Spencer W. Kimball
Biography of Spencer W. Kimball
Full Name and Common Aliases
Full Name: Spencer Woolley Kimball
Common Aliases: President Kimball, Elder Kimball
Birth and Death Dates
Born: March 28, 1895
Died: November 5, 1985
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: American
Profession(s): Religious Leader, Author, Speaker
Early Life and Background
Spencer Woolley Kimball was born on March 28, 1895, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Andrew Kimball and Olive Woolley Kimball. Raised in a devout Latter-day Saint family, Spencer was instilled with strong religious values from a young age. His father served as a stake president, which influenced Spencer's early understanding of leadership and service within the church. The family moved to Thatcher, Arizona, where Spencer spent much of his childhood. He was known for his industrious nature, working on the family farm and excelling in his studies. Spencer attended Gila Academy, where he developed a love for music and public speaking, skills that would later serve him well in his religious duties.
Major Accomplishments
Spencer W. Kimball's life was marked by significant accomplishments, particularly within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). He was ordained an apostle in 1943, a role in which he served diligently for three decades. His most notable accomplishment came in 1973 when he became the 12th President of the LDS Church. Under his leadership, the church experienced significant growth and transformation. One of his most impactful decisions was the 1978 revelation that extended the priesthood to all worthy male members, regardless of race, a landmark moment in the church's history.
Notable Works or Actions
President Kimball was a prolific speaker and writer, known for his inspirational messages and teachings. His book, "The Miracle of Forgiveness," published in 1969, remains a seminal work on repentance and forgiveness within the LDS community. As a church leader, he emphasized the importance of personal spirituality, missionary work, and family values. His speeches often focused on themes of faith, perseverance, and the power of prayer. Kimball's leadership style was characterized by humility and a deep commitment to the principles of the gospel.
Impact and Legacy
Spencer W. Kimball's impact on the LDS Church and its members is profound and enduring. His tenure as church president was marked by significant growth in membership and the expansion of church programs worldwide. The 1978 revelation on priesthood was a pivotal moment that helped the church become more inclusive and diverse. Kimball's emphasis on missionary work led to a dramatic increase in the number of missionaries serving worldwide, furthering the church's global reach. His teachings continue to influence church doctrine and inspire members to live more Christ-centered lives.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Spencer W. Kimball is widely quoted and remembered for his profound insights into faith, leadership, and personal growth. His teachings on forgiveness and repentance resonate deeply with individuals seeking spiritual guidance and renewal. Kimball's ability to articulate complex spiritual concepts in a relatable and accessible manner has made his words timeless. His leadership during a transformative period in the church's history, coupled with his compassionate and humble demeanor, has left an indelible mark on the hearts of many. As a result, his quotes are frequently used to inspire and uplift individuals seeking to navigate the challenges of life with faith and resilience.
Quotes by Spencer W. Kimball
Homelife, home teaching, parental guidance is the panacea for all the ailments, a cure for all diseases, a remedy for all problems.
One of Satan's sharpest tools is alcohol, for it blinds and deafens, numbs and manacles, impoverishes and maims, and kills unfortunate victims.
Always keep good company. Never waste an hour with anyone who doesn't lift you up and encourage you.
Being human, we would expel from our lives physical pain and mental anguish and assure ourselves of continual ease and comfort, but if we were to close the doors upon sorrow and distress, we might be excluding our greatest friends and benefactors. Suffering can make saints of people as they learn patience, long-suffering, and self-mastery.
In the kingdom, the greater our responsibilities, the greater is our need to see ourselves as servants.
Some of what you write may be humdrum dates and places, but there will also be rich passages that will be quoted by your posterity.
We know so little. Our judgment is so limited. We judge the Lord's ways from our own narrow view.
God does notice us, and He watches over us. But it is usually through another person that he meets our needs.
Every divorce is the result of selfishness on the part of one or the other or both parties to a marriage contract. Someone is thinking of self comforts, conveniences, freedoms, luxuries, or ease. Sometimes the ceaseless pin pricking of an unhappy, discontented, and selfish spouse can finally add up to serious physical violence. Sometimes people are goaded to the point where they erringly feel justified in doing the things that are so wrong. Nothing of course justifies sin.