New President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Takes Helm of a Surprisingly Diverse Global Faith
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is experiencing a significant transition following the deaths of prominent leaders and a tragic event that shook its community. On September 28, 2025, a shooting and arson incident occurred at a church meetinghouse in Grand Blanc, Michigan, leading to four fatalities and eight injuries. Just one day before this tragedy, Russell M. Nelson, the church’s president, passed away at the age of 101.
Leadership Transition in a Global Faith
In accordance with established church protocol, Dallin H. Oaks, the longest-serving member of the leadership group, is expected to succeed Nelson as president. This change comes at a time when the church is navigating its identity as both fundamentally American and remarkably global. Despite misrepresentations in popular media, the church is far more diverse than commonly perceived.
Historical Background and Global Reach
Founded in 1830 by Joseph Smith in upstate New York, the church quickly expanded its mission efforts. The first overseas missionaries were sent to England in 1837. Following World War II, a strategic shift in missionary work led to growth in Central America, South America, and the Pacific Islands. Today, the church boasts over 17.5 million members worldwide, with more than half residing outside the United States, spread across over 160 countries.
Missionary Work and Temple Construction
The church tracks its global membership growth through the construction of new temples, which are dedicated to special ceremonies rather than regular services. While these sacred spaces were once primarily located in the U.S., newer temples can now be found worldwide, from Argentina to Tonga. Under Nelson’s presidency since 2018, the church announced plans for 200 new temples, a record for any past leader.
Diversity Within the Church
As of recent data, 72% of American members identify as white, a decrease from 85% in 2007, according to the Pew Research Center. The growing Latino community now represents 12% of U.S. members, significantly contributing to the church’s sustainability across the nation.
- Church events are held in every U.S. state, including Michigan.
- The tragic shooting was linked to a local figure’s anti-LDS sentiments.
Challenges Ahead
Despite its growing diversity, the church’s leadership remains predominantly white and American-born. This raises concerns about how well the church’s practices align with the experiences of members in regions like Manila or Mexico City. Latino members often face tension when integrating cultural practices that may seem contrary to traditional LDS teachings.
For example, the church has occasionally drawn criticism for its response to cultural expressions such as the celebration of Día de los Muertos. In a contemporary move, a Spanish-language campaign was launched to engage Latino communities, which was received positively by many members.
Cultural Sensitivity and Representation
With the church’s expansion, understanding diverse cultural backgrounds becomes increasingly critical. The feedback from members highlights the need for the church to adapt without losing its core values. The recent decision to offer sleeveless sacred garments is a small but notable step toward accommodating members in humid climates. Changes to views on tattoos also reflect evolving attitudes within the church.
Looking to the Future
The incoming president faces the crucial task of leading a diverse membership while maintaining the church’s American roots. As violence and misunderstanding have occasionally marred perceptions of the church, a heightened awareness of cultural sensitivity is needed. This leadership transition offers a pivotal moment for both the church and its public perception, particularly in recognizing the multifaceted realities of Latter-day Saints around the globe.
