The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has reorganized its area presidencies in Mexico and the United States Southwest. This restructuring is effective immediately and follows the calling of a new Presiding Bishopric.
Changes in Area Presidencies
The new assignment announcements included significant leadership modifications.
- Mexico Area:
- Elder Moisés Villanueva has been appointed president.
- Elder José L. Alonso serves as first counselor.
- Elder Brik V. Eyre is the second counselor.
- United States Southwest Area:
- Elder Michael A. Dunn is the new president.
- Elder Jonathan S. Schmitt serves as first counselor.
- Elder Steven C. Barlow is the second counselor.
Previously, Elder Alonso held the presidency in Mexico, while Elder Dunn and Elder Schmitt served as counselors in the United States Southwest Area. Both Elder Eyre and Elder Barlow, now serving as second counselors, were appointed as General Authority Seventies earlier this year.
The Role of Area Presidencies
The Church has 24 areas globally, each managed by a General Authority Seventy and two counselors. Six of these areas are based in the United States, while the remaining 18 represent other countries.
In April, the church also created a new Canada Area by redistributing portions from existing North American regions. Under the guidance of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and the Presidency of the Seventy, area presidencies are essential for supporting local congregations, temple leaders, and members.
This restructuring marks a continuing evolution within the Church’s leadership aimed at addressing the diverse needs of its global membership.
