Full Breakdown
Transition in Leadership: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Announces New First Presidency
10/14/2025, 7:52:45 PM
Announcement of New Leadership
On October 14, 2025, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will announce its new First Presidency during a live broadcast at 1 p.m. Mountain Daylight Time from Temple Square in Salt Lake City. This event follows the death of President Russell M. Nelson on September 27, 2025, who served as the church's 17th president. The First Presidency, the church's highest governing body, consists of the President and two counselors, traditionally apostles.
Expected Leadership Structure
Dallin H. Oaks, the current president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and the senior-most living apostle, is anticipated to be named as the new president. Oaks, who has been an apostle since 1984, served as the first counselor in the previous First Presidency alongside President Nelson. His extensive background includes a tenure as a justice on the Utah Supreme Court and as president of Brigham Young University. Oaks is known for his advocacy of religious liberty and traditional values.
Context of the Transition
The church is navigating a significant transition marked by both leadership change and recent tragedies. In addition to President Nelson's passing, a violent incident at a Latter-day Saints meetinghouse in Grand Blanc, Michigan, on September 28, 2025, resulted in four fatalities and eight injuries. This context adds urgency to the leadership transition as the church seeks to maintain stability and address the needs of its global membership.
Global Reach and Diversity
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has grown to over 17.5 million members worldwide, with more than half residing outside the United States. This growth reflects a shift in demographics, as the percentage of American members identifying as white has decreased from 85% in 2007 to 72% today. The Latino community now represents 12% of U.S. members, highlighting the church's increasing diversity and the need for cultural sensitivity in its leadership and practices.
Official Statements & Responses
The church has emphasized the importance of the First Presidency, stating, “Jesus Christ leads His Church through a prophet, who serves as the President of the Church, and two Apostles who are called to be the prophet’s counselors.” The upcoming announcement is expected to include messages from church leaders and will be broadcast in ten languages, ensuring accessibility for a global audience.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the church's growth and outreach efforts, it faces challenges related to cultural representation and sensitivity. Critics have pointed out that the predominantly white leadership may not fully address the diverse experiences of its global membership. The church's responses to cultural practices, such as the celebration of Día de los Muertos, have also drawn scrutiny, indicating a need for ongoing dialogue about inclusivity.
What's Next
As the church prepares for this significant announcement, it will be crucial for the new president to navigate the complexities of leading a diverse and global faith. The transition presents an opportunity to address the evolving needs of its members while maintaining the church's foundational values.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Jesus Christ leads His Church through a prophet, who serves as the President of the Church, and two Apostles who are called to be the prophet’s counselors, forming the First Presidency,” — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
This leadership transition marks a pivotal moment for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as it seeks to adapt to a rapidly changing world while honoring its traditions and mission.
