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Millions Sustain President Oaks as New Prophet of the LDS Church
Solemn assembly marks the start of President Oaks' leadership
Apr. 4, 2026 at 4:52pm
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Millions of Latter-day Saints around the world stood and raised their right hands to sustain President Dallin H. Oaks as the 18th prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints during a solemn assembly at the start of the church's 196th Annual General Conference in Salt Lake City.
Why it matters
The solemn assembly is a significant ritual in the LDS Church, formally recognizing the church's new president and prophet. It demonstrates the unity and common consent of the worldwide church membership in supporting their new leader.
The details
The solemn assembly began with the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles raising their hands five times to sustain President Oaks as prophet, seer and revelator, the new First Presidency, the Quorum of the Twelve, and the Council of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve as prophets, seers and revelators. Other church quorums and groups then followed in a series of unanimous votes, culminating in the entire congregation standing as one to give their sustaining support.
- The solemn assembly took place on Saturday, April 4, 2026 during the opening session of the church's 196th Annual General Conference.
- President Oaks was ordained as the 18th president of the church on October 14, 2025, following the death of President Russell M. Nelson a week before the church's October 2025 general conference.
The players
President Dallin H. Oaks
The 18th president and prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
President Henry B. Eyring
First counselor in the First Presidency.
President D. Todd Christofferson
Second counselor in the First Presidency and leader of the solemn assembly.
Elder Gérald Caussé
New apostle who filled a vacancy in church leadership.
Elder Clark G. Gilbert
New apostle who filled a vacancy in church leadership.
What they’re saying
“I am grateful to be among those whose leadership challenges are formally recognized in this way, and to express appreciation for your participation in this significant occasion in advance.”
— President Dallin H. Oaks, President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
“We pray for you to be guided and prospered as you continue the great service you give to the children of God throughout the world.”
— President Dallin H. Oaks, President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
What’s next
The new First Presidency, including President Oaks, President Eyring, and President Christofferson, will lead the church forward, guiding members through the remainder of the general conference sessions.
The takeaway
The solemn assembly demonstrates the unity and common consent of the worldwide LDS Church membership in supporting their new prophet, President Dallin H. Oaks, as he assumes leadership of the church. This ritual affirms the church's belief in continuous revelation and a direct line of priesthood authority.
