British Convert Patrick Kearon Named Newest Apostle in Latter-day Saints Church

Kearon, known for his compassion and international background, fills the vacancy left by M. Russell Ballard's death.

Patrick Kearon, a British convert to Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has been named as the newest apostle in the church.
Kearon fills the vacancy left by the death of M. Russell Ballard in November 2023 and becomes the lowest-ranking member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, the church’s second-highest governing body.
Kearon, known for his compassion towards refugees and abuse survivors, is the third apostle chosen by church President Russell M. Nelson.
Kearon's appointment is seen as significant due to his international background and his conversion to the faith as an adult, which is rare for apostles.
If Kearon outlives all the previously called apostles, he will ascend to the role of church president.