Dieter Friedrich Uchtdorf, born on November 6, 1940, is a prominent figure known for his multifaceted background as a German aviator, airline executive, and religious leader. He currently serves as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). His life journey, marked by resilience and dedication, has made him an influential voice within the church and beyond.
Early Life and Overcoming Adversity
Born in Moravská Ostrava (Mährisch-Ostrau), now in the Czech Republic, during the Nazi-occupied Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia, Uchtdorf's early life was shaped by the turmoil of World War II. As a young child, he experienced the uncertainty and displacement of being a refugee, moving with his family through war-torn areas. These experiences instilled in him a deep sense of resilience and an appreciation for hope, which he later shared in his teachings.
A Career in Aviation
Uchtdorf's career path took a significant turn when he joined the Bundeswehr in 1959 and volunteered for the air force at the age of 19, aspiring to become a fighter pilot. His exceptional skills led him to train in Big Spring, Texas, where he received the Commander's Trophy (USAF) as the best student pilot in his class. He earned wings from both the German and US air forces and served as a fighter pilot for six years before joining Lufthansa in 1965. By 1970, at the age of 29, Uchtdorf had achieved the rank of captain at Lufthansa.
Service in the LDS Church
Uchtdorf's commitment to his faith led him to serve in various leadership positions within the LDS Church. He served in the Presidency of the Seventy from August 15, 2002, to October 2, 2004, and in the First Quorum of the Seventy from April 7, 1996, to October 2, 2004.
Called as an Apostle
On October 2, 2004, Uchtdorf was sustained as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, filling a vacancy created by the death of Neal A. Maxwell. He was ordained an apostle on October 7, 2004, by church president Gordon B. Hinckley, becoming the first apostle ordained in the 21st century. Uchtdorf holds the distinction of being the eleventh apostle of the LDS Church born outside the United States and the first German apostle in church history.
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Service in the First Presidency
On February 3, 2008, Uchtdorf was called as the Second Counselor to President Thomas S. Monson. During his service in the First Presidency, he participated in the dedication of several temples around the world, including those in Tegucigalpa, Honduras; Quetzaltenango, Guatemala; Manaus, Brazil; Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Córdoba, Argentina; Trujillo, Peru; Tijuana, Mexico; Fort Collins, Colorado; and Tucson, Arizona. Following President Monson's death on January 2, 2018, the First Presidency was dissolved, and Uchtdorf returned to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
Current Assignments
After the First Presidency was reorganized under President Russell M. Nelson, Uchtdorf continued his service in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. In January 2018, he received new assignments, reflecting his continued commitment to the church's mission.
Addressing Fear and Embracing the Future
Elder Uchtdorf has frequently addressed the topic of fear, particularly as it relates to young adults facing an uncertain future. Drawing from his experiences as a pilot, he uses the analogy of flying to illustrate how individuals can overcome their anxieties and embrace their potential.
Overcoming "Aerophobia" about the Future
During the 2024 Utah Area YSA Conference, Elder Uchtdorf shared insights on how young adults can resolve their "aerophobia" about the future by focusing on Jesus Christ. He identified four common reasons for fear, drawing parallels to the fear of flying:
- Fear of Turbulence: Instead of viewing turbulence as a sign of failure, young adults can use it as an opportunity to anchor themselves to Jesus Christ. Elder Uchtdorf emphasized that turbulent times can lead to spiritual growth.
- Lack of Control: While many aspects of life are beyond our control, individuals can choose to trust in Jesus Christ as their "perfect, trustworthy Pilot."
- Media Reports: Elder Uchtdorf advised young adults to be mindful of their media consumption and to prioritize content that strengthens their faith. He promised that centering one's life on Jesus Christ would bring clarity and discernment.
- Past Experiences: The gospel of Jesus Christ offers hope and redemption, regardless of past mistakes or challenges. Elder Uchtdorf affirmed that Jesus Christ knows each individual's true identity, desires, and eternal potential.
The Strength of Youth
Elder Uchtdorf carries a pocket-size copy of "For the Strength of Youth," a guide that outlines the church's values, and often shares it with leaders and individuals from various backgrounds. He considers it an invaluable resource for helping individuals become prepared and worthy to receive the Lord. He encouraged young adults to make this guide a regular part of their gospel study, using it to point them to Jesus Christ and keep Him at the center of their lives.
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The Influence of Service and Testimony
Sister Harriet Uchtdorf, Elder Uchtdorf's wife, shared a personal experience of how missionaries brought hope and light into her home after her father's death. She emphasized the power of young adults to proclaim the Savior's gospel through their good lives and courageous testimonies. She encouraged them to recognize their influence and power for good, stating that every act of goodness can become an act of leadership in the kingdom of God.
Testimonials from Young Adults
Several young adults who attended the 2024 Utah Area YSA Conference shared how Elder Uchtdorf's message resonated with them:
- Alaina Jensen found reassurance that God's hand is present in every part of her life.
- Jordan Schanze was reminded of the importance of relying on Christ.
- Daniele Nogales Albarracín learned the importance of choosing how to use her time to follow the Savior.
- Bradley Riches felt inspired to study "For the Strength of Youth" more often and involve the Lord in his decisions.
Personal Life and Family
Dieter F. Uchtdorf married Harriet Reich on December 14, 1962, in the Swiss Temple. Their marriage has been a source of strength and inspiration throughout their lives of service.
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