SALT LAKE CITY – Friday marks the 50th anniversary of the calling of Thomas S. Monson to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
Monson currently serves as the president of the LDS church; he was called to that position following the passing of Gordon B. Hinckley in 2008.
Monson was just 36 years old when his call was extended, which makes him one of the youngest apostles the LDS church has ever called.
During the last 50 years, Monson has served as a counselor to three LDS church presidents, overseen the work of the church in Europe and used his printing skills to direct the republication of the church’s scriptures.
In his first talk in an LDS General Conference, held Oct. 10, 1963, Monson said:
“I pledge my life and all that I may have. I will strive to the utmost of my ability to be what you would want me to be.”
