David O. McKay, Ninth President of the Church

Born on September 8, 1873, David O. McKay spent his youth in Huntsville, Utah. He studied at the Weber Stake Academy and the University of Utah to prepare for a career in education. After completing formal schooling and a mission, he married his college sweetheart, Emma Ray Riggs, in 1901. Five years later, at the age of 32, he was called as an Apostle, beginning a life of service in the Church’s highest councils. He was sustained as President of the Church on April 9, 1951. He expanded the vision of the Church’s worldwide mission, and under his administration the first stakes were created outside of the United States. He also strengthened Church membership with a renewed emphasis on the value of family life and education. After 44 years in the Quorum of the Twelve and 19 as Church President, David O. McKay died on January 18, 1970, in Salt Lake City at the age of 96.

David O. McKay Videos

Testimony of David O. McKay
In his own recorded voice, President McKay testifies that he who presides over the Church must be in tune with the head of the Church, even Jesus Christ. (1:13)
Preparation of David O. McKay: The Value of Education
Young David O. McKay excels in learning and chooses a career in education. (1:00)
Preparation of David O. McKay: A Mission Experience
As a young missionary in Scotland, David O. McKay finds the stone inscription “Whate’er thou art, act well thy part.” (1:44)
Preparation of David O. McKay: The Teachings and Example of Good Parents
As a young boy, David is taught the power of prayer, the importance of service, and the existence of God. (2:00)
Ministry of David O. McKay: The Beginnings of a World-wide Church
As an Apostle, David O. McKay is called upon to visit Church wards, branches, missions, and stakes throughout the world. (2:13)
Ministry of David O. McKay: Temples Throughout the World
President David O. McKay is a temple builder and invites members of the Church to stay in their native lands and build up the Church where they live. (1:29)
Ministry of David O. McKay: Church Correlation
Under the direction of Apostle David O. McKay, the Church begins its efforts to correlate the work of the priesthood, the auxiliaries, and education within the Church. (2:00)
Teachings of David O. McKay: Spirituality
President David O. McKay teaches the importance of growing closer to God and aligning our desires and will with His. (1:47)
Teachings of David O. McKay: Every Member a Missionary
President McKay reminds every member of his or her responsibility to live and preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. (1:43)
Teachings of David O. McKay: The Importance of a Strong Family
President David O. McKay teaches that no other success can compensate for failure in the home. (2:07)

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