President Dallin H. Oaks of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints celebrated his 94th birthday on Aug. 12, 2026, marking his first birthday since being set apart as the 18th President of the Church in October 2025. Oaks observed the occasion with family in Utah on the evening of Monday, Aug. 10, according to a news release from the Church.
A New Era of Leadership
Oaks' birthday celebration follows a significant leadership transition within the Church. He was set apart as President of the Church on Oct. 14, 2025, following the death of President Russell M. Nelson on Sept. 27, 2025. Prior to his presidency, Oaks served as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles starting on April 7, 1984, and was sustained as First Counselor in the First Presidency in 2018.
His wife, Sister Kristen M. Oaks, described the weight of the prophetic mantle following the transition in late 2025. She noted that the shift brought a sense of solemnity that changed how she viewed many things. She characterized her husband as kind, patient, devoted, and wise, noting that he is a protector of the Church who never says anything that has not been inspired by Heavenly Father.
Sister Oaks, who married Dallin Oaks in 2000, also shared insights into their life together, including their time living in the Philippines from 2002 to 2004 while President Oaks presided over the Church's Philippines Area. She noted that she helps him remember to unfocus from his duties to stay involved with family.
Teachings on Family and Peace
In recent religious teachings, President Oaks has focused heavily on the role of the family and the necessity of peacemaking. During the April 2026 general conference, he taught that followers of Christ should forgo contention and instead use the language and methods of peacemakers.
His teachings on the family have been a consistent theme. In the October 2025 general conference, Oaks stated that the doctrine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints centers on the family. He emphasized that the relationship to God and the purpose of mortal life are explained through the family unit.
Oaks also addressed the challenges facing modern families, noting that in the United States, the proportion of households headed by married couples has declined. He observed that while many families are moving toward becoming units of economic consumption rather than organized units of economic production, it remains a divine responsibility to teach children gospel principles. He reminded members that divorce, death, and separation are realities that many families face.
Personal History and Career
The President's personal history is rooted in Utah. Born in Provo in 1932, Oaks was raised by his widowed mother after his father died when he was seven years old. He recalled that his maternal grandfather, who was living on a farm in Payson, Utah, provided support and stepped in to fill the role of a father during that difficult time.
Oaks' professional background includes service as a law clerk in the United States Supreme Court and practicing law in Chicago. He served as a professor at The University of Chicago Law School from 1961 to 1971 and was the president of Brigham Young University from 1971 to 1980. Before his call to the apostleship in 1984, he served as a justice of the Utah Supreme Court.
Academic and Legal Contributions
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints provides official news and information through its Newsroom website. President Oaks has been a prolific author and co-author of numerous books and articles regarding religious and legal subjects. In May 2013, he was awarded the Canterbury Medal by the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty for his work in the defense of religious liberty.
A Legacy of Service
As the Church continues its global work, President Oaks has encouraged members to find joy through the gospel. Sister Oaks testified that the world is desperate for truth, goodness, and honesty, and she described the current time as a happy one for those involved in the gospel.
President Oaks remains active in various business, educational, and charitable organizations, continuing a long career of service that includes his roles in the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
