Spencer W. Kimball

Years of Church and community leadership preceded his calling as an Apostle on October 7, 1943. Overcoming severe health problems, he became the twelfth Church President on December 30, 1973, at the age of 78. He led the Church with spiritual power and energetic determination during a period of dramatic vitality and growth. His administration produced significant advances in doctrinal understanding, member unity, and gospel expansion worldwide. In the 12 years of his presidency, the number of operating temples doubled, the number of missionaries increased by 50 percent, and the priesthood was extended to all worthy male members. Ordained an apostle on 7 October 1943 and became the 12th President of the Church on 30 December 1973. (CH, Prophets of the Restoration)