January 14, 2023, marks the five-year anniversary of President Russell M. Nelson becoming the 17th prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As this historic anniversary approaches, here’s a look back at some of the biggest changes and announcements that have come under his prophetic leadership.
2018
April 1, 2018—Ministering replaces home and visiting teaching programs.
May 9, 2018—The Church announces new activity program for children and youth.
June 18, 2018—The Church announces that the Hymnbook and Children’s Songbook will be revised to create new, unified editions for the worldwide Church.
June 22, 2018—A new and improved version of “Preach My Gospel” is released.
Aug. 16, 2018—President Nelson issues a statement on using the full name of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Oct. 6, 2018—Home-centered, Church-supported gospel study and adjustments to the Sunday meeting schedule are announced in general conference.
2019
Feb. 15, 2019—Missionaries are authorized to communicate with their families each week by text, online messaging, phone calls and video chats.
May 6, 2019—The one-year waiting period for temple sealings after civil marriage is discontinued.
Oct. 2, 2019—Women, youth and children may now serve as witnesses for temple sealing and baptismal ordinances.
Oct. 5, 2019—Ward Young Men presidencies are discontinued; new Young Women theme, class name and structure changes are announced.
2020
Jan 30, 2020—The Church announces a new general handbook for all members and leaders that will replace Handbook 1 and Handbook 2.
April 5, 2020—President Nelson issues “The Restoration of the Fulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ: A Bicentennial Proclamation to the World.”
Aug. 25, 2020—Church members can now submit names to temple prayer rolls online.
To see more announcements and changes made during President Nelson’s leadership in 2021 and 2022, read the full list and article on Church News.