Dallin H. Oaks Takes Over as President of the Mormon Church

Mon Oct 20 2025 22:42:52 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints welcomes its new leader, Dallin H. Oaks, as he steps into his role after the passing of Russell M. Nelson. At 93, Oaks brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to serve.

Dallin H. Oaks has been appointed as the new president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, taking over after the death of Russell M. Nelson. With 93 years of wisdom, Oaks is seen as a steady guiding force. His leadership may focus on domestic issues and family values. Despite his traditional beliefs, Oaks has shown moments of flexibility, notably in past actions regarding inclusivity in the church. As he embarks on this important role, the church is navigating through significant contemporary challenges, including responses to recent violence affecting its members.

Dallin H. Oaks, a former justice of the Utah Supreme Court, was named the new president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Tuesday. This change comes after the recent death of his predecessor, Russell M. Nelson. Known for its tradition, the church usually allows the longest-serving member of its Quorum of the Twelve Apostles to ascend to the presidency, a rule designed to ensure a smooth transition of leadership.

I accept with humility the responsibility that God has placed upon me and commit my whole heart and soul to the service to which I've been called, Oaks expressed during the announcement. At 93, he is among the church's oldest leaders, a role he will maintain until he passes.

Oaks is expected to guide the church through difficult times, especially given recent incidents that have shocked its community members, such as a shooting at a Michigan congregation. His leadership style is anticipated to shift slightly from emphasizing the church’s global influence to addressing more domestic issues, a subtle but notable change.

Oaks has confirmed that he will prioritize family values, acknowledging the diversity of families today. Early indications show an intention to slow the rollout of new church temples and focus on inclusivity within the organization.

Despite his traditional views on marriage and LGBTQ+ issues, Oaks has made moves that suggest potential shifts in how the church may engage with contemporary societal discussions. Among them was his involvement in rescinding a policy that barred the baptism of children of same-sex couples.

As he steps into his role, Oaks is not only tasked with maintaining the church's core tenets but also navigating a rapidly changing cultural landscape while fostering civil discourse among its members.