SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Gérald Caussé, a senior official of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who directed its global finances and temple expansion, was appointed as the church’s newest apostle on Thursday.
At 62, Caussé now joins the all-male Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, the church’s top governing council subordinate only to the president and his two counselors. This group establishes religious policy and oversees the church’s broad range of global operations.
With his appointment, Caussé enters the line of succession to the church presidency, determined by seniority within the Quorum of the Twelve.
Originally from France, Caussé spent the last decade serving as the church’s presiding bishop. In this position, he was responsible for managing the church's finances, welfare programs, and global humanitarian efforts.
“Under his leadership, the church increased its humanitarian spending and dotted the globe with lavish temples where the faith’s most sacred ceremonies take place.”
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints traditionally does not reveal details about its financial dealings. However, the latest filings from its investment arm, Ensign Peak Advisors Inc., valued its portfolio at approximately $58 billion.
Gérald Caussé, a French-born financial leader and longtime bishop, has become a new Mormon apostle after guiding the church’s vast assets and global temple expansion.