Lifespan

Born June 23, 1910 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Died January 27, 2008 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Ministry

Gordon B. Hinckley was baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at the age of eight in 1919. From 1933 to 1935 he served a full-time mission in Great Britain. Upon his return, he became employed by the Church, where he worked for the next 22 years. At age 47, he was ordained an Assistant to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Four years later he was ordained an Apostle, and from 1981 to 1995, he served as Counselor to Presidents Spencer W. Kimball, Ezra Taft Benson, and Howard W. Hunter. In 1995, at age 84, he was sustained as President of the Church, until his passing on January 27, 2008.

Preparation and Calling

Few prophets have been as prepared administratively as has Gordon B. Hinckley. Twenty-two years of Church employment developing and supporting various Church programs followed by 37 years as a General Authority of the Church, including 14 years in the First Presidency gave him much experience in the programs and administration of Church affairs. In addition, his background in journalism and public affairs, combined with a natural optimism and quick wit, served him well in dealing more closely with media people than any prophet before him.

Interaction with God

Much of President Hinckley’s administration has been hallmarked by the use of councils to discuss thoroughly inspired ideas, which are brought forward only when all members of the council reach unanimity and full accord with those ideas. He has provided leaders an example of allowing the Spirit to work on others in order to perfect a quiet inspiration into a full-fledged plan of action.

Social Situation

President Hinckley has done much to bring the Church out of obscurity and into the warm light of public recognition.

Key Teachings

Gordon B. Hinckley’s teachings as God’s prophet on earth have been centered on optimistically pressing forward to do the will of the Lord. He has visited every continent except Antarctica, met with Saints in over 50 countries, and encouraged people everywhere to always be a little better than they were before.