LDS Church Appoints Clark Gilbert as Apostle, Sparking Backlash

Critics cite Gilbert's past actions as education commissioner, claiming he pushed strict policies and silenced dissent at church-owned universities.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) has appointed Clark G. Gilbert as the newest member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, a lifetime leadership role that will give him significant influence over the church. However, the decision has sparked backlash online, with critics citing Gilbert's past actions as the church's education commissioner, where they say he implemented strict policies, carried out intense oversight, and pushed out dissenting opinions, especially from women and LGBTQ individuals.

Why it matters

This appointment marks the second apostolic selection by LDS President Dallin H. Oaks in four months, drawing focus because Gilbert has been a high-profile defender of doctrinal orthodoxy. The move could shape the church's internal culture and policies for years, as apostles hold lifetime roles that combine spiritual witness with significant administrative authority.

The details

Gilbert was 'called' to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on Wednesday and 'ordained' the next day, according to an LDS news release. Critics, especially in Reddit forums, have voiced concerns about Gilbert's previous role as the Church's education commissioner, where they say he implemented strict policies at LDS-owned private universities, carried out intense oversight, and pushed out dissenting opinions. Several LDS Reddit threads show people citing a 2025 piece in The Salt Lake Tribune that reported on BYU staff who said Gilbert pushed a doctrine of obedience over personal choice, sowed an environment of distrust, and negatively affected some students, especially women and members of the LGBTQ community.

  • On Wednesday, Clark G. Gilbert was 'called' to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
  • On Thursday, Gilbert was 'ordained' as the newest member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.

The players

Clark G. Gilbert

The newest member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the LDS Church, who previously served as the Church's education commissioner.

Dallin H. Oaks

The president of the LDS Church, who has made two apostolic selections in the past four months.

Jason Bergman

A former music professor at Brigham Young University who said the university was 'not safe' for anyone who doesn't fit the 'orthodox mold'.

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What they’re saying

“This appointment by Oaks will serve to perpetuate strict enforcement of obedience to church practice and adherence to church ideology.”

— otherwise7337, Reddit user (Reddit)

“Gilbert seems to be another shining example of the worst Mormonism has to offer the world.”

— Extension-Spite4176, Reddit user (Reddit)

“This is an amazing time to point people to the Savior Jesus Christ. When we do that, we can find joy and comfort and peace in Him. As President [Russell M.] Nelson once said, it's much harder to find happiness where it doesn't exist. And we're so grateful that I have this calling now to witness that Jesus is the Christ. If people all across the world will look to Him, He will make their lives better, more meaningful, more joyful. And it happens in and through our Savior Jesus Christ.”

— Elder Clark G. Gilbert (LDS Church)

What’s next

Whether the LDS Church responds to the backlash over Gilbert's appointment is yet to be seen.

The takeaway

This appointment highlights the ongoing tensions within the LDS Church, as it balances doctrinal orthodoxy with concerns over silencing dissent and negatively impacting marginalized groups. The selection of Gilbert, known for his strict policies and oversight, could shape the church's internal culture and policies for years to come.