Matthew Cowley - Apostle

Apostle

Cowley was released from his mission presidency in September 1945, and that October, in general conference, he was called to serve as an apostle in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, filling the vacancy caused by the death of church president Heber J. Grant. He was ordained on October 11, 1945 by new church president George Albert Smith.

Cowley was affectionately known as the "Polynesian Apostle." He was also known for being exceptionally compassionate. He encouraged the members of the church to openly welcome sinners rather than ostracize them. He was also known for being an eloquent speaker and writer. A number of his sermons were compiled into Matthew Cowley Speaks, which was published after his death.

His contributions to the Māori and the church in New Zealand continued during his service as an apostle. As an apostle, he presided over all of the missions of the church in the Pacific. He played a crucial role in the building of the Hamilton New Zealand Temple and also worked in constructing a church school near the temple site.

Cowley died suddenly in Los Angeles, California. He was buried at Salt Lake City Cemetery. George Q. Morris was called to fill the void in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.