SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Russell M. Nelson, the president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints became the faith’s oldest leader in history on Thursday at 97 years, seven months and six days.

Pres. Nelson, a former heart surgeon, has served as the president of the Salt Lake City-based faith since April 2018.

Members of the faith believe Pres. Nelson receives divine revelation and direct word from God.

Church presidents serve until they die.

Nelson’s surpasses the previous oldest church president, Gordon B. Hinckley, who died in 2008 at the age of 97 after serving 13 years.

Nelson has thus far served for four years as president, a much shorter period than his immediate predecessors, who served about eight and 10 years. Before becoming president, he served for 34 years as a General Authority in the Church.