‘Mormon Land’: As President Russell Nelson turns 101, his legacy includes ‘softened, sentimentalized’ temple rituals
LDS historian also points to his efforts in finding “common ground” with the NAACP and in teaching women they have “priestly power.”
(The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) President Russell M. Nelson and wife Wendy at the Church Administration Building on Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, ahead of his 101st birthday on Tuesday.
Hired in 1991 to cover Utah's various faiths, particularly Mormonism, Peggy has talked forgiveness with Archbishop Desmond Tutu, nearly fainted waiting for the Dalai Lama, fasted with Muslims during Ramadan — and has reported on 50 consecutive semiannual LDS General Conferences.
David is a managing editor at The Tribune, where he has worked since 1984. He oversees coverage ranging from local government and west-side issues to growth, development and housing. In addition, he directs religion reporting, co-hosts the award-winning “Mormon Land” podcast and writes the Mormon Land newsletter.