Harold B. Lee
Harold B. Lee
A Life of Devotion and Leadership
Full Name and Common Aliases
Harold Brimhall Lee was a renowned American religious leader, educator, and writer who served as the 12th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church).
Birth and Death Dates
Born on March 24, 1899, in Clifton, Idaho, Harold B. Lee passed away on December 26, 1973.
Nationality and Profession(s)
American, Religious Leader, Educator
Harold B. Lee's life was defined by his commitment to the principles of the LDS Church and his dedication to serving others. As a young man, he worked as a farmer before being called to serve as a missionary in Germany during World War I.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in Idaho, Harold B. Lee was raised on a farm with seven siblings. His parents were devout members of the LDS Church, and from an early age, he demonstrated a strong spiritual inclination. After completing his education at Brigham Young University (BYU), Lee served as a missionary for two years, which deepened his faith and commitment to the gospel.
Major Accomplishments
Throughout his life, Harold B. Lee made significant contributions to the LDS Church and beyond:
As a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, he played a crucial role in shaping church doctrine and policy.
He served as president of Ricks College (now Brigham Young University-Idaho) from 1945 to 1954, during which time the college experienced significant growth and expansion.
In 1973, Lee was called as the new President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints following the passing of his predecessor.Notable Works or Actions
Harold B. Lee's writings and teachings continue to inspire members of the LDS Church worldwide:
He published several books on gospel topics, including "Prelude to the Kingdom" and "God is the Life of Man."
As a respected leader, he was known for his wisdom, compassion, and commitment to the well-being of others.Impact and Legacy
Harold B. Lee's life had a profound impact on the LDS Church and its members:
His leadership during a time of significant change and growth helped shape the church into what it is today.
His teachings continue to inspire and guide individuals in their personal lives and spiritual journeys.Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Harold B. Lee's legacy as a devoted leader, educator, and writer has left an indelible mark on the LDS Church and its members:
His commitment to serving others and upholding the principles of the gospel continues to inspire countless individuals around the world.
* As a respected figure in the church, his quotes and teachings are often referenced and revered for their wisdom and insight.
Quotes by Harold B. Lee
Marriage is a partnership. Someone has observed that in the Bible account of the creation woman was not formed from a part of man’s head, suggesting that she might rule over him, nor from a part of a man’s foot that she was to be trampled under his feet. Woman was taken from man’s side as though to emphasize the fact that she was always to be by his side as a partner and companion.
We can be the best taught people on the face of the earth but the trouble is we don’t live as well as we have been taught.
To some it may seem old-fashioned to speak of virtue and chastity, honesty, morality, faith, character, but these are the qualities which have built great men and women and point the way by which one may find happiness in the living of today and eternal joy in the world to come. These are the qualities which are the anchors to our lives, in spite of the trials, the tragedies, the pestilences, and the cruelties of war which bring in their wake appalling destruction, hunger, and bloodshed.
It isn’t the Lord who withholds himself from us. It is we who withhold ourselves from him because of our failure to keep his commandments.
And what he ought to see, hear and understand is truth-eternal truth-and then practice it. That is conversion.
The trouble with us today, there are too many of us who put question marks instead of periods after what the Lord says. I want you to think about that. We shouldn’t be concerned about why He said something, or whether or not it can be made so. Just trust the Lord. We don’t try to find the answers or explanations. We shouldn’t try to spend time explaining what the Lord didn’t see fit to explain. We spend useless time.
Conversion must mean more than just being a ‘card-carrying’ member of the church with a tithing receipt, a membership card, a temple recommend, etc. It means to overcome the tendencies to criticize and to strive continually to improve inward weaknesses and not merely the outward appearances.
The most important work you and I will ever do will be within the walls of our own homes.