PriesthoodMen.com
Introduction
On October 14, 2025, the Church announced Dallin H. Oaks as its 18th President and Prophet. Church News+2newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org+2 For priesthood holders—sons of God, covenant-keepers, and fellow servants in the work of the Lord—this transition is not just organizational. It is deeply spiritual. As men who hold keys, bless, and lead in our homes, wards, and stakes, we have a particular interest in how this divine appointment shapes our individual and collective responsibility.
Who is President Oaks?
President Oaks has served as an Apostle since 1984 and as first counselor in the First Presidency since 2018, making his elevation a culmination of years of service. Wikipedia+1 He has also served as a law professor, Utah Supreme Court justice, and university president—bringing to the office a unique background of public life and spiritual commitment. Wikipedia+1 At age 93, his appointment reflects the Church’s pattern of sustaining its senior apostle as President. Wikipedia+1
In his first address, President Oaks said:
“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 have been called.” newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org+1
To priesthood men, this serves as a powerful model: leadership in the Church is not about prestige—it is about service.
What This Calling Means for Priesthood Holders
Here are several key take-aways for men holding the priesthood:
1. A Renewed Call to Humble Service
President Oaks’ opening words underscore humility and devotion. Priesthood holders are thus reminded that our callings—whether as fathers, bishops, quorum presidents, or home teachers—are grounded in “whole-heart and soul” service. The prophet sets a tone: it is not just what we do, but how we do it—with devotion and purpose.
2. Leadership by Example
With decades of experience in public service and law, President Oaks demonstrates how gospel leadership and worldly service can intersect. For priesthood men, this highlights the importance of character, integrity, and public testimony—not just in the ward but in the world around us.
3. Commitment to the Restored Church and the Savior
President Oaks testified:
“I know beyond any certainty in my life that this is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, restored with the fullness of the gospel…” Church News+1
As priesthood holders, our responsibility is to uphold, bless, and build this restored Church. It shapes our identity: we are not mere volunteers, we are covenant bearers, representing the Head of the Church—our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
4. Invitation to Growth and Preparedness
In acknowledging that “we do not have the answers to all of the world’s problems,” President Oaks emphasizes realism and faith. The Salt Lake Tribune Priesthood holders must likewise prepare—not for perfection in our circumstances, but for faithful, informed, disciplined action. Whether in home ministry, leadership roles, or service to others, our preparation and stability matter.
5. Unity and Support for the Prophetic Office
The re-organization of the First Presidency—with Henry B. Eyring and D. Todd Christofferson as counselors—was presented as unanimous and divinely guided. Church News+1 For priesthood men, supporting our prophet—praying for him, sustaining him, aligning our efforts with his guidance—is part of our covenant path.
Practical Applications for the PriesthoodMan
Here are actionable ideas to match this new leadership call:
- Personal Reflection: Take time this week to write a short “service covenant” for yourself as a priesthood holder—how will you give your “whole heart and soul” in your calling and in your home?
- Ward/Quorum Focus: Organize a council meeting (quorum or elders) to discuss President Oaks’ themes of service, humility, and preparedness—and create a simple action plan for the next quarter.
- Family Conversation: At a family home evening, share the news of the new prophet and ask each family member how they can support priesthood service in the home and community.
- Scriptural Anchoring: Reflect on these scriptures:
- Doctrine and Covenants 107:99–100 – the priesthood is entrusted to faithful men;
- 2 Nephi 31:20 – “press forward with a steadfastness in Christ”.
Let these guide your mindset as you follow prophetic leadership.
Looking Ahead—A Word of Encouragement
Change in leadership often prompts questions: What will shift? What will remain? President Oaks emphasized continuity: he honored his predecessor, Russell M. Nelson, and affirmed the ongoing work of the Restoration. Church News+1
For priesthood men, that means the core work remains the same—but the call is renewed. The homes, the wards, the stakes, the service—all are opportunities for each of us to align with the current of divine purpose flowing through our prophet.
Closing Invitation
Brothers, as you hold the priesthood today, remember that you are part of a divine network: God → Prophet → Priesthood Bearer → Family & Community. The arrival of President Oaks is a reaffirmation of that chain. Let’s answer the call, let’s prepare our hearts, and let’s serve with steadfast faith.
“We seek to serve all of the children of God… in worthiness and commitment and optimism.” — President Dallin H. Oaks The Salt Lake Tribune
May we each rise—as men of the priesthood—to a new season of faithful service.