson Wittwer, Brenda N. Miles, MORE [ X ] Biography [. 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