The LDS Church’s New Apostle: Gérald Caussé
Gérald Caussé, a French native and high-ranking official of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, became the church's newest apostle on Thursday. At 62, he joins the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, an all-male governing body that operates just below the church president and two top counselors.
Role and Responsibilities
- Apostles help guide church policies and oversee its extensive business interests.
- Caussé brings deep knowledge of the church’s extensive finances to this leadership role.
Background and Contributions
Caussé played a central role in a global temple-building boom under the previous church president. The temples are sacred places where important church ceremonies occur worldwide. His experience includes managing the church's financial affairs during this expansion.
“We really consider those funds as belonging to the Lord.” — Gérald Caussé, 2020
The church does not openly discuss its financial matters, but its investment arm, Ensign Peak Advisors Inc., reported a portfolio valued at $58 billion in recent filings.
Context of Appointment
Gérald Caussé fills the vacancy left by the death of President Russell M. Nelson and the October appointment of President Dallin H. Oaks, a 93-year-old former Utah Supreme Court justice, as the new church president last month.
Summary
Gérald Caussé's appointment as an apostle brings financial expertise and experience from the LDS Church's temple expansion to its key leadership, reflecting continuity amid recent transitions.