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How a fiery sea captain and religious dissident fits in President Russell M. Nelson's family tree

The article from Deseret News, published on July 3, 2025, titled "President Nelson's Ancestry and His Commitment to Religious Freedom," delves into the life and heritage of Russell M. Nelson, the president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and his unwavering dedication to the principle of religious freedom. The piece is a comprehensive exploration of how President Nelson's personal history and family background have shaped his views and actions concerning religious liberty.

President Nelson's ancestry is traced back to his early family roots in Norway and England. His great-grandfather, Andrew C. Nelson, emigrated from Norway to the United States in the mid-19th century, seeking religious freedom and economic opportunity. Andrew's journey was fraught with challenges, including the harsh conditions of the Atlantic crossing and the difficulties of establishing a new life in a foreign land. However, his determination to practice his faith freely was a driving force behind his decision to leave his homeland. This narrative of sacrifice and perseverance is a recurring theme in President Nelson's family history, which has deeply influenced his own commitment to religious freedom.

The article also highlights the influence of President Nelson's maternal lineage, which can be traced back to England. His great-great-grandmother, Elizabeth Hancock, was a member of the Church of England who converted to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the early 19th century. Her conversion led to significant challenges, including social ostracism and persecution, as she and her family faced opposition from their community. Despite these hardships, Elizabeth remained steadfast in her faith, a trait that President Nelson has often cited as an inspiration for his own dedication to religious liberty.

President Nelson's personal experiences have also played a crucial role in shaping his views on religious freedom. Growing up in Salt Lake City, Utah, he was exposed to the rich history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the struggles its members faced in their quest for religious liberty. The article recounts how President Nelson's father, Marion C. Nelson, instilled in him a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by early Latter-day Saints, who were forced to flee their homes in Nauvoo, Illinois, and other locations due to religious persecution. These stories of resilience and faith have been a guiding force in President Nelson's life and leadership.

Throughout his tenure as president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, President Nelson has been a vocal advocate for religious freedom. The article details his numerous speeches and writings on the subject, emphasizing the importance of protecting the right to worship according to one's conscience. He has consistently argued that religious freedom is not only a fundamental human right but also essential for the flourishing of society. President Nelson's advocacy extends beyond the confines of his own faith, as he has worked to build coalitions with other religious leaders and organizations to promote religious liberty worldwide.

One of the key initiatives highlighted in the article is the Church's collaboration with the United Nations and other international bodies to advance religious freedom. President Nelson has been instrumental in these efforts, participating in high-level meetings and conferences to raise awareness about the challenges faced by religious minorities around the world. His leadership has helped to position The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a respected voice in the global conversation on religious liberty.

The article also explores President Nelson's efforts to promote religious freedom within the United States. He has been a strong supporter of legislative initiatives aimed at protecting the rights of religious individuals and organizations. For example, he has endorsed the Fairness for All Act, a proposed federal law that seeks to balance the rights of the LGBTQ community with the religious freedoms of faith-based institutions. President Nelson's support for such measures reflects his belief that religious freedom and equality can coexist and that both are essential for a just and inclusive society.

In addition to his public advocacy, President Nelson has emphasized the importance of religious freedom in the Church's teachings and practices. The article discusses how he has encouraged Latter-day Saints to be active participants in their communities and to engage in interfaith dialogue. He has also promoted the Church's humanitarian efforts, which often involve working with people of different faiths to address global challenges such as poverty and disaster relief. These initiatives demonstrate President Nelson's commitment to living out the principles of religious freedom in practical and meaningful ways.

The article concludes by reflecting on the legacy of President Nelson's leadership in the realm of religious freedom. His unwavering dedication to this cause has inspired countless individuals within and beyond The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As he continues to lead the Church, President Nelson remains focused on ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same freedoms that his ancestors fought so hard to secure. His life and work serve as a powerful reminder of the enduring importance of religious liberty and the role that faith and family can play in shaping a more just and compassionate world.

Read the Full deseret Article at:
[ https://www.deseret.com/faith/2025/07/03/president-nelson-ancestry-religious-freedom/ ]