Born August 21, 1927 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Ministry

Thomas S. Monson was sustained as a ward bishop at the age of 22. He also served at a relatively young age in the Temple View Stake in Salt Lake City, Utah. In 1959, he was called to serve as president of the Canadian Mission. In 1963, at the age of 36, he was ordained an Apostle of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and was set apart as second counselor in the Church’s First Presidency in 1985 and as first counselor in 1995. In February 2008, Thomas S. Monson was sustained as President of the Church.

Preparation and Calling

At the young age of 22, Thomas S. Monson was ordained to be a bishop. His ward had a significant number of widows, and Bishop Monson learned much about caring for the elderly and the lonely at an early age. He was still in his 20s when he was called to serve in the Temple View Stake Presidency, and age 32 was called to be a mission president in Canada. At age 36, he was ordained an Apostle. When he was sustained as President of the Church, he had been serving as a counselor in the First Presidency for over 20 years.

Interaction with God

President Monson’s relationship with Deity seems to be simple but powerful. As he serves those in need and goes about the Lord’s business, God blesses him with His all-powerful Spirit. His ministry is one of service and influence among those judged by the world as both great and small.

Social Situation

The world is facing political challenges at every corner. Socio-religious conflicts run rampant in many societies. One of the greatest challenges of the generation is the availability of pornography via the home or the computer. At the same time, volunteerism and general optimism in a brighter future are generally on the rise.

See also: thomasmonson.com