Who Is Elder Brian J. Holmes? Meet the New General Authority Seventy of the LDS Church

Elder Brian J. Holmes was sustained as a new General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints during the April 2025 general conference. A man known for his faith, humility, and optimism, Elder Holmes brings a deep spiritual commitment and life experience to his new calling — one he embraces with enthusiasm, describing it with an “exclamation point” rather than a question mark.

Who Is Elder Brian J. Holmes? Early Life and Family Background

Born on December 5, 1977, in Salt Lake City, Utah, Brian J. Holmes is one of 12 children born to Michael H. and Marian R. Holmes. He was raised in what he calls “the ideal gospel home,” where family scripture study, home evening, and prayer were part of everyday life. His father, Michael H. Holmes, also served as an Area Seventy — giving Brian strong spiritual role models early in life.

Marriage and Family

Elder Holmes met his wife, Maggie Wilson, in high school. They were married in the Salt Lake Temple on March 29, 1999, shortly after Elder Holmes returned from serving in the Germany Munich Mission. Sister Holmes, who was the only member of her family attending church during her youth, found strength in her Young Women leaders and peers who included and supported her. Her dream of having an eternal family came true when she and Elder Holmes were sealed in the temple.

Together, the couple has six children and was living in Queen Creek, Arizona, at the time of Elder Holmes’ call to serve as a general authority.

Education and Career

Elder Holmes earned both his bachelor’s degree in political science and Juris Doctor (JD) from Arizona State University. He worked as vice president of Holmes Homes, a family business in Arizona, and later founded Holmes Law PLC. Most recently, he served as general counsel for Charter One LLC.

His decision to pursue law came after the 2007 housing market crash, which closed the family business. With faith and support from his wife, he took a bold step into legal studies — a move he attributes to divine guidance.

Church Service

Before being called as a General Authority Seventy, Elder Holmes served as an Area Seventy in the North America Southwest Area. His previous church roles include:

• Stake President

• High Councilor

• Bishop

• Full-time missionary in the Germany Munich Mission

Faith and Leadership

Elder Holmes emphasizes faith-driven decision-making and trusting in divine timing. He frequently reflects on Doctrine and Covenants 84:88, which promises that the Lord will “go before your face.” He and his wife believe their lives have been continually guided by the Lord as they’ve kept their covenants.

Through career trials, financial uncertainty, and new beginnings, Elder Holmes and his family relied on their faith, prayer, and temple attendance to receive personal revelation.

A Message of Hope and Simplicity

Elder Holmes loves the simplicity of the gospel, emphasizing that God’s plan, the Atonement of Jesus Christ, and the Restoration bring strength and joy to daily life.

“There’s so much power in the simpleness of the gospel, it’s beautiful,” he said.

“With all our hearts, we are filled with so much gratitude for [Christ’s] life and His mission, what He’s done for us.”

He testifies that President Russell M. Nelson is a living prophet and that keeping covenants brings power and peace in a complex world.

Elder Brian J. Holmes is a man of faith, family, and service. His life story is one of humility, sacrifice, and quiet spiritual strength. As a new General Authority Seventy, he brings with him a deep love for Jesus Christ, a strong partnership with his wife Maggie, and an unwavering belief in the power of covenants.

His journey serves as a powerful example of acting in faith — stepping out of the boat even when the path is unclear — and trusting the Lord to lead the way.