Russell M. Nelson's Presidency
Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, pushed the church away from the nickname 'Mormons', a term that has shaped Americans' view of the church for 200 years.
Nelson, a former heart surgeon and longtime church leader, became president in 2018 at the age of 93. Despite his advanced years, he proved to be an energetic leader, stating
"Eat your vitamin pills. It's going to be exciting."during a visit to South America.
Key reforms during his tenure included streamlining bureaucracy, taking steps toward gender equity, and ending the church's century-long relationship with the Boy Scouts. However, he also reaffirmed the church's opposition to LGBTQ+ relationships and identities.
Russell M. Nelson passed away on September 27, 2025, at the age of 101, leaving a legacy as a consequential reformer.
Author's summary: Nelson led significant reforms in the church.