SALT LAKE CITY — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced Wednesday that women can now serve as ward Sunday School presidents, a significant shift in local congregation leadership.
The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles outlined the policy change in a letter sent to global church leaders on March 18. Effective immediately, local bishops can call either a man or a woman to lead their ward’s Sunday School presidency.
Previously, the position was restricted to men holding the Melchizedek Priesthood. Under the updated guidelines, if a man is called as president, his counselors and secretary must be men. If a woman is called, her counselors and secretary must be women.
Church leaders stated that the makeup of Sunday School presidencies may alternate between all-male and all-female presidencies depending on the needs of the congregation and the inspiration of local leaders. The role of the stake Sunday School president remains unchanged and will continue to be filled by a high councilor holding the Melchizedek Priesthood.
Sunday School General President Paul V. Johnson noted the adjustment provides bishoprics with more flexibility.
“There are many capable women and men who can help strengthen gospel instruction and foster spiritual growth,” Johnson said.
The policy change is reflected in the church’s latest updates to its “General Handbook,” which are being rolled out digitally this week.