President Russell M. Nelson, President Dallin H. Oaks, and President Henry B. Eyring during the Sunday afternoon session of the 194th Annual General Conference on April 7, 2024.
In The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the process of choosing a new prophet is both divinely inspired and carefully established. As President Russell M. Nelson continues his leadership, it’s comforting to know that the Church is guided by a clear and sacred system of succession. The next president of the Church will be chosen in accordance with this divine order, and it is understood that President Dallin H. Oaks, as the current senior apostle, would succeed President Nelson, unless unforeseen circumstances occur. This practice ensures that the Church remains under the guidance of a prophet at all times, providing stability and continuity for its members.
A Process of Order, Not Politics
Unlike the papal conclave, which gathers cardinals from around the world to vote (and often generates media buzz and betting markets), the leadership transition in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is not a political process and involves no campaigning.
“There is no mystery about the new President of the Church. There is no electioneering, no canvassing for position, no intrigue. There is no great shock or surprise.”
— President Gordon B. Hinckley, Ensign, March 1995
Since the days following the death of the Prophet Joseph Smith, the Lord has guided His Church through a clear line of priesthood authority. The current system of apostolic seniority was solidified during the succession crisis and has been followed ever since.
Why It Matters
The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including Elder Patrick Kearon, photographed on February 6, 2024.
This peaceful, predictable transition brings continuity and stability to the Church. It reassures members that the Lord is at the helm and that leadership changes are guided by divine order, not human politics.
President Oaks, now 92, has served faithfully for decades and acts as First Counselor in the First Presidency. He brings a unique background as a former Utah Supreme Court justice, legal scholar, and spiritual leader.
“The Lord Himself selects His prophet. I testify that the Lord is actively directing His Church through a living prophet.”
— President Russell M. Nelson, General Conference, April 2018
For most Church members, the idea that President Oaks would succeed President Nelson isn’t controversial or surprising—it’s simply the natural unfolding of the Lord’s plan.
Revelation Still Matters
Although the succession is orderly, it’s still a spiritual process. When the President of the Church passes, the First Presidency is dissolved, and the Quorum of the Twelve meets in prayer and fasting. They confirm that the most senior Apostle should be sustained as the next prophet. It is a moment of revelation, not routine.
“The Church is never without a President. Revelation from the Lord to the senior Apostle governs succession.”
— Elder David B. Haight, Ensign, November 1986
A Quiet Confidence
In a world of political uncertainty and leadership turmoil, it’s deeply reassuring to know how prophetic succession works in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. When the time comes, there will be no smoke-filled rooms, no speculation, no guessing games.
There will be a solemn assembly. We will raise our hands to sustain the next prophet—most likely President Dallin H. Oaks.
And we’ll do so not with surprise, but with reverence and faith.
