Henry Bennion Eyring (born May 31, 1933) is an American educator, religious leader, and author whose public life spans academic work, church education leadership, and decades of service as one of the senior leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

He is widely admired for a clear, gentle teaching style, a focus on individual discipleship, and steady administrative leadership.

Early Life and Family

Eyring was born in Princeton, New Jersey, into a family that combined scientific distinction and community-minded faith. His father, Henry Eyring, was a renowned theoretical chemist, and his mother, Mildred Bennion, was celebrated for her spiritual influence. These family influences—academic rigor paired with deep religious devotion—helped shape Eyring’s distinctive path. He grew up with a curiosity for learning and a commitment to service that guided his career.

Education and Early Career

Eyring earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physics from the University of Utah and pursued graduate degrees at Harvard University, including advanced business study. After his education he served in the United States Air Force during the 1950s. In 1962 he joined the faculty of the Stanford Graduate School of Business, teaching and conducting research through much of the 1960s and into the early 1970s. He also held visiting fellow appointments, including time at MIT. These academic experiences provided a foundation of analytical rigor and pedagogy that informed his later administrative roles.

Academic Leadership: Ricks College and Church Education

In 1971 Eyring was called as president of Ricks College in Rexburg, Idaho (now BYU–Idaho), where he served until 1977. During his presidency he emphasized both academic quality and spiritual development, strengthening programs that combined vocational training with gospel-centered learning. Later, he served multiple terms as Commissioner of Church Education and in other senior roles overseeing seminaries, institutes, and church-affiliated schools worldwide—positions in which he helped guide curriculum and teacher training programs used across the Church.

Ministry and Rise in Church Leadership

Eyring’s ministry included local callings—early-morning seminary teacher, bishop of a Stanford singles ward, and regional representative—before ascending to higher council positions. He served as a counselor in the Presiding Bishopric from April 1985 to September 1992 and was called to the First Quorum of the Seventy in October 1992. On April 1, 1995, he was sustained as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, taking on global administrative and spiritual responsibilities for the worldwide Church.

Service in the First Presidency

Henry B. Eyring has been called to serve in the First Presidency—the Church’s highest executive council—on multiple occasions. He was sustained as Second Counselor to President Gordon B. Hinckley in October 2007, later served as First Counselor to President Thomas S. Monson, and in January 2018 was called as Second Counselor to President Russell M. Nelson. In these roles he has been deeply involved in doctrinal teaching, global administration, humanitarian efforts, and temple expansion initiatives.

Teaching Style and Doctrinal Emphasis

Eyring’s teaching style is notable for narrative clarity, pastoral warmth, and practical emphasis. He frequently uses personal stories, family vignettes, and brief analogies to elucidate doctrines such as revelation, repentance, and covenant keeping. This approach makes doctrine accessible to a broad audience and encourages listeners to pursue personal revelation and family-centered discipleship. His addresses are often recommended for family study and classroom use because they are memorable and applicable.

Publications and Notable Addresses

While Eyring is not primarily known as a long-form author, his collected sermons and devotional addresses form a substantial body of work. General Conference talks, BYU devotional lectures, and other addresses are archived by the Church and used in classrooms and study groups worldwide. These resources frequently address themes of faith under trial, parental responsibility, the gift of the Holy Ghost, and the importance of daily discipleship.

Personal Life

Henry B. Eyring married Kathleen Johnson on July 27, 1962. The couple raised six children and maintained a strong family life centered on service, faith, and education. Kathleen Eyring was a frequent companion in public and private ministry until her death in October 2023. Their children—several of whom have held leadership and educational roles—carry on a family tradition of combining professional achievement with church and community service.

Legacy and Influence

Eyring’s legacy is both institutional and personal. Institutionally, he strengthened church education systems and helped implement policies and curricula that serve millions of students worldwide. Personally, his empathetic teaching and emphasis on personal revelation have shaped individual lives across generations. Many church members credit his sermons and counsel with providing comfort, direction, and practical steps for living gospel principles in busy modern lives.

Controversies and Criticism

Like many leaders in large organizations, Eyring has been part of occasional public debates—usually related to institutional change, policy, or organizational priorities rather than allegations about personal conduct. These critiques form part of broader conversations about how religious institutions adapt to global growth and changing cultural contexts. Overall, his reputation within the LDS community remains largely positive and focused on his pastoral care and educational leadership.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is Henry B. Eyring?

Henry B. Eyring is an educator and senior leader in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, known for his service in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and the First Presidency.

When and where was he born?

He was born on May 31, 1933, in Princeton, New Jersey.

What positions has he held in the Church?

Eyring has served as regional representative, bishop, counselor in the Presiding Bishopric, a member of the First Quorum of the Seventy, an apostle in the Quorum of the Twelve, and as a counselor in the First Presidency.

What is his educational background?

He holds a BS in physics from the University of Utah and graduate degrees from Harvard University; he was a faculty member at Stanford GSB and later served in academic leadership roles.

Where can I find his talks?

Most of his talks are available on the official Church website and in university repositories such as BYU’s speeches collection.

Conclusion

Henry B. Eyring’s biography shows how intellectual rigor and spiritual devotion can complement each other. From his academic beginnings to his longstanding church leadership, Eyring has left an enduring mark on educational policy, pastoral teaching, and individual discipleship. His talks, administrative reforms, and personal example continue to influence Church members and others who study his life and teachings.