Following the announcement that President Russell M. Nelson passed away at the age of 101, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are now asking: who will be the next president of the LDS Church? The answer lies in a well-established tradition of succession that has guided the Church for nearly two centuries.
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The LDS Succession Process
When a president of the Church dies, leadership is not left to speculation or election. Instead, the transition is based on seniority within the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles:
- The First Presidency is dissolved immediately upon the president’s death.
- The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles assumes responsibility for leadership.
- The senior apostle — the one with the longest continuous service — is set apart as the new president.
- A solemn assembly later confirms the sustaining vote of members worldwide.
This system ensures continuity and unity during times of change.
The Next President: Dallin H. Oaks
With Russell Nelson’s passing, the answer to who will be the next president of the LDS Church is clear: Dallin H. Oaks.
Background and Career
Oaks, 93, brings an impressive professional and spiritual resume. Before his call to church leadership, he served as president of Brigham Young University and later as a justice on the Utah Supreme Court. His background in law and education has shaped his disciplined and analytical approach to leadership.
Church Service
Called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in 1984, the same year as Nelson, Oaks has over four decades of experience in global ministry. For the past seven years, he served as First Counselor in the First Presidency, working closely with President Nelson.
Leadership Style
Oaks is known for his clarity, focus on doctrinal principles, and emphasis on obedience and order. Members can expect his presidency to reflect steadiness, continuity, and careful decision-making.
What Happens Next
The process of confirming Oaks as the 18th president of the Church will unfold in several steps:
- Apostolic Gathering: The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles will meet in the Salt Lake Temple to discuss leadership.
- Formal Setting Apart: Oaks will be ordained and set apart as the next president.
- Counselor Selection: He will choose two counselors, forming a new First Presidency.
- Worldwide Sustaining: During the next General Conference, a solemn assembly will allow church members to sustain him as prophet.
These steps will take place swiftly, ensuring a smooth transition.
The Legacy Oaks Will Carry Forward
President Nelson’s tenure left a powerful mark on the Church. Among his most notable accomplishments were:
- A rapid global expansion of temples.
- A renewed emphasis on the full name of the Church.
- Policy adjustments to strengthen families and youth.
- Guidance during the COVID-19 pandemic, blending medical expertise and faith.
Oaks will inherit this legacy and face the challenge of continuing forward momentum while setting his own priorities.
Challenges Ahead for the New President
Leadership of the LDS Church always comes with weighty responsibilities. As Oaks steps into this role, several challenges are front and center:
- Global Growth: Membership is expanding most rapidly in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Supporting new congregations and building temples will be priorities.
- Generational Expectations: Younger members seek openness and inclusivity while holding to core beliefs.
- Doctrinal Clarity: In an era of shifting social values, Oaks will be tasked with balancing faith tradition with contemporary issues.
- Public Perception: The Church continues to face scrutiny over history, gender roles, and LGBTQ+ policies.
How Oaks addresses these issues will shape both his presidency and the global image of the Church.
Why Succession Brings Confidence
The LDS Church succession process is unique in its stability. For nearly 200 years, every leadership transition has followed this same pattern, without elections or disputes. Members believe this order reflects divine guidance and helps maintain unity.
This clarity gives members peace of mind: even during times of mourning, the Church moves forward without pause.
The Global Dimension of Leadership
As the Church grows beyond its American roots, the next president will be leading a truly international faith.
- Temples announced under Nelson have accelerated global outreach.
- Membership demographics show growth shifting toward Africa and South America.
- Translation efforts ensure teachings reach millions in dozens of languages.
For Oaks, this means his decisions will resonate not only in Utah but across continents.
Looking Forward
The answer to who will be the next president of the LDS Church is firmly rooted in tradition: Dallin H. Oaks will assume the mantle. His presidency will continue the path laid out by Nelson but will also bring his distinct perspective shaped by decades in law, education, and ministry.
For church members, the moment is both one of mourning and of anticipation — mourning the passing of a beloved prophet and anticipating the leadership of a new one.
Final Thoughts
The passing of President Russell Nelson closes an extraordinary chapter. With who will be the next president of the LDS Church now clear, attention turns to Dallin H. Oaks. His steady hand, long service, and devotion to principle position him to guide the Church into its next era.
As members reflect on Nelson’s legacy and prepare to sustain Oaks, one truth remains constant: faith, continuity, and unity will carry the Church forward.
What qualities do you hope to see emphasized in the next presidency? Share your thoughts below and join the discussion.