The Role of Lay Leadership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Explore how The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints operates through an extensive system of volunteer, unpaid leaders drawn from its regular membership.

By Garret Merkley · Explainer · Jun 13, 2026

Branched from LDS Sacrament Meeting Talks: Why Members Speak and How Testimony Is Built

Quick take

Lay leadership means all church positions, from local to global, are filled by volunteer members, not paid clergy.
Leaders are called through inspiration, interviewed, and sustained by congregational vote, serving temporarily.
This system empowers members, fosters community, and allows the church to operate globally without a professional clergy.
Serving in these roles provides members with opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and deeper faith.

In The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, lay leadership refers to a system where all leadership positions, from the smallest local congregation to the global administration, are filled by volunteer members of the church. These individuals serve without pay, alongside their regular occupations and family responsibilities, making the church a fully member-run organization.

How Leaders Are Called and Sustaind

The process of selecting leaders begins with prayer and what members believe is divine inspiration. Current leaders, such as a bishop or stake president, counsel together to identify individuals they feel are best suited for a particular role, often praying for guidance. Once a potential leader is identified, they are privately interviewed to ensure they are willing, able, and spiritually prepared to serve. If they accept, their name is then presented to the relevant congregation or body of members for a vote of "sustaining." Members vote to show their support and commitment to follow the guidance of those called to lead them. This process emphasizes the belief that leaders are called by God and sustained by the people.

The Structure of Volunteer Service

Lay leadership is fundamental to the church's global structure. At the local level, each congregation (known as a ward) is led by a bishop and two counselors, all volunteers. Similarly, groups of wards (called stakes) are led by a stake president and two counselors. Within these units, thousands of other roles exist, from teachers and youth leaders to clerks, music directors, and leaders of various auxiliary organizations like the Relief Society (for women) and Elders Quorum (for men). Even the most senior leaders of the church, including the President of the Church and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, are called from the general membership and serve as volunteers, though their full-time commitment means they receive a modest living allowance to cover basic needs, not a salary.

These positions are generally temporary, ranging from a few months to several years, allowing many members to gain leadership experience and contribute in different ways throughout their lives.

Why This System Matters

The lay leadership system is central to the identity and function of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It fosters a deep sense of ownership and involvement among members, as everyone is encouraged to serve and contribute their talents. This widespread participation ensures that the church's teachings and programs are implemented by people who live in the communities they serve, understanding local needs and challenges. It also provides a robust framework for personal development, as members learn valuable leadership, teaching, and organizational skills that benefit them in all aspects of life. Furthermore, this model allows the church to expand rapidly and operate in diverse cultures worldwide without the need for a professional, paid clergy, making it highly adaptable and self-sufficient.

Are all members expected to serve in a leadership role?

While not every member will serve as a bishop or stake president, the expectation is that every capable member will be asked to serve in some capacity, often referred to as a "calling." These callings vary widely in responsibility and time commitment, ensuring everyone can contribute.

Do leaders receive any special training?

Leaders receive guidance and training from their immediate superiors and through church-provided resources. This training often focuses on principles of gospel teaching, administrative skills, and pastoral care, emphasizing spiritual growth and service.

Can a member decline a calling?

Yes, members can decline a calling. While members are encouraged to prayerfully consider any invitation to serve, the decision to accept is always personal. It's understood that personal circumstances, health, or other factors might make it difficult for someone to fulfill a particular role.

How is the global church administered without paid clergy?

The global church is administered by the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, who are called to serve full-time. While they do not receive a salary, they are provided with a modest living allowance from church funds to cover basic needs. All other leaders, from Area Seventies to local bishops and auxiliary leaders, serve on a volunteer basis, relying on their own means for income.

Sources

General Handbook: Serving in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Church Newsroom: What is a Calling?