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April 2026: New General Authority Seventies and Primary General Presidency Announced

2 months agoUS
April 2026: New General Authority Seventies and Primary General Presidency AnnouncedSource: newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org
During the April 2026 General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, significant leadership changes were announced. Eight new General Authority Seventies were called, and a new Primary General Presidency was named, effective August 1, 2026. This article summarizes these key changes and introduces the new leaders.

Key Insights

Eight new General Authority Seventies were called to assist the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.

Elder Benjamin M. Z. Tai will serve in the Presidency of the Seventy, replacing Elder S. Mark Palmer.

Seven General Authority Seventies will receive emeritus status on August 1, 2026.

A new Primary General Presidency was announced, including Rosemary K. Chibota (President), Nina M. Garfield (First Counselor), and Theresa A. Collins (Second Counselor).

Why this matters: These changes reflect the ongoing leadership development and succession within the Church, ensuring continued guidance and support for its global membership. The new leaders will play vital roles in ministering to members and advancing the Church's mission.

In-Depth Analysis

New General Authority Seventies

The General Authority Seventies are called to be “especial witnesses” of Jesus Christ and assist the Twelve Apostles in building up the Church. They serve full-time and are typically released in the year they turn 70.

The newly called General Authority Seventies include:

Elder Christian C. Chigbundu: Served as president of the Nigeria Enugu Mission.

Elder Matthew J. Eyring: Served in various leadership roles, including Area Seventy.

Elder Hutch U. Fale: Served as a member of the Twelfth Quorum of the Seventy in the Utah Area.

Elder James O. Fantone: Served as a member of the Eighth Quorum of the Seventy in the Philippines Area.

Elder Kevin J. Hathaway: Served as president of the Arkansas Bentonville Mission.

Elder Thabo Lebethoa: Served as a Sunday School teacher.

Elder Jeremiah J. Morgan: Served in various capacities, including Area Seventy.

Elder Paul H. Sinclair: Served as president of the England London Mission.

New Primary General Presidency

The Primary is an organization for children ages 18 months to 11 years, focused on teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. The new Primary General Presidency, which will begin service on August 1, 2026, includes:

Rosemary K. Chibota (President): Has served in various Church assignments, including mission leader in the Alabama Birmingham Mission.

Nina M. Garfield (First Counselor): Has served as stake Relief Society president.

Theresa A. Collins (Second Counselor): Has served as a nursery leader and mission leader in the Arkansas Bentonville Mission.

This new presidency will work to strengthen children and families throughout the Church, counseling with leaders and members worldwide.

FAQs

Q: What is the role of General Authority Seventies?

They are “especial witnesses” who assist the Twelve Apostles in building up the Church and administering the gospel.

Q: What is the purpose of the Primary organization?

To teach children ages 18 months to 11 years the gospel of Jesus Christ and help them build faith.

Q: When do the new leaders begin their service?

August 1, 2026.

Key Takeaways

These leadership changes are vital for the continued growth and strength of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The new General Authority Seventies and Primary General Presidency bring diverse backgrounds and experiences to their roles, ensuring that the Church remains responsive to the needs of its global membership. Stay informed about their activities and teachings to enhance your understanding of the Church's mission and direction.

Discussion

What are your thoughts on these leadership changes? Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!

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