LDS Church Names Dallin H. Oaks 18th Prophet in New Presidency Announcement
Dallin H. Oaks has been appointed as the 18th prophet and president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He succeeds Russell M. Nelson, who passed away at the age of 97 last month. Oaks has been a prominent figure in the church since he became an apostle in 1984.
New Leadership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Oaks’ selection was expected due to his seniority. Joining him in the church’s First Presidency are Henry B. Eyring as first councilor and D. Todd Christofferson as second councilor. The appointments followed a period of careful consideration by Oaks, who cited “extended prayer and fasting” as part of his decision-making process.
Reflections on Russell M. Nelson
During the announcement, Oaks honored his predecessor, describing Nelson as a “magnificent” prophet. He recognized the ongoing work needed to achieve the church’s aspirations. “There is much to be done, for our ministry is a ministry of all the children of God on the face of the earth,” Oaks stated.
Reactions to the New Leadership
Matthew Bowman, a religion professor, expressed some surprise at Christofferson’s selection but recognized the rationale behind it. Both Oaks and Christofferson share backgrounds in law, which, according to Bowman, aligns with the church’s focus on logic and tradition.
- Oaks has served in various roles within the church since 1984.
- Eyring previously served as second counselor to Nelson and was president of Ricks College.
- Christofferson was associate general counsel at NationsBank Corporation (now Bank of America).
Bowman indicated that the new leadership trio is known for their calm demeanor and is likely to approach changes gradually. With Oaks at the helm, significant shifts in church policy may not be anticipated immediately.
Strategic Appointments and Their Implications
Brittany Romanello, a sociology professor, praised the strategic nature of the new First Presidency. She noted the long-standing collaboration between Eyring and Oaks, as well as the significance of appointing another attorney in Christofferson.
She emphasized that all four leaders have been advocates for religious freedom in recent years, particularly in the wake of controversial topics surrounding marriage equality. Holland, who is next in line after Oaks, has been vocal about these issues as well.
Concerns within the Community
Some members of the LGBTQ+ community expressed apprehension about the direction of the church under Oaks. Romanello, for instance, conveyed her worries as a gay member of the church amid uncertainty about future policies.
Focus on Family and Community
Oaks recently delivered a message highlighting the significance of family within the context of faith. He referenced the church’s stance on marriage and emphasized the need for nurturing family environments to address declining birth rates.
“Our relationship to God and the purpose of our mortal life are explained in terms of the family,” Oaks remarked during the October General Conference. This focus on family underscores an intention to prioritize nurturing relationships over engaging in divisive cultural battles.
As Oaks steps into his new role, he expressed a commitment to serving the church and its members with dedication. “I accept with humility the responsibility that God has placed upon me and commit my whole heart and soul to the service to which I’ve been called,” he said.
