The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints lost a great leader on Monday. President Gordon B. Hinckley has led the church for the majority of my life. It’s hard to describe what it’s like to be LDS and have the prophet pass away. Being so young, I’m new at this.
Hinckley led the church through a time of great change. The church membership rolls grew significantly, and a record number of temples were dedicated under his leadership. Hinckley led the charge on building more but smaller temples. This allowed additional members of the church to have access to temples more often, reducing unnecessary travel and financial hardship. Although I disagree with what I would argue as subtle political action regarding the Proclamation to the World, Hinckley did a lot to lead the church into the 21st century.
When I heard President Hinckley had passed away, I was shocked but quickly found peace. This man was 97. He has been mentioning at General Conference for years now that he might not be at the pulpit the next time around. His frankness regarding his coming death is ironically inspirational. Hinckley was a man of such strong faith he didn’t fear death for an instant. His patience with growing old and weak was spiritually inspirational as well. His ability to sit back and wait for the Lord to be ready to bring him back to the heavens was touching. One thing is for sure, this man wasn’t afraid of passing on and seeing his Heavenly Father.
The LDS Church is entering a new era. Thomas S. Monson will no doubt be named the new prophet, seer, and revelator sometime next week. I encourage all of you to try and catch Hinckley’s funeral this Saturday (11:00 AM Mountain Standard Time). I think there is a way to stream it over the church website. You will see a memorial of a great leader of my church, and I’m sure most of you will find it interesting.
Recent Comments
ACODY on Confessions of a Cradle Catholic: Observer,
spiderman2 on Confessions of a Cradle Catholic: In one thi
spiderman2 on Confessions of a Cradle Catholic: Haiti Trou
Concerned The Christian Now Liberated on Confessions of a Cradle Catholic: To Thump -
Paganplace on Confessions of a Cradle Catholic: I think I'
Paganplace on Confessions of a Cradle Catholic: *laugh.*
Concerned The Christian Now Liberated on Confessions of a Cradle Catholic: Paganplace