LDS Conference Held After Nelson's Death

The Church held its 195th Semiannual General Conference as scheduled after President Russell M. Nelson’s death on Sept. 27, with Dallin H. Oaks sustained as president of the Quorum of the Twelve and presiding over a restrained, emotional program while funeral plans proceed. Speakers and attendees expressed grief, many moved to tears, and called for peacemaking and unity in the wake of recent violence, including a deadly attack at a Michigan church. Oaks emphasized that the Church is a “family church,” urged members to model their lives on Christ and to prioritize marriage and children, and said there would be no new temple announcements amid numerous temple projects already in planning. Nelson’s legacy was highlighted throughout: he delivered 44 general conference addresses as prophet, had announced plans for about 200 temples, repeatedly urged temple worship, family history work, gathering Israel and receiving personal revelation, and presided over a period in which the Church reported delivering more than $6 billion in humanitarian aid. Leaders and officials worldwide issued condolences and tributes reflecting his global influence and decades of service.