Lifespan

Born April 4, 1870 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Died April 4, 1951 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Ministry

At age 21 (1891), George Albert was called on his first mission-to southern Utah. From age 22-24, he and his wife, Lucy, served a mission in the southeastern United States. He was ordained an Apostle in 1903 at age 33. From 1919-21, Elder Smith was president of the European Mission. At age 73, he became President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and was sustained as President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1945 at age 75. He passed away on his birthday six years later.

Preparation and Calling

George Albert Smith was named for his grandfather, George A. Smith, who was a cousin to Joseph Smith and a counselor to Brigham Young. For seven years (1903-10), he served in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles with his father, John Henry Smith, the only father and son duo to do so in since the restoration of the Church in 1830. His life was a pattern of righteousness, and his family bore a strong heritage of Church leadership. That heritage figured strongly into his character and his service.

Interaction with God

The most well-known spiritual experience of George Albert Smith could be considered a gift from God, though it did not involve a member of the Godhead directly. At a time of great difficulty and self-doubt, he had a dream in which he met his grandfather, George A. Smith. In a brief interview, George Albert was able to respond positively to his grandfather’s question, and thereafter regained both his physical and spiritual strength. He later referred to this incident as a major turning point in his ministry.

Social Situation

President Smith served during the time when Europe was recovering from World War II. He sent missionaries to many countries where they had been unable to go previously because of the war, and initiated the sending of vast amounts of food and supplies to the Saints in Europe who suffered so badly during and after World War II.

Key Teachings

The teachings of President George Albert Smith can be perhaps best be summarized with this statement, which he made during a general conference of the Church in April 1948: “Every happiness and every joy that has been worthy of the name has been the result of keeping the commandments of God and observing his advice and counsel” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1948, pp. l62).