The First Quorum of the Seventy holds a unique and significant place in the organizational structure of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This quorum is composed of leaders who are called to assist the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in carrying out the work of the Lord throughout the world. Members of the First Quorum of the Seventy are given special responsibilities that include presiding over areas of the Church, directing missionary work, and supporting local leaders in their spiritual and administrative duties. Their service exemplifies dedication, faith, and a commitment to the teachings of Jesus Christ, ensuring that the Church can function efficiently while ministering to members in diverse global settings.
Origins and Purpose
The concept of the Seventy originates in the New Testament, where Jesus Christ appointed seventy disciples to go forth and preach the gospel, as recorded in Luke 101. In the modern restoration of the Church, the First Quorum of the Seventy continues this tradition, providing leadership and direction under the guidance of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Their primary purpose is to extend the reach of Church leadership, overseeing ecclesiastical and administrative matters in various geographical areas and ensuring that Church programs and teachings are implemented effectively.
Roles and Responsibilities
Members of the First Quorum of the Seventy have a wide range of responsibilities that encompass spiritual leadership, administrative oversight, and missionary work. Key duties include
- Assisting the Twelve Apostles in governing the global Church and supporting the First Presidency.
- Traveling to different areas of the world to provide training, guidance, and encouragement to local leaders and members.
- Overseeing the implementation of Church programs, including welfare, education, and humanitarian initiatives.
- Participating in general conferences and other Church meetings to provide instruction and counsel to the membership.
- Directing missionary efforts, helping coordinate missionary work, and offering spiritual support to missionaries and mission presidents.
Calling and Ordination
Being called to the First Quorum of the Seventy is considered a sacred responsibility. Members are typically experienced leaders who have demonstrated spiritual maturity, devotion, and administrative competence. The calling is made by the First Presidency and sustained by the general membership of the Church during a general conference. Once called, members are ordained to the office of Seventy, receiving priesthood authority to perform their duties in the service of the Lord. Ordination confers not only leadership authority but also a commitment to live a life consistent with the teachings of Jesus Christ and the principles of the restored gospel.
Training and Preparation
Although members of the First Quorum of the Seventy bring years of spiritual experience, they also engage in ongoing training to fulfill their responsibilities effectively. Training focuses on Church doctrine, administrative processes, leadership skills, and pastoral care. Members participate in meetings and seminars to enhance their understanding of Church policies and programs. This preparation ensures they can provide meaningful guidance to local leaders and members while representing the Church with integrity and spiritual insight.
Global Responsibilities
The First Quorum of the Seventy plays a crucial role in overseeing the Church’s global operations. With members spread across various continents, their responsibilities include
- Supervising geographical areas and providing leadership to area presidencies.
- Visiting congregations, temples, and Church institutions to offer instruction, support, and encouragement.
- Facilitating communication between local leaders and the highest governing bodies of the Church.
- Monitoring the implementation of Church programs, ensuring consistency with doctrinal teachings and organizational policies.
- Encouraging member engagement in worship, service, and community outreach initiatives.
Spiritual Leadership
While administrative duties are essential, spiritual leadership is at the heart of the First Quorum of the Seventy. Members serve as teachers, counselors, and examples of faith, modeling Christlike behavior and emphasizing principles of prayer, service, and obedience. Through sermons, training sessions, and personal interactions, they help strengthen the faith of local leaders and members, fostering spiritual growth and unity within the Church community. Their influence often extends beyond organizational tasks, touching the lives of members through mentorship, guidance, and pastoral care.
Interaction with Local Leaders
One of the primary functions of the First Quorum of the Seventy is to support and train local leaders, including bishops, stake presidents, and mission presidents. This interaction ensures that leaders at every level of the Church are well-prepared to guide members and administer Church programs. Members of the First Quorum provide instruction in doctrine, leadership principles, and administrative practices. They also offer counsel and encouragement, helping local leaders navigate challenges and develop spiritually, both for themselves and the congregations they serve.
Missionary Work
Another significant responsibility of the First Quorum of the Seventy is overseeing missionary efforts. They coordinate with mission presidents, provide guidance on teaching strategies, and help implement programs to increase the effectiveness of missionary work. By traveling to missions, meeting missionaries, and assessing local needs, members ensure that the Church’s message reaches people worldwide, fostering growth and spiritual development among new converts.
General Conference and Public Instruction
Members of the First Quorum of the Seventy frequently participate in general conferences and other public Church gatherings. These meetings provide an opportunity to instruct, uplift, and inspire Church members through messages of faith, testimony, and guidance. Their participation reinforces the unity of the Church and communicates essential teachings directly from leaders who are actively engaged in overseeing its global operations.
Significance of the Quorum
The First Quorum of the Seventy is vital for maintaining the organizational structure and spiritual guidance of the Church. By bridging the gap between local congregations and top Church leadership, they ensure that policies, teachings, and programs are implemented consistently worldwide. Their service allows the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and the First Presidency to focus on broader doctrinal and administrative matters while ensuring that local and regional needs are met effectively. The quorum exemplifies unity, service, and dedication, reflecting the principles of the restored gospel in practical ways.
The First Quorum of the Seventy is a cornerstone of leadership within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, providing both administrative oversight and spiritual guidance across the globe. Members of this quorum dedicate their lives to supporting the work of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, ensuring that Church programs, missionary work, and local leadership are effectively guided. Through their service, they strengthen the faith of members, train local leaders, and help the Church fulfill its mission of spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ worldwide.
The sacred calling of the First Quorum of the Seventy requires devotion, humility, and a strong commitment to living gospel principles. Members serve as examples of faith and diligence, bridging the gap between the highest levels of Church leadership and the global membership. By assisting in administration, training, and missionary efforts, they ensure that the Church operates efficiently while maintaining spiritual integrity. The First Quorum of the Seventy continues the work initiated by the seventy disciples in the New Testament, demonstrating the enduring importance of dedicated leadership in fulfilling the mission of the Lord and fostering spiritual growth among believers worldwide.