Facts about President Ezra Taft Benson
How blessed we are to be led by inspired prophets in these latter-days. We mourned the passing of one of our beloved leaders, our sorrow is tempered by the assurance that we will be guided by yet another of the Lord’s chosen leaders. It is reassuring to know that our leaders are men of sound judgment, great spiritual insight, and that they have presided in the leading councils of our church for many years. Such has definitely been the case with Presidents Hinckley, Monson, Nelson, and Oaks. We love and sustain these great leaders, having watched their remarkable service to the church, to its members, and to the Lord for many years.
Following are some interesting facts and insights into the leadership and experience of President Ezra Taft Benson, as presented by Trent Toone.
Ezra Taft Benson, the 13th President of the Church, was born on August 4, 1899, in Whitney, Idaho. He came from a rich heritage in Church leadership as a great-grandson of Apostle Ezra T. Benson and other Latter-day Saint pioneers. He was raised on the family farm, learning the principle of hard work and developing an affinity for agriculture. He served a mission to Great Britain and returned to marry Flora Amussen, who also served a mission, in 1926. Their family grew while he received his education in agriculture and went on to hold many important positions in the industry, including extension agricultural agent and economist. He served as president of the Boise Idaho Stake and the Washington D. D. Stake before he was called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on October 7, 1943. As an apostle, Elder Benson reopened missionary work and supervised the distribution of welfare supplies in war-torn Europe after World War II. He was appointed U.S. Secretary of Agriculture under U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower from 1952 to 1961. After returning to full-time Church service, Elder Benson served as president of the European Mission. His diplomatic skills and open approach enhanced Church visibility and facilitated missionary work globally. He became President of the Church on November 10, 1985. During his administration, the Church witnessed significant growth, including the creation of new missions and stakes, expansion of temple building and technological advancements in family history work. President Benson testified of the power of the Book of Mormon and the importance of daily scripture study. He warned against the sin of pride. His love of freedom, home, and family were themes of messages to Church members. President Benson died on May 30, 1994, at the age of 94.
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