W. Grant McMurray

William Grant McMurray (born July 12, 1947) was Prophet-President of the Community of Christ from 1996 until 2004.

McMurray's presidency and legacy

In the 170 years of its history, President McMurray was the first president of the church who was not a member of the family of church founder, Joseph Smith, Jr. McMurray was designated as successor to President Wallace B. Smith in 1995, and became Prophet-President when Smith retired to emeritus status in 1996. Prior to his calling, McMurray had been a historian and had held several positions in the church hierarchy, including serving as a Counselor in the Community of Christ First Presidency.

In 1997, President McMurray called upon what was then the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints to transform itself by articulating a Christ-centered theology of peace.

In 2001, the church changed its name to Community of Christ, evoking the original name of the church "Church of Christ," affirming the centrality of Christ to the church, and commemorating the Latter Day Saint movement's long-held tradition of building up Zionic communities.

President McMurray presided over the first ordination of a woman to the office of Apostle in the Council of Twelve. He also led the Community of Christ to a closer relationship with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, building both friendly relations and collaborative historical efforts.

McMurray's resignation

On November 29, 2004, McMurray resigned as president of the church.

McMurray later stated that he has "recently been diagnosed with early onset Parkinson's disease," and that his health was also a motivating factor to his resignation. "Beyond that, it's an entirely personal and family matter and the letter says what I felt I needed to say."

A joint council of church leaders led by the Council of Twelve Apostles announced in March 2005 the name of Stephen M. Veazey as Prophet-President designate. Veazey had been serving as president of the Council of Twelve. Delegates elected to a special World Conference of the church approved Veazey and he was ordained to the presidency on June 3, 2005.

Later activities

On October 12, 2005 the board of Missouri Impact [http://www.moimpact.org|Missouri Impact] announced "the selection of W. Grant McMurray as our executive director". The announcement stated that "He now focuses his energy on 'building community through valuing heritage, embracing diversity, and pursuing peace.' "

ee also

*Kenneth N. Robinson