Elder Clark G. Gilbert Called to LDS Quorum of Twelve Apostles
In a significant development for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Elder Clark G. Gilbert has been called and ordained as the newest member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. The announcement came on February 11, 2026, with the ordination following on February 12 in Salt Lake City, Utah. At 55 years old, Elder Gilbert brings a wealth of experience in education and church leadership to this pivotal role, underscoring the church's ongoing emphasis on integrating faith with learning in an ever-changing world.
Background and Early Life of Elder Gilbert
Elder Clark G. Gilbert was born in Oakland, California, but his formative years were shaped in the sunny landscapes of Phoenix, Arizona. From a young age, his parents instilled in him the profound connection between the gospel of Jesus Christ and the pursuit of education. 'They never made me think that education and the gospel were decoupled in any way,' Elder Gilbert reflected in a 2021 interview. 'The more you have faith, the more you want to learn and grow, and the more you learn and grow, the deeper your faith can become.'
This foundational belief propelled him through his academic journey at Brigham Young University (BYU), where he earned a bachelor's degree. His time at BYU not only solidified his educational foundation but also deepened his spiritual commitment, setting the stage for a lifetime of service in both secular and ecclesiastical realms.
Professional and Church Service Trajectory
Prior to his apostolic calling, Elder Gilbert served as a General Authority Seventy since April 2021. In August of the same year, he was appointed Commissioner of the Church Educational System (CES), overseeing institutions like BYU, BYU-Idaho, BYU-Hawaii, and Ensign College. Under his leadership, the CES has expanded access to faith-based education worldwide, particularly through innovative programs like BYU-Pathway Worldwide, which blends online learning with spiritual mentorship.
Elder Gilbert's career in education extends beyond church-affiliated roles. He has been instrumental in initiatives that bridge gospel principles with professional development, helping thousands of members and non-members alike achieve educational and vocational goals. His work in Utah's education landscape, including collaborations on state-level initiatives, highlights his commitment to holistic growth—nurturing both mind and spirit.
The Significance of the Calling
The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles plays a central role in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, acting as special witnesses of Jesus Christ across the globe. With this calling, Elder Gilbert joins a distinguished group led by President Russell M. Nelson and First Counselor Dallin H. Oaks, who presided over the ordination. The timing of this appointment, amid global uncertainties, signals the church's focus on renewed emphasis on Christ-centered living.
'This is an amazing time to point people to the Savior Jesus Christ,' Elder Gilbert stated during a press availability on February 12. 'When we do that, we can find joy and comfort and peace in Him. As President Nelson once said, it’s much harder to find happiness where it doesn’t exist. And we’re so grateful that I have this calling now to witness that Jesus is the Christ.'
His words resonate deeply in an era marked by division and doubt. Elder Gilbert's background in education positions him uniquely to address modern challenges, such as digital literacy intertwined with moral grounding. As an apostle, he will travel internationally, offering counsel and inspiration to the church's 17 million members worldwide.
Impact on Church Education and Global Outreach
Elder Gilbert's elevation to the Quorum comes at a juncture when the LDS Church is intensifying its educational outreach. Programs under his prior stewardship have enrolled over 100,000 students annually, many from developing regions. This calling could amplify efforts to make temple-worthy education accessible, aligning with President Nelson's vision of covenant-keeping as a pathway to spiritual resilience.
Analysts within religious circles note that Elder Gilbert's youth—relative to his peers in the Quorum—brings fresh energy to apostolic duties. At 55, he is among the younger apostles, potentially serving for decades. His Arizona roots and California birth also reflect the church's growing diversity, drawing from its American heartland while serving a global flock.
Personal Reflections and Future Outlook
Family has been a cornerstone of Elder Gilbert's life. Though details remain private, his ministry often highlights the role of supportive loved ones in sustaining faith. His testimony, forged through personal trials and triumphs, emphasizes joy through Christ. 'If people all across the world will look to Him, He will make their lives better, more meaningful, more joyful,' he affirmed.
Looking ahead, Elder Gilbert's influence will likely extend to youth programs, missionary work, and interfaith dialogues. As the church navigates post-pandemic recovery and technological shifts, his voice will advocate for education as a divine tool for discipleship.
This calling not only honors Elder Gilbert's dedicated service but also reinforces the LDS Church's timeless message: true fulfillment blooms at the intersection of faith and knowledge. As members and observers alike celebrate this milestone, the world watches how this new apostle will illuminate paths to the Savior.
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