LDS April 2026 General Conference: New Apostles Called, Church Membership Surpasses 17.8 Million
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints held its 196th Annual General Conference over Easter weekend, sustaining President Dallin H. Oaks as the 18th Prophet and calling two new Apostles. The Church''s statistical report revealed worldwide membership has grown to 17,887,212, with a nearly 25% increase in convert baptisms.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints held its 196th Annual General Conference over Easter weekend, April 4-5, 2026, at the Conference Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, with millions tuning in worldwide.
The conference began with a historic solemn assembly in which members sustained President Dallin H. Oaks as the 18th Prophet and President of the Church. President Henry B. Eyring was sustained as First Counselor and President D. Todd Christofferson as Second Counselor in the First Presidency.
Two new Apostles were called: Elder Gérald Caussé and Elder Clark G. Gilbert, filling vacancies in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. A new Primary General Presidency was also announced, including the first president from Africa, Rosemary K. Chibota.
The Church''s statistical report as of December 31, 2025, revealed worldwide membership has grown to 17,887,212, with a nearly 25% increase in convert baptisms compared to the previous year.
Conference themes centered on the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, particularly meaningful given the Easter timing. President Oaks urged members to "focus on Jesus Christ" and be peacemakers. President Dieter F. Uchtdorf taught about "encountering the empty tomb," while Elder Ronald A. Rasband declared Christ''s Resurrection as the "very core" of the Church''s doctrine.
Elder Gerrit W. Gong addressed the use of artificial intelligence, stating it can be a valuable tool but cannot replace individual effort and spiritual preparation. Eight new General Authority Seventies were also sustained during the conference.
