Understanding the Hierarchy of Apostles in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church)

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (often referred to as the LDS Church or simply the Church) holds a unique belief in the divine constitution of male apostles as direct witnesses and messengers of Jesus Christ. These apostles play a crucial role in guiding the religious organization and its members. This article aims to provide an overview of the current apostles in the Church, their order of seniority, and their roles.

Current Apostles in Order of Seniority

The apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are arranged in order of seniority based on their birth dates, reflecting their place within the leadership structure of the Church. Here is the current list of apostles from the oldest (most senior) to the youngest (least senior):

Russell M. Nelson
Russell M. Nelson was born on September 9, 1924. Dallin H. Oaks
Dallin H. Oaks was born on August 12, 1932. Henry B. Eyring
Henry B. Eyring was born on May 31, 1933. Quentin L. Cook
Quentin L. Cook was born on September 8, 1940. Deiter F. Uchtdorf
Deiter F. Uchtdorf was born on November 6, 1940. Jeffrey R. Holland
Jeffrey R. Holland was born on December 3, 1940. D. Todd Christofferson
D. Todd Christofferson was born on January 24, 1945. Ronald A. Rasband
Ronald A. Rasband was born on February 6, 1951. Neil Anderson
Neil Anderson was born on August 9, 1951. David A. Bednar
David A. Bednar was born on June 15, 1952. Dale Renlund
Dale Renlund was born on November 13, 1952. Gerrit W. Gong
Gerrit W. Gong was born on December 23, 1953. Gary E Stevenson
Gary E Stevenson was born on August 6, 1955. Ulisses Soares
Ulisses Soares was born on October 2, 1958.

The Current Prophets and Apostles of the Church

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has a hierarchical structure led by the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Together, these leaders serve as the First Quorum of the Church. The current First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles are as follows:

President Russell M. Nelson
President of the Church. Dallin H. Oaks
First Counselor in the First Presidency. Henry B. Eyring
Second Counselor in the First Presidency. M. Russell Ballard
Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (as of the time this article was written, this role was filled by Elder Ballard). Jeffrey R. Holland
Member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. David A. Bednar
Member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Quentin L. Cook
Member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. D. Todd Christofferson
Member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Neil L. Andersen
Member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Ronald A. Rasband
Member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Gary E. Stevenson
Member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Dale G. Renlund
Member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Gerrit W. Gong
Member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Ulisses Soares
Member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.

The Role and Responsibilities of Apostles

Apostles in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints serve a variety of roles and responsibilities. They primarily serve as messengers of Jesus Christ, counselors to the First Presidency, and teachers of the gospel. Additionally, they travel extensively across the world to spread the teachings of the Church and provide inspiration and guidance to its members.

Apostles are also involved in various ecclesiastical duties, such as presiding over specific regions or stake, overseeing humanitarian services, and participating in decision-making processes at the highest levels of Church leadership. The apostles are often seen as symbolic figures of authority and guidance, and their insights and teachings are highly esteemed within the Church.

The Significance of Apostles in LDS Church

Understanding the hierarchy of apostles is crucial for those seeking to comprehend the organization and beliefs of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This hierarchy serves as a framework that underscores their role as divine messengers and earthly representatives of Jesus Christ, tasked with guiding and supporting the global membership of the Church.

Conclusion

The current apostles in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) are an integral part of the church's leadership structure. Their roles and responsibilities reflect their divine calling and the need for spiritual guidance and direction in today's world. Understanding the hierarchy and roles of the apostles is essential for those studying or participating in the LDS faith.