SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced the passing of its president, Russell M. Nelson, at the age of 101. Nelson died peacefully Saturday night around 10 p.m. in his Salt Lake City home, according to church officials.

Nelson led the church since January 14, 2018, during which time he announced 200 new temples and visited 32 countries and U.S. territories. His tenure was marked by significant changes, including allowing children of LGBT parents to be baptized and introducing a global youth program for members of the church.

Before his leadership role in the church, Nelson was a pioneering heart surgeon. He performed Utah's first open-heart surgery in 1955 and contributed to medical literature through various textbook chapters.

Nelson is survived

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