The Process of Calling a New Prophet in the LDS Church

Within the LDS Church, the concept of calling a new prophet is a critical process that ensures continuity and guidance for the followers of this faith. This article delves into the detailed steps and procedures involved in the selection and confirmation of a new prophet. Understanding this process is crucial for both members and outsiders interested in the intricacies of the LDS Church leadership structure.

Understanding the LDS Leadership Structure

Before discussing the process of calling a new prophet, it is essential to understand the leadership structure of the LDS Church. The Church is governed by several key leadership bodies, including the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. These leaders are responsible for the spiritual and administrative guidance of the congregation.

The Process of Calling a New Prophet

When a prophet and leader of the Church, often referred to as the President of the Church, passes away, a series of events are triggered to ensure the continuity of leadership. The process, while solemn and deliberate, is designed to uphold the traditions and beliefs of the LDS Church.

Immediate Aftermath of a Prophet's Passing

Upon the death of a Prophet, the First Presidency, which consists of the President and two counselors, is dissolved. The counselors then resume their place in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles based on their seniority. At this point, the President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles takes on the leadership role of the Church. However, this leadership is temporary and comes with limitations.

Acting in a Temporary Capacity:
While the President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles leads the Church, he can only exercise all keys of the priesthood with the consent of the 12 Apostles. This temporary leadership provides stability and ensures that the Church can continue functioning during the transition period.

Reconstituting the First Presidency

At a subsequent point, a decision is made to reconstitute the First Presidency. This typically involves the selection of new counselors to serve alongside the President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. The process of reconstitution is gradual and involves several steps:

Nomination and Sustaining:
The junior apostle, who has served the least amount of time as an apostle, nominates the President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles as the new prophet. This nomination is then sustained by the remaining apostles through a vote of approval. The exact mechanism of who acts as the voice is not clearly defined but is part of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles' responsibilities.

Ordinance and Setting Apart:
Once the nomination and sustaining are completed, the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles ordains and sets apart the new prophet to serve as the president of the Church. This ritual is solemn and symbolic, marking the official beginning of the new leadership.

Calling Counselors:
Finally, the newly appointed prophet calls and sets apart counselors to serve in the First Presidency. This step is crucial as it completes the new leadership structure.

God's Guidance and Revelation

The process of selecting a new prophet is guided by revelation from God. This means that the choice of the new leader is not arbitrary but is divinely inspired. The Lord determines which individual will ultimately fulfill this role, often by ensuring that the chosen leader outlives all other apostles who were in line for the position beforehand.

All Apostles are Prophets

It is important to note that all Apostles in the LDS Church hold the title of prophet. Each Apostle is given the keys to lead the Church and can receive revelations in a leadership capacity. However, the President of the Church holds the authority to exercise all of the keys of the Kingdom, a unique responsibility that signifies his ultimate leadership role.

Key Points:
1. The process of calling a new prophet is a carefully orchestrated and sacred procedure.
2. The President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles temporarily leads the Church until the First Presidency is reconstituted.
3. The Prophet is chosen through divine revelation where he outlives all other potential candidates.
4. All Apostles are prophets, holding the keys to lead, but only the President holds all keys of the Kingdom.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions and clarifications related to the process of calling a new prophet:

1. Is the Process the Same Every Time?

The process we follow is the most common approach, but it can vary. The Lord may provide specific instructions based on unique circumstances. For instance, in times of need, the Lord may choose to reveal an alternative process.

2. What Will Happen When Jesus Returns?

Many members of the LDS Church anticipate that when Jesus returns, He will personally preside over the Church. Until that moment, the established process of calling a new prophet will continue.

3. How is the Voice for Decision-Making Determined?

While the exact mechanism is not explicitly defined, it is clearly outlined that the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles plays a crucial role in the decision-making process. The senior apostle usually leads this decision-making, emphasizing unity and collective wisdom.

Conclusion

The process of calling a new prophet in the LDS Church is a profound and sacred tradition. It combines divine revelation with human responsibility, ensuring the continuous guidance and growth of the Church. Understanding this process provides valuable insight into the structure and spirit of the LDS Church.