Rep. Tom Lantos, friend of LDS Church

More on Rep. Tom Lantos as a friend of the LDS Church

His wife, whom he married in 1950, was a member of the LDS Church. The couple had helped the LDS Church host various events in Washington, D.C., over the years, such as the Christmas lighting ceremonies at the temple there.

When Brigham Young University, looking to establish a center in Jerusalem, met resistance from Orthodox Jews, Lantos was “very quick and very early” to put his name on a letter to Israeli leaders.

“It gave the letter great credibility with other members of Congress — if a Holocaust survivor can sign it, anybody can,” King said. “And it gave it great credibility in Israel.”

In 2001, Lantos spoke at BYU’s commencement ceremony. Alongside LDS apostle Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin, Lantos was awarded an honorary doctorate from the university.

. . .

Similarly, the First Presidency of the LDS Church issued the following statement: “The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints expresses its sincere condolences to the family of Congressman Tom Lantos who passed away after his fight with esophageal cancer. Representative Lantos was a remarkable public servant, and a beloved husband, father and grandfather.

“As a Member of the House of Representatives, and most recently as Chairman of the important House Foreign Affairs Committee, he was a leading force for political and religious freedom throughout the world. As a holocaust survivor, he exemplified great compassion for victims of political unrest and oppression.

“He opened many doors for humanitarian and disaster relief efforts, and leaves behind a legacy of family love and unity. We extend our deep sympathies and offer our prayers of comfort for his entire family.”