The LDS Church’s New Apostle: Gérald Caussé
Gérald Caussé, a key figure in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' recent temple expansion, was named the faith's newest apostle on Thursday. At 62, he joins the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, an all-male leadership council just below the church president and his top counselors.
Role and Background
A native of France, Caussé brings deep expertise in the church's finances to his new role. He has been closely involved with the worldwide surge in temple construction, where the church’s most sacred rituals are held.
“We really consider those funds as belonging to the Lord.” — Gérald Caussé, 2020
Financial Oversight and Secrecy
The church does not publicly discuss its financial affairs. However, recent disclosures from its investment division, Ensign Peak Advisors Inc., valued the church's portfolio at $58 billion. Caussé has previously defended the church’s financial privacy, emphasizing a spiritual perspective on its funds.
Filling a Leadership Vacancy
- Caussé fills the vacancy in the Quorum of the Twelve left by the passing of President Russell M. Nelson.
- This change follows the recent appointment of President Dallin H. Oaks, a 93-year-old former Utah Supreme Court justice.
As an apostle, Caussé will help shape church policy and oversee its extensive business operations worldwide.
“Apostles help set church policy while overseeing the faith’s many business interests.”
Author’s summary: Gérald Caussé, a French finance expert and temple overseer, has become the LDS Church’s newest apostle amid leadership changes, bringing crucial insight into the church’s vast financial and spiritual affairs.