SALT LAKE CITY — After the passing of President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the apostle next in line to lead the worldwide faith issued a statement on Monday.
President Dallin H. Oaks, who has been serving as first counselor in the church’s First Presidency, noted that members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are “mourning” the death of President Nelson at age 101.
Russell M. Nelson, president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, is pictured with his wife Wendy. President Nelson died Saturday at age 101. (George Frey, Getty Images)
“He was a dear friend and a cherished leader,” President Oaks said in the statement posted on social media. “His timeless teachings continue to guide us and help us find comfort amid suffering, especially in the wake of the recent violence aimed at members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Michigan this past Sunday.”
President Oaks called what happened in Grand Blanc, Michigan — where police said a gunman opened fire at a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints meetinghouse before setting it on fire — an “awful tragedy.” Four people were killed, authorities said, while eight others were hurt. The gunman was shot and killed by police.
Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are mourning with each other, praying for comfort and seeking answers, President Oaks said. He also thanked those who have reached out with prayers, encouragement and offers of service.
Little remained of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel the day after a former Marine opened fire and set the building ablaze in Grand Blanc Township, Mich., Monday, Sept. 29, 2025. (AP Photo/Mark Vancleave)
“May we all remember the truth that each of us is a beloved child of God. Our Savior Jesus Christ, through His infinite Atonement, overcame death and gives us the joyful assurance that each of us will be gloriously resurrected,” President Oaks said. “On behalf of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I extend this expression to the family and friends of those affected by this recent tragedy and all others who may be experiencing loss and heartache at this time.”
President Oaks, 93, a former Utah Supreme Court justice, has been an apostle in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints since 1984. In fact, he and President Nelson were called to that position on the same day.
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