At the general conference leadership meeting on Thursday, October 1, 2026, one new Area Seventy was announced and presented for a sustaining vote, and one Area Seventy was released.
Area Seventies are Church leaders called by the First Presidency to be “especial witnesses” of the name of Jesus Christ and to assist the Twelve in “building up the church and regulating all the affairs,” and in “preaching and administering the gospel” in their assigned areas (Doctrine and Covenants 107:25, 34, 38). They act under the keys and direction of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and work under the direction of the Area Presidency.
Area Seventies are called and set apart to serve in specific geographical areas but may also be assigned to serve in other areas as needed. They are not called to full-time service and typically serve for five years. Their duties include meeting and counseling with local Church leaders to help them fulfill their responsibilities. Each Area Seventy belongs to a Quorum of the Seventy. There are currently 12 Quorums of the Seventy. More Quorums of the Seventy may be added as the Church grows (see Doctrine and Covenants 107:93–96).
New Area Seventy
Eighth Quorum of the Seventy
Pacific and Philippines Areas
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David Kannar, 64, Queensland, Australia; currently serving as a Primary teacher in the Mount Coolum Ward; former bishop, mission presidency counselor, stake presidency counselor, and mission president; wife: Sally-Jane; four children.
Released Area Seventy
Eighth Quorum of the Seventy
Pacific and Philippines Areas
Elder Robert H. Simpson
