The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), often referred to as the Mormon Church, has long captivated curiosity with its structured leadership model. As of September 28, 2025, the question “Who is the next prophet of the LDS Church?” has taken on urgent relevance following the passing of President Russell M. Nelson on September 27, 2025, at age 101. This historic transition underscores the church’s time-tested succession process, ensuring continuity in prophetic guidance. In this SEO-optimized guide, we’ll explore LDS succession rules, profile the new leader, and speculate on future prophets—helping members and observers alike understand this pivotal moment in Mormon history.
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Understanding LDS Church Leadership Succession
LDS Church succession is rooted in doctrine outlined in the church’s scriptures, particularly Doctrine and Covenants Section 107, which emphasizes seniority among apostles. Unlike elective systems in other faiths, the process is automatic and divinely inspired: the senior apostle—determined by ordination date—assumes the presidency upon the death or incapacitation of the sitting prophet.
When President Nelson passed, the First Presidency dissolved, and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, now led by its senior member, took interim control. Within days, the apostles unanimously sustain the new president, who then selects two counselors to reform the First Presidency. This seamless mechanism has governed 17 transitions since Joseph Smith’s martyrdom in 1844, minimizing disruption and affirming the church’s belief in ongoing revelation.
Key to LDS succession is apostolic seniority, not age or popularity. Ordination dates lock in order, creating a clear “line of succession” that prioritizes experience. This system reflects the church’s emphasis on keys of the priesthood passed from prophet to prophet, ensuring the “next LDS prophet” emerges predictably yet prayerfully.
Who Is Dallin H. Oaks? Profile of the 18th President
Dallin H. Oaks, born August 12, 1932, steps into the prophetic role at 93, becoming the 18th President of the LDS Church. Ordained an apostle on April 7, 1984—the same day as Nelson—he held second seniority, making his ascension inevitable. A former Utah Supreme Court justice, university president, and BYU law professor, Oaks brings a legal mind sharpened by decades of church service.
As first counselor in Nelson’s First Presidency since 2018, Oaks championed self-reliance, religious freedom, and temple worship. His tenure emphasized doctrinal clarity amid global growth, with the church now boasting 17 million members worldwide. Oaks’ no-nonsense style—seen in addresses on faith over politics—signals a presidency focused on core gospel principles. For those searching “Mormon prophet succession,” Oaks exemplifies how preparation through apostolic calling readies leaders for this sacred trust.
The Line of Succession: Potential Next Prophets After Oaks
With Oaks now at the helm, eyes turn to the “next prophet after Oaks.” Seniority resumes with the apostles’ ordination order, adjusted for prior First Presidency service. Immediately following Oaks is Jeffrey R. Holland, ordained June 23, 1994, at age 84. A former BYU president and master orator, Holland’s passionate sermons on Christ’s atonement have inspired millions.
Next in line: Henry B. Eyring (ordained April 1, 1995, age 91), known for his gentle wisdom and emphasis on family unity; Dieter F. Uchtdorf (October 7, 2004, age 84), the aviation-savvy German immigrant advocating hope; and David A. Bednar (also 2004, age 73), a tech-forward voice on covenants. Younger apostles like Ronald A. Rasband (2015) and Patrick Kearon (2023) trail, potentially serving decades before their turn.
This “LDS prophet line” could span years, given leaders’ longevity—Nelson served seven. Speculation on the next LDS president often hinges on health and revelation, but the system guards against power struggles, fostering unity.
The Prophet’s Role in a Changing World
The LDS prophet isn’t just a figurehead; he’s the living mouthpiece for God, holding all priesthood keys to direct the church. In 2025’s turbulent landscape—marked by social shifts and global challenges—Oaks inherits a prophet’s mantle to guide on issues like mental health, missionary work, and humanitarian aid. Recent emphases under Nelson, including temple announcements and youth programs, will likely continue, adapting to digital evangelism and interfaith dialogue.
For members, the prophet symbolizes divine continuity; for outsiders, he embodies resilient faith. As the church navigates post-pandemic recovery and membership retention, the next prophet’s vision will shape Mormonism’s future, blending tradition with timely revelation.
In summary, Dallin H. Oaks is the immediate answer to “Who is the next prophet of the LDS Church?” post-Nelson, with a robust succession ensuring stability. This process not only honors apostolic service but invites all to seek personal revelation amid change. Stay tuned as the church announces Oaks’ sustaining in upcoming conferences— a new chapter dawns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How does the LDS Church choose its next prophet?
The next prophet is the senior apostle by ordination date, sustained unanimously by the Quorum of the Twelve. No elections occur; it’s a doctrinal process for seamless leadership.
2. Who was the previous LDS prophet before Dallin H. Oaks?
Russell M. Nelson served as the 17th president from 2018 until his death on September 27, 2025, leading temple expansions and global outreach.
3. Can the line of succession change in the LDS Church?
Seniority is fixed by ordination but adjusts if apostles are called to the First Presidency. Revelation guides, but the order remains seniority-based.
4. What happens immediately after a prophet’s passing in the LDS Church?
The Quorum of the Twelve assumes leadership, reorganizes within days, and sustains the new president, maintaining worship and operations uninterrupted.