NEWS ARTICLE: “Boyd K. Packer, president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, died at home Friday, July 3, 2015, at 2 p.m. MDT from causes incident to age. He was 90 years old. … President Packer was serving as president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles at the time of his passing, a position he held since February 3, 2008. Prior to that, he served as acting president of the Quorum of the Twelve since June 5, 1994. He was ordained an apostle on April 9, 1970, and served for over 50 years as one of the Church’s general authorities. For decades, President Packer declared the gospel of Jesus Christ and played a critical role in the growth and development of the global Church, which now numbers more than 15 million members. ‘The lessons that he’s taught are long in the hearts of people and in their minds,’ said Elder Allan Packer, President Packer’s son and a member of the Quorum of the Seventy.” -from mormonnewsroom.org, 3 July 2015. [source]
COMMENTARY: When Boyd K. Packer spoke as a prophet, he inspired people to be more Christ-like. When he spoke as a man, he often encouraged guilt, shame, and suppression of normal human sexuality. Which of these two legacies he will best be remembered for is now up to history to decide. I have my own opinion, but I know it counts for very little. I am, after all, just another apostate.
