Lifespan

Born August 4, 1899 in Whitney, Idaho.

Died May 30, 1994 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Ministry

Saints at the age of eight in 1907. At age 44 he was ordained an Apostle by President Heber J. Grant. His missionary experiences included serving as a proselyting missionary in Great Britain (1921-23) and twice as president of the European Mission. At age 74 he was sustained as president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and in 1985 he was sustained as President of the Church, in which position he served until his passing in 1994. He also served as Secretary of Agriculture of the United States 1952-60.

Preparation and Calling

Two periods of service in particular serve as milestones in the preparation of Ezra Taft Benson to become the prophet of God. First was his appointment to tour war-torn Europe following World War II and begin to bring hundreds and thousands of tons of relief goods to the Saints in Germany and elsewhere. The second was his service in President Dwight Eisenhower’s cabinet, the only Apostle in this latter-day to serve in the cabinet of a U.S. president. These experiences served him well, for during his time as prophet, he initiated humanitarian service projects that began the Church’s current policy of providing lifesaving goods and services throughout the world in time of disaster. His political contacts and proven track record of relief opened many, many doors with international leaders.

Interaction with God

President Benson’s relationship with Deity is hallmarked by humility and dedication to the word of God as revealed in holy writ, particularly the Book of Mormon.

Social Situation

During President Benson’s time of God’s prophet, he was able to negotiate the dedication of a temple in the German Democratic Republic and the presence of missionaries in the same in 1985 and 1989, respectively. In November 1989, the boundaries between eastern and western Europe came down. Though President Benson’s accomplishments are many, none are more critical than the spiritual influence he exerted in behalf of the Saints in those countries, including down to this day.

Key Teachings

The Book of Mormon is the keystone to our religion, and we must remain true to the witness that it bears of Jesus Christ.