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Apostle Throws Strike at Dodgers Game

Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints threw out the first pitch July 1, 2016, in Dodger Stadium. The ceremonial pitch came to Elder Rueben Acosta of the Seventy.

Of particular interest was the fact that Elder Andersen threw from the top of the mound — something most people don’t try. Furthermore, his pitch was a strike right over the plate.

Photos courtesy of Nathan Petty

Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, threw out the first pitch July 1, 2016, at Dodger Stadium. The ceremonial pitch came to Elder Rueben Acosta of the Seventy.

Mormon Night at Dodger Stadium is the largest and longest running community event sponsored by the Los Angeles Dodgers. Each year Latter-day Saints travel from all over California and elsewhere to attend the event.

Photo courtesy of Erik Isakson

Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (left) with former Dodgers manager Tommy Lasorda (center) and Mormon Night event coordinator Gary E. Condie (right) at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California, July 1, 2016.

The Dodgers thanked the Church for the long-standing relationship and wonderful tradition.

Photo courtesy of Nathan Petty

Elder Andersen expressed his appreciation to be in attendance and be with the audience as they began the Fourth of July celebration.

Photo courtesy of Erik Isakson

Elder Andersen joins a number of other senior Church officials who have participated in Mormon Night at Dodger Stadium. Last year, Sister Linda K. Burton, Relief Society general president, threw out the first pitch.

Sister Tiffany Houghton, a Mormon from Dallas, Texas, was invited to sing the national anthem.

The Dodgers also invited a number of Mormon children onto the field to meet the players. They were given Dodger clothing and an autographed baseball.

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