Pres. Monson marks his 79th birthday

President Thomas S. Monson, first counselor in the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, will celebrate his 79th birthday today.

"It will be a work day as usual," on his birthday, according to LDS Church spokesman Dale Bills. "Monday evening President Monson and his wife, Frances, plan to celebrate at home with their children and grandchildren."

He was born on Aug. 21, 1927, in Salt Lake City to G. Spencer and Gladys Condie Monson.

President Monson was set apart as first counselor to President Gordon B. Hinckley on March 12, 1995. He also was set apart as president of the Quorum of the Twelve on that date.

He had previously been set apart as second counselor to President Howard W. Hunter on June 5, 1994, and as second counselor to President Ezra Taft Benson on Nov. 10, 1985.

President Monson was sustained to the Quorum of the Twelve on Oct. 4, 1963, and ordained an apostle on Oct. 10, 1963, at age 36.

Before being called as a general authority, he was general manager of Deseret Press. He began employment with the Deseret News in 1948 as an advertising executive and was later chairman of the board for the Deseret News for 19 years.

President Monson also served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, was ordained a bishop at age 22 in Salt Lake City and was called as president of the Canadian Mission in 1959.