The Hierarchical Order of Quorums in Church Governance

Understanding how leadership quorums are structured and function within the Church.

By Garret Merkley · Explainer · Jun 2, 2026

Branched from The Solemn Assembly. What? Why? When?

Quick take

Church governance relies on a defined hierarchy of quorums, each with specific responsibilities.
The First Presidency holds the highest authority, followed by the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
This order ensures unity, revelation, and accountability in decision-making and administration.
Local quorums (Elders, Relief Society, etc.) operate under the direction of higher quorums.

A quorum, in the context of Church governance, refers to a body of priesthood holders organized to serve specific functions and responsibilities within the Church's hierarchical structure. The "order of quorums" describes the established ranking and relationship between these various leadership bodies, defining lines of authority, responsibility, and communication from the highest levels down to local congregations.

How It Works: A Defined Hierarchy

The Church operates with a clear, divinely revealed order that organizes its leadership into distinct quorums. This structure ensures that administrative and spiritual direction flows consistently throughout the global organization. At the apex is the First Presidency, consisting of the President of the Church and his two counselors. They are the highest presiding quorum, holding all the keys of the kingdom and directing the Church worldwide.

Immediately following the First Presidency in authority is the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. These twelve men are special witnesses of Jesus Christ to all the world and act under the direction of the First Presidency. Together, the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles are considered the presiding quorums of the Church. Below these, the Quorums of the Seventy are organized into various groups and serve as general authorities, assisting the Twelve Apostles in administering the Church across the globe. The Presiding Bishopric, consisting of a Presiding Bishop and two counselors, oversees the temporal affairs of the Church, including welfare and finances, under the direction of the First Presidency.

How It Works: Local Quorums and Mutual Support

This hierarchical order extends to local congregations. Stakes, which are regional groupings of congregations, are led by a Stake Presidency. Within each ward (a local congregation), the Elders Quorum Presidency leads all Melchizedek Priesthood holders, and the Relief Society Presidency leads the women's organization. The Aaronic Priesthood quorums (Deacons, Teachers, Priests) are organized by age and led by their own presidencies, often under the direction of the ward bishopric. While each quorum has distinct responsibilities, they are designed to work in harmony and mutual support. Decisions at every level are made through prayer and counsel, seeking divine guidance, and are ultimately subject to the approval and direction of presiding authorities. This ensures doctrinal consistency and administrative unity throughout the Church.

This defined order of quorums is crucial for the worldwide Church to function effectively, maintain doctrinal purity, and receive and act upon revelation. It provides a framework for accountability, ensuring that leaders at every level are responsible to those above them and that members have clear lines of communication and support. The order becomes particularly evident during major Church conferences, stake conferences, and ward council meetings, where leaders exercise their specific stewardships and counsel together. It also shapes the process for calling and setting apart leaders, ensuring that proper authority is extended and sustained by the membership.

Can a lower quorum make decisions that contradict a higher quorum?

No. Decisions made by lower quorums must align with the doctrines and policies established by higher presiding quorums and the First Presidency.

What is the role of the General Conference in the order of quorums?

General Conference is where the general authorities (including the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve) present their reports, deliver instruction, and are sustained by the general membership, reaffirming the established order.

Are women part of this quorum order?

While women are not ordained to the priesthood, they serve in leadership roles within auxiliary organizations like the Relief Society, Young Women, and Primary, which operate under the direction of priesthood leaders and contribute vital perspectives to ward and stake councils.

How does the principle of "common consent" fit with a hierarchical order?

Common consent means members have the opportunity to sustain or oppose proposed leaders and major decisions. While the ultimate authority rests with presiding quorums, members' sustaining vote is a vital part of the Church's governance, demonstrating unity and shared responsibility.

Sources

General Handbook: Serving in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Official declarations and statements from Church leaders.