Mormonism has a new leader. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has named Russell M Nelson as its 17th president.

Nelson, 93, was formally welcomed into his new role during a live broadcast from Utah's Salt Lake Temple yesterday in a first for the Church. The announcement was made in 29 languages.

He said: 'I express my deep love for you — love that has grown over decades of meeting you, worshipping with you and serving you.'

At a news conference, Nelson paid tribute to his predecessor Thomas Monson, who died aged 90 on January 2. 'No words can do justice to the magnitude and magnificence of his life,' Nelson said.

Nelson was ordained into his new position on Sunday. He was the longest-serving member of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles, meaning his succession to the presidency was automatic.

Like mainstream Christian Churches, the Mormon Church has faced pressure over its rejection of same-sex marriage. Nelson is a traditionalist on the issue and has defended the policy that prevents children of gay parents from being baptised without special approval, according to KUER's Lee Hale.

A pioneering heart surgeon during his working life, Nelson has 116 great-grandchildren, some of whom were present at the announcement of his presidency.