The job of a Mormon apostle

An apostle testifies of Jesus Christ. That was the purpose of the apostles in ancient times after Jesus died as well as today. There are typically 15 men set apart or given the priesthood authority and office to be apostles for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: a quorum of twelve and three members of the First Presidency. They are given assignments for leadership around the world and often speak at worldwide and smaller group conferences. They are not perfect men, but they are committed to living the gospel of Jesus Christ, testifying of the reality of Jesus Christ, and teaching the people of the world today what they need to know to return to live with our Heavenly Father. Just like each of us, the apostles have different personalities and while we are not supposed to have favorites as we don't have favorite children, I do feel a closeness to some more than others because of the way they present their messages. One of those I feel a connection with is Elder Richard G. Scott. He spoke at a devotional at Ricks College when I was a student there. I bought a tape of his talk and listened to it over and over. He had a deep understanding of suffering and his slow, quiet tone and message soothed my heart and mind.

Elder Scott died today. He was 86 years old. I'm sure he and his wife are rejoicing in heaven as they are reunited.

Now we have only 12 apostles. Since our last general conference, a worldwide meeting held twice a year, three apostles have died: Elder L. Tom Perry, Elder Boyd K. Packer, and Elder Richard G. Scott. As a church we anticipate the calling of three new apostles during our October conference. These men will join with the twelve still in place to testify of Jesus Christ. I am looking forward to their personalities coming through in their talks and being inspired by the leaders the Lord has chosen now to represent Him.