The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has officially released the first portrait of its newly appointed First Presidency, featuring President Dallin H. Oaks alongside his counselors, President Henry B. Eyring and President D. Todd Christofferson. This announcement occurred on October 15, 2023, following President Oaks’ ordination as the church’s 18th president and prophet the previous day.
During a live broadcast on October 14, President Oaks expressed his commitment to his new role. “I accept with humility the responsibility that God has placed upon me and commit my whole heart and soul to the service to which I’ve been called,” he stated. He acknowledged the support he has received from church members, saying, “I have felt the effect of those prayers and with my counselors, we will strive in all respects to press forward this great work.”
In addition to the portraits of the First Presidency, the church also released a new image of President Oaks. This reorganization of leadership comes after the passing of the church’s 17th president, Russell M. Nelson, who died on September 27, 2023, at the age of 101.
Background of the New Leaders
Before his ordination, President Oaks served as the first counselor to President Nelson from 2018 until 2023. President Eyring held the position of second counselor under President Nelson during the same period. His experience includes serving as the first counselor to President Thomas S. Monson from 2008 to 2018 and as second counselor to President Gordon B. Hinckley from 2007 to 2008. President Christofferson, prior to his current calling, was a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, a position he has held since April 5, 2008.
The release of the new portraits reflects a significant moment for the church, as it marks a new chapter following a period of mourning for the previous leadership. Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are now looking to the future under President Oaks and his counselors, who are dedicated to advancing the church’s mission.
