I am sure I could probably find it somewhere, but I am being lazy
Yeah, I know how that is. I am, too.
I read a post that got me thinking, so some questions of the LDS prophet...
Is it an elected position, or is it just someone God decides to talk to?
It's what we refer to as a "calling," which essentially means that he is God's choice. Here's how it works: The Church is led by a Prophet, his two counselors, and twelve Apostles. When the Prophet dies, a new one is appointed. Although not cast in concrete, the established precedent is to select the senior member (in years of service, not age) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles as the next Prophet. That, of course, leaves a vacancy in the Quorum of the Twelve, which must then be filled. Collectively, the First Presidency, (i.e. the Prophet and his counselors) and the remaining Apostles fast and pray, asking God for guidance in choosing whom to appoint as the next Apostle. In theory, any male member of the Church could be selected. In practice, it is likely to be someone who is known to have an excellent knowledge of LDS doctrine, a strong testimony of Jesus Christ, an outstanding character, and exceptional leadership abilities. When God confirms to this body of men who the next Apostle is to be, that individual is then "called and ordained." Over the years, (unless he dies first) the most recently called Apostle will eventually become the senior Apostle and would be next in line to be the Prophet. So, in essence, whenever an Apostle is chosen, he is believed to be worthy to eventually lead the Church as its Prophet and to have been chosen by God for that role. Thomas S. Monson, currently the senior member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, became an Apostle when I was in highschool, about 40 years ago. He will most likely succeed Gordon B. Hinckley as the next Prophet.
Are only certain people considered, or could, say, FFH be the Prophet(as in God says 'You are the next prohphet, go and speak in my name')?
Oh, please!