Exploring the World’s Oldest Religious Leaders

The leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is poised to celebrate a remarkable milestone: his 100th birthday.

Russell M. Nelson, the current president of this Utah-based faith, will reach this centennial mark on September 9, 2024.

Nations around the globe typically see religious leaders remain active well beyond traditional retirement ages, and President Nelson is no exception.

Born in 1924, Nelson’s life has coincided with significant growth within the church. When he was born, the church reported a membership of only 597,861. By the end of that year, there were 1,685 congregations and 25 missions.

Fast forward to 2024, with Nelson celebrating his centennial, the number of Latter-day Saints has soared to approximately 17.3 million. The growth is notable, with membership expanding by 3.8% in the first part of this year, following a 1.5% increase last year.

As of the end of 2023, the church boasts 31,490 congregations and operates 450 missions worldwide.

In the church’s leadership ranks, several members continue to carry significant responsibilities well into their elder years. Among the 15 men in top leadership positions, six are 80 or older. Alongside President Nelson, leaders Dallin Oaks (92), Henry B. Eyring (91), Jeffrey Holland (83), Dieter Uchtdorf (83), and Quentin Cook (84) contribute to the church’s direction and governance.

The trend of longevity is not exclusive to the Latter-day Saints community. Other religious traditions also reflect experiences of aging leadership. For instance, Alexandre do Nascimento, the archbishop emeritus of Luanda, Angola, is currently the oldest living Catholic cardinal at 99 years old, born on March 1, 1925.

Ali al-Sistani, the grand ayatollah recognized as the senior religious authority for the world’s 200 million Shia Muslims, is 94.

Another notable figure in the Catholic Church’s history is Pope Leo XIII, who holds the record for being the oldest-serving pope, passing away at the age of 93 in 1903.

The current Dalai Lama, a significant spiritual figure in Tibetan Buddhism, is 89 years old, while Pope Francis, the active leader of the Catholic Church, is 87.

Lastly, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople, leading Eastern Orthodox Christians globally, is 84.

The enduring presence of such senior leaders across various faith traditions illustrates a shared commitment to their communities, reflecting a deep reservoir of spiritual experience and wisdom.

As President Nelson approaches his 100th birthday, the Latter-day Saints and other faith communities might find inspiration in the continued leadership and longevity of their respective figures, who have helped shape beliefs and practices across generations.

This centennial milestone not only marks a personal achievement for Nelson but also highlights the profound evolution and growth within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints over the last century.

As the church looks toward the future, it carries with it a legacy forged through decades of service, teachings, and community building, with President Nelson at the forefront during a pivotal time in its history.

Source: Associated Press