On October 14, 2025, Dallin H. Oaks was officially named the 18th president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The announcement took place during a live broadcast from Salt Lake City, Utah, where he was sustained and set apart for his new role.
This elevation follows the passing of President Russell M. Nelson on September 27, 2025. The process for selecting a new president involves divine inspiration, wherein the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles confirm the new leader through revelation and priesthood authority.
Dallin H. Oaks: A Brief Biography
Dallin H. Oaks, now 93 years old, has been a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles since May 1984. His prior roles include serving as the president of Brigham Young University from 1971 to 1980 and as a justice of the Utah Supreme Court from 1980 until 1984, when he accepted his calling as an Apostle.
The New First Presidency
In addition to President Oaks, the new leadership team includes:
- President Henry B. Eyring (First Counselor): At 92, Eyring has served as a counselor to Presidents Russell M. Nelson and Thomas S. Monson. He was sustained as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on April 1, 1995. Before his church service, he was the president of Ricks College and was part of the Stanford University faculty.
- President D. Todd Christofferson (Second Counselor): Christofferson, who is 80, was called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on April 5, 2008. His prior legal career included roles at NationsBank Corporation and Commerce Union Bank. He has also been involved in various community and interfaith organizations.
Leadership in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
Jeffrey R. Holland, aged 84, was appointed as the President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Holland has an extensive history in church leadership, serving as the ninth president of Brigham Young University and was previously the Acting President of the Quorum from November 2023 until Nelson’s passing.
As President Dallin H. Oaks takes charge, he leads a worldwide faith community of over 17 million members. The new First Presidency looks forward to guiding the church through its ongoing mission and endeavors.
