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Thomas S. Monson named as new LDS Church president

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Darlene in Japan | 3:31 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
We are so excited and honored to support our new Prophet, Thomas S. Monson. I'm grateful that Henry B. Eyring was called. The Primary sisters must have something going on ;), because I, too, have felt the inspiration that Elder Uchtdorf would be called. What a deeply spiritual leadership we have in the Church of Jesus Christ...they are indeed called by Him.

Our love and prayers to the first Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
Courtneygirl | 3:33 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
I turned 8 and was baptized last June. I think President Monson is as nice as President Hinckley was, and I am excited to have him as our new Prophet and I know his counselors are as nice as he is
Frances Marsing, Eagle Point, Or | 3:42 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
I am always happy as a member of this wonderful church. A convert now of many,(46), years. I never cease to benefit from the counsel of the Lord's annointed.
I am so blessed as I listen to the smooth and well prepared transition from President Gorden B. Hinkley, our beloved prophet, to President Thomas S. Monson, our prophet. I am sure in my heart that his counselors, President Henry B. Eryring, and President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, have been called to their position by the Lord himself.
I would like to add my testimony to those which have already been born. I know, beyond faith, this church is true and is lead by a prophet called of the Lord. I Know President Gordon B. Hinkley, is indeed a prophet and will continue to serve the Lord. I am certain the leadership will continue according to the Lord's will. I pledge my continued support to the new presidency and to this wonderful church. I hope someday to serve a mission call.
Comments continue below
Joe Mama | 3:43 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
To Light,

If you want to sound off in a negative light, go sound off on the Trib. However, your negative criticism will be drowned out by all the other mormon-haters who feel the need to spew hatred and evil every chance they get.

And, to the moderator, thank you for your "control" of this board so we don't have to put up with all the hate comments.
Manuela Teixeira, Switzerland | 3:44 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
I knew Pres Uchtdorf would be part of the presidency. Dear Cool guy, as U know, officers of the Church are called by God, it is not a matter of statistics. So be happy that we have men of God guiding us and that it is not men that counsel the Lord on how to accomplish His wonderfull work and glory... Regards.

I pray that I will love them as I love Pres Hinckley. I know the Church is true and love to be part of this glorious kingdom of God. ;-)

Susan | 3:38 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
Angry Steve, thanks for a good laugh out loud chuckle. I am looking forward to some good stories from the Black Forest in Germany unstead of "Payson farm stories" myself.
From a farm girl in Payson!
Chad K | 3:45 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
We thank thee oh God for a Prohet to guide us in these latter-days.

I'm greatful for President Monson & his counselors. my family will pray for them in thier new callings.
Barbie | 4:01 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
I couldn't agree more with those who wrote in support of our new presidency. My heart is full of love for His gospel of order. I am at peace knowing we are led by a prohet who listens to the whisperings of the Spirit. May we also listen!!
sb | 4:08 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
I don't quite know how to express what I feel, but I am grateful for what is taking place. The Lord is directing this work and will bless those he has called as well as those who follow the counsel that is taught to us.
Okie | 4:15 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
How wonderful to learn of the new Church Presidency. These are wonderful leaders. I have always loved to hear Pres. Monson speak. he has been a firm leader in the church for so MANY years. Someone asked where he gone on his mission. He went into the service during WW2 and came home and met his wife and married. He was in his late 20's early 30's when called to be a mission Pres. in Canada. What a wonderful, special person he was to be called so young. And Brother Uchtdorf is the first one in the First Presidency that wasn't of pioneer stock? Is that right? How special that is. I love to hear him and Pres. Eyring speak. All three of them have special gifts to share with us as members of this true church.
David in CA | 4:15 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
It's a Great New First Presidency!!

Brother Monson has been a Great Leader for a looong
time. How many 22 year old Bishops do you see?

Good choices for Counselors. The Lord of course
was behind the decisions... Both Great "Spiritual
Giants".... just listen to the feeling behind their
words at General Conference...

All three members of our New First Presidency
are men who know How to pray effectively and live
and make choices by the Spirit. They know how
"To Talk to God"!

It's sad that President Hinckley has left us and moved to the other side of the veil, But the
Church is Still very much Alive
and in Good Hands!!

It's the Lord Jesus' Church. He Guides it and He
Directs it. He's the Captain!

Praise the Lord!
hhsnyder Of Mtn View, CA | 4:21 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
What an inspired presidency!!!!! Had just talked about the caaling of a new presidency w/our home teacher-bishop last night. I expressed HOW excited I was for the prospects of a new "era" and how I would be so happy w/the choices that would come about unanimously through revelation!! I know the entire Quorum is "off and running"; no time to waste as this is the Lord's work . God bless President Monson and his counselors. Lets rededicate ourselves to serve them where ever they ask us .
member in Illinois | 4:21 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
Wasn't it interesting to see Mitt Romney, Harry Reid and Mike Leavitt at GBH's funeral. I know that Pres. Monson is called of god. I thank the Lord for allowing me to live in the greatest era of Church history ever. President Hinckley was probably the greatest prophet im this dispensation next to Joseph Smith. I think that Monson will be one of the best as well.
Proud LDS | 4:47 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
"We claim the privilege of worshipping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privelege. Let them worship how, where, or what they may"

To everyone reading these posts, please know that we are ALL children of a loving God. Words of hate are not appropriate here, but I welcome positive thoughts/questions from anyone.

May God bless us all and bless our new Presidency!
Flying Eutychus | 4:48 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
I'll just add my testimony that Presidents Monson, Eyring, and Uchtdorf have been called of God to lead Christ's church.
DP Alaska | 4:53 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
What happens if you don't sustain the first presidency? Does anyone keep track? Any negative consequence to your membership status?
Wonderful! | 5:00 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
I am so impressed that we have a German GA. Wow! this man is truly awesome! He will be good for our church. I love the Prophet Thomas Monson, and Elder Eyring. These three men are great and wonderful!.. Gods true chosen! We thank thee Oh God for a Prophet.

We will miss Prophet Hinckley as well. God bless our church and America.
Marianne in Texas | 4:57 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
I had chills when I read the article. Truly 3 great men.
Anonymous | 5:02 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
Now my husband and I can say that the prophet married us--40 years ago, that is! I have always admired President Monson's use of great literature in his talks and his wonderful sense of humor.
MEA | 5:03 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
It is such a comfort that the Lord can call a new Prophet and new Counselors without six months of caucuses, primaries or elections. A steady hand in an otherwise sea of change.
Anonymous | 5:23 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
These are interesting times. May God sustain the new First Presidency, it looks good to me. The first Prophet I remember had a beard (I am that old) and I have lived through all of the others.

It is also interesting that a convert is now at the highest level.
CA LDS Librarian | 5:24 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
In my tiny office off the school library, I have displayed a picture of President Hinckley since he was called as President of the Church. Now I have put the new First Presidency up, with their beaming faces, as a beacon to my LDS students and to anyone else who asks who they are. As soon as the official portrait of Pres Monson is available that will go up and carry on the tradition. We are truly the Lord's church led by His anointed Prophet.
nanny | 5:30 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
DP of Alaska,
Everyone has his or her free agency to either sustain or not to. However, the sustaining vote will out weigh the ones who are against.

We are grateful for the new Presidency. My nationality is English, German and French.
nyau | 5:40 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
i wonder what the primary song follow the prophet will be like now!!!
Cora, Chicago IL | 5:37 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
The Lord has spoken and whom the Lord calls He also qualifies. President Hinckley will be sorely missed, I love him dearly and feel his abbsence. I have no doubts in President Monson's ability to lead us, (The Lord's Church) in these latter days. He was pre-ordained for this mission. It is a blessing to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Praise God.
Humbled | 5:37 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
What great news to the World! What an amazing time to be alive. I give thanks to the Lord for allowing us to have Prophets on the Earth.
R-Roo | 5:40 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
It is wonderful to feel such peace about what the world would view as a major change. Its even better to know that the peace comes from the Lord. :) I feel so happy and excited. We are all very blessed to be part of the church
PBA, NC | 5:45 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
We are so... excited about Pres. Monson calling Elder Eyring and Elder Uchtdorf.
Its comforting to know that any of the twelve could serve well. We love being members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Thanks for all you do!!
Elder Van Ballesteros | 5:57 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
For days, we here at PHILIPPINES CAGAYAN DE ORO MISSION somewhat find the challenge to tell our investigators when we teach about the restoration of the gospel that we have a living Prophet, that the church is being Presided by the living prophet of which God has called.

Now, indeed we have a living prophet.
Tai H. | 6:03 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
Whom the Lord calls, he qualifies.

All 14 apostles are special witnesses.
Wow, President Monson | 6:12 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
Shocker...

I'm glad they held a newsconference.

I could have sworn they would have called someone not already in the 12...
Shauna | 6:14 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
I need to add my support and staining vote. I know that this is right for the church and for the world. May these men be continually blessed as they do the Lords work each day. I have always thought the best of President Monson and I Love Pres. Erying and Pres. Uchtdorf. They are insired and they will do the Lords work that He has for them to do. My God bless them and their families.
Diane | 6:24 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
Rejoice in this! The lord has called his chosen ones.
The Cuevas Family | 6:35 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
We thank thee of God for a prophet to guide us in these latter days. What a wonderful First Presidency. We sustain you with our hearts and hands.
Helen | 6:35 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
Pres Monson was the mision president in the Toronto Canada mission.
When he was called as a GA at the young age of thirty something, my mother said 'He will be the President some day' and now he is.
It is humblng to know that Jesus Christ is the Head of our Church
Men of stature | 6:35 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
They are all very tall distinguished men. Does anyone know which of the three is the tallest?
guam bomb | 6:42 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
finally, someone from outside the bubble. Maybe the era of gospel colonialism is coming to an end.
E.M.H. | 7:09 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
I loved President Hinckley and was sad at his passing, at the same time great joy of peace came to me. I knew he missed his dear wife, and I was happy to know they are now together again.
The Lord's work must go on, and it is. I'll pray for the new Presidency who will serve the Lord as well as President Hinckley did.
Mormon Girl | 7:11 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
Thats so cool! They will all make a wonderful First Presidency. Although I have a special place in my heart for President Hinckley, I know I will grow to love President Monson and his counselors as well. I'm just so thankful to be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Fredd | 7:17 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
I see no revelation or inspiration in this. The LDS church simply uses seniority. One can look at the age and time or ordination of the apostles and guess pretty accurately who will succeed Monson. No God's hand leading the church. Just a bunch of old white guys. You use circular logic when you say God "qualifies those he calls". If that's the case then it doesn't matter who he calls.
Bert from Aus | 7:22 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
We are truly blessed to be led by three men of such compassion, humilty and love. Let's listen and follow.
Mary | 7:23 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
To A Long-Inactive Member: I've read many replies to your questions and I must respond as well. Forget those who throw questions at you, as if you are being flippant. As someone who was once inactive, I understand what you are talking about. Sometimes our own brick walls prevent us from seeing things and it takes something "special" to come along and break them down. I hope that the call of the new Presidency will be that "something special" to break down your wall. I will personally send you that special invitation to come back, if you feel the time is right. If not, let me know when the time is right, and I'll send it to you then. Only you will know when and what it will take. God Bless You and good luck in your search for the path.
Paulette (Dubeau) Jenkinson | 7:31 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
I am thrilled for our new First Presidency. President Monson became our Mission President in Canada just shortly before I was baptized into the church, so he has always had a soft spot in my heart. I know that he and his counselors are inspired of the Lord and that the Church is in good hands. "As I sang for Pres. Monson as a youth "I'll Go Where You Want Me To Go", I now pledge to do the same in service in the Lord's kingdom. I will pray for and sustain this new prsidency and their families. Pres. Eyring and Pres. Uchtdorf are great men with strong testimonies
and deep love for our Heavenly Father and our beloved Saviour. Great things will take place under their leadership.
Pres. Monson's former home teacher, Richard, sends his love as well.
Darlene in Japan | 7:36 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
Frances Marsing,

Are you related to the Marsing's from Marsing, ID? I grew up there and just wondered if you might be related?

I also Lived in Payson, UT...actually in Spring Lake, (a suburb of Payson :)) when my 3 oldest children were little, and I loved it there and was mothered by some wonderful older sisters. My stories are quite heart-warming.

Can't wait until conference. "We Thank Thee O God For A Prophet"
Clare | 7:37 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
Fredd,

Do you see revelation or inspiration in anything? Are you a believer in such things, or not? An answer will certainly help me understand your comments.
Almost 60 | 7:43 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
I am so thankful to live in the United States of America. It is very obvious how blessed America is. I am so sad about the way we rip each other apart during these election cycles. Perhaps that turmoil is part of the cost of operating the country. I feel it is my duty to support and sustain the Local and General Authorities of the Church. As President Hinckly has advised, we need to get out of bed, put our shoes on and get to work. Thanks to the Deseret News for providing a forum to express our opinions.
John Lambert, Sterling Heights | 7:54 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
To Thayne,
The aposlte who has been a member of the quorum of the 12 the longest is always the next president of the church.
Despite having first began in America the LDS church has always had a goal of taking the gospel to all the world. In 1850 there were more church members in Britain than the United States. From 1880-1887 the president of the church was John Taylor, a man who had grown up in Britain and joined the church in Canada. His first counselor in the First Presidency was George Q. Cannon, his wife's nephew who was born in Liverpool and whose parents had been baptized by John Taylor there.
When Joseph F. Smith became president of the church in 1901 his counselors were John R. Winder, a native of England and Anthon H. Lund, a native of Denmark.
Today over half of the church membership lives outside of the United States. Even though there are only 37,000 Church members in Germany, we must remember that the leaders of the church represent the Lord to his people not the other way.
cher | 7:57 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
We have been blessed to have known Pres. Hinckley and his counselors. They are so loved by all. What an example to the world. Pres. will be missed. Words.. love, teacher, example, caring, testimony of the Savior aresome to describe Pres. HinckleyOn Now we are blessed to have the new presidency with Pres.Monson as our Prophet with
Pres. Eyring and Pres. Uchtdorf as counselors. We are so blessed. What spiritual and loving men. They care so much about all people. They teach by examples
Fredd | 8:02 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
Clare,
Yes I do see inspiration in things. Art, music, philosophy, nature, and many other things. I don't find inspiration in the appointment by seniority of a leader. I do not believe you sustain your leaders, you rubber stamp decisions made by those appointed over you. I obviously am not a believer in your religion, but I thought the election of Pope John Paul II was inspired. I think Gen Patraeus is inspired. Monson may be a great leader for you and lead your church to record growth, but his method of election is not inspired (to me).
Vanessa of Washington | 8:11 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
I am so excited for our new 1st Presidency. I am sure that our past prophets, those of old and those of this dispensation, are smiling from ear to ear with joy. I can not be more pleased. President Monson has always been such a light in my life, the messages of President Eyring has always inspired me in my callings, and the heartfelt words by President Uchtdorf has often melted my heart and brought joyful tears to my eyes. The spirit of God will shine brightly upon all of us, for all of their testimonies will lift us to better places, helping us Be the Best we can Be. We will Be globally unified, just as the Lord would have us Be.

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President Thomas S. Monson, center, has been ordained and set apart as the 16th president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the church announced Monday. President Henry B. Eyring, left, and President Dieter F. Uchtdorf were named as first and second counselors, respectively, in the First Presidency.

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