In Mormonism, a stake is a regional unit of church organization made up of several local congregations called wards (and sometimes branches). The term comes from Isaiah 54:2, where “stakes” refer metaphorically to the supports of a tent—symbolizing the strength and growth of the Church.
Each stake is led by a stake president and two counselors, who are lay leaders (not paid clergy). They oversee the spiritual and administrative affairs of the wards within their area, including worthiness interviews, temple recommend renewals, and church discipline. Stake leaders are considered to hold priesthood authority and are sustained by members in their callings.
While similar in some ways to a Christian diocese, a stake functions as both an administrative and spiritual hub, reinforcing the LDS emphasis on hierarchical priesthood leadership and local accountability.
