What's happened
Henry B. Holland, a senior leader of the Mormon church and former BYU president, died early Saturday in Salt Lake City from complications related to kidney disease. His death leaves a vacancy in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, with church leadership expected to fill the position soon.
What's behind the headline?
Holland's death signifies a significant transition within the LDS leadership, as the vacancy in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles will likely be filled by a lower-tier leader, impacting church policy and direction. His long tenure and influence, especially in education and interfaith relations, highlight his role in shaping modern Mormonism. The church’s succession plan ensures continuity, but Holland’s passing may prompt shifts in leadership style and priorities. His 2021 speech, which called for defending church doctrine against same-sex marriage, underscores ongoing tensions between church teachings and social progress. The church’s response to his death and the upcoming appointment will reveal how it navigates internal and external pressures in the coming months.
What the papers say
The articles from NY Post, The Independent, and AP News all confirm Holland's death at age 85 due to kidney disease complications. They detail his leadership roles, including his tenure at BYU and his influence on interfaith relations. The sources also note his controversial 2021 speech and his place in the church’s succession plan. While all agree on his significance, the NY Post emphasizes his role in church policy and business interests, whereas The Independent and AP highlight his health decline and the vacancy in the Quorum. The coverage collectively underscores Holland’s impact on LDS leadership and the potential implications of his passing for the church’s future direction.
How we got here
Henry B. Holland grew up in Utah and served as the ninth president of Brigham Young University from 1980 to 1989. He was a key figure in the church’s education system and was recognized for fostering interfaith relations. Holland was known for his 2021 speech urging members to defend church teachings, which drew controversy among LGBTQ+ advocates. His death marks the end of a long tenure in church leadership, where he was second in line to the presidency after Dallin H. Oaks.
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Common question
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What Was Henry B. Holland's Impact on the Mormon Church?
Henry B. Holland was a prominent leader in the Mormon community, serving as a senior apostle and former BYU president. His recent passing at age 85 has raised questions about his influence and what his death means for the church’s future. In this page, we explore his life, leadership, and the implications of his passing for the LDS community and beyond.
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