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 'Mormon', 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 and consequential reformer.
Visiting South America in 2018, he told members to "buckle up" and "eat your vitamin pills. It's going to be exciting."
During his tenure, Nelson streamlined bureaucracy, took steps toward gender equity, and ended the church's century-long relationship with the Boy Scouts. However, he 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 behind a legacy of significant reforms.
Author's summary: Nelson was a reformer who led the church in a new direction.