The Process of Choosing a New Prophet and President in the LDS Church
The Latter-day Saint community, also known as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has a unique and sacred process for selecting their new prophet and president. This process is rooted in divine revelation and the principles of the church, ensuring that the leadership remains in the hands of those divinely appointed by God.
Divine Selection and the Role of the Prophet
According to Latter-day Saint beliefs, God is the primary authority and is the one who calls the prophets. Joseph Smith, the first prophet and founder of the church, was personally visited by Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father, granting him the authority to restore the original church as described in scripture.
The current prophet and president of the church holds immense spiritual authority and responsibility. Russell M. Nelson, the current prophet, is the current holder of all the keys of the priesthood. This means he holds the highest power to lead the church and symbolizes the continuity of divinely appointed leadership within the faith.
The Role of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles plays a crucial role in selecting the new prophet and president. When a new vacancy opens up in the Quorum, typically due to the passing of a member, the current prophet will propose names for a new apostle. This process is shrouded in confidentiality and involves extensive prayer and contemplation to ensure the divine will is known.
Once a new apostle is set apart, he is sustain as a prophet, seer, and revelator. All members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles hold these titles, emphasizing the collective leadership of the church. The apostle who is the longest-serving member becomes the new president of the Quorum when the current president passes away.
Succession of Leadership
In the event of the passing of the president and prophet, the new president is appointed by the remaining members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Dallin H. Oaks, the current second counselor in the First Presidency, would become the new prophet and president if Russell M. Nelson were to pass away today.
Upon assuming the role of president, the new prophet will choose two counselors to serve alongside him in the First Presidency. Additionally, the new president will propose a name for a new apostle to fill the vacancy left in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
The Importance of Continuity and Revelation
The process of choosing a new prophet and president is entirely focused on continuity and divine revelation. The members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles work in concert with one another, guided by the Holy Ghost, to ensure the church remains true to its divine mission.
This process exemplifies the belief that God continues to call leaders to guide the church in the modern era, ensuring that the teachings and practices of the church remain faithful to the original revelations given to Joseph Smith.
Conclusion
The selection of a new prophet and president in the LDS Church is a deeply spiritual and sacred process. It involves divine revelation, the appointment of apostles, and the continuous guidance of the Holy Ghost. This ensures that the leadership of the church is steadfast and true to the original vision of its founder, Joseph Smith, as called and guided by God.