When Russell M. Nelson, President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was announced dead, millions tuned in to the 195th General Conference for both comfort and clarity.
The two‑day gathering began Saturday, October 4, 2025, inside the Conference Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, and will run through Sunday, October 5. Five sessions—three on Saturday (10 a.m.–noon, 2 p.m.–4 p.m., 6 p.m.–7:30 p.m.) and two on Sunday (10 a.m.–noon, 2 p.m.–4 p.m.)—are being webcast to an estimated 30 million viewers worldwide.
Background: The Semiannual General Conference
Since 1853, the Semiannual General Conference has served as the church’s most visible platform for doctrinal instruction, humanitarian announcements, and leadership communication. The conference’s schedule is a ritual in itself; families gather in living rooms, ward rooms, and the massive auditorium of the Conference Center to listen, take notes, and often sing along.
In a letter dated September 4, 2025, the First Presidency emphasized the event’s spiritual weight, urging members to "listen, study, ponder, and apply" the counsel. The messages are later uploaded to the Gospel Library app, ChurchofJesusChrist.org, and printed in the church’s official magazines.
Announcement of President Nelson’s Passing and Succession
Halfway through the Saturday morning session, the First Presidency disclosed that President Nelson had passed away the previous day. The announcement was brief but clear, citing the need for "prayerful reverence and orderly transition."
Within minutes, the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles assumed temporary leadership, as outlined in church canon. The protocol dictates that a new First Presidency will not be announced until after the funeral, a tradition dating back to the early 20th century.
Nelson’s public viewing is scheduled for Monday, October 6, at the Conference Center, with a funeral on Tuesday, October 7, at 12 p.m. The solemn events will be streamed live, allowing members in distant locales to bid farewell.
Conversion Surge Highlights
During the Saturday afternoon session, Quentin L. Cook, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, delivered a striking report on membership growth. "In the last 36 months, nearly 900,000 converts have joined the Church," Cook said, noting that this figure represents roughly 5 % of the total membership.
He broke the numbers down by region: Europe, Africa, Asia, the Pacific, and Latin America each saw conversion rates rise more than 20 % compared with the previous year. North America posted a 17 % increase during the first six months of 2025.
The statistics, while hopeful, also raise logistical questions about temple capacity, local leadership training, and resource allocation. Church officials have pledged to "strengthen local support structures" to accommodate the influx.
Speaker Lineup and Key Messages
The Saturday afternoon session featured seven speakers, each tasked with a specific theme:
- Ronald A. Rasband on "The Family Proclamation — Words From God".
- Brother Chad H. Webb delivered "That All May Be Edified".
- Elder Jeremy R. Jaggi spoke on "Humble Souls at Altars Kneel".
- Elder Kevin G. Brown shared "The Eternal Gift of Testimony".
- Elder Gerrit W. Gong urged "No One Sits Alone".
- Elder Michael Cziesla reflected on "Simplicity in Christ".
- Finally, Elder Cook closed with "The Lord is Hastening His Work," emphasizing the rapid conversion trend and the need for welcoming attitudes.
The overarching tone was one of optimism mixed with solemn reverence for the transition. Many speakers referenced the "living prophets" doctrine, reminding listeners that guidance continues even after a president passes away.
Reactions and Global Viewership
Viewers in the Salt Lake Tabernacle on Temple Square reported a palpable hush as the announcement was read. Social‑media monitors noted a surge of #NelsonTribute posts, with over 1.2 million tweets in the first hour.
In Brazil, a church member named Ana Silva said, "We felt the loss in our hearts, but also a renewed sense that the gospel is alive and growing." Similar sentiments echoed from a small ward in Nairobi and a bustling stake in Manila.
The logistical feat of streaming five sessions across six continents required coordination between the church’s internal media team and local broadcasters. Technical glitches were minimal—a testament to the organization’s decades‑long experience with live‑event distribution.
What Comes Next for LDS Leadership
According to canon law, after President Nelson’s funeral the Quorum will meet in private to counsel and select a new president. Historically, the senior apostle—currently Russell M. Nelson—has been the natural choice, but with his passing the seniority line now falls to Ronald A. Rasband, who will likely be announced as the next prophet.
Until that moment, the Quorum will oversee day‑to‑day operations, make policy calls, and shepherd the new converts into local congregations. Analysts predict a period of heightened public interest, especially as the church’s conversion numbers outpace many other Christian denominations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does President Nelson’s death affect local congregations?
Local wards will receive guidance from the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles until a new First Presidency is organized. Past experience shows that day‑to‑day worship, sacraments, and community service continue uninterrupted, but members may notice an emphasis on unity and prayer for new leadership.
Who is expected to become the next prophet?
By tradition, the senior apostle assumes the role. With President Nelson’s passing, Senior Apostle Ronald A. Rasband holds the seniority and is widely viewed as the most likely successor, though the final decision rests with the Quorum’s private deliberations.
What do the conversion statistics mean for the church’s future?
A near‑million‑strong gain in three years signals rapid international growth, especially outside North America. It suggests future investments in temple construction, local leadership training, and humanitarian projects aimed at retaining new members.
Will the funeral at the Conference Center be open to the public?
The funeral will be livestreamed worldwide. In‑person attendance is limited to family, senior church leaders, and invited guests due to venue capacity and security considerations.
How can members support the transition period?
Members are encouraged to attend meetings, participate in family prayer, and reach out to missionaries working with new converts. Church leaders have asked for a "spirit of unity" and for congregations to focus on service as they await the new presidency.
