Reader comments
Remembering President James E. Faust
86 comments | Read story
Shaun Williams | 3:50 a.m. Aug. 11, 2007
I am impressed with the life and times of President James E. Faust and the
insight the article gives only confirms the love and admiration and great
respect I had for President Faust. I know that he will be greatly missed by the
entire church who unitedly loved him and even now hold his memory dear to their
hearts in both thought and prayer.
Michelle Olsen | 5:40 a.m. Aug. 11, 2007
Some years ago, I ran into President Faust in the line at the Lion House
cafeteria. I was working as a camp counselor and ten or so girls and I were
eating lunch there. President Faust took time to speak with me and the girls.
He was genuinely warm and genuinely caring. He had time to be kind!
Matthew Sherlock | 5:57 a.m. Aug. 11, 2007
What a wonderful article. Truly a remarkable man. They broke the mold when
they made President Faust. May the Lord be with his family. We Saints in
Canada are mourning this loss as well. God be with you til we meet again!
Comments continue below
Anonymous | 6:24 a.m. Aug. 11, 2007
Elder Faust was a great world religious leader, with wisdom and strength that
transcends denominational affiliation. His recent discourse on
"Forgiveness" is one of the great sermons in Christendom, and is a
shining example of one of the fundamental principles of the Gospel of Jesus
Christ. Rest in sweet peace, James Faust -- you have fought the good fight.
Brent Burgoyne | 7:23 a.m. Aug. 11, 2007
President Faust is a superb example of how men grow to their full stature if
they will just let the enabling power of the Atonement work on them. I have
carefully studied his life and I love him for living as he did and for enduring
to the end. God bless you, James Esdras Faust!
Duane L. Madsen | 7:28 a.m. Aug. 11, 2007
The phrase when a great man dies a library burns is so very appropriate. Our
loss is great but the rejoicing is greater.
Ralph Becker | 7:51 a.m. Aug. 11, 2007
President James Faust was a spiritual giant. As a Memory Grove resident we got
to know him as Jim, a kindly gentleman who daily walked through our neighborhood
and park, interested in the lives of all of his neighbors; only later, from
someone else, did we learn of his stature. He was always quick to laugh, share
humble wisdom, and join in neighborly gatherings. When Memory Grove was
rededicated following the '83 floods and reconstruction, we shared an
ongoing joke by having me give the invocation and him give the dedicatory
remarks. In his inimitable way when I was a little intimidated by the task and
asked him what I should say, President Faust said, "Awww, Ralph, just speak
from your heart and you'll do fine." His memory in Memory Grove and
everyone he touched will always live on. Representative Ralph Becker
Gemma Godivala | 8:27 a.m. Aug. 11, 2007
President Faust's profound wisdom and gentle demeanour will be missed all
over the world. Our prayers are with his family and his brethren.
Gilvan Moreira | 9:04 a.m. Aug. 11, 2007
Queria Expressar meus sentimentos a respeito da morte do irmao James E.
Faust.
Deixo minhas condolecias a sua familia.
Deixo minhas condolecias a sua familia.
Lou | 9:21 a.m. Aug. 11, 2007
President Faust, or Uncle Jim, in all his roles was a great man and a spiritual
giant. He treated me, and my children as family (even though it's my wife
that's the true angle and relative). He was always open to a visit or a
phone call. He often counseled me in the kindest gentlest way. If I
didn't know better it would be easy to mistake his words for friendly
conversation. He visited with my teenage daughter in his office in a meeting
that still brings tears to my eyes. I didn't tell him why we came to visit
him but before the end of the meeting I knew that his eyes were opened and he
provided the answer to my unspoken prayer. I'm not a Utah Morman and
I've always felt that Elder Faust was a true latter-day saint that fit his
proper role as a special witness to the entire world.
Richard Bowman | 9:22 a.m. Aug. 11, 2007
President Faust was an articulate and kind man whom I have admired for years. I
grew very fond of him after reading a number of his books and listening and
reading his conference talks over many years. He truly was a wise and skillfull
teacher. I can't help but wonder how President Hinckley feels about the
loss of his good friend of many years. What a great example he was of enduring
to the end. I, for one will miss him a lot!
Anonymous | 9:38 a.m. Aug. 11, 2007
President Faust had a way to attract the attention and concentration of our
children, especially our sons. He could always arrest their attention. WhenI
asked why, they all said; "because he is real, I believe him because he is
interested in me". None of my children have met him, but they know him.
Thank you for sharing him with all of us.
Tom Chambers | 9:53 a.m. Aug. 11, 2007
President Faust was a Great American, but most of all he was a humble man. He
was such an example to all the youth in the Church. He loved the Lord and his
fellow man. He was always ready to help and give a hand to all who needed him.
To Dave Markum I would say, I give arats about this Great Person and know that
he has pleased his Heavenly Father and gave his life teaching The Great Plan of
Happiness.
To President Faust family I say we loved him and will miss him greatly
To President Faust family I say we loved him and will miss him greatly
Sanford Loobins | 10:26 a.m. Aug. 11, 2007
We miss you President Faust. Stay busy and we'll see you when it's
our turn. Thanks for your example and good works!
Melissa | 10:32 a.m. Aug. 11, 2007
Isn't it sad that people can't be respectful at the time of
someone's passing. President Faust was a wonderful man and leader with
compassion for EVERYONE, even Dave Markum. He was a husband, father and
grandfather...they deserve respect in their time of mourning. If this was the
Pope or another leader of a religious group they too would deserve the same
respect.
Angel Youngblood-Chick | 10:40 a.m. Aug. 11, 2007
President Faust what a great example of a husband,father and Grandfather nothing
more needs to be said . He made the grade as a man by excelling in these areas
all other works pale in comparision. If more men in this world achieved this
then this world would be a better place. Love of family and God are all it takes
to be great. President Faust was GREAT because of this. My prayers are for those
left behind as he journeys forward to his reward.
Rui Caputi Ruz - Brasil | 11:16 a.m. Aug. 11, 2007
Um grande lider, um �timo exemplo de pai e chefe de
fam�lia. Vamos sentir SAUDADES de um dos maiores
brasileiros que j� habitaram essa terra.
Kathleen Paul | 11:39 a.m. Aug. 11, 2007
President Faust always had such a twinkle in his eyes when he smiled. I loved
all of his conference talks so much. I especially remember one he gave about
how to be happy even when terrible trials come our way. His testimony that we
can be happy if we love God and his Son Jesus Christ as we keep our covenants to
serve them has been my strength in times of difficulty. May his family be
comforted now and forever.
Bill Little - Texas | 11:39 a.m. Aug. 11, 2007
We love and miss you President Faust!
G�bor Balatoni | 11:57 a.m. Aug. 11, 2007
He is no more here to defend himself. And he wouldn't do it, for he knew
what was most important. If nothing more, we can still love him for the human he
was in this life. Great example for me personally.
Levi | 12:19 p.m. Aug. 11, 2007
Well, whatever your beliefs, he now KNOWS (and I mean KNOWS - not believes,
hopes or thinks) the 100% truth doesn't he?
Cheryl Pierce | 12:33 p.m. Aug. 11, 2007
He is a great man and as a convert I was very inspired by his wonderful spirit
and gentleness and kindness. My deepest sympathies to family and friends. Our
loss is heaven's gain.
Robert Jones | 1:30 p.m. Aug. 11, 2007
My heart is overwhelmed with a deep abiding love for one of my best friends.
Even though I never knew this divine man of God; Every time I ever heard him
speak, I felt as though I knew him personally, because I knew he was always
speaking directly to me; as well as counless souls. Every time he would say the
3 special words of "I love you", My eyes would become warm; as well as
my heart, because I knew with a surety that his love was real. I have always
considered him to be one of my best friends; and much like "Dad". I
love him more sincerely, than words can describe; and I will miss this wonderful
friend who I know as "Elder" James E. Faust. I pray the Lord's
Choicest blessings to be with his sweet family; as they go through the process
of a temporal farewell. God bless you all, and remember... Families are Eternal!
Love, Robert
Adimilson Velozo | 1:45 p.m. Aug. 11, 2007
Sentiremos a falta dos conselhos do Elder Faust.
Sabemos do amor que ele tinha pela obra, e tamb�m o empenho que ele dedicou a ela.
Sabemos que ele tem um lugar especial, nas ma��es celestiais ao lado do Pai Celestial e de Jesus Cristo, junto com os outros Profetas e Apostolos.
Que possamos nos Suds, fazermos a nossa parte neste curto periodo de tempo que temos aqui na terra, para sermos merecedores de um dia, podermos voltar a viver na presen�a de Deus e Jesus Cristo, juntamente com os grande lideres que por aqui passaram.
Sabemos do amor que ele tinha pela obra, e tamb�m o empenho que ele dedicou a ela.
Sabemos que ele tem um lugar especial, nas ma��es celestiais ao lado do Pai Celestial e de Jesus Cristo, junto com os outros Profetas e Apostolos.
Que possamos nos Suds, fazermos a nossa parte neste curto periodo de tempo que temos aqui na terra, para sermos merecedores de um dia, podermos voltar a viver na presen�a de Deus e Jesus Cristo, juntamente com os grande lideres que por aqui passaram.
Charlene | 1:58 p.m. Aug. 11, 2007
How can we have a First Presidency Christmas Talk in December without him? I
loved his stories about when he was a boy at Christmas. They were always so
tender and sweet. To imagine him as a little boy with his description of a
yearned for toy, only to steer the focus to a Gospel message appropriate to the
season. I will miss him and his sweet personality so much. His last article in
the Ensign, about Singles, shows a sensitivity and compassion for those who live
every day with heartache. What a wonderful example President Faust was to the
world and to the Church!
Defender of a Human | 3:57 p.m. Aug. 11, 2007
Elder Faust was just that--a human, and it is really important that we celebrate
the life of someone who chose to do things with his life that made the world a
better place for so many people.
So much of our time is spent discussing humans who didn't channel their time and talents in directions that blessed others.
To be cynical about President Faust's life of service is sad and I hope that we can all find the good in everyone and everything around us.
So much of our time is spent discussing humans who didn't channel their time and talents in directions that blessed others.
To be cynical about President Faust's life of service is sad and I hope that we can all find the good in everyone and everything around us.
Mary | 4:25 p.m. Aug. 11, 2007
Our Prayers and Heartfelt Love goes out to President Faust's family. He
Truly is the Example of Christlike Love and Concern that each of us understand
and use in our daily lifes., or at least we should! We have been Blessed to have
heard his many talkes and we are better peoole for knowing President Faust.
Thank You to Him and His Family. May Father in Heaven Bless His Family at this
time. "Families Are Forever" and we know that they will be together
again in the Eternities. He has always been an inspiring influence in our lifes
as my husband served in a Bishopric at age 23 and then as a Stake President in
the 1980's and again as Bishop in a Senior's ward with us being
Senior's ourself's. Life is Fragile!..Live each day as if it is our
last: Be Kind, Considerate and Understanding as this dear Servant of our Father
in Heaven has taught us.
WIth Love and Friendship Eternally..........
WIth Love and Friendship Eternally..........
jorge reynoso | 4:27 p.m. Aug. 11, 2007
ELDER FAUST HA SIDO DE GRAN INFLUENCIA EN LA VIDA DE MUCHOS EN MEXICO, SU VIDA
ES UN GRAN Y DIFIL EJEMPLO POR SEGUIR.
Elias - Curitiba - Brasil | 5:12 p.m. Aug. 11, 2007
Foi um grande lider. Foi um dos primeiros mission�rios aqui
em Curitiba. Seu sonho de termos um templo em nossa cidade
est� perto de tornar-se realidade. Sentiremos muito sua
falta na dedica��o de nosso templo.
Minhas condol�ncias � familia.
Jarom & Sarah Webster | 5:12 p.m. Aug. 11, 2007
Rest in peace President Faust. You are missed by many, including me and my
wife. Our sincerest condolences to the Faust family.
To the bitter few that spit on his grave: how pathetic that you lack respect for one of your fellow men. Enjoy your misery.
To the bitter few that spit on his grave: how pathetic that you lack respect for one of your fellow men. Enjoy your misery.
L Larson | 5:14 p.m. Aug. 11, 2007
To Mr. Markum and Mr. Steadman,
I have to admit to a measure of ignorance regarding the culture in Utah, but I found your comments disturbing. If James Faust was merely, as you put it, "human," your comments, sirs, were insensitive at best. If he was indeed as well regarded and respected as the other comments seem to indicate, your remarks were naive as well.
Then the question begs--if he was indeed what he professed, a spokesperson for a living God upon this earth, your comments gentlemen were, most profoundly, foolish.
The wisest of men can state, with confidence, their beliefs without needing to denigrate the beliefs of others.
We would all be fortunate to leave this life with a fraction of the love and admiration this man has garnered.
I have to admit to a measure of ignorance regarding the culture in Utah, but I found your comments disturbing. If James Faust was merely, as you put it, "human," your comments, sirs, were insensitive at best. If he was indeed as well regarded and respected as the other comments seem to indicate, your remarks were naive as well.
Then the question begs--if he was indeed what he professed, a spokesperson for a living God upon this earth, your comments gentlemen were, most profoundly, foolish.
The wisest of men can state, with confidence, their beliefs without needing to denigrate the beliefs of others.
We would all be fortunate to leave this life with a fraction of the love and admiration this man has garnered.
Aaron | 5:30 p.m. Aug. 11, 2007
Mr. Markum, what is the purpose of being here? Obviously a lot of people give a
rat's. Yes, he was human, but you wouldn't feel the need to point
that out if this were any other message board. Stop trying to provoke anger in
others who are mourning for someone they loved.
Pres. Craig & Karma Burtenshaw | 6:03 p.m. Aug. 11, 2007
Our love and condolences goes out to the families and associates of Pres. James
E. Faust, as we knew him best by that name. His hugs of embrace were full of
love of the Savior, his voice was strong and yet ever gentle as he bore solemn
testimony of Jesus Christ, and how a young boy, Joseph Smith saw and heard Him
and the Father. One memorable time for our young family of six was when we had
an exchange student from Brasil, named Lilianne. He came to Ricks College for a
Regional Conference, just prior in being Pres. Hinckley�s
counselor. After the meeting he graciously stayed for all to shake hands. When
he got to our non-member exchange student, he stopped and for 2 minutes bore a
powerful testimony to her of our Savior. Tears were shed by her and from all as
we felt the spirit of God through his words, although we knew not the language
it was spoken in.
We love your father, grandfather, husband. He truly is wrapped in the arms of our Savior. He will be missed by all, but his kindness and love and testimony of Jesus Christ will go on forever.
Pres. Craig A. and Sis Karma Burtenshaw of the Philippine Olongapo Mission
We love your father, grandfather, husband. He truly is wrapped in the arms of our Savior. He will be missed by all, but his kindness and love and testimony of Jesus Christ will go on forever.
Pres. Craig A. and Sis Karma Burtenshaw of the Philippine Olongapo Mission
Maria Postle | 6:04 p.m. Aug. 11, 2007
My Prayers and best go out to President Faust's family, We will miss him
very much. I have enjoyed his conference talks, they were truly spoken from a
man of God. Even though we know the Church is true, It hurts to lose one on this
side of the vail. Our hope is that we will live the kind of life we should, so
that we can be with our loved ones forever. May God Bless you always in the love
of the Lord.
Melvin Frances | 7:05 p.m. Aug. 11, 2007
Mr. Markum and Mr. Steadman
Your comments are disgusting and unacceptable. I forgive you.
Your comments are disgusting and unacceptable. I forgive you.
Duane Hansen | 7:12 p.m. Aug. 11, 2007
Here out East, we always enjoyed his warm smile and pithy talks at conference time.
God Bless his family and loved ones.
We all have been inspired by this giant of a good man.
Cary, NC
Kim Myers | 7:38 p.m. Aug. 11, 2007
It is too bad that when a forum like this one is provided to allow those who
have feelings about a wonderful man and leader speak their feelings and unite in
mourning (as people do about ANY human being), that someone anxious to get
attention interrupt with heartless thougths like Mr. Markum did. Let us feel the
loss together. There are times and places for his kind of talk, but this
isn't it.
E McEwen | 8:26 p.m. Aug. 11, 2007
Thank you L Larson for your wisdom. Your comments reflect the patient kindess
and tolerance that Elder Faust tried to teach us.
Leigh in Georgia | 8:53 p.m. Aug. 11, 2007
It seems that during such a tender time of loss and sadness, the editors could
choose to delete the hateful and hurtful comments such as those that have been
added. Mr Markum and his cohort must not have lost a loved one, or they would
find a more appropriate response to such a situation.
LVD | 11:00 p.m. Aug. 11, 2007
If the world had more people like President Faust, we would not have the
problems that now exist and divide us. He was a loving man who stood firm in
his beliefs, never to waiver. May God be with his family, and friends in this
time of mourning, yet also rejoicing in knowing where he is and what he is
doing.
Rusty & Danielle Butler | 6:42 a.m. Aug. 12, 2007
We have been with President Faust on several occasions over the years and can
make this statement: President Faust embodies love. He exudes love pure and
simple -- the love of Chirst. May his family be comforted.
Charles McHaley | 2:20 p.m. Aug. 12, 2007
In his eyes and in his voice I have seen and heard the Savior. Such tender love
I can never forget.
Carlota Uchi | 10:21 p.m. Aug. 12, 2007
i had a sweet dream the night before Pres. Faust died... i wasn't shock nor
surprised that it wolud happen...i understand the plan...Pres. Faust will be
dearly beloved...
"it's not goodbye but rather see you again"
"it's not goodbye but rather see you again"
Lotlot | 10:26 p.m. Aug. 12, 2007
The memory of his sweet face will always remain in heart and mind....he will
always be a dear teacher, leader and a friend...
Robert Just | 11:15 p.m. Aug. 12, 2007
Toronto, Canada. While I am not a member of the LDS faith, I had great
admiration for President Faust's delivery of an address. I have listened to
several general conference sessions he conducted and was always fascinated with
the many captivating stories he wove into his talks. I particularly enjoyed the
many recollections of his wartime experiences. When general conference time
comes in October, I shall definitely miss his vibrant voice. I shall tune in to
the service tomorrow. Thank you for such a thought-provoking tribute!
Brent Massey | 3:17 a.m. Aug. 13, 2007
Littleton Colorado.One Stake conference, years ago, President Faust was passing
through the crowd shaking hands and conversing with us. While shaking my hand he
started talking to others and stood there holding my hand for a couple of
minutes while he talked. His eyes were alive and bright while he talked. I loved
it and have never forgotten that moment. I felt blessed for that moment.
I'm not a young kid like you would think hearing this, I'll be 60 next
month. He has been my favorite general authority since that time. I will miss
that man. Thank you president Faust for being such a man as you were and are.
HUMBLE, ever so HUMBLE.
Susie Hodson | 4:45 a.m. Aug. 13, 2007
We've lost a great man - in both his secular and sacred lives. I have
always enjoyed his talks and articles. He loved the Church. He lived the
Church. He will be loved and missed by many until we see him again. President
Faust, have a pleasant slumber until we meet again.
Dawn R. in Idaho | 7:40 a.m. Aug. 13, 2007
I will greatly miss President Faust, although I didn't know him personally.
I enjoyed listening to him at General Conference when he addressed The
Lord's People. May the family who is left behind at this time be comforted
to know that he has graduated on to bigger and better things. He is now working
hand in hand with the Lord and Jesus Christ.
Don Wells in Colorado | 11:08 a.m. Aug. 13, 2007
Many years ago I was privileged to attend a meeting presided over by President
Faust in the San Francisco Bay area. At the time of the meeting, my bishop was a
bit disappointed in me because I had worn my dress cowboy boots in honor of
President Faust. Before the meeting and just after my Bishop complained that I
should have worn my "other" dress shoes. After the meeting we had the
opportunity to meet President Faust and speak to him. With my Bishop right by my
side I walked up to President Faust and introduced myself. Before I could
continue, President Faust looked down at my boots and said how nice they looked
and said he wished he had worn his because they were very comfortable. He stated
that he liked my taste in footwear and that he liked mine very much. Needless to
say, my Bishop was very embarassed. None of the other men who came with us that
day would let him live that moment down. From that day forward I always had a
special place in my heart for President Faust. His testimony and teaching will
be missed here on earth, but those who have moved on will be able to benefit
from his knowledge and wit. I will miss him very much.
Fam. Werve-Macias from Honduras | 12:30 p.m. Aug. 13, 2007
As we all LDS members knows, he's now in a better place than this, we loved
him because of the great example he was for everyone here in Honduras. My
condolences to his family, even though they know they'll see him again. We
appreciated him and of course, his teachings will last forever, this is how we
will always remember him!
Add your comment
Comments are monitored. Any comments found to be abusive, offensive, off-topic, misrepresentative, more than 200 words or containing URLs will not be posted.
Words Remaining
E-mail address: For internal use only. We may want to contact you to publish your comment (not your e-mail address) in the newspaper or for a separate story idea.
Related content
- Tiger opens with a 66 in Australia 1:18 a.m.
- Crash kills Utah County man 1:12 a.m.
- UCAT cheaper education option 1:12 a.m.
- Post office to be named for Rex Lee 1:11 a.m.
- Police probe synagogue vandalism 1:09 a.m.
- New charges added in fraud case 1:09 a.m.
- Mom takes plea deal in girl's beating 1:08 a.m.
- Drug trafficking operation busted 1:07 a.m.
- News yule writing contest starting up 12:59 a.m.
- Alpine District school honored 12:59 a.m.
- SLC council OKs gay rights policies
- Utah Jazz have a problem at point
- 'Love story' of crash victim ends
- BYU football recruit turning heads
- Alta's Ohai is Ms. Soccer 2009
- Prep football: Felt's Facts Week
- 12 Utes return to Texas
- Cougars' defensive hoops clinic
- Wyoming writer amazed by BYU
- Civilians help S.L. officer make arrest
- House passes health care bill
287 - SLC council OKs gay rights policies246
- TCU showdown has big implications193
- Senators want food tax restored157
- Cougars crush hapless Cowboys155
- Utah Jazz fall apart against Kings131
- TCU 4th in AP poll; U. 16th, Y. 22nd119
- S.L. vote pending on gay protections109
- Pratt pleads not guilty to sex charges101
- Letters: Strange breed in Utah92
This week, I'm compiling my annual list of restaurants serving...
Advertisement
Latest comments
Beck, Hannity, and Limbaugh get the audience they deserve and vice versa. ...
I find the rule,very discriminitory. I am not gay, I don't understand what...
I understand we were outmanned last night. However, this effort was awful....
My advice to Jonathan is shoot it when they pass it to you as soon as you...
Maybe they should try drafting a shooting guard who can shoot from outside ....
The sad thing about it is that there are actually people out there that are...
Thank you TCU and BYU. Your wanting to beat Utah so bad has to drive you...
Play fes and koufos. Look to the future. It looks like we will have two...
Oh come on. Obama's a horrible president, but I couldn't care less which...
"We had the best soccer of any place in the state. There's no disputing...
Advertisements