The Tangrens

We just learned of the passing of our beloved President and Prophet of the Church. President Hinckley is really the only prophet I feel I have been acquainted with since being and active member of the Church. I have no recollection of seeing or hearing a previous President of the Church while they were serving in that capacity. President Hinckley has been a voice of optimism looking ahead as the world becomes more and more complicated. You could tell that he lived by the adage that however bleak the circumstances might be, that things will work out if you live you life close to the Lord.

President Hinckley accomplished a great deal in his near-13-year tenure as the prophet including:

• The most rapid increase in temple building in the history of the earth, bringing saving ordinances to members throughout the world
  
• Oversaw the building of temples in such historic locations such as Palmyra, Winter Quarters, and the rebuilding of the Nauvoo temple
• The release of "The Family: A Proclamation to the World" which reaffirmed the paramount importance of the family
• The establishment of Perpetual Education Fund which has blessed the lives of countless thousands
• The building of the Conference Center and renovations to the historic Tabernacle
  
• The raising of the bar for missionaries and the establishment of an updated missionary teaching program entitled Preach My Gospel
  
• Issued a challenge to all members of the Church to read the Book of Mormon and recently counseled members to give greater attention to studying the latest conference Ensign

President Hinckley always had a joke ready and had a way of putting people at ease. I don't think there is a missionary who has served in recent history that hasn't reflect on counsel his father sent to a discouraged young Elder Hinckley in England to "Forget yourself and go to work." It was difficult to hear President Hinckley speak and not feel of the wonderful spirit he brought.

I take comfort in knowing that he is reunited with dear family and friends, most significantly, his wife who was missed dearly by President Hinckley. Tonight as I reflect on the influence President Hinckley has had on my life, I am thankful for a Prophet. I also feel a resounding conviction testifying once again to me that he truly is a Prophet. He will certainly be missed by millions of people, members and non-members alike.