Understanding the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles serves as a cornerstone of the leadership structure within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As the second-highest governing body in the church hierarchy, the Quorum is tasked with a global mission to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ and oversee the growth of the faith worldwide.

The Role and Responsibility of the Twelve

Apostles are chosen to be special witnesses of Jesus Christ. Their primary mandate is to represent Him in the modern era, mirroring the role of the original Twelve Apostles found in the Bible. This involves traveling the world to invite individuals to learn about and follow Christ.

In a technical sense, a quorum is a group of individuals granted priesthood authority and responsibility to perform God’s work. The members of the Quorum of the Twelve are called to be prophets, seers, revelators, and evangelical ambassadors.

Governance and Hierarchy

The church hierarchy places the First Presidency as the highest leadership body, with the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles as the second-highest. While the Quorum was originally organized in 1835 as “traveling councilors” with jurisdiction primarily outside of areas where the church was formally organized, their responsibilities evolved. Under the direction of the First Presidency, the Quorum was eventually given charge of the general affairs of the church.

Recent Leadership Transitions

The leadership of the church underwent significant changes in late 2025. Following the death of President Russell M. Nelson on September 27, the First Presidency was dissolved. During the October 2025 general conference, President Dallin H. Oaks presided as the president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles before being announced as the 18th President of the Church on October 14, 2025. He is supported by President Henry B. Eyring as first counselor and President D. Todd Christofferson as second counselor in the First Presidency.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are Apostles chosen?

Apostles are called to represent Jesus Christ and devote their entire lives to full-time church service, leaving their regular professional lives behind.

What is the difference between the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve?

The First Presidency is the highest leadership body of the church. The Quorum of the Twelve is the second-highest body and operates under the direction of the First Presidency in managing church affairs.

Who currently leads the Quorum of the Twelve?

As of January 2026, President Dieter F. Uchtdorf has been called to serve as the Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.

Looking Forward

As the Church continues its global expansion, the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles remains central to its administration. Recent updates to the general authority charts in March 2026 reflect the ongoing evolution of the leadership, including the addition of two recently called members to the Quorum to support the church’s worldwide mission.