RadioWest How Will Dallin H. Oaks Lead the LDS Church?
Oct 17, 2025
Benjamin Park, an associate professor of history and expert on Mormon history, discusses Dallin H. Oaks, the new president of the LDS Church. They explore how Oaks's upbringing and legal career influenced his conservative approach to church leadership. Park notes Oaks's emphasis on religious liberty has evolved, particularly in context to LGBTQ issues. He highlights Oaks's desire for continuity with previous leadership while also navigating modern family dynamics. Overall, listeners gain insight into Oaks's potential impact on the church's future.
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Formed By 1968 Turmoil
- Dallin H. Oaks' 1968 experience at Chicago shaped his lifelong emphasis on law, order, and institutional stability.
- He views guardrails and precedent as essential to prevent societal chaos and preserve progress.
A Legal Brief, Not A Pageant
- Oaks' announcement style signaled a preference for legalistic, ordered presentation over pageantry.
- Benjamin Park sees this as an opening brief-style tone that contrasts with charismatic predecessors.
Precedent Over Breaks
- Oaks values precedent and institutional continuity and is likely to build on Russell M. Nelson's changes rather than reverse them.
- He prefers cementing reforms and administering existing directions over radical shifts.
