LDS Church to Announce New Prophet, First Presidency Today
Dallin H. Oaks has been appointed as the 18th president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The announcement was made on October 14, 2025, during a worldwide broadcast from Salt Lake City. The 93-year-old Oaks, a former justice of the Utah Supreme Court, selected Henry B. Eyring and D. Todd Christofferson as his counselors in the newly formed First Presidency.
Leadership Announcement Details
During the 13-minute broadcast, Oaks expressed his deep gratitude for the support received from church members. He emphasized that he accepted the new role with humility and commitment to serve. Eyring, who is 92, appreciated the trust placed in him and Oaks, while Christofferson, 80, described his unexpected elevation to the role as an honor.
The New First Presidency
- Dallin H. Oaks: 18th President
- Henry B. Eyring: First Counselor
- D. Todd Christofferson: Second Counselor
Previous Leadership Transition
Oaks succeeds Russell M. Nelson, who passed away on September 27, 2025, at the age of 101. Nelson had led the church, which has a membership of approximately 17.5 million, for nearly eight years. Jeffrey R. Holland is the new president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
Reactions to the Transition
Holland noted that Oaks’ ascension was a confirmation of divine will, showcasing the unanimous support among the church’s leadership. The announcement departed from a longstanding tradition, as it did not include a press conference, which was common practice for new prophet-presidents.
Oaks’ Leadership Philosophy
Throughout his remarks, Oaks reinforced the church’s commitment to serve all of humanity. He highlighted the importance of unity and service while recognizing the challenges faced by the global community. Oaks stressed the need for civil discourse and the pursuit of legislative compromise.
Global Impact and Future Direction
The church has experienced considerable growth internationally, particularly in Africa. Oaks’ traditional views on family may resonate positively with members in these regions. However, there are concerns regarding how these beliefs align with modern issues, especially immigration policies and inclusivity.
Focus on Covenants
Moving forward, expectations are that Oaks will emphasize the centrality of covenants in the faith. This focus aligns with the church’s teachings about salvation, highlighting commitments made during baptism and temple ceremonies.
As the church transitions under Oaks’ leadership, members will be observing how these changes will shape the community both in the United States and abroad. The balance between traditional values and contemporary challenges is set to be a significant theme in his presidency.
