The LDS 70 presidency represents a unique and vital leadership structure within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving as a global force for administration and pastoral care. These ordained holders of the Melchizedek Priesthood are called to assist the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and the First Presidency in managing the temporal and spiritual affairs of a worldwide congregation. Understanding the role of the seventy provides crucial insight into how the church operates on a practical level, ensuring unity and direction across all continents.
The Biblical Foundation of the Quorum
The concept of the seventy is deeply rooted in scripture, drawing direct inspiration from the New Testament and the Book of Mormon. In the New Testament, Jesus appointed seventy disciples and sent them forth in pairs ahead of Him to prepare the way, granting them specific authority over unclean spirits. Similarly, in the Book of Mormon, Christ organized His disciples into groups of seventy, emphasizing their role as laborers in the vineyard. This scriptural model is not merely historical; it is a functional blueprint for the modern church, defining the seventy as emissaries dedicated to preaching and establishing the gospel.
Organizational Structure and Hierarchy
Within the LDS Church, the seventy are organized into quorums, typically consisting of up to seventy members each, led by a president. The First Quorum of the Seventy is the highest of these bodies, with its presidents directly called by the First Presidency. Members of this quorum are general authorities, meaning they have a worldwide scope of responsibility. Below this are the Second and Third Quorums, which are often composed of members serving in specific regions or areas, allowing for a decentralized approach to managing the church’s global operations.
Distinguishing the Roles of General and Area Authorities
It is essential to distinguish between members of the First Quorum of the Seventy and those in the lower quorums. General Authority Seventies hold the keys of the kingdom and are involved in the highest levels of church administration, including overseeing missions and temples globally. Area Seventies, often referred to as General Authority Seventies in training or local leaders, focus on strengthening congregations within designated geographical areas. They work closely with stake presidents, providing guidance and support without the same level of global jurisdiction.
Daily Responsibilities and Ministry
The duties of an LDS seventy are diverse, ranging from administrative oversight to direct pastoral service. On a daily basis, these individuals might be found meeting with stake leaders to provide counsel, visiting members who are struggling, or addressing logistical challenges for a temple renovation. They are frequently called upon to speak in general conference, offering sermons that inspire millions of church members worldwide. Their role is a blend of spiritual leadership and practical management, requiring both theological depth and administrative acumen.
Requirements and Path to Service
Becoming a member of the seventy is a rigorous process that involves years of faithful service, ecclesiastical recommendation, and formal approval through a common consent vote at general conference. Candidates are typically high priests who have demonstrated unwavering commitment to the church’s teachings and have held leadership positions such as bishop or stake president. The calling is considered a lifetime service, though members may be released at any time to return to their families and previous professions, ensuring the rotation of fresh leadership perspectives.
Impact on Global Church Governance
The presence of the seventy allows the LDS Church to maintain coherence and efficiency on a global scale. By delegating authority to these quorums, the First Presidency and the Twelve can focus on doctrinal guidance and international strategy. This structure ensures that local congregations receive timely support and that the church’s administrative machinery runs smoothly. The seventy act as the connective tissue, binding local units to the central leadership and fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.
