“The Organization of the Church of Jesus Christ,” Liahona, Oct. 2023.
Gospel Basics
The Organization of the Church of Jesus Christ
The Lord Jesus Christ, by Del Parson
Jesus Christ is the head of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He inspires prophets and apostles to lead the Church today, as He did in New Testament times. They are assisted by other Church leaders.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the Savior’s Church. It is “built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone” (Ephesians 2:20). This means that He is the most important part of the foundation. He guides the Church through the prophets and apostles He has chosen to be leaders.
The First Presidency
The President of the Church is God’s prophet on the earth today. He is the senior Apostle and the only person on the earth who receives revelation to guide the entire Church. The Lord inspires him to know which two Apostles to call to serve as his counselors. They form the First Presidency. All three are prophets, seers, and revelators.
Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
Members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles are also prophets, seers, and revelators. They are called to be special witnesses of Jesus Christ. They travel throughout the world to teach and testify about Him. (See Doctrine and Covenants 107:23, 33.)
Quorums of the Seventy
Members of the Seventy are also called to be witnesses of Jesus Christ (see Doctrine and Covenants 107:25). They help the Quorum of the Twelve teach the gospel and build the Church throughout the world.
Photograph by Machiko Horii
Local Leaders
Your stake or district presidency, bishopric or branch presidency, and elders quorum and Relief Society presidencies have also been called of God. They can help you learn and live the gospel. You can learn about some of these callings in the March 2022 Gospel Basics article, “Serving in Church Callings.”