Male-only Melchizedek and Aaronic Priesthood; women serve in other capacities
The LDS Church holds that the priesthood — both the Aaronic (lesser) and Melchizedek (greater) priesthoods — is held by worthy male members. Boys may be ordained to the Aaronic Priesthood at age 12; men may be ordained to the Melchizedek Priesthood. The priesthood is understood as the authority to act in God's name for the salvation of his children, including administering ordinances.
Women do not hold the LDS priesthood, though they exercise priesthood power in temple ordinances and serve in significant leadership roles — as General Officers of church organizations (Relief Society, Young Women, Primary) and as leaders in local auxiliaries. The LDS church's position on male-only priesthood has been consistent throughout its history, though the 2023 general conference introduced some expanded roles for women in officiating at certain ordinances.
Key Distinctions
- Ministry model:
- lay priesthood — all worthy men hold Aaronic or Melchizedek priesthood; no professional clergy
- Ordination theology:
- priesthood restored through Joseph Smith; given by laying on of hands by authority
- Celibacy requirement:
- not required; marriage encouraged
Scripture References
- Doctrine and Covenants 107:1-4
- Doctrine and Covenants 84:33-39
Sources
- LDS Articles of Faith 5
- Doctrine and Covenants 107
- LDS Gospel Topics: Priesthood