SALT LAKE CITY — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints says President Thomas S. Monson will no longer be attending his day-to-day meetings.
In a statement released Tuesday afternoon, the church says the absence is due to President Monson’s slipping health. The announcement is not a surprise to many members of the LDS church.
In the April 2013 LDS General Conference, President Monson became visibly weak at the pulpit.
During the most recent LDS General Conference, President Monson was only at the Sunday morning session. Missing several others. The next day he was hospitalized but released after a few nights.
Now months later the church released this statement:
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.
When the prophet is unable to attend meetings his two counselors form the first presidency and on major matters, they will meet with the quorum of the twelve apostles.
The LDS Church says President Monson will communicate with fellow leaders as needed.
Heidi Swinton, who wrote the official biography for President Thomas S. Monson, was originally included in this report. However, she asked us to remove her quotes at the request of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
