The death of President Russell M. Nelson at the age of 101 has left millions of members worldwide reflecting on his life and legacy. At the same time, one pressing question has emerged across congregations and communities: who will be the next president of the LDS Church? For many outside the faith, the process may appear mysterious, but within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, leadership succession is one of the most structured and predictable aspects of its governance.
Why Succession Matters
Leadership in the LDS Church carries profound spiritual and organizational weight. The president is regarded by members not only as a leader but as a prophet, seer, and revelator. His guidance is believed to come through divine inspiration, shaping doctrine, policy, and the daily faith practices of more than 17 million members around the globe.
With who will be the next president of the LDS Church now the central question, understanding the process behind the transition provides clarity, continuity, and reassurance for a global membership experiencing a period of mourning.
The Succession System Explained
Unlike many religious or civic organizations where elections or appointments occur, the LDS Church follows a system rooted in seniority and tradition.
- First Presidency Dissolution: Upon the death of a Church president, the First Presidency (the president and his counselors) is automatically dissolved.
- Quorum Leadership: The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles assumes collective responsibility for leadership.
- Seniority Principle: The apostle with the longest continuous service becomes the new president of the Church.
- Formal Setting Apart: The new president is ordained in a private meeting of the apostles, followed by a sustaining vote during General Conference.
This orderly process has been followed for nearly two centuries, ensuring seamless transitions that prevent power struggles or uncertainty.
Dallin H. Oaks: The Next President
With President Nelson’s passing, the answer to who will be the next president of the LDS Church is already clear. The mantle will pass to Dallin H. Oaks, the most senior member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
Professional Background
Oaks, now 93, has an impressive career history. He worked as a law professor, clerked for Chief Justice Earl Warren of the U.S. Supreme Court, served as president of Brigham Young University, and later became a justice on the Utah Supreme Court. His legal and academic background shaped a disciplined, analytical style of leadership.
Apostolic Service
Oaks was called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in 1984, the same year as Russell Nelson. For more than four decades, he has traveled, ministered, and spoken extensively, gaining a reputation for clarity and conviction in addressing doctrinal questions.
Role in the First Presidency
Since 2018, Oaks has served as First Counselor to President Nelson. This position gave him a front-row seat to Nelson’s initiatives, such as the massive expansion of temples and the reemphasis on using the full name of the Church.
What Comes Next in the Transition
The days ahead will follow a well-established pattern:
- Quorum Deliberation: The apostles meet to confirm the new president.
- Ordination Ceremony: Dallin H. Oaks will be ordained and set apart as the 18th president of the Church.
- Formation of a New First Presidency: Oaks will select two counselors to serve alongside him.
- Solemn Assembly: During General Conference, Church members worldwide will sustain him through a sacred vote.
This process is designed to be swift, often completed within days of a president’s passing, reinforcing continuity for members during a time of loss.
The Legacy Inherited from Russell M. Nelson
Oaks will inherit both the opportunities and challenges left by President Nelson’s dynamic leadership.
- Global Temple Growth: Nelson announced an unprecedented number of new temples worldwide, dramatically reshaping worship opportunities for members in remote areas.
- Doctrinal Emphasis: Nelson highlighted the centrality of Jesus Christ by urging members to avoid shorthand labels like “Mormon.”
- Pandemic Guidance: His unique background as a surgeon helped the Church navigate health challenges during COVID-19.
- Structural Reforms: Programs for youth, home-centered gospel study, and changes to ministering redefined how members practice their faith.
These initiatives will continue to influence Oaks’ presidency, shaping his decisions and the expectations members carry forward.
Challenges Facing the Next President
Every LDS president brings his own approach to ongoing issues. Oaks will step into leadership with several pressing matters on his horizon:
- Global Membership Growth: The Church is expanding most rapidly in Africa, Latin America, and Asia. Building local leadership and temples in these regions will be essential.
- Generational Shifts: Younger members are seeking more inclusivity, transparency, and open dialogue about sensitive social issues.
- Public Perception: The Church faces scrutiny on topics such as LGBTQ+ rights, gender roles, and historical transparency.
- Technological Demands: Digital tools and online outreach, accelerated by the pandemic, will remain central to connecting with members worldwide.
How Oaks addresses these areas will define much of his presidency.
Stability in the Face of Change
One reason members take comfort in the question of who will be the next president of the LDS Church is that the answer is predictable. The seniority system eliminates uncertainty, political maneuvering, or power struggles. Instead, members can focus on sustaining and supporting their new prophet, trusting that divine inspiration guides the process.
This continuity has been a hallmark of the LDS Church since the mid-1800s, with each new leader bringing both steadiness and unique direction.
The Global Dimension of Leadership
Today, the LDS Church is a worldwide faith, with nearly half of its members living outside the United States. This reality shapes how the next president will lead:
- Cultural Sensitivity: Oaks will need to balance centralized doctrine with respect for diverse cultural practices.
- International Travel: Past presidents have made global tours to strengthen ties with members abroad. Oaks may continue this tradition, albeit adapted to his age and health.
- Translation and Access: With scriptures, talks, and broadcasts in dozens of languages, reaching members across linguistic boundaries will remain a priority.
The LDS Church’s growth outside the U.S. ensures that Oaks’ decisions will resonate in communities across continents.
Looking Ahead: What Members Can Expect
So, who will be the next president of the LDS Church? The answer—Dallin H. Oaks—comes with both reassurance and anticipation. Members can expect:
- Continuity: Many of Nelson’s reforms will continue to unfold, especially temple construction.
- Doctrinal Clarity: Oaks’ legal background suggests an emphasis on precision and consistency.
- Steady Leadership: His age may shape the pace of initiatives, but his decades of preparation mean he steps into the role well-equipped.
Ultimately, members view each president not only as an administrator but as a spiritual guide, whose messages and direction are believed to come from divine revelation.
Final Thoughts
The passing of President Russell M. Nelson has brought both grief and reflection, but the question of who will be the next president of the LDS Church already has a clear answer. By long-established tradition, Dallin H. Oaks will become the 18th president, carrying forward a legacy of faith while charting his own course for the future.
As members prepare to sustain him, the focus turns toward unity, continuity, and the shared belief that leadership changes are guided by inspiration. Oaks’ presidency will shape the Church’s next chapter at a time of global growth and shifting challenges.
What qualities do you hope to see emphasized in his leadership? Share your thoughts below and be part of the conversation.