SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, May 23, 2017 (Gephardt Daily) — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced on Tuesday afternoon that its president, Thomas S. Monson, 89, will no longer be attending church meetings on a regular basis.
Monson’s age and health concerns were cited as the reasons for his schedule change.
Read the full statement issued by the Church below:
Because of limitations incident to his age, President Monson is no longer attending meetings at the Church offices on a regular basis. He communicates and confers with his counselors on matters as needed. President Monson is grateful that the work of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles continues without interruption. He appreciates the prayers and support of Church members.
Monson was hospitalized for a few days last month following the 187th Annual General Conference. During conference, he attended only four of the six sessions.
Eric Hawkins, spokesman for the LDS Church, said at the time that Monson was “feeling the effects of advancing age.”
Concern over Monson’s health was also high in October of 2015 during conference. Monson gave a talk, and near the end repeated a few words and slowed his speech.
It also appeared Monson was having problems standing, and he leaned on the podium for support before church officials rushed in to help him to his seat.
The LDS Church has a protocol in place in case its president is absent or unavailable. Henry B. Eyring, first counselor in the First Presidency, and President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, second counselor in the First Presidency, will step in to handle Monson’s responsibilities, if needed.
In the event of a major issue, the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles would come together to resolve problems.
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Tell the old puck to close his eyes & it will all be over! Can’t u see u are a false religion!
We will continue to pray for him in our household. Christ taught us to love everyone no matter who they are or where they came from. What a sincerely kind man.