Elder Rasband praises Milwaukee’s Cooper Pratt for exemplifying Latter-day Saint testimony during World Series play (Milwaukee, Wisconsin)

Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints highlighted the example of Milwaukee Brewers shortstop Cooper Pratt, emphasizing the importance of standing as a witness of God in all aspects of life. During a visit to Nicaragua to dedicate the Managua Nicaragua Temple, Elder Rasband praised Pratt for remaining faithful to his testimony and Latter-day Saint beliefs throughout the Brewers’ postseason run to the World Series.

Elder Rasband referenced teachings from the Book of Mormon, specifically Mosiah 18:9, which calls for individuals to be witnesses of God “at all times and in all things, and in all places.” He expressed pride in Pratt’s ability to embody this principle while playing professional baseball. “He’s being a witness of the Lord Jesus Christ even playing shortstop for the Milwaukee Brewers, and that makes me very proud of him,” Elder Rasband said.

The connection between Elder Rasband and the Pratt family dates back decades. Cooper Pratt’s father, Russell Pratt, served as a missionary under Elder Rasband’s leadership during his time as president of the New York New York North Mission from 1996 to 1999. Elder Rasband recalled Russell Pratt as a leader who was both soft-spoken and powerful, deeply committed to his faith and service.

Russell Pratt, who now serves as bishop of the Oxford Mississippi Ward in the Tupelo Mississippi Stake, reflected on the lasting impact of his time with Elder Rasband. “To this day, I can still hear his voice in the back of my mind — his counsel, his encouragement, his wisdom and, perhaps more than anything, his sincere love for people,” Russell Pratt said. He noted that the lessons learned during his mission continue to shape his life and ministry.

The story of Cooper Pratt and his father, Russell, illustrates the enduring influence of missionary service and the values instilled through it. Their lives reflect a commitment to faith, service, and love for others, which aligns with the biblical theme of justice, mercy, and humble service found in Micah 6:8.

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