James E. Faust

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James E. Faust – Life, Ministry, and Inspirational Legacy

Discover the life, service, and teachings of James E. Faust (1920–2007), American Latter-day Saint leader, lawyer, politician, and Second Counselor in the First Presidency.

Introduction

James Esdras Faust was a prominent leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), serving as an Apostle for nearly three decades and as Second Counselor in the First Presidency from 1995 until his death in 2007. His life bridged public service, legal practice, and deep spiritual devotion. Faust’s teachings, humility, and commitment continue to inspire members of his church and observers of religious leadership.

Early Life and Family

James E. Faust was born July 31, 1920 in Delta, Utah, to George A. Faust and Amy Finlinson Faust.

He attended Granite High School in Salt Lake City, where he distinguished himself in athletics—earning letters in football and awards in track events. University of Utah and joined its track team (running the 440-yard and mile relay).

Faust’s academic progress was interrupted twice: first to serve a mission in southern Brazil (1939–1942), and then to serve in World War II in the U.S. Army Air Corps, where he achieved the rank of First Lieutenant before his discharge.

During his military leave, on April 21, 1943, he married Ruth Wright. The couple had known each other from high school and were sealed in the Salt Lake Temple.

Professional, Civic & Political Work

After returning from military service, Faust resumed his studies and in 1948 earned both a Bachelor of Arts and Juris Doctor from the University of Utah.

In 1949–1951, Faust served in the Utah State Legislature (28th Utah Legislature) as a Democratic representative. President of the Utah State Bar Association. Distinguished Lawyer Emeritus Award.

Beyond law, Faust was also involved in civic and governmental committees—such as Utah’s Legislative Study Committee and the Utah Constitutional Revision Commission.

Church Service & Religious Leadership

Early Church Roles

Faust’s roles in the LDS Church began early: by age 28 he was serving as a bishop, and later held callings including stake president, stake high council, and regional representative.

In October 1972, he was called as an Assistant to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, a role he served until 1976. First Quorum of the Seventy.

Apostleship & International Work

On September 30, 1978, Faust was called as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and ordained an apostle the following day. president of the International Mission, zone adviser over South America, and membership in administrative committees of the Church (e.g. Church magazines, public affairs, curriculum).

First Presidency & Final Years

On March 12, 1995, Faust was called by President Gordon B. Hinckley as Second Counselor in the First Presidency, serving until his passing.

In his role, Faust also acted as vice chairman of the Church Board of Education, sat on the Board of Trustees of Brigham Young University, served on the Welfare Services Executive Committee, and had oversight roles in the Deseret Management Corporation.

Faust passed away August 10, 2007 at his home in Salt Lake City of causes incident to age, at age 87.

Teachings, Publications & Influence

James E. Faust was not only a leader but a thoughtful writer and speaker. Some of his published works include:

• Finding Light in a Dark World

• True Gifts of Christmas

• Stories from My Life

• Reach Up for the Light

• To Reach Even Unto You

He also co-wrote the words to the LDS hymn “This Is the Christ.”

In sermons and addresses, Faust often emphasized service, Christlike love, and the idea that God “knows you and what you can become.”

Legacy and Impact

James E. Faust’s legacy is remembered across multiple domains:

1. Religious leadership: His long service as apostle and First Counselor contributed to the direction and expansion of the LDS Church, especially internationally (notably in Latin America and Africa).

2. Bridge between professional and spiritual life: Faust maintained an active legal and civic life while rising to the highest echelons of church service, showing how secular professions and religious commitment can harmonize.

3. Model of humility and balance: He was frequently praised for balancing family, church, and public responsibilities, often putting service over acclaim.

4. Inspirational speaker and writer: His talks and writings are still cited by church members, especially on themes of hope, service, and personal worth.

5. Cultural ties to Brazil and Brazil–LDS relations: His missionary service and later leadership in Brazil helped strengthen LDS presence and goodwill in that country.

Examples of Key Quotations

Here are a few representative statements attributed to James E. Faust:

• “God knows you and what you can become because He has known you from the beginning when you were His spirit sons and daughters.”

• He often spoke of the struggle between good and evil, describing life as a “tug of war” between forces of righteousness and temptation.

• In more personal remarks, he highlighted the importance of family, of living by principle, and of quiet, consistent service—as opposed to showy acts.

While he is less known for pithy, widely circulated quotes compared to some public figures, his sermons and addresses reflect deep compassion, doctrinal clarity, and pastoral concern.

Lessons from James E. Faust

From the biography of James E. Faust, we can draw these lessons relevant to both religious and secular life:

• Consistency over spectacle: His life emphasizes steady, humble service rather than grand gestures.

• Integrate faith and profession: One can succeed in secular fields while maintaining spiritual integrity.

• Global perspective: Faust’s missionary and leadership work abroad shows that influence often extends beyond borders.

• Balance and priority: He strove to maintain family, work, and ecclesiastical responsibilities in proportion.

• Inner worth: His messages often underscored that individual worth comes from being known by God, not from fame or external success.

Conclusion

James E. Faust exemplified a life of faith expressed through service, humility, and dedication. From his early years in Utah, through legal and civic engagement, to decades of ecclesiastical leadership, he consistently emphasized character, compassion, and spiritual purpose. His teachings, quietly powerful legacy, and example of balance continue to inspire those who seek a meaningful synthesis of faith and daily life.