Key Takeaways
- Jeffrey R. Holland, a high-ranking official in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has passed away at the age of 85 due to complications from kidney disease.
- Holland was the next in line to become the faith’s president and led the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, which helps set church policy and oversees the church’s business interests.
- His death leaves a vacancy in the Quorum of the Twelve that will be filled by President Dallin H. Oaks in the coming months.
- Holland was a prominent figure in the church and was known for his leadership and advocacy on various issues, including his support for traditional marriage and his efforts to improve interfaith relations.
Introduction to Jeffrey R. Holland
Jeffrey R. Holland, a high-ranking official in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has died at the age of 85. Holland was a prominent figure in the church and played a significant role in shaping its policies and practices. He was the next in line to become the faith’s president and led the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, which is responsible for setting church policy and overseeing the church’s business interests. Holland’s death has left a vacancy in the Quorum of the Twelve, which will be filled by President Dallin H. Oaks in the coming months.
Holland’s Background and Career
Holland grew up in St. George, Utah, and worked in education administration for many years before being called to join the church’s leadership. He served as the ninth president of Brigham Young University, the church’s flagship school, from 1980 to 1989. During his tenure, Holland worked to improve interfaith relations and established a satellite campus in Jerusalem. His efforts to foster greater understanding between Christian and Jewish communities were recognized by the Anti-Defamation League, which awarded him the Torch of Liberty Award. Holland’s leadership and vision had a lasting impact on the church and its educational institutions.
Holland’s Leadership and Controversies
Holland was a strong advocate for the church’s teachings and was not afraid to speak out on contentious issues. In 2021, he delivered a speech in which he called on church members to take up metaphorical muskets in defense of the faith’s teachings against same-sex marriage. The speech, known colloquially as "the musket fire speech," became required reading for Brigham Young University freshmen in 2024, raising concerns among LGBTQ+ students and advocates. Holland’s stance on same-sex marriage was seen as divisive by some, but it reflected his commitment to upholding the church’s traditional teachings.
Holland’s Legacy and Impact
Holland’s death has left a significant void in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was a respected leader and a tireless advocate for the church’s values and principles. His efforts to improve interfaith relations and promote greater understanding between different communities have had a lasting impact. While his views on same-sex marriage were controversial, they reflected his deep commitment to the church’s teachings and his desire to defend them. Holland’s legacy will be remembered for generations to come, and his contributions to the church will continue to shape its policies and practices.
The Future of the Church
With Holland’s death, Henry B. Eyring, who is 92 and one of Oaks’ two top counselors, is now next in line for the presidency. The vacancy in the Quorum of the Twelve will be filled by President Oaks in the coming months, likely by calling a new apostle from a lower-tier leadership council. The church’s succession plan is well established, and the transition is expected to be smooth. However, the loss of Holland’s leadership and experience will be felt, and it will be interesting to see how the church navigates the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Conclusion
Jeffrey R. Holland’s passing has sent shockwaves throughout the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His leadership, vision, and commitment to the church’s teachings have left a lasting impact. While his views on certain issues were controversial, they reflected his deep devotion to the church and its principles. As the church moves forward, it will be important to remember Holland’s legacy and continue to build on the foundations he laid. His death is a reminder that the church is not just an institution, but a community of people who are united by their faith and their commitment to one another.