Expressing gratitude for his continuing good health, President Gordon B. Hinckley greeted General Authority colleagues, members of his family and employees of the offices of the First Presidency at a reception held in honor of his 95th birthday June 23. He then cut the first few slices of birthday cake to be served to the gathering.

Photo by Gerry Avant

President Gordon B. Hinckley cuts the first slice of cake during a reception held in honor of his 95th birthday June 23. In the Church's Administration Building, the reception was attended by General Authorities, his family and office staff.

"We've had a long road and a wonderful experience through all these years," President Hinckley said. "I realize, of course, we are all in the hands of the Lord. He is the one who determines how long we live, when we die, when we pass on. . . . I am profoundly grateful for His blessings. I recognize that He is the giver of life and that in His own due time and according to His will and wisdom, our years are numbered. I bow to that wisdom greater than any of us has."

He reminisced about the Church Administration Building, in which the birthday reception was held, saying that he has had good association with others there since he first entered the building in 1935 shortly after he returned home from his mission to England. He began working in the building that year. "I have been here ever since, as an employee first, then as a General Authority, beginning in 1958, and have been around here for a very, very long time."

He expressed gratitude toward those with whom he is associated in the work of the Church, and spoke of his life's blessings.

"The greatest blessing in my life is the remarkable woman to whom I was married for 67 years," he said. (Sister Marjorie Pay Hinckley passed away April 6, 2004.)

President Thomas S. Monson, first counselor in the First Presidency, accompanied at the reception by his wife, Frances, said that one can learn a lot by reading, but more by having a role model to follow. "President Hinckley is such a role model," he said.

He summarized characteristics he said he finds highly worthy of emulation as displayed by President Hinckley — principles of leadership:

1. He does not take counsel of his fears.

2. He does not rush to judgment.

3. He dreams great dreams and dares to live them.

4. He personifies the saying, "Consistency, thou art a jewel."

President Monson said, "My feelings today for this beloved prophet are tender. We have known each other since long before either of us was a General Authority, and we have sat side by side in many capacities these past almost 42 years. I know whereof I speak. President Hinckley is a man without guile."

President James E. Faust, second counselor in the First Presidency, who was accompanied by his wife, Ruth, said, "Many things could be said about Gordon B. Hinckley. I should like to mention just a few: He is in tune with the Spirit of the Lord. He still has a zest for life. He has a great sense of humor. He is always positive. He is always gracious. He is brilliant, able, wise. He is thoughtful, deliberate. He enjoys an exchange of wits. He likes people."

Turning to the Church leader, President Faust said, "President Hinckley, please continue to lead, guide, direct us in this holy work in which we are engaged. There isn't a vocabulary adequate enough to express our respect and love and appreciation for you. We need you. May the Lord continue to sustain you in every way."

A painting by VaLoy Eaton was presented to President Hinckley. In making the presentation, President Monson said, "The painting is titled 'Along the Pathway: Adam-ondi-Ahman,' in honor of the pathway our beloved President Hinckley has walked with dignity and honor all these years."