A former Utah Supreme Court justice is set to become the next president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, following the death of Russell M. Nelson, who passed away Saturday at the age of 101. Nelson, the church’s oldest-ever president, led the faith for more than seven years.
The anticipated elevation of Dallin H. Oaks is considered a formality, as the church follows a well-defined succession system. By tradition, the longest-serving member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles becomes president, ensuring a smooth transition without lobbying or internal conflict. Oaks, 93, has served in the Quorum since 1984 and is next in line. Official changes will take place after Nelson’s funeral, scheduled for October 7.
How leadership works
The LDS Church is governed by a president and his two top counselors, known together as the First Presidency. Beneath them sits the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, which helps guide policy and oversee the church’s extensive business holdings. All 15 leaders are men, consistent with the church’s male-only priesthood structure.
The president of the church is regarded as a prophet, seer, and revelator, believed by members to receive divine guidance in leading the faith. He sets doctrine, directs programs, and oversees the church’s vast enterprises, which include real estate, education, farming operations, publishing, and major business investments. The church’s investment portfolio is currently valued at about $58 billion.
Tenure and tradition
Church presidents serve for life. Some lead for decades, as Brigham Young did in the 19th century, while others serve for only months. Nelson, who became president in 2018, was in the role for just over seven years.
When a new president is named, he chooses two counselors—typically drawn from the Quorum. Previous counselors may be reappointed or return to their Quorum roles if not selected. Nelson, for example, retained Henry B. Eyring and appointed Oaks as his other counselor.
Selecting new apostles
Vacancies in the Quorum of the Twelve are filled by appointment, often drawing from men who have already served in other church leadership roles. In recent years, the LDS Church has taken steps to diversify its senior leadership, naming the first Latin American apostle and the first apostle of Asian ancestry during Nelson’s presidency.
With Oaks expected to assume the role, the church prepares for a new era of leadership—one guided by long-standing tradition and deeply rooted succession practices.