President Dallin H. Oaks was set apart as the 18th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Oct. 14, 2025, succeeding President Russell M. Nelson after the latter's death. This calling continues the Lord's established pattern, confirming the longest-serving living apostle as the new Prophet through revelation and priesthood authority.

On this episode of the Church News podcast, Church News editor Ryan Jensen explores the life of President Oaks with excerpts from interviews conducted in the days and weeks surrounding the prophetic calling. Family members, general Church leaders and the counselors in the First Presidency share lessons from their experiences and observations of the Prophet of the restored Church. They testify of President Oaks' preparation for this role as the Lord's mouthpiece to the world (see Doctrine and Covenants 21:5), as he has proven himself a man of faith in Jesus Christ, family and law.

The Church News Podcast is a weekly podcast that invites listeners to make a journey of connection with members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints across the globe. Hosts Jon Ryan Jensen, editor of the Church News, and Church News reporter Mary Richards share unique views of the stories, events, and people who form this international faith. With each episode, listeners are asked to embark on a journey to learn from one another and ponder, “What do I know now?” because of the experience. Produced by KellieAnn Halvorsen.