Spencer W. Kimball

Spencer W. Kimball was the twelfth President of the LDS Church, serving from 1973 to 1985. Born in Salt Lake City but raised in Arizona, Kimball worked as a bank clerk and businessman before his call to the apostleship in 1943. He is famous for authoring “The Miracle of Forgiveness” (1969), an influential but controversial book on repentance that has been criticized for its harsh treatment of sexual sin, particularly regarding homosexuality and masturbation.

Kimball’s presidency was marked by dramatic changes. Most significantly, in June 1978 he announced Official Declaration 2, which reversed the long-standing ban on Black men holding the priesthood and Black members receiving temple ordinances. This revelation came after years of pressure and Kimball’s own personal struggle with the issue. The announcement fundamentally changed the church’s global possibilities.

Under Kimball, the church dramatically expanded its missionary force (he set a goal for every young man to serve) and temple building program. He reorganized the First Quorum of the Seventy and expanded general conference to include Saturday sessions. His phrase “Lengthen your stride” became a rallying cry.

His final years were marked by declining health, including throat cancer that required surgery affecting his voice, brain surgery, and heart problems. Critics noted the church was essentially run by counselors during his incapacity. He died in 1985 after 12 years as president.