During the first years of the decade, members of the First Quorum of the Seventy served as executive administrators in various areas of the world.
On June 24, 1984, the First Presidency appointed area presidencies from the Seventies quorum to serve in 13 major geographical areas of the Church, effective July 1.When the Utah Central Area was created on Nov. 1, 1988, the number of areas had increased to 18.
Presidencies outside the United States and Canada reside in their respective areas. The presidencies are responsible to the First Presidency and Council of the Twelve for building up the Church and regulating its affairs in the areas.
President Gordon B. Hinckley said that the Church's growth requires flexibility in administration, and explained that the organization of area presidencies lends strength and brings a combined wisdom to decisions, as well as providing flexibility in meeting challenges of growth.
The 18 areas are: Utah North, Utah Central, Utah South, North America Northwest, North America West, North America Central, North America Northeast, North America Southwest, North America Southeast, Mexico/Central America, South America North, Brazil, South America South, United -Kingdom/Ireland/Africa, Europe, Philippines/Micronesia, Asia, Pacific.
