Area Seventy leadership within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints represents a vital layer of ecclesiastical and administrative oversight, connecting the global ministry of the church with local congregational needs. These ordained leaders are called to serve in specific geographical regions, acting as direct representatives to provide guidance, support, and direction to members and local leaders. Understanding the structure, purpose, and function of these quorums offers insight into how the church operates on a practical level beyond the lay leadership of bishops and stake presidents.
The Structure and Purpose of the Quorums
The concept of an Area Authority Seventy is distinct from the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and the Quorum of the Seventy, which are higher and more extensive leadership bodies. An Area Seventy is typically called for a specific term to oversee a designated geographical area, often encompassing multiple stakes or districts. Their primary purpose is to build up and strengthen the members and leaders within their assigned region, ensuring doctrinal consistency and administrative alignment with the church's global leadership. They act as high-level counselors and coordinators, rather than local operational managers.
Responsibilities and Ministry Focus
While the specifics of an Area Seventy's duties can vary based on the needs of the area, their responsibilities generally revolve around several key themes. They provide counsel to stake and district leadership, helping to resolve complex issues and offering perspective on church programs. They also play a significant role in training and mentoring local leaders, emphasizing the importance of spiritual conversion and faithful service. Furthermore, they often conduct stake and district conferences, reinforcing gospel principles and providing timely instruction.
Geographical Organization and Current Leadership
The church organizes its Areas globally, and each Area is led by a specific quorum of Area Seventies. The number of members in these quorums can fluctuate based on the needs of the church and the size of the Area. To understand the specific leadership for your location, it is necessary to refer to the official organizational charts published by the church. Below is a general overview of how these Areas are currently structured.
Area Name | Primary Geographic Focus | Current Leadership Quorum
Africa Southeast Area | Sub-Saharan Africa | Area Seventy Quorum
Europe Area | European Continent | Area Seventy Quorum
North America Central Area | Midwestern United States | Area Seventy Quorum
Asia Area | East and Southeast Asia | Area Seventy Quorum
Distinguishing Role in the Church Hierarchy
It is common for members to confuse Area Seventies with General Authorities. However, the distinction is crucial for understanding church governance. General Authorities, including the Twelve Apostles and the First Presidency, are sustained as prophets, seers, and revelators for the entire church. Area Seventies, while authoritative in their assigned regions, do not hold the same global calling. Their authority is localized and specific to the areas to which they are assigned, supporting the general directives of the Brethren.
