The LDS Church’s New Apostle: Gérald Caussé
Gérald Caussé, a senior leader in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, became the church’s newest apostle on Thursday. At 62 years old, he joins the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, an all-male governing body just below the church president and his two counselors.
Role and Responsibilities
Apostles help guide church policy and oversee many of the faith’s business interests. Caussé brings a deep understanding of the church’s extensive finances, gained through his experience managing the global temple building surge.
Temple Building and Financial Oversight
Originally from France, Caussé was responsible for the worldwide expansion of temples, where the church’s most sacred ceremonies occur. Although the church keeps its finances private, its investment arm, Ensign Peak Advisors Inc., recently disclosed a portfolio valued at $58 billion.
“We really consider those funds as belonging to the Lord,” Caussé said in 2020, defending the church’s financial secrecy.
Filling a Key Vacancy
Caussé fills the vacancy in the Quorum left by the death of President Russell M. Nelson and follows the recent appointment of President Dallin H. Oaks, a 93-year-old former Utah Supreme Court justice.
Summary
Gérald Caussé’s deep financial expertise and leadership in temple expansion position him as a vital force in the LDS Church’s future governance and sacred ordinances.