Mormon Church Leaders Advocate Kindness After Michigan Attack

Leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have urged members to confront hatred with kindness following a deadly attack on a congregation in Michigan. The call for compassion comes just days after the passing of President Russell M. Nelson, who died at the age of 101. His death leaves a significant void in the church, but the established leadership structure is poised to ensure continuity.

In his opening remarks at the church’s general conference on October 7, 2023, Dallin H. Oaks, who is expected to succeed Nelson, paid tribute to the late president. Oaks, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, expressed his admiration, stating, “I love Russell M. Nelson and have learned more about the gospel and gospel leadership from my long friendship and association with him than from any other leader I have personally known.”

Oaks’ ascension to the presidency is anticipated to be formally announced following Nelson’s funeral, scheduled for October 10, 2023. This general conference, taking place in Salt Lake City, is traditionally a time when significant announcements are made, including new initiatives and temple locations. The church has over 17 million members worldwide, and this conference is expected to gather around 100,000 attendees.

The recent attack in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, has understandably caused concern among congregants. A gunman attacked a church, resulting in the deaths of four individuals and injuring eight others. The assailant, who was killed by police, reportedly harbored resentment toward the church. In light of this tragedy, church leaders have increased security measures at the conference, with a notable law enforcement presence visible as members entered the venue.

During the conference, Gary E. Stevenson, another member of the Quorum, acknowledged the fears some may feel in attending sacred spaces after such violence. He emphasized the importance of responding to hate with love and forgiveness. Notably, church members initiated an online fundraiser for the family of the gunman, which has raised over $360,000 as of Saturday. Stevenson remarked, “To be a peacemaker is not to be weak but to be strong in a way the world may not understand.”

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often referred to as the Mormon church, has not experienced a general conference without a president for at least a century. However, religious experts note that the Quorum is capable of leading the church during this transitional period. According to Patrick Mason, a professor of religious studies at Utah State University, the Quorum’s leadership is reminiscent of historical precedents when past presidents died.

The last president to pass away shortly before a general conference was George Albert Smith in April 1951, when the new president was formally announced during the gathering. Oaks, now poised to take on the presidency, has a reputation for addressing political issues, which may be of particular interest to attendees.

As the conference progresses, attendees are keenly observing Oaks’ remarks, especially in the wake of the recent tragedy. His history as a former Utah Supreme Court justice lends him a distinct perspective on matters of civil discourse, particularly on sensitive topics like marriage and religious freedom. His traditional views on these issues have sparked anxiety among some members of the LGBTQ+ community and their allies.

As the church navigates this period of mourning and transition, the messages of love, forgiveness, and unity resonate deeply within the community. The upcoming announcements and discussions at the conference will likely set the tone for the church’s direction under the new leadership.