Hostess to the World

Back Cover Description: Irene Staples was the first Official Hostess for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the Mormons). She served in this position for almost 10 years, much of the time as the sole representative serving in this position. Irene was part of, or a direct witness to, some of the most momentous events in the history of the Mormon Church in modern times. On a daily basis she rubbed shoulders with kings and queens, ambassadors, captains of industry, movie stars, and thousands of ‘just folk’ that came to Utah to learn about the Mormon church. Perhaps her greatest accomplishments were her involvement in the opening of Israel for the preaching of the Gospel, and helping to obtain the land for the Orson Hyde Memorial Park that sits on the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem. Here are just a few of the things discussed in this book: • The Mormon Pavilion at the 1964 New York World’s Fair—the prototype for all future Visitors Centers that would be built by the Mormon Church. • The first Christmas lights on Temple Square. • Temple Square and the many dignitaries Irene hosted over the years. • The opening of the State of Israel to the Mormon Church for the preaching of the Gospel and the establishment of the first branch in Israel. • The discovery of Lehi’s Cave in Israel. • The creation of the Orson Hyde Memorial Park on the Mount of Olives. • Inspiring stories from the life of this remarkable woman! Irene was a 21st century woman, born ahead of her time. Her life of service and accomplishment is an inspiration to women everywhere who struggle with raising families, excelling in careers, and serving the Lord—all within the bounds and burdens placed upon them by society. You will see how a woman of humble birth can rise to shake the world with her testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ!