Leadership and Organization

The First Presidency is the highest governing body of the Church. Its members are special witnesses of the name of Jesus Christ, called to teach and testify of Him throughout the world. Members of the First Presidency travel around the world to speak to members and local leaders; when not traveling, they counsel together and with other general Church leaders on matters affecting the worldwide Church, such as missionary work, temple building and spiritual and temporal welfare.

The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles is the second-highest presiding body in the government of the Church. Its members travel the world as special witnesses of the name of Christ and serve under the direction of the First Presidency.

The Presidency of the Seventy consists of seven General Authority Seventies who are called by the First Presidency and given authority to preside over the various Quorums of the Seventy.

The Presiding Bishopric consists of the Presiding Bishop and his two counselors. Each holds the office of bishop, and they serve under the direct supervision of the First Presidency. The Presiding Bishopric is responsible for many of the Church’s temporal affairs.

Under the direction of the First Presidency, the Relief Society presidency oversees the activities of all women ages 18 and over. These leaders travel frequently to help guide and support the women of the Church. The Relief Society is one of the oldest and largest women’s organizations in the world.

The Young Men presidency provides instruction, encouragement and support in living the gospel of Jesus Christ for male Church members ages 12 through 17. These leaders serve under the direction of the First Presidency and travel frequently to help guide and support the young men of the Church.

The Young Women presidency provides instruction, encouragement and support in living the gospel of Jesus Christ for female Church members ages 12 through 17. These leaders serve under the direction of the First Presidency and travel frequently to help guide and support the young women of the Church.

The Primary presidency oversees the Church’s organization that teaches children ages 18 months to 11 years the gospel of Jesus Christ and helps them live its principles. These leaders serve under the direction of the First Presidency and travel frequently to help guide and support the children and their local leaders.

Members of the Sunday School General Presidency advise on matters concerning Sunday School. All members of the Church age 12 and older are encouraged to participate in Sunday School classes, which are held twice a month as part of the regular weekly worship services.