Throughout time, God has called prophets to lead and teach His people.

Ralph Waldo Emerson, nineteenth-century philosopher, declared in an address to the Harvard Divinity School, “It is my duty to say to you that the need was never greater for new revelation than now. The doctrine of inspiration is lost. Miracles, prophesy, the holy life, exist as ancient history only. Men have come to speak of revelation of somewhat long ago given and done, as if God were dead. It is the office of a true teacher to show us that God is, not was, that He speaketh, not spake.”

Mormons agree with Emerson that God not only spake in ancient times, but continues to speak today!

Who was the first modern-day prophet?

In 1820, a 14-year-old young man was struggling to know which church he should join.  While praying to seek guidance on the issue from God, Joseph had a marvelous experience when God the Father and Jesus Christ appeared to him.  After calling Joseph by name, they instructed him not to join any of the churches.  In fact, he was then called to translate and bring forth the Book of Mormon and later to re-establish the Church of Jesus Christ on the earth.

Who is the prophet today?

Since the time of Joseph Smith, there has been a continual succession of prophets.  The prophet today is Thomas S. Monson who was sustained as a prophet by the membership of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in April 2008.

Why are there prophets today?

For the same reason that there have been prophets throughout history.  As a loving Heavenly Father, God calls prophets to help teach His children how to return to live with Him again.  In these tumultuous times, prophets teach us that through accepting Jesus Christ and following His commandments, we can find greater peace and happiness within our families.