New LDS Apostle Gérald Caussé appointed: What this means for the Church future
Gérald Caussé joins LDS Church Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Image Source: LDS Church
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) appointed Gérald Caussé as the newest member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on November 6, 2025. The announcement, made by Church President Dallin H. Oaks, marks a significant milestone in the early tenure of Oaks’ presidency. Caussé, 62, is the third European to serve in this lifetime position and the first apostle for whom English is a second language.
Born in Bordeaux, France, Caussé previously served as the Church’s 15th Presiding Bishop, overseeing financial, real estate, and humanitarian operations since 2015. His decades-long experience in ecclesiastical management, combined with his commitment to environmental stewardship, positions him as both a spiritual and administrative leader in a Church with more than 17.5 million members worldwide.
A Steward of Faith and Finances
Caussé has earned a reputation as the LDS Church’s chief financial steward, managing the Church’s expansive portfolio and investments through Ensign Peak Advisors. As of mid-2025, the Church’s reported holdings include $58.4 billion in publicly disclosed assets, with independent analysis estimating total investments at roughly $206 billion. Caussé has emphasized the importance of financial responsibility, provident living, and preparing for the future among Church members, noting that these principles underpin the global faith’s sustainability.
His role extends beyond numbers, however. In interviews, Caussé has described his work as “a stewardship of temporal blessings,” connecting financial discipline with spiritual growth. Analysts suggest that his ability to navigate complex fiscal operations will enhance the Church’s global expansion initiatives and its ability to provide humanitarian aid.
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Environmental Leadership and Global Outreach
A unique aspect of Caussé’s leadership is his focus on environmental sustainability. In 2023, he outlined six key priorities, including renewable resource usage, water conservation, sustainable design, air quality improvement, waste reduction, and sustainable farming practices. Speaking to LDS youth and professionals, Caussé emphasized that caring for the Earth is integral to discipleship, framing stewardship as both a spiritual and ecological responsibility.
This global perspective aligns with the Church’s growing presence in Europe, Africa, and other international regions. Caussé’s multilingual skills and understanding of secular societies make him a bridge between traditional LDS communities and modern, diverse populations, furthering the Church’s influence abroad.
Personal Life: Family, Faith, and Sacrifice
Beyond his professional and ecclesiastical achievements, Gérald Caussé is a devoted family man. Married to Valérie Babin since 1986, the couple has five children. Their family experienced multiple relocations for Caussé’s Church assignments, moving from France to Germany and later to the United States. Despite challenges, the Caussé children adapted, illustrating the family’s commitment to faith and service.
Caussé is a second-generation Latter-day Saint, with both he and his wife raised in the faith. His personal testimony of Jesus Christ, coupled with decades of service in high-level Church leadership roles, reinforces his standing as a spiritual guide for members around the world.
Implications for the LDS Church
The vacancy Caussé fills emerged following the death of former Church President Russell M. Nelson and the elevation of D. Todd Christofferson to the First Presidency. As a lifelong apostle, Caussé’s appointment strengthens the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, the second-highest governing body of the Church, which oversees administrative, doctrinal, and missionary responsibilities.
Observers note that Caussé’s combination of financial acumen, environmental stewardship, and global outreach may influence future Church policies and humanitarian projects, particularly as the LDS Church continues to expand its presence in secular and international communities.
FAQ
Q1: Who is Gérald Caussé?
A1: Gérald Caussé is the newest member of the LDS Church’s Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, a French-born leader known for overseeing the Church’s finances and promoting environmental stewardship.
Q2: What is the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles?
A2: The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles is the second-highest governing body in the LDS Church, responsible for doctrinal guidance, global administration, and missionary work.
Q3: How are LDS apostles chosen?
A3: Apostles are called by the Church President and ordained by the First Presidency and existing apostles. They serve for life, with the longest-serving apostle eligible to become Church President.
Q4: What are Gérald Caussé’s responsibilities as an apostle?
A4: Caussé oversees Church administration, finances, humanitarian aid, and global missionary efforts, while providing spiritual guidance to members worldwide.
Q5: Why is Caussé’s appointment significant?
A5: He is the third European apostle, the first for whom English is a second language, and brings expertise in Church finances, international outreach, and environmental initiatives.
Q6: How does Caussé contribute to environmental sustainability?
A6: He advocates for renewable resources, water conservation, sustainable design, air quality improvement, waste reduction, and responsible farming practices as part of LDS discipleship.
Q7: What is Caussé’s family background?
A7: Married to Valérie Babin, they have five children and have lived in France, Germany, and the U.S., demonstrating strong family commitment alongside Church service.
