May Green Hinckley

Primary President - 1940–1943

As the new general president of the Primary in 1940, May Hinckely brought no previous Primary experience to her calling, but she did bring a deep and abiding testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ. She also brought significant experience with the Church away from the American West and an appreciation of the challenges faced in fledgling areas of the Church. Although there had been some previous efforts at establishing small Primaries in outlying areas before this time, they were a special concern of Sister Hinckley because of her long involvement with the missionary program. These programs made it very difficult for children in many areas to gather in larger groups. In assessing what changes needed to be made, Sister Hinckley's new presidency and board carefully studied developmental characteristics of children. They also surveyed all stake Primary presidents for suggestions. The new curriculum consolidated the spiritual foundations of Primary and added a scripture reading program for leaders and teachers. Sister Hinckley established a formal scriptural theme for Primary: "They shall teach their children to pray and to walk uprightly before the Lord" (D&C 68:28). The official Primary logo, motto (Faith and Service), and "Primary colors," all used to this day, were also established during this time. Sister Hinckley served for less than three and a half years, dying unexpectedly in May 1943.