The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles leads The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with unity and faith in 2025. Guided by President Russell M. Nelson, the apostles oversee global ministry, temple growth, and humanitarian service. Their leadership strengthens members worldwide, teaching that devotion to Jesus Christ brings peace, purpose, and spiritual stability.
The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles continues to play a central and unifying role in guiding The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As of late 2025, the quorum stands as a vital governing body that supports President Russell M. Nelson and the First Presidency in leading the Church’s global membership of over 17 million. This year has seen the apostles focus on global outreach, temple expansion, and faith-centered initiatives that emphasize unity, service, and strengthening of families worldwide.
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Understanding the Quorum’s Role
The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles is patterned after the original twelve apostles of Jesus Christ from the New Testament. Each apostle is a “special witness of the name of Christ in all the world,” bearing testimony of His divinity and resurrection. Together, they function as prophets, seers, and revelators.
This governing body ranks second in authority only to the First Presidency. When the Church president passes away, the quorum collectively oversees Church affairs until the First Presidency is reorganized under the direction of the senior apostle.
Their responsibilities include:
- Overseeing global missionary efforts
- Supervising temple construction and dedication
- Providing guidance on Church education and humanitarian projects
- Traveling worldwide to strengthen members and local leaders
Current Members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (as of December 2025)
As of today, the Quorum is composed of the following apostles, listed by seniority:
- Dallin H. Oaks – President of the Quorum (serving as First Counselor in the First Presidency)
- M. Russell Ballard – Acting President of the Quorum (passed away November 12, 2023; position now succeeded by Elder Jeffrey R. Holland in active duties)
- Jeffrey R. Holland – Serving as Acting President of the Quorum since 2023
- Dieter F. Uchtdorf
- David A. Bednar
- Quentin L. Cook
- D. Todd Christofferson
- Neil L. Andersen
- Ronald A. Rasband
- Gary E. Stevenson
- Dale G. Renlund
- Gerrit W. Gong
- Ulisses Soares
(Note: The Quorum currently includes thirteen apostles in total, as President Nelson and President Oaks serve concurrently in the First Presidency.)
Recent Leadership Activities in 2025
The year 2025 has been marked by an intensified global outreach effort from the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Apostles have continued to visit nations across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas to meet with members and government leaders.
- Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf led several humanitarian initiatives in Eastern Europe, emphasizing refugee support and interfaith cooperation.
- Elder David A. Bednar visited West Africa, where he met with civic leaders and encouraged temple attendance among members in Ghana and Nigeria.
- Elder Gerrit W. Gong traveled throughout the Asia North Area, strengthening local Church leadership in Japan and South Korea.
- Elder Ulisses Soares, the first apostle born in South America, presided over multiple conferences in Brazil, reaffirming the Church’s commitment to temple growth and family-centered worship.
This continued pattern of personal ministry demonstrates the quorum’s deep involvement in nurturing the faith and resilience of Latter-day Saints around the world.
Focus on Temple Growth
One of the hallmark priorities of the Quorum in 2025 has been temple expansion. Under the direction of President Russell M. Nelson, the Church has surpassed 400 temples announced, under construction, or in operation. Many apostles have personally presided over groundbreakings, open houses, and dedications.
Highlights this year include:
- The Jakarta Indonesia Temple dedication led by Elder David A. Bednar.
- The Casper Wyoming Temple open house attended by Elder Neil L. Andersen.
- The Salvador Brazil Temple dedication presided over by Elder Ulisses Soares.
Temples are central to Latter-day Saint worship, and the Quorum’s leadership in this area underscores the Church’s ongoing growth and global reach.
Teachings and Messages Shared in 2025
Throughout 2025, members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles have delivered messages that focus on hope, repentance, and discipleship. Several themes have emerged across their addresses:
- Spiritual Resilience: Elder D. Todd Christofferson emphasized the importance of maintaining faith amid social and political divisions.
- Christlike Compassion: Elder Ronald A. Rasband urged members to “see each soul as the Savior sees them” and respond with empathy.
- Missionary Work: Elder Quentin L. Cook reiterated the ongoing call for young men and women to serve missions, emphasizing digital and community outreach.
- Joy in Covenant Living: Elder Gerrit W. Gong highlighted the peace that comes through temple covenants and family service.
These consistent messages reflect the unified direction of the Quorum and its focus on centering every teaching on Jesus Christ.
Digital Ministry and Social Media Presence
In today’s digital landscape, the apostles continue to reach millions online. Each apostle maintains an official presence on Church channels and social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. Their posts share uplifting messages, conference highlights, and glimpses of ministry activities.
For example:
- Elder Uchtdorf’s Instagram frequently features reflections on kindness and service.
- Elder Bednar’s videos address gospel questions submitted by young adults worldwide.
- Elder Rasband’s online messages focus on personal stories of faith and miracles from members across continents.
These online efforts allow the Quorum to connect with members beyond physical boundaries, especially younger audiences who engage through digital platforms.
The Quorum’s Historical and Doctrinal Significance
The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has existed since 1835, when Joseph Smith, the Church’s founder, first organized it under revelation. Its structure and purpose have remained remarkably consistent, serving as a foundation of stability through nearly two centuries of Church history.
Historically, the quorum’s members have played key roles in major milestones:
- Leading missionary work in Europe and the Pacific in the 1800s
- Guiding global growth during the 20th century
- Overseeing worldwide temple expansion in the 21st century
Each apostle serves for life, ensuring continuity and long-term leadership across generations.
Humanitarian Efforts Guided by Apostolic Leadership
Another major area of focus in 2025 has been humanitarian service. Under the quorum’s oversight, Latter-day Saint Charities has continued to fund relief efforts in natural disasters, refugee assistance, and medical initiatives. The apostles regularly emphasize the Christian principle of “loving thy neighbor,” extending help to people of all faiths and backgrounds.
Recent projects include:
- Food and medical aid to war-affected regions in Eastern Europe
- Water purification systems installed in African villages
- Mental health resources distributed through Church partnerships in the United States
These initiatives reflect the Church’s mission to serve humanity while sharing the light of Christ through compassionate action.
Training and Support for Local Leaders
Members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles also conduct regular leadership training for local bishops, stake presidents, and area authorities. These trainings, held both in person and virtually, aim to strengthen congregations and ensure doctrinal consistency worldwide.
The apostles emphasize:
- Teaching the doctrine of Christ clearly and simply
- Encouraging service and ministering among members
- Maintaining balance between spiritual and temporal responsibilities
Through these efforts, the quorum supports the Church’s expanding network of leaders across 190+ nations.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As 2026 approaches, the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles continues to focus on uniting faith and family amid a rapidly changing world. The apostles have expressed renewed dedication to reaching those who feel distant from the Church, encouraging members to draw closer to Christ through personal prayer, scripture study, and temple worship.
With continued temple dedications scheduled for 2026—including in Spain, the Philippines, and the United States—the quorum’s leadership remains central to the Church’s global mission.
Why the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Matters Today
For members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles represents far more than a governing council — it embodies a divine link between heaven and earth. Each apostle is called to serve as a special witness of Jesus Christ, declaring His gospel and helping people recognize His influence in their personal lives. The quorum’s collective ministry serves as a living reminder that prophetic leadership continues in modern times through revelation and faith.
In a world filled with uncertainty, the apostles provide a steady moral compass. Their words and actions encourage members to stay rooted in principles that never fade — faith, family, honesty, and compassion. Through sermons at general conference, personal visits to congregations, and digital messages shared globally, they invite people everywhere to follow Jesus Christ more fully.
Their influence extends beyond the pulpit. When an apostle visits a local congregation or a developing nation, the visit often becomes a unifying moment that strengthens both individuals and communities. People describe feeling renewed faith and a greater sense of belonging when they hear an apostle testify of Christ in person. These moments remind members that they are part of something larger — a worldwide faith centered on the Savior.
The quorum’s guidance also ensures continuity in the Church’s structure and mission. Every major decision, from temple construction to missionary work, is made with prayer and unity among the apostles. This collaboration preserves doctrinal consistency, allowing the Church to grow without losing its foundation. Their leadership has carried the Church through decades of social, political, and cultural change while maintaining its spiritual integrity.
Beyond internal leadership, the apostles’ voices reach the broader world through humanitarian projects, interfaith cooperation, and public discussions about faith and morality. Their emphasis on kindness, service, and respect resonates with people of all beliefs, creating bridges of understanding in diverse societies.
At its core, the Quorum’s message remains timeless: faith in Jesus Christ brings peace, direction, and hope. Whether they are addressing thousands in the Conference Center in Salt Lake City or quietly ministering in homes across continents, the apostles testify that following the Savior leads to true happiness and lasting unity.
Their consistent witness reminds every believer that God still speaks through living messengers and that the light of Christ continues to guide humanity in an ever-changing world.
The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles continues to stand as a living symbol of global faith and inspired leadership. How do you feel about their influence in today’s world? Share your thoughts below.