Celebrating President Nelson’s 95th Birthday

It is hard to believe that Russell M. Nelson, prophet and President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is 95 years old. He certainly does not look, sound or act like someone just shy of a century.

I am certain the Lord is giving him a big boost toward his vigor and zest for life. It can’t hurt for him to have a very beautiful wife 26 years his junior by his side. 😉 But, I think it’s fair to say President Nelson’s health and vitality are also a direct result of the way he has chosen to live day after day, decade after decade caring for his mind and his body.

He’s never stopped learning or moving! As a renown heart surgeon, he learned a thing or two about proper diet and exercise. Personally, I think it would be fabulous if he would share some of his “secrets” with the general membership about this daily exercise regimen and meal plans. We could all collectively use some shaping up when it comes to practicing the “do”s of the Word of Wisdom!

On Friday night September 6th, 2019 a BIG birthday celebration honoring the life and service of President Nelson was held in the Conference Center on Temple Square in Salt Lake City. It was a beautiful program, with many sweet surprises [hint: did you know that Pres. Nelson is an accomplished pianist?]…

If you haven’t had the chance to watch this program – you are in for a treat! I’m posting the full video. If you are pressed for time – just watch it in segments – but, you don’t want to miss anything! Here are the time stamps for special guest artist highlights:

• 8:40 – Jennie Oaks Baker & her children – Sound of Music
• 19:45 – Donny Osmond – You Raise Me Up
• 25:50 – GENTRI – Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing
• 40:39 – President Russell M. Nelson – Prelude in C Minor by Chopin
• 43:00 Nathan Pacheco Nessun Dorma (this brought the house down, and President Nelson was the first to leap to his feet)
• 1:04:00 – The Bonner Family – Halleluja! The Prophet’s Medley
• 1:16:00 – Donny Osmond & Nathan Pacheco – The Prayer
• 1:31:22 – President Russell M. Nelson – Remarks to the Congregation

♥

A remarkable man, who has lived through many tragedies and triumphs. and has committed himself to serve God and mankind all the day of his life.

Early this morning – Sunday, September 8, 2019 President and Sister Nelson were back in the Conference Center to attend the televised broadcast of Music and the Spoken Word. The spoken word portion of the program honored Pres. Nelson’s life and service. Afterward, the prophet and his wife walked to the stage and he spoke directly to the Choir and Orchestra, thanking us and expressing his love. He has a personal history with the Choir that has given him a special bond with the Tabernacle Choir.

President Nelson’s first wife was Dantzel White Nelson. She died unexpectedly in 2005. Together Russell and Dantzel raised 10 children (9 daughters, and 1 son). For many years during their marriage, Dantzel served as a faithful member of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, and Russell was the loving supporter ‘standing in the wings’ caring for the house and all of the children while she was busy rehearsing, performing weekly and traveling on tours.

In October 1991 then-apostle Nelson gave a wonderful General Conference Talk all about the Choir and recounted his experience touring as a guest with them in Russia (click here).

I admire and honor Russell M. Nelson. I believe he was called by God to be a modern prophet in these latter-days, to serve and be a witness of Jesus Christ to the world. I hope that I can follow his great example of being a Seeker – always learning new things, going to new places, meeting new people, and striving for excellence. I hope I can keep walking [very fast] just like him, for many decades – with devotion to our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Happy Birthday, President Nelson. ♥ And many, many more!

Love, Holly