In a ritual known as a “solemn assembly,” reserved for sacred occasions, Mormons across the world will stand and raise their hands to show support for 93-year-old Russell M. Nelson as the faith’s 17th prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Unlike the past few years, when President Thomas S. Monson was suffering the effects of advancing age, Nelson — the second oldest man to ascend to the top — could conduct any or all of the five sessions.
Two new apostles are expected to be appointed to fill the red seats on the dais left vacant by the deaths of Monson in January and apostle Robert D.