Today is President Russell M. Nelson’s 101st birthday. I love the fact that when he became the prophet, the news agencies told us not to expect him to change much, but the Lord had different plans. As so much has changed, from dozens of new temples to the two-hour block and Come, Follow Me.
To celebrate our beloved prophet’s 101st birthday, I want to share with you 10 pictures and 11 quotes that highlight his life, ministry, and personality. First, the photos.
I love this photo as it shows the need to find joy in the little things of life.
President Nelson has been a champion of building bridges with other Christians.
President Nelson has repeatedly taught the importance of the family.
One of the most prominent themes of President Nelson’s presidency has been the focus on building temples.
President Nelson has been one of the most vocal pro-life advocates
(See his talk, “Reverence for Life” from April 1985 general conference)
All I gotta say is brethren, let’s follow the prophet’s example in doing housework!
When Dr. Nelson was called to be a Stake President he told Spencer W. Kimball and LeGrand Richards that if needed he would quit being a Dr. to accept a calling to serve.
(Read the whole amazing story here)
I was actually in Baton Rouge when President Nelson visited, I was in another fast and testimony meeting just like the one pictured above (Elder Richard J. Maynes presided at ours). The Spirit was palpable as thousands gathered in Baton Rouge to serve our fellow brothers and sisters, most of whom were non-members.
President Nelson celebrating the milestone of his 101st Birthday (official photo released 9/9/25)
“If the Lord were speaking to you directly … the first thing He would make sure you understand is your true identity. My dear friends, you are literally spirit children of God.”
Russell M. Nelson
“Thanks to Him, no condition is hopeless. Thanks to Him, brighter days are ahead, both here and hereafter. Real joy awaits each of us—on the other side of sorrow. I testify that God lives, that Jesus is the Christ—the Master Healer”
Russell M. Nelson
“There are no greater roles in life for a man than those of husband and father. Likewise, there are no greater roles for a woman than those of wife and mother.”
Russell M. Nelson
“The truths of the Book of Mormon have the power to heal, comfort, restore, succor, strengthen, console, and cheer our souls.”
Russell M. Nelson
“The supreme benefits of membership in the Church can only be realized only through the exalting ordinances of the temple. These blessings qualify us for “thrones, kingdoms, principalities, and powers” in the celestial kingdom.”
Russell M. Nelson
“In God’s eternal plan, salvation is an individual matter; exaltation is a family matter.”
Russell M. Nelson
“As a servant of the Lord, I dutifully warn those who advocate and practice abortion that they incur the wrath of Almighty God”
Russell M. Nelson
“I promise that as you prayerfully study the Book of Mormon every day, you will make better decisions—every day.”
Russell M. Nelson
“I urge you to stretch beyond your current spiritual ability to receive personal revelation”
Russell M. Nelson
“Love and care for your wife. Become one with her. Be her partner. Make it easy for her to want to be yours. No other interest in life should take priority over building an eternal relationship with her.”
Russell M. Nelson
“I never ask myself, ‘When does the prophet speak as a prophet and when does he not?’ My interest has been, ‘How can I be more like him?’”
Russell M. Nelson