Spencer W. Kimball

Prophets of the Restoration

Spencer W. Kimball, 12th President of the Church

Born on March 28, 1895, in Salt Lake City, Spencer W. Kimball grew up in Thatcher, Arizona. After completing a mission and marrying Camilla Eyring, he settled in Safford, Arizona, to raise his family and run an insurance business. Years of Church and community leadership preceded his calling as an Apostle in 1943. Overcoming severe health problems, he became 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. He died in Salt Lake City on November 5, 1985.

Spencer W. Kimball Videos

Testimony of Spencer W. Kimball
President Spencer W. Kimball testifies of the truthfulness of the gospel and the reality of God the Father and Jesus Christ, His Son. (1:34)
Preparation of Spencer W. Kimball: His Call to the Apostleship
With his call to the apostleship, Elder Kimball speaks of his wrestle with the Lord and the final peace that accompanied his sense of inadequacy. (1:36)
Preparation of Spencer W. Kimball: Perfect Attendance at Primary
Young Spencer Kimball senses the importance of spiritual priorities, making Primary attendance a worthy goal. (0:55)
Preparation of Spencer W. Kimball: A Young Boy Reads the Entire Bible
As a boy, Spencer W. Kimball accepts the challenge of a visiting General Authority to read the entire Bible. (1:23)
Preparation of Spencer W. Kimball: Prepared to Become a Great Leader
Spencer W. Kimball is prepared from childhood to become a leader in the Church. (1:26)
Ministry of Spencer W. Kimball: The Priesthood to All Worthy Men
President Spencer W. Kimball describes the sacred details surrounding the revelation that the priesthood would be available to all worthy males. (2:16)
Ministry of Spencer W. Kimball: An Apostle to the Lamanites
Spencer W. Kimball oversees Church programs that will bless the lives of Native Americans. (1:34)
Ministry of Spencer W. Kimball: Expanded Missionary Force
President Kimball invites all to “lengthen their stride” when it comes to missionary work. (1:19)
Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball: Repentance and Forgiveness
Spencer W. Kimball authors the book The Miracle of Forgiveness. (1:08)
Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball: Man of Compassion
Elder Spencer W. Kimball blesses a tiny Native American boy in Denver, Colorado. (0:56)

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Prophets of the Restoration