Within the theological and administrative structure of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the process by which a new president and prophet is selected represents a unique intersection of faith, tradition, and divine governance. Unlike the democratic or electoral systems common in the modern world, this calling is understood to be a sacred transaction between God and the organized body of the church. The following explanation outlines the established procedure, the historical context, and the spiritual significance of how the highest leadership is determined within the faith.
The Lineage of Apostolic Succession
The foundational principle guiding the selection of a new prophet is the belief in apostolic succession. Latter-day Saints hold that the original authority granted to Jesus Christ’s apostles was restored in the latter days through Joseph Smith. Consequently, the President of the Church is seen as the rightful successor to the ancient office of Prophet, acting as the head of the restored priesthood authority. This continuity ensures that the church operates under the same divine mandate believed to be present during the ministry of Christ’s original disciples.
The Council of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve
When the position of President of the Church becomes vacant—due to death, resignation, or release—the responsibility to identify a successor falls to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. This body of twelve ordained leaders serves as the primary governing council of the church. For days following the vacancy, the Twelve engage in prayer, reflection, and consultation, seeking confirmation through spiritual promptings regarding who among them is to be set apart as the next shepherd of the global flock.
Anointing and Formal Proclamation
The selection is typically unanimous, driven by a shared spiritual witness that confirms the identity of the chosen individual. The Quorum of the Twelve, led by the Acting President of the Twelve, performs the formal ordinance of laying hands on the selected member. This act of anointing confers the priesthood authority necessary to preside. Immediately following the ritual, the new prophet is presented to the church and the world, not as a candidate, but as the Lord’s appointed mouthpiece, tasked with continuing the revelation necessary for the modern era.
The Role of Scripture and Revelation
Scriptural precedent provides the bedrock for this administrative process. Members point to biblical accounts such as the calling of Matthias to replace Judas Iscariot, as well as modern revelations received by Joseph Smith regarding the organization of the early church. These texts reinforce the idea that the call does not originate from political maneuvering or popular vote, but from the divine will. Consequently, the chosen prophet is believed to be inspired to lead the church through current and future challenges, offering guidance that transcends human logic.
Continuity and Stability
This system is designed to ensure stability and doctrinal consistency. By investing the authority to choose in the Twelve, the church maintains a continuous line of leadership that is insulated from the volatility of external politics or sudden public opinion shifts. The prophet, once ordained, serves until death or until he is released by the will of the priesthood. This lifetime tenure allows for long-term planning and the steady progression of religious objectives without the disruption of frequent transitions at the highest level.
For the average member, the process is less about institutional mechanics and more about spiritual confirmation. When the official announcement is made, congregants are encouraged to seek their own witness through prayer that the call is legitimate. This personal confirmation fosters a deep sense of unity and commitment, as believers accept the new leader not merely out of respect for the institution, but out of a genuine belief that God has directed the path. This dynamic reinforces the faith’s core doctrine of living prophets who actively communicate with the divine.
