The Church of Jesus Christ First Presidency has officially been reorganized following the passing of President Russell M. Nelson. On October 14, 2025, senior church leaders announced that Dallin H. Oaks will serve as the 18th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with Henry B. Eyring and D. Todd Christofferson as his counselors. This marks a new chapter in the leadership of one of the largest religious organizations in the United States.
A Pivotal Moment for the Church
President Nelson, who led the Church from January 2018 until his death on September 27, 2025, was 101 years old. His presidency was characterized by rapid temple expansion, organizational adjustments, and a strong emphasis on personal revelation. With his passing, the First Presidency was dissolved, and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles temporarily assumed leadership, as is the Church’s standard procedure.
On October 14, the Quorum met in Salt Lake City to prayerfully organize the new First Presidency. Senior apostle Dallin H. Oaks, who had served as First Counselor under Nelson, was unanimously set apart as President of the Church. He selected Henry B. Eyring as First Counselor and D. Todd Christofferson as Second Counselor. The announcement was broadcast live to members worldwide.
The new Church of Jesus Christ First Presidency now consists of:
| Position | Leader |
|---|---|
| President of the Church | Dallin H. Oaks |
| First Counselor | Henry B. Eyring |
| Second Counselor | D. Todd Christofferson |
Jeffrey R. Holland, a senior apostle, was appointed as President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, consistent with leadership succession protocols.
How the First Presidency Functions
The First Presidency is the highest governing body of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It consists of the President of the Church, who is regarded by members as a prophet, and two counselors. Together, they provide overall direction for the Church’s global operations, doctrinal guidance, and administrative decisions.
When the President of the Church dies, the First Presidency is automatically dissolved. The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles leads during the interim period until the new First Presidency is formally reorganized. By longstanding tradition, the apostle with the greatest seniority becomes the new President. That leader then chooses his counselors, who are sustained and set apart in a special meeting.
Once organized, the First Presidency oversees every major aspect of Church life. This includes missionary work, temple building, humanitarian programs, educational systems, and public communication. Their decisions influence millions of members across more than 180 countries.
President Dallin H. Oaks: A Seasoned Leader
Dallin H. Oaks has been a prominent figure in Church leadership for decades. Before his apostolic service, he was a Utah Supreme Court justice and president of Brigham Young University. His legal background and commitment to religious freedom have shaped much of his public ministry.
As President, Oaks brings a combination of doctrinal stability and administrative experience. He has served in the First Presidency since 2018, making him well-positioned to lead during this period of transition. Observers expect his presidency to maintain continuity with Nelson’s direction, while possibly emphasizing legal and societal issues in new ways.
Henry B. Eyring and D. Todd Christofferson Join the Presidency
Henry B. Eyring returns to the First Presidency as First Counselor. He previously served in this role under Presidents Gordon B. Hinckley, Thomas S. Monson, and Russell M. Nelson, making this his fourth time as a counselor. Known for his warm teaching style and emphasis on personal faith, his return provides a sense of stability and continuity for members worldwide.
D. Todd Christofferson, now Second Counselor, enters the First Presidency for the first time. A former law clerk and corporate attorney, he has been a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles since 2008. His leadership has often focused on strengthening families, religious education, and moral values in modern society.
Recent Developments Under New Leadership
1. Temple Program Adjustments
During the October 2025 General Conference, the Church announced a temporary slowdown in the pace of new temple announcements. Under President Nelson, over 200 temple sites were announced worldwide. President Oaks indicated that the Church will now focus on completing ongoing projects before announcing additional temples, marking a shift toward consolidation after a period of rapid expansion.
2. Global Membership Milestone
The Church now reports more than 17 million members worldwide, with a significant portion residing in the United States. The First Presidency plays a central role in guiding local leaders and supporting congregations globally, ensuring that doctrine, programs, and temple ordinances remain consistent while adapting to diverse cultural contexts.
3. Focus on Religious Freedom and Public Engagement
Given President Oaks’ legal background, many expect the new presidency to continue emphasizing religious liberty and the Church’s role in public discourse. Issues such as education, freedom of worship, and moral values remain key topics in the Church’s interactions with governments and communities, especially in the United States.
Timeline of Key Events
- September 27, 2025 – President Russell M. Nelson passes away at age 101.
- October 4–5, 2025 – The Church holds its 195th Semiannual General Conference, during which leaders prepare members for the upcoming leadership transition.
- October 14, 2025 – Dallin H. Oaks is sustained as President of the Church. Henry B. Eyring and D. Todd Christofferson are announced as his counselors.
- October 15, 2025 – The new Church of Jesus Christ First Presidency begins its official administrative duties.
Why This Leadership Change Matters
For members in the United States, changes in the First Presidency often shape how the Church interacts with communities, government, and culture. These leadership transitions influence:
- The direction of missionary work and community outreach.
- Building and operation of temples in U.S. regions.
- Religious education initiatives, including seminary and institute programs.
- Public statements on social, ethical, and legal issues.
- The tone and priorities in General Conference addresses.
With President Oaks at the helm, the Church is expected to continue its global expansion while reinforcing key principles such as faith in Jesus Christ, family values, and civic engagement.
The Church of Jesus Christ First Presidency now stands renewed, bringing together experienced leadership and a clear sense of continuity. Millions of members across the United States and worldwide are watching closely as this presidency begins a new era of service and guidance.
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