US EditionFormer Judge Is Likely the Next Leader of the Mormon Church and Its 17 Million Members
The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles leads a smooth transition by selecting the new president based on seniority to maintain church stability after Nelson’s death.
- On September 27, 2025, President Russell M. Nelson died, the First Presidency was dissolved, and Dallin H. Oaks, the senior apostle, is expected to become the next president.
- Under church tradition, the seniority tradition established over a century ago ensures the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles selects the most senior apostle as president, avoiding internal lobbying.
- As president, President Russell M. Nelson, ordained in 2018 after Thomas S. Monson, announced 200 new temples and was the world's oldest global faith leader at 101.
- A formal announcement is expected after Nelson's funeral on Oct. 7, with confirmation at the general conference where the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles will serve as presiding council.
- Some members worry that Dallin H. Oaks's teachings on homosexuality create anxiety among LGBTQ+ members and allies, though his jurist style and role in Nelson's 2019 policy change suggest a nuanced approach.
58 Articles
58 Articles
Local Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints members mourn the passing of President Russell M. Nelson
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints mourns the passing of their President, Russell M. Nelson, who passed away on Saturday, September 27. Local wards and stakes paid homage to the late prophet at their meetings the following day, and members have taken to social media to share favorite memories, quotes and lessons about and from President Nelson.The church released an obituary on their newsroom website, recounting highlights from …
KHQ Right Now
Dallin Oaks expected to lead Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
SALT LAKE CITY – A significant leadership change is anticipated for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints following the recent passing of President Russell M. Nelson.
Associated Press News
Former judge is likely the next leader of the Mormon church and its 17 million members
Dallin H. Oaks, a former Utah Supreme Court justice, is expected to become the next president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Mormon leader Russell Nelson has died aged 101. What’s next for the church?
Analysis: Several controversies engulfed the church during Nelson's leadership, including the naming of the church and church members in various government and media reports on alleged child sexual abuse.
What BYU football coach Kalani Sitake said about LDS Church President Russell M. Nelson’s death
BYU football coach Kalani Sitake was among the members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints affected by the death of President Russell M. Nelson.
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