Trump, Romney, church leaders, others mourn Monson, leader of LDS Church

MONSON

United States President, Donald Trump, have joined millions of American citizens to mourn leader of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Thomas Spencer Monson.

Monson, the 16th president of the church, died on Wednesday at 90 after overseeing the affairs of the church for 10 years,

In his tribute, Trump said: “While serving for over half a century in the leadership of his church, President Monson demonstrated wisdom, inspired leadership, and great compassion.”

Members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in their tribute stated: “We, the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, unitedly express our sincere sense of loss at the passing of President Thomas Spencer Monson. He was our prophet, our leader, our brother, and our dear friend.

“President Monson lived an exceptional life of service. He served as an apostle for more than 54 years, the last 10 years of which were as the president of the church. From his earliest days of church service to the very end of his faithful ministry, he never failed to bear witness, in word and deed, of the truth of the restored gospel and of the divinity of the Lord Jesus Christ. We will miss his wisdom, his leadership, his meaningful example, and his loving kindness.

“However, we rejoice in his reunion with his beloved Frances, with other family members who have gone before, and with the prophets of God who preceded him in death, with whom he now stands. As his fellow servants, we echo the words of the Master, ‘Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of thy Lord’ (Matthew 25:21).”

Member of the United States Congress from Utah, Rep. Mia Love, said: “Today, I give thanks for the life and example set by President Thomas S. Monson. His tireless, charitable service, cheerful demeanor, love of others and ministry touched millions of lives. He provided inspiration for Latter-day Saints throughout the world. God bless him and his family.”

Former Republican Party presidential candidate, Mitt Romney, said: “Thomas S. Monson walked where Jesus walked, lifting the downtrodden, comforting the wounded, healing the sick, brightening the lives of the lonely at heart. More even than his words of strength and inspiration, he will be remembered for the abundance of his love and the overflowing of his compassion for every one of God’s children. Ann and I and our family join the widows and orphans and homeless and countless others who today mourn the life of a true prophet of God and apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ.”

Another member of Congress from Utah, Rep. Rob Bishop, said: “President Monson’s service to Utah, the LDS Church, and the world is without equal. He will be greatly missed, and his influence will be felt for generations to come. I am heartened by the belief that his passing leads to a divine reunion with his wife, Frances. My thoughts today are with his family and the millions throughout the world in mourning.”

Lane Beattie, head of the Salt Lake Chamber, in his tribute said: “The state of Utah has lost a great Leader. President Monson’s influence has far exceeded his religious responsibilities, stewardship, and love for the Latter-day Saints around the world. He is truly a friend of all people. His willingness to work with all leaders and religions in the State of Utah has set him apart as a giant in our community. His love, compassion, and empathy have strengthened our entire state. His influence has added to the quality of life, economic development, and personal example that so many of us in Utah have benefited. He has spent his life in service to us all.”

Rev. Oscar Solis, bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Salt Lake City, stated: “On behalf of the Catholic community of the Diocese of Salt Lake City, I extend heartfelt condolences to the family, members of the First Presidency, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, other leaders and faithful of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on the death of President Monson.

“He joyfully served his church and the broader community selflessly and humbly for many years. The President has been a good friend and supporter in our mutual efforts to support the common good and care for the most vulnerable both at home and abroad.”

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