Why don’t women hold the priesthood in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints? How do Mormon women lead in the Church?

Kathryn answered…

As a primary president in my ward, I share in the direction and leadership of our ward. I don't feel secondary in any way. Whether you have the priesthood or not, you are still responsible to listen to the direction of the Savior. The priesthood is a tool and power that is the same power of the Savior. It allows the human authority to do work on earth, particularly perform ordinances, and bless others. As if the Savior was here in person during His ministry accounted for in the New Testament. I would use an analogy to compare the priesthood as a car. A car is an amazing tool allowing you to get you from here to there. I don't mind my husband driving and I can offer some navigation or work the radio, as long as we and our children get there.

Madelyn answered…

I feel that men and women both have different but equally important roles in getting us back to God. In God's eternal plan we were spirits in His presence before this life. To progress we needed to get bodies on this earth, then perform specific ordinances (eg baptism, marriage) to return to God after this life. Women were given the godly power to bring spirits into this world and give them bodies, then nurture and raise these children with God's inspiration and guidance. The men were assigned the responsibility (through the God's Priesthood power) to serve others and administer the ordinances that will bring God's children back to His presence after this life. Both roles are necessary and equally important to God's plan for us.
I don't think women need the Priesthood to be powerful influences and to do God's work in their homes and in the church. I see men grow spiritually, and their characters become more godly when they act in God's name through using the Priesthood.
I have never felt the need to hold the Priesthood myself. I can still receive all the blessings offered by the Priesthood, my prayers can be just as powerful, and I still have access to the inspiration of God in my life.

Kara answered…

Women don't hold the priesthood in the church, as this is a teaching that has come from Jesus Christ. However, women have such a significant role to play in the church that personally I have never felt that this is an issue I am concerned with or even think about. My husband and I are equal partners in our family, and the church has such respect and reverence for women and their role in the world. Women in the church also belong to what is called the 'Relief Society' it is one of the largest women's organisation in the world, and fills me with such a desire to serve and do good that when we meet together wherever I am in the world I feel so proud to be apart of it.

Cynthia answered…

Family is very important in the church for more reasons than can be explained here. Holding the priesthood is just one of these reasons. Husbands act and bless their family with their priesthood, but wives benefit and honor the priesthood through their husbands. It is a symbiotic relationship. As I have participated in the church in various activities I have come to understand my importance as a woman in the church. There cannot be one without the other.

Leeny answered…

This is a question I had to really consider before joining the Church. My mother is a non-denominational chaplain, and both my sisters are pastors. Female leadership in church settings is very important to my family.

It is to me as well. I think many people become offended when they learn that only men hold the priesthood because they misunderstand it. The priesthood is a tool given to men in order that they might serve others more. It does not in any way give them power or dominion over women. Those people who suppose the priesthood is a way to control others are deeply mistaken.

My husband is a priesthood holder, this means I am too. I have claim on my husband's priesthood power. Even more than he does. If I am sick, discouraged, or in need of help I can call upon my husband to give me a blessing through the priesthood that he holds. I then recieve many blessings because of my husband's worthiness to work in behalf of Christ. My husband is never able to give himself a blessing though. If he is sick or discouraged he must call on other priesthood holders to administer to him. My husband holds the priesthood so that he can bless me and our child - never himself.

The priesthood is the power of Christ on the earth. It allows those who hold it to serve their families in the same way Christ served the Church. Did Christ do any deed for himself during his earthly ministry? No. Christ spent all his energy serving the people. This is what the priesthood does for my husband. It infuses him with Christ's compassion and ability to love, and then my husband is able to use that celestial love in our family.

Why don't women also recieve this special gift then? The simple answer is women don't need it. As women we are innately endowed with compassion, selflessness, and love. Think about the way a mother loves her child. I believe there is nothing more pure and similar to Christ's love for us, than a mother's love for her children. Women naturally have the ability to love as Christ does.

In an ideal situation, which is what God always intended for us, there are two partners in marriage. There is the husband and father, a priesthood leader who can be called upon to administer blessings and serve in Christ's name. And there is also the wife and mother, who is blessed with the ability to love as Christ loves and sacrifice for her family. These are two seperate and divinely appointed roles. Each complementing the other. Both make a complete home.

Women do not hold the priesthood because they do not need it. Women have other God-given powers that raise them up to the task they are called to. A man is appointed to serve his wife and children - it is the power of the priesthood that enables him to do this.

I am grateful to have a husband who is worhty to use the priesthood in my behalf. It has blessed me many times and I know that it is a special gift from God - not only to my husband, but to me as well.

Elizabeth answered…

Women in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints do not hold the priesthood because that is how the Lord established His church. We are all children of Our Father in Heaven. He loves us all. And we are all different - with different roles and duties to perform. Just like the roles of mother and father are unique and different - though one is no more important than the other - likewise, the variety of ways that we can serve in the kingdom of God are very different. We do not seek callings in the Lord's kingdom. Rather, we live righteously and then, if the Lord sees fit, we are given a job to do. Men are ordained to the priesthood if they are worthy, and serve in diverse callings related thereto. Women serve in any number of ways in the Church. Their role is seen as divine. In addition to the important roles of wife and mother, many women in the Church serve in the largest women's organization in the world - the Relief Society - to which all women in the Church belong. Other women serve the children and youth in a variety of roles ranging from teachers at the local level to leaders that travel and serve and instruct other members throughout the world. Wherever we serve, and no matter in what capacity, we find joy in knowing that the Lord has chosen us to do His work. He is at the helm.

Mitzi answered…

As I serve in my calling as a Relief Society president (the Relief Society is the organization for all women over 18 years of age) i have gained a greater testimony of the importance of the preisthood. One would think that the oppisite would happen, that as I was placed in a calling of higher responsiblity that i would wonder why I couldn't hold more keys or have more responsiblity, this is not the case. In working with the Bishopric I have learned the unique role that we as women hold within the church. I have never felt less important or as if my thoughts and feelings are dismissed. I work with my bishop to issue callings based on insperation and prayer. As president of the organization I have had many opportunites to hear the promptings of the spirit and communcat those promptings with our Bishop. We council together to make our ward members stronger and to fullfill thier needs.

In my home i am so thankful for a worth man who takes the responsiblities of his priesthood serisously. He councils with me and supports me. His priesthood makes our marriage stonger and helps him be a better man.

As crazy as it sounds I am thankful i do not have the responsiblity of the preisthood, i get all of the blessings without any of the commitment :).

Laura answered…

Women don't hold the priesthood because we don't need it. The purpose of the priesthood is to serve others as Christ served us. Women, regardless of marriage or children, already spend much of their life serving and helping others. Most men don't provide the selfless, christlike service that women naturally perform. The priesthood is a way for men to perform that service and become closer to God through acting in His name through service. Women lead in the church as strong, confident wives, mothers, teachers, and leaders of children, youth, and in leading the Relief Society, the oldest and largest womens organization in the world.

Amanda answered…

In my profession, I am the ONLY woman. I work hard and know that I am a very important part of my company, but that doesn't hinder my thoughts of the Priesthood one bit. I am proud to support my husband and sons. I don't need the glory. The glory is ALL the Lord's anyways, we are just His humble servants. If you are good at something and have special talents, it is your responsibility to use them to serve the Lord. Afterall, isn't that why He gave them to you? Women are just as important without holding the Priesthood in the Savior's eyes.

Mariah answered…

 We believe that gender is an eternal part of everyone. We believe that motherhood and the priesthood are also an eternal part of everyone. This in turn means that all women have an eternal right to be a mother, and that all men have an eternal right to hold the priesthood. Women do not hold the priesthood for the same reason that men cannot be mothers. In their own spheres, women lead or preside over other women, young women, and children, and men lead or preside over other men and young men.

Kaye answered…

As a strong, well-educated woman, I am often asked if it bothers me that I cannot hold the Priesthood. The simple answer is "no." I think that this is a Gospel principle that may have been a stumbling block for me, but I took the opportunity to pray specifically about this issue and I received a strong, undeniable assurance that this is the Lord's way.

My life is enriched by the fact that my husband and now my sons hold the Priesthood and use it to bless my life. In the same way, I use my skills and talents to bless their lives.

I have had many opportunities for leadership within the Church. I have served in roles as President and as Counselor in leading the youth of the Church and I have served on a couple of regional boards that help direct the activities of the different organizations. I am an elected official in my community and the men of the Church respect me in that position. I am accepted for my strengths and skills.

MariLou answered…

I noticed there were a couple of FAQs regarding women--What are Mormon women like? Why don't women hold the priesthood in the Mormon Church? etc.

Of course, Mormon women are as varied as women anywhere of any religion, but there is a common thread--we believe that we are daughters of God and have been given special abilities and purposes by Him. Literally. Daughters of the King of Heaven. Think how that belief affects us. And we are here not by chance, but with a God-given purpose to lift and teach and nurture.

Why don't women hold the priesthood in the Mormon Church? Well, the quick answer is God's priesthood, God's rules. In reading the Holy Bible you can see that the priesthood of God has always been exclusive--in the Old Testament it was only the tribe of Levi.

I've heard lots of speculation on why women don't hold the priesthood over the course of my years in the Church, but I still think that the quick answer is only one we know for sure right now.

Rebekah Leigh answered…

Men and women have been given different responsibilities by God. Women work together with the men who hold the priesthood, to make decisions and serve those in their stewardship.

Amelia answered…

 Being female, I get asked this question alot. There are those who think that somehow I am be "cheated" out of something. Let me say, first and foremost, that I have never felt like the "lesser sex." Ever since I was a young girl, I was taught that I was a daughter of God, born with divine gifts and talents unique only to me. I was told about how much God loved me and treasured me. During those trying times of teenage years, this knowledge often helped me when I would feel lesser than those around me by not being beautiful enough, or popular, or just not feeling valued by my peers. As I would start to look at all my negative qualities, a voice inside me would remind me of my divine hertiage, and of my great worth to God. It would remind me of all the special gifts God has given me, and stir to my remembrance my divine destiny. The Church loves its women. I constantly hear sermons given to men on how they should love and revere their female companions, respect them, and even try to be more like them.

Many who do not understand why women do not hold the priesthood, have yet to learn the principle behind it. The priesthood is a call to divine service, to use to power of God to help those around them. It takes ordinary men and turn them into divine instruments. The priesthood is their link with God, it helps them become more like Him. That is the purpose of the priesthood, to link God with men. Women, have another divine power given to them, similar and compariable, and equally powerful to the power of the priesthood. It is the power of creation. This power of creation and nuturing brings us closer to God, it is our divine link to Him. Therefore, both male and female, each with their special gifts and divine links, are meant to compliment each other and help each other become more like God, for as Paul said, "Neither is the man without the woman, before the Lord."  

Taylor answered…

I don't know. I know that women and men both benefit from the priesthood and I know that God loves and values women equally to men. I hold on to that knowledge and try not to let the apparent inequality bug me.

Jalaire answered…

The Priesthood was given to worthy men to act in the name of God. It is the responsability given directly to them from our Heavenly Father. Women not holding the priesthood in no way makes them inferior to men. Women and men have been given different roles. We have the oppertunity to raise children in rightousness. Both men and women in the church have the oppertunity to teach each other, lift one another, and help to increase the faith of every person.

Rina answered…

When I was younger, I wondered why women didn't also hold the priesthood, as well as the men. I was worried that it would effect my testimony and that I wouldn't believe the Church was true. I prayed a lot about it and took notes during Sunday School when the subject was talked about. I have come to my own understanding: that men and women have different roles. Men have been given the priesthood and women have been given motherhood. Neither one is greater than the other. Both are of equal importance in the eyes of our Heavenly Father. Does that sound overly simplistic? That's how I understand it.
When I was young, I didn't value motherhood or womanhood. I felt that motherhood was less in the eyes of society and in the eyes of God. I didn't understand the true importance of motherhood until I was older. Now I see how mothers shape families, communities, societies and countries. The influences of both mothers and women are immeasurable. Motherhood is of high importance in God's estimation.
So I see it as God dividing things equally between men and women. I used to joke that women can't have all the important work! He had to let the men have something!

As for women leading in the Mormon church - we do plenty of that! Women lead the Relief Society (the Women's Organization of the Church), the Young Women's Program (for girls age 12-18) and the Primary Organization (for children 18mo-11yrs). A former leader of the Mormon Church, President Gordon B. Hinckley, said something along the lines of "When we want something done in our Church, we simply ask the women and get out of their way!"
I have always felt valued as a woman in this church. Our opinions matter, our thoughts matter and our concerns matter.

Margaret answered…

We believe that Eve's choice to partake of the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil epitomizes the role of women in life; the choice to become mortal was an essential step in the Plan of Salvation. Without that choice, mankind would be unable to learn or to progress. Thus, Eve (the mother of all mankind) opened the pathway for all of us to come to Earth and to develop in ways impossible otherwise. However, negative consequences are inevitable results of mortality. Through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, all mankind are saved from many of the consequences of that decision. Additionally, men are given the responsibility of the priesthood in this life, by which they have the authority to administer the ordinances through which, assisted by the Atonement of Christ, we have the power to return to our Heavenly Father and enter a state of immortality. Women are given a different responsibility in this life, that of bringing new life into mortality and helping God's children along the way. Thus, women hold the keys to entering this time of testing and progression while men hold the keys to administer the ordinances of salvation. Both roles are crucial in the Plan of Salvation, and without the other, neither would be sufficient. In the Church, women care for others and fill roles that are not involved in priesthood responsibilities or ordinances.

Melanie answered…

Women don't hold the priesthood by design by the Lord. The Lord has designed a system so that all the members of His church can be blessed through the priesthood by the men of His church. Men are required to provide priesthood blessings to other men, women, and children of Christ's church and act in Christ's place when doing so. Fathers or sons in a family unit can provide priesthood direction, comfort, blessings, leadership, etc. for all family members. Home teachers are assigned to every family so if a family does not have a priesthood holder in their home they have a source they may claim for the blessings of the priesthood. Men do not bless themselves with the priesthood. It is a gift they bless others with.

Women are blessed to lead in Christ's church in many organizations -- the Relief Society, the Young Women, and the Primary at all levels within the church. They see to the welfare of those they are responsible for; they speak to the general body of the church with the prophet and apostles; they plan activities and program; they teach lessons; they inspire those in their charge; they work to achieve the Lord's will. Women also lead as mothers in the home and have been given the specific responsibility to nurture children. This responsibility extends to all women, not just mothers with children in the home. Women are also called to lead in their families in partnership with their husbands to accomplish goals together.

Peter answered…

God has put it that way. It is just like using driving a car. Just because someone can drive a car doesn't mean that the person is legal. That privilege comes from an automobile department that sets the standards because of the departments desires. The privilege for the priesthood is dependent on the desires of God.

Barbara answered…

I must say I had a hard time with only men holding the priesthood for the first few years of joining the church. I was a teenager in the sixties when equal rights for women was prominent in the news.

It eventually dawned on me that women are regarded as equal in the teachings of the Mormon Church. However our responsibilities differ and for this we are given different tools to enable us to function in these roles. As I understand it Priesthood and Motherhood are equally holy and valid in our Heavenly Father's eyes, the men have the one blessing and the women the other and each being an asset to all. Men are needed to work largely outside of the home but because of the demanding nature of children women's responsibilities are mainly home based. In addition to motherhood many women serve in presidencies of organizations within the church and on almost all committees where decisions are made for the benefit of members, however everything is conducted by direction of the priesthood of God which is the power of God delegated to man on earth.

In addition I should add that the true priesthood of God belongs to God and it is up to Him to decide how it is to be used and distributed .In the days of Moses, for example, not every man had the priesthood. It is only in our day that every worthy male may be ordained into the priesthood of God.

Jennifer Anne answered…

The priesthood is the power of God, given to men, to act in his name on the earth. The priesthood is used to serve others and perform ordinances of the gospel, the blessings of which are enjoyed by both men and women. Although women do not hold priesthood offices their power and influence is not in any way diminished. Organized by priesthood power women lead the Relief Society, the Primary Organization (for children under 12), and the Young Women's Organization. Women are called to serve in and sometimes lead in many other capacities including and not limited to: Activities Commitees, the Visiting Teaching Program, Teacher Training, Welfare Program, Geneology and Family History Programs, and Music Commitees. There are innumerable opportunities for women to serve and bless the lives of others through their church service. In the church I have always felt important and cherished. I feel that my contributions are appreciated and needed.

Ben answered…

This question was very important to one woman I met. We discussed it for a long time before we arrived at understanding.

First off, men and women are different. No surprise there. Neither is greater than the other, but they are different and have different roles. One of the roles of men is to hold the Preisthood and use it to serve others. Literally SERVE. A Preisthood holder cannot use it to bless himself, only to bless and help others. The Preisthood does not signify glory or presteige in the Mormon Church the way it does in the Catholic Church. It does not make one better than another.

Women in the Church do hold leadership callings just like the men. Some are the same, some are different. Leadership also, like the Preisthood does not signify glory or presteige, it's just a calling to volintarily help the Church operate.

Lindsey answered…

Men are given the responsibility of patriarchs over their families, wards and stakes. This is an awesome responsibility and the Lord has entrusted them to act in his name as a means to bless others. The priesthood power is not a gift or a right but an oath and covenant that a worthy man makes with the Lord. It is not a power for man's own gain and a man is not better off than a woman because he holds this power. Women and men are entitled to the same blessings and promises when they live righteously.

Righteous women are a strong influence on the church and society. Women benefit greatly from the priesthood and can call upon leaders anytime for blessings for themselves, their families and others. Women are blessed with the divine responsibility of bearing children and raising them. They play a big role in the plan of salvation. God created man and women for specific divine purposes. Though their responsibilities may be a bit different the plan of salvation could not exist without them. They both play an equal and important role in the plan. In return they are both entitled to equal blessings.

Scott answered…

The priesthood is organized by God. In the Old Testament only the Levite males had the priesthood (Numbers 8). In the New Testament times it was only the church leaders who had the authority (Acts 19). In more recent times it is offered to all males who live worthily. Were those who were not a Levite in the Old Testament less favored of God? Certainly not. They had a different role to play in the organization of God's kingdom.

The authority to direct certain church matters has been given by God to men. It is not something anyone aspires to. Women have certain callings of leadership in the church as well. My wife has been in charge of teaching small children, leading groups of elderly women, and organizing activities for the congregation.

I have seen many women call on the Lord with faith and perform miracles. Never assume that not having a particular priesthood office means a woman does not have power. The power of God comes through His will as we live righteously. The priesthood gives men opportunity to serve. I hope my service in the church teaches me enough about love and patience that I can catch up to my sweet wife.

The day will come when we will stand before the Lord. He will not care what positions we've filled - only how we filled our role in His plan. Everyone in the church is given enough responsibility for their personal growth - and a chance to be involved in the church. We must understand that Christ is the head and we are merely following him.

Deryn answered…

In our church, women are seen as very special. Women are generally more spiritual than men. Also, women have the calling of motherhood. This is the most high of any calling. Women are equal to men in every way, but Heavenly Father gave the responsibility to man to hold the priesthood, which is the government of the church. Women do lead in the church through the callings they receive within the auxilliaries of the church. They also lead in the home by being a counsellor to their husband. The leaders always take into account the council they get from the women in special meetings called ward/branch and stake councils. Heavenly Father's plan was always for man to hold the priesthood. That is why there is the Patriachal Order.

Dorothy answered…

Heavenly Father has an order to things and He gives each of us certain jobs/ responsibilities. Men hold the priesthood because that is their responsibility. Women have other responsibilities such as bearing and nurturing children and leading other programs in the church, such as the society for women (The Relief Society: one of the oldest women's organizations in the world), the Primary ( Sunday classes for children) and the Young Women's organization ( for girls ranging in age from 12 to 18).

Patti Miner answered…

Womanhood is an equally sacred calling that we have. With it come many sacred and righteous purposes of God. The men hold the Priesthood and preside over the family with love and kindness. Mothers nurture the family. Many people ask if I think women are treated fairly in our religion. I personally feel honored and respected in our home and church. I feel that women are highly respected in my religion. Our Women’s Organization called the Relief Society is one of the largest organized women’s group in the world run by women.

Terry answered…

Jesus Christ only ordained men to the priesthood, as did his apostles and other church leaders for hundreds of years. Since we believe in following Christ's teachings and example, we do the same. You don't have to be a man to receive inspiration and revelation from God. The women in the LDS church are usually more spiritual than a lot of the men.

Pat answered…

 "The husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church and he is the savior of the body." Ephesians 523
"Wives submit yourselves to your husbands, as unto the Lord." Ephesians 522
Women don't hold the Priesthood because it isn't a matriarchal order, it's a patriarchal order. That is an eternal law, just like tithing, birth, death, etc. There are laws that cannot be changed over time. Priesthood is one of them.
Women hold the priesthood through their husbands. We lead in positions such as presidencies of a women's group Relief Society and the children's organization Primary as well as teaching Sunday school classes and even those are set up up under the order of the Priesthood. This is Christ's Church and He organized it.

Kaylen answered…

I have asked myself this very question many times. I found the answer through one of the Sister Missionaries who taught me very important concepts. Men and Women are equal in the Church. Woman lead different orginazations, just like the men do. Woman lead Relief Society and Young Womans, while Men, they lead Priesthood meetings, and are Bishops. Women don't hold the Priesthood because it is not what God asked us to do. We are asked to have children and raise them in the Church. We are asked to support our Husbands in all that they do. It may not seem like a lot, but without Women to bring these children into the world, they wouldn't be able to leave this world to spend Eternity with their Heavenly Father. So, each roll we play is very Important to Our Heavenly Father's Plan.

Alexa answered…

The priesthood is not just the right to be a leader in the Church of Jesus Christ, it is the power of God that He gives to man to allow them to operate in specific capacities of service (such as administering to the sick, providing blessings of comfort, and officiating in ordinances such as baptism and communion). Women and men are perhaps the only group of people to whom the distinction "separate but equal" applies. We are different, and we therefore have different roles. Men are not given the sacred capacity to bear children, so the Lord has given them another role that offers them the opportunity to serve Him in different ways. Women do hold certain leadership positions in the church that do not require the priesthood authority, and they are also expected to be leaders among themselves, in the community, and with their children. My mother is one of the greatest leaders I've ever known, and her example and instruction has had a significant and unalterable impact on my life. There is no better, more powerful way to lead than in the home.

Jess answered…

Women have our own form of power from God. We can give life. We bear and raise children. For us, that is as much responsibility, if not more, as the men have with their priesthood power.
Women have our own organization to help support not only other women in our local congregation, but anyone who is in need of help, whether they are Mormon or not.

Jennifer E. answered…

The men's stewardship is the priesthood and the responsibilities that come with it, and the women's stewardship and main responsibility is the raising and nurturing of her children. As a wife to a priesthood elder, I receive the blessings of the priesthood through my husband as do our children. I have had the opportunity to serve in leadership roles in the Relief Society, Young Womens, and Primary. Women are not compromised in any way by not holding the priesthood and their are many opportunities afforded to us to serve in leadership within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Jennifer answered…

Just because a woman cannot bear the priesthood doesn't mean she doesn't have 100% of access, blessings and benefits offered via the priesthood. Just because a man cannot BEAR children doesn't mean they are not have 100% access, blessings, benefits and privilege of being a parent. For me, both teh priesthood and motherhood are celestial (eternal) callings. As an adoptive mom, there is only 1 referrence in Daniel Webster's definition of mother as one giving birth.... there are many opportunities to 'mother' many children....

Wendy Elizabeth answered…

The priesthood is given to the men to perform in God's name. Women lead in organizations where the children are involved, young women are involved, and the women are involved. There are many opportunities for women to serve and lead in these areas. 

Jeanette answered…

The Priesthood is the power to act in God's name. While women in our church do not hold the Priesthood themselves, we are certainly entitled to the blessings that come through the Priesthood. We are equal partners with our husbands but with different responsibilities. Women are given many different opportunities to lead. Women can be in presidencies for our Relief Society, Young Women, and Primary organizations. Women can also lead by being a support for husbands who serve in Priesthood callings.

Susan answered…

Women do not hold the priesthood because, in the Garden of Eden the Lord assigned the men to take the Leadership role. I don't have a problem with this. Women have many opportunites to serve as leaders. Women are the leaders of a world wide womens organization in the church, The Relief Society. Women also lead the Young Women's organization and the children's organization, Primary. The president of each women's organization serves on committees and councils on all levels and they add an invalubale resource to all planing and decsion making. I have served as the president of each of these organizations in my local area. I have learned leadership skills that I have taken on to the work place and other volunteer organizations. My leadership skills learned at church have given my confidence and abilties in all areas of my life.

Sarah answered…

 I think most people would agree that girls and boys are just different! We were meant to be that way and each gender has certain roles that they are best at. As women, we are called to raise and nurture our family. Men are called to have the priesthood. Both callings are equally important. Both men and women hold leadership positions in the church.

Nicole answered…

Men and women are fundamentally different. That is obvious to all. Different does not mean unequal, especially in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The roles women play are different and therefore require different blessings and tools. Women are not lacking for not holding the priesthood and not seen as such.

Women naturally have the nature to nurture. We innately desire to love and serve. There is not a large need for women to be compelled to be of service to others. It is no matter that the Lord has a different calling for women than men. Each role is pivotal and profound.

Women lead in the church as teachers, advisors, counselors, presidents of organizations, mothers, wives and friends. The feminine voice is always heard in the Church.

Andrea answered…

The priesthood in the Mormon church isn't so much an "honor" as it is a responsibility. That responsibility and role is given to men, and personally, I think it makes them better men. Holding the priesthood requires them to be faithful to their spouse, have faith in God, treat their families with respect, and serve others. Women hold positions in the church that are not open to men, and those positions help women to capitalize on their strengths. What really matters though, is that women can have just as close a relationship to God as men can, whether they hold the priesthood or not.

Tannie answered…

Why don't men have babies? I believe that each of us has a role to play on this earth. I believe that while men hold the priesthood, women are mothers. Unfortunately in this society people see that as a negative or something not as important. But motherhood is as much a sacred role as priesthood. One is not better than the other. They are two halves of a puzzle that fit together to create a whole. Mormon women hold many leadership roles and have a powerful influence within the church community as well as living community.

Jan answered…

Are you kidding? I have enough to do. The men can handle it. I never feel like my voice isn't heard or my needs aren't considered. The Mormon church treats women with more respect than any other organization. Women do great things when given opportunity and support. The church does both and women flourish.

Peggi answered…

Women are essential to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint. We hold many positions of responsibility and there are many opportunities to serve. I have had chances to serve with the youth of the church with the children's primary, as a president of the women's organization, Relief Society, in our local ward, and even taught Sunday School to the men and women's combined class. I take pride is helping my husband serve in his priesthood responsibilities. He ministers to the youth and all members of our congregation in what we call the bishopric. Our family sacrifices a great deal of time together so that he can serve all the members of our ward congregation. I feel happy to help him help others. Our family has blessed greatly blessed with peace in our home and with an outpouring of the Spirit of the Lord for our combined service.

Mormon women lead by serving! We find great joy and happiness in helping our Heavenly Father in what ever role He asks whether that is being a wife, mother, teacher, or as president of a church auxiliary group.

Cassidy Bronson answered…

I have been ridiculed for being apart of a church that does not allow woman "equal rights". I believe this to be a fallacy. There are many woman that sit on general boards of this church. While a man has been called of God to be the head of the church, woman still play a large role. Women do not hold the priesthood, because that is not their responsibility. The priesthood is the duty of the man. This is not to say, however, that they are the only ones who can receive blessings from the priesthood. Blessings are available to all. Woman play a different role. The objective of the priesthood is to help others and serve. The objective of motherhood is to also help others and serve, both have an intricate purpose and are essential to the others success.

Sara answered…

Women are highly respected and valued in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. We are daughters of God, and we know that he loves us. Although I don't know and understand all the reasons why, God has delegated the priesthood to be a responsibility of men in His church, and I have faith in His wisdom and in His plan for His children. Women have their own sacred responsibilities and are incredible influences for good in their families and in their communities. The power of faith is still available for all of God's children whether or not they hold the priesthood.

Donna answered…

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints empowers women! Do not be mistaken in this. Women and the Priesthood is one of the most misunderstood facets of the church. Mormon women are often portrayed as weak, oppressed, lacking in opinion and mental substance. I have been a member for over 40 years and I assure you, the women I know are amazing. While men do hold the Priesthood which is the power and authority to act in God's name, it is part of their calling and station in life given of God. But Women are revered in our church. They have organized the Relief Society, the largest and oldest women's international organization in the world, which began in 1842. It was established to administer to those in need. Relief Society is a light of knowledge and training, and has created a bonding sisterhood that few women in the world have. The Savior stood at the head of his church and his apostles stood by his side. So it is with a husband and his wife. The husband cannot progress eternally without his helpmeet, this gives power to women that escapes the world. This union is the focus of family which is the next step for husband and wife. The world tells us we need parents to stay home and raise and teach their children. And yet when we "CHOOSE" to do just that we are viewed as oppressed, empty headed drones. I will not be ashamed of staying home and raising my children while my husband got his education and made a living to support us. It is not weak it is wise and necessary.

Carol answered…

Women do not hold the priesthood because it is for the man only to hold. The women is blessed by the priesthood continually through the priesthood which the men hold.

Sally answered…

Women do not hold the priesthood because that is how God has made it. Even so, women still have an equally important part in His plan. We are blessed with the gift of motherhood, and the ability to bring human life into existence. We also have our own chances to serve within and outside of the church. We have our Relief Society, consisting of women ages 18 and up, which is a program within the Church founded by Joseph Smith to meet the needs of those around us. There is one in every congregation of the entire church, and every woman has the potential to lead or to participate. We also serve in the Primary, which is the organization of children ages 3-11. We take part in the teaching and rearing of these young souls presenting the opportunity to lead and to serve as well. There is also the Young Women organization, that consists of girls ages 12-18. Women are needed to preside in this organization as well as to teach and lead these girls. There is no other church or organization on the earth that is more set up for the equality of men and women.

Doris Prince answered…

I know I can stand with and support my husband and other Priesthood leaders. I am thankful that I can be there for my family and all the young grandchildren. It is a great blessing to be the family nurse and counsel with each one who may need my services. I can pray and receive information and inspiration and do His will.
This is enough...
I am satisfied with my calling. I am thankful for my place in this life... it can be a challenge to do all that awaits me.
Calendaring and continued prayer and faith, doing my best to look on the bright side of things helps alot! Life is good.

Lyndsay answered…

My favorite answer to the first part of this question is something my husband likes to say, which has a sweet and honest sentiment: "Men need the priesthood so that they can be more like women." The priesthood is the authority to act in the name of God. This, for example, is used in ordinances such as baptism, or to give blessings of health and comfort.

Women have innate qualities in our very nature which are essential to the balance of the Church. I have personal gifts as a woman that my husband doesn't have. I can serve in capacities that he cannot. In no way do I feel left out, or of less significance because I don't hold the priesthood. I have been given equally important blessings and abilities as a woman, wife, and mother.

Women have innumerable opportunities to serve and lead within the Church. Holding the priesthood does not equate to holding a position of power. Women are asked to serve within the church in many important capacities, including performing sacred Temple ordinances reserved only for women. The Relief Society is the global organization for women within the church. And it's one of the largest women's organizations in the world. Womanhood and motherhood are celebrated, respected, and honored. Women are considered equal in the Church, and there is no sexual discrimination. And while men administer the actions of the priesthood, both men and women receive the same blessings of the priesthood. Together, we are able to support and sustain each other.

Stephen answered…

We are a church run by revelation or direct communication with God. That means that our prophet and president runs this church as inspired by the Holy Ghost. It was run that way when Joseph Smith first saw Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and was commanded to establish this church. It was run that way under Peter, James, and John after Jesus' death. It was even run that way under the prophets of the Old Testament. Revelation has always governed the way the gospel has been administered. That means any particular aspect of the gospel as practiced was designed that way for a purpose. We often don't know the reason for God's designs, but we must live by faith that He has our best interests at heart. Exercising faith means that we seek out personal revelation through prayer and the Holy Ghost. Revelation comes in quiet moments in prayer, as we study and ponder the scriptures, and as we act in service. These answers build more than just faith...they build trust that we are on the right path and the answers will come. We don't know the specifics as to why women aren't given the priesthood, but they do lead, preside, and instruct over organizations in the church like primary, young women's and the adult women's Relief Society. They also lead in their family along with their husband. We do know that while men and women have different roles in His plan of salvation, they are equally important. God has designed it this way, and we live with faith that it is true.

a music teacher, I grew up in Utah and I'm a Mormon. answered…

Women have a major role in our Church. They bear and raise children. They preside over organizations that involve women, youth and children. They tend to be the ones that look to their neighbors and create community ties. Latter-Day Saint women are grateful to not have the added responsibility and burden of the Priesthood. That is the man's role, and it inspires our men to walk a higher walk and access Heavenly Father through prayer in the fulfillment of their duties. Most good men acknowledge the need they have for wives, parents and families to support and sustain them in this role.

Valerie answered…

I, for one, am glad men solely hold the priesthood in the church. I've never understood it to mean that women aren't capable of holding the priesthood, but simply that men have an additional responsibility. I would imagine if we both had the priesthood things would be more complicated i.e. the child having to choose between mother or father who would give a blessing. Women lead in numerous other ways. We nurture our children, look after other women in Relief Society, help our husbands stay worthy of the priesthood, and teach the children of the church. We also have an obligation to lead in our communities and be involved in things that are praiseworthy.

Lincoln Garth H. answered…

First, I am blessed with 5 wonderful women in my life. (3 daughters & 1 daughter in law) My wife Mary knows the scriptures very well. She is a wonderful example of a virtuous life. Possessing virtue is also a possession of power. Leadership comes from virtue and a sound moral compass. The five women in my life are leaders. They know what they want and what they don't want. When they speak, I know I had better listen. While they do not currently have the Priesthood, they do certainly influence me. So do women who lead the children (the Primary organization) and the women's organization (the Relief Society) and those who speak or pray or serve in the Lord's house, the Temple. As to why women do not hold the Priesthood, my answer is it is a matter of the Lord's timing. The Priesthood holds the power to serve and organize, and ultimately create. While women possess great nurturing qualities, men are expected to protect and serve, and function with the gift of the Priesthood. In families, men are to take leadership, not because they are the most worthy, or most qualified, or most gifted, but because of Divine appointment.

Janett answered…

Because the Lord put it that way . It is part of his program. Women have a tremendous place in this church, Relief Society, Teaching and helping and supporting all those who are in need. The wife is the companion and they walk togather by his side to help and support..She can have Spirtual and personal revelation to help her and guide her in her endevors. They are co-equals

Erin answered…

Women hold a divine and sacred role in the Church. They are co-creators with God in providing a mortal body for divine spirits. Women are blessed with specific abilities, gifts from their Creator: compassion, selflessness, unconditional love, patience, service, etc. These special abilities are given to women because they are necessary for the role they play in Heavenly Father's plan. In "The Family: A Proclamation to the World" it states, "Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children." This sacred responsibility to care for Heavenly Father's children is not a women's sole responsibility, her husband is equally responsible. However, men are born with other gifts to help aid them in their sacred duties. The Priesthood power held by the men in the church is not a controlling or dominating power, it is the power to act in the name of God and with that responsibility comes the expectation that the men in the Church treat others as God would treat them. Women lead in the church by being teachers, mothers and leaders of auxillaries: children 18 months to 11 years, young women from 12 to 17 years and women ages 18 and older. They prayerfully lead those in their respective auxillaries and try their best to lead the way the Savior leads.

Angelica Soto answered…

I am so happy and grateful to be a Daughter of Heavenly Father! His daugthers are so precious in His eyes and He loves us so dearly and so tenderly. However, He also trusts us greatly to do the work of the Lord on Earth, in His Church and outside of His Church. Mormon women are taught to be leaders not only in the Church, but in their communities and homes. In 1842, women of the Church created Relief Society, which is today's largest women's organization in the world, with the purpose to administer help to those in need, strengthen families, marriages and homes, and prepare us to continue our learning and growth both in the spiritual and secular areas. For men to hold the Priesthood, it entails a great deal of responsbility and priviledge to do acts of service to all those who need it. Heavenly Father has designated for men to hold the Priesthood so that they can serve us and bless us, our homes and our families. We are so grateful for such a blessing and we sustain our husbands, fathers, and brothers to continue exercising their Priesthood. In the Church, both husband and wife are equal and we support one another. Likewise, men support and sustain us in our responsibilities and priviledges in Relief Society.

Stephanie answered…

If we were made to have different physical roles as Men and Women, why wouldn't we also have different spiritual roles? We must be different to compliment each other, and come together to make a whole.

As a modern women in the church, I have NEVER felt 'oppressed' or 'lower' or 'unequal' to the men in the Church. I have a firm testimony that Heavenly Father has different roles for us to fulfill and that no ONE role is greater than another. Just different. They are equally important and must work together for the whole to function. Just like pieces of a clock that all have different functions but are all important to the clock working properly. Men and women have different roles in the Gospel. Women lead in the Relief Society and Young Women's organizations, as well as primary. There is order to everything our Heavenly Father does, and everything He does is done out of Love for us. I have faith that he has very good reasons for everything he does, and I don't need to know them. We are like toddlers... we can't understand all the things he does. It's like when my son asks why plants grow... he can't understand photosynthesis, so I say, water and sunshine make it grow. Heavenly Father gives us what we can comprehend. Sometimes we just need to understand that He loves us, and whatever he tells us is what we should do, even if we don't totally understand it. All we have to do is pray to know that it's right. He will always let us know if we ask.

Janell answered…

It is good to know that we have different stewardships than male priesthood bearers. I am happy to be of service and know that God is watching me in my stewardship as a mother of four and grandmother of seven.

Mike answered…

Our church doctrine teaches us that the Lord gives the priesthood to men only and not the women of the church. This is not to say that the women don't hold leadership positions, in fact they oversee a large women's organization called the Relief Society and are heavily involved with leadership for the teaching of our children in what we all Primary, as well as Cub Scouts. They are in no way any less important in the eyes of God or man. Furthermore, in marriage, we are co-equals. We have different roles to play, but play them in unison.

This is part of my personal opinion as to why the Lord saw fit that only men have the priesthood in His church. If men and women (husbands and wives) are truly one - they hold the priesthood as a unified partnership. The men can use the priesthood and the women can receive the blessings of that priesthood. Together they complete each other. I also feel that the nature of women is much more caring and loving than the nature of men, and one possible way in which the Lord may have decided to help the men grow these traits is through the responsibilities of the priesthood. By having the priesthood, and the callings and assignments that pertain to it, men are asked to oversee, care for and help others. This responsibility of the priesthood helps men grow in areas that most likely were laking before they were priesthood holders. I am a more caring, loving, responsible husband and father because of the Priesthood of our Savior Jesus Christ.

Marjorie answered…

Women and men are designed differently, but God loves both equally. I don't know all the reasons Heavenly Father designed women to have the great privilege of bearing and nurturing children, and designed men to protect, provide, and to hold the priesthood, but I do know that He loves me just as much as He loves my husband. I suspect that because of our physical and emotional differences, men and women need different "tutoring" to prepare us for life in Heaven.
I have been a member of the church for 32 years and have never felt inferior or subservient; on the contrary, I have felt honored, supported, and respected. I have been encouraged to gain an education, serve, and lead. I am currently the president of the women's group (Relief Society) of my local congregation. Together with two counselors and a secretary (all female), I oversee Sunday and weekday meetings, lessons, music, compassionate service, etc. for a group of about 125 women, with a staff of 18 volunteers. Every time I sit in council with the other leaders of the congregation (including men and women), I feel that my perspective and opinions are listened to and valued. My work in the church makes a difference!

Heather answered…

Men and women have different roles in the family, in a marriage, and in the church. A righteous male member of the church can have the priesthood, and he has the responsibilities that come with that. Women have the power to give birth, a very real and sacred power. A husband and a wife are equal partners in all that they do.

Christina answered…

The priesthood is the power of God here on the earth. This duty is given to worthy men in the church. They are called upon to help and bless others with the priesthood that they hold. They can not gain or help themselves with the priesthood, they can only bless the lives of others.

As women we have our own special calling to care and nurture those around us. I think of motherhood as the special calling of the women in the church. Even if they don't have children, women "mother" those around them with nurture, love, and help.

There are many ways women lead in our church. We participate in and lead in the Releif Society, an organization of women in the church. We also participate in leadership roles in teaching the young children as well as young women in our church, as well as many other various church callings.

Abby answered…

Women do not hold the priesthood in the Mormon Church because they have a separate role to fulfill. For a long time, I didn't understand this concept and struggled to know what my place in the church was. I decided to learn all I could about the Priesthood since I knew I didn't fully understand it and I have learned that not holding the Priesthood does not mean I can't participate in the Priesthood. The Priesthood is the power of God on earth and is a tool for service. In order for this power to work, there must be Priesthood holders and those who receive the blessings of the Priesthood in various ways. The Priesthood is the means for the organization of the church and so all the different aspects of the church are led by that power, such as the Primary for children, the Sunday School Bible study in church, Relief Society for women, and Young Men and Young Women's programs for the youth. Without the support of women who fulfill their callings in these programs, the Priesthood would be ineffective in leading the church. Women are considered equal in status to the men of the church, because the home is the central unit of Mormonism and it is there that Husbands and Wives share the responsibility for raising a family. The same principles of equality that take place in the home take place in the church, where women have the opportunity to provide service through the Relief Society, one of the largest and oldest women's organizations in the world.

Tuulikki answered…

I guess that to me, despite being a feminist, the fact that women don't hold the priesthood feels like a "get out of prison" -card in Monopoly. The priesthood is a great thing, sure, but it involves so much service and work...

But ok, I think about the wonderful women in the early ages of the church in Finland, including my grandmothers, and I can imagine that they could have run the whole thing, and would have if it had been possible. There were always more women that were converts. So why not let them run it? I always thought that the men would have no role in this "kingdom of heaven" on earth if they didn't have to have it.

And maybe, just maybe there is something in God's plan for our roles after this life that demands men to learn the things they have to learn when holding the priesthood. You have to understand that in practice it's not only about leading in the church, it's about getting your hands dirty in endless moves and other service projects. So you really learn that to be pleasing in the eyes of God you have to serve and to lead you have to be everyone's slave, in a way.

Women don't get to take over the leadership of the church - and they would! which would mean I'd get even more callings - but they do lead their own organizations. Quite enough work for me... Also the children's organizations are lead by women, although men can work in them.

Madison answered…

Growing up I had a really hard time understanding this principle of the Church. I believe men and women are equal and that women should have just the same rights as men. Because of this personal belief, sometimes it was hard to think that men held the priesthood and women couldn't. It especially bothered me that women from the early days of the church never had a problem with this.

While on vacation with my family to Chicago, Illinois in 2007 we spent a few days in Nauvoo. Nauvoo was a place pioneers settled for a few years before the mobs drove them out west. In Nauvoo, there is a trail of quotes from these pioneers called "The Trail of Tears". One of which I think I will always remember, written by a woman in town. She had written something to the effect of; "The women had a meeting last night. If the men think to hold power over the women let them be warned: we believe in equal rights."

The small passage from a women hundreds of years ago made me realize how I am not the first, nor the last to question this part of our religion. After this experience I have come to realize that men need the priesthood. I am quite independant and have realized that if I had the priesthood, I wouldn't rely on the men in my life like I should.

The man is the head, but the woman is the neck and she can move the head any which way she likes.

Matt answered…

Its my opinion that above men, Heavenly Fathers daughters are the jewels of his crown. The priesthood is a responsibility, and a duty that is given to men. The priesthood is a calling that is given as a tool to serve others and help people to feel Gods power and love on the earth. One trait that I find in the majority of women that I meet is kindness, service, charity, and love. These traits that women naturally posses are the same traits that men learn through exercising the priesthood. The women in the LDS church provide extreme mounts of inspiration and direction to the men of the church by using these natural traits that they posses. I would say that more service is rendered on account of the women in our church than by the men.

sean answered…

The best explanation I've Heard of why men have the priesthood but woman don't is paraphrased and speculative "when you have the priesthood the only way you can use it by helping others, you can't give yourself a priesthood blessing someone else has to give you the blessing. It's already in a woman's nature to help others, they're kind and giving already but, it's not always the case for men. Men get something they can only use to help others in the hopes that they will learn to be more willing to help others." I like this explanation because it makes a lot of sense to me.

Jonathan answered…

Throughout the written histories of God's dealings with His children, we can read how He administered His priesthood authority and administration of important ordinances, or rites, among them. God called prophets and apostles and gave them priesthood authority. He then inspired them to call other men to be priests, teachers, and elders in the priesthood. These men attended to the ceremonies of the temple, administered ordinances like baptism and laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost. Through them, the Lord guided the church and maintained doctrinal purity. Why did God choose men to do this? I don't know. But He set it a specific way so that we can follow one path and avoid confusion. In the Mormon Church today, men fill the same roles they have always filled in God's church. It is no less or more important than the role the women play. Women take part in conducting the general affairs of the church, through the Relief Society, which is the church's women organization. Women lead this organization and use it to serve and teach other members of the church. Every 6 months, we gather to listen to the Prophet and Apostles. We also are blessed to hear from the leaders of the Relief Society and Young Women organization. Women provide strong examples of love and service. They serve as mothers to teach and provide for the children of the church. Through the righteous influence of our women, the entire church functions and is blessed. Without them, the church would fall apart.

Reachel answered…

Men and women are inherently different but complementary. Men are ordained and recieve the priesthood to do service in the name of our Heavenly Father.

Women are given the honor of motherhood. We are born to nurture and sustain our homes and children. This is a critical piece of our Heavenly Father' plan for us.

Women are able to serve and lead in many ways in the church. The organizations that serve children under twelve, teenage girls, and adult women are all led by women. We counsel with men just as wives counsel with their husbands in the home, but we are responsible for the welfare of each of the precious spirits in our care.

Dawn answered…

Men and women have different roles in the church and in families. We believe that "by divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families. Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children. In these sacred responsibilities, fathers and mothers are obligated to help one another as equal partners." This statement comes from a church proclamation called The Family: A Proclamation to the World. My husband and I share an equal partnership in our roles. He is the main provider, but over the years, there have been times when I have helped with that role. Likewise, there have been times when he has stepped in and helped at home with nurturing. The priesthood is one of the ways that a man can fully express his roles and duties in and out of the family. I don't feel slighted that my strengths and talents do not require the use of the priesthood. I have been able to lead in many ways under the direction of the Priesthood. I have been the President of the children's organization. I have also been a counselor in the women's organization. And I have had many other opportunities to serve and develop leadership skills without ever holding the priesthood. But I have been blessed to be able to benefit from the priesthood by having access to it. The roles complement each other. And I am open to inspiration that Heavenly Father gives to all of His children with or without the priesthood.

Chaz answered…

Women in the church do not hold the Priesthood. However, this is not God's way of discriminating between his children. There are certain things pertaining to God's eternal plan that require men and women at each others side. Men hold the priesthood to carry out certain ordinances such as baptism, necessary to returning to God (John 3:5). Women however, have the ability to create life. Pregnancy is an ability god has only given to women. Without women other sons and daughters of god could not come into this world. Women stand at the entrance of life, while men stand at the exit; holding different, but equal roles in god's eternal plan. It's my testimony that god does not esteem men above women, but very much equal partners in life that could not exist without each other.

Charley answered…

I have a pretty simple understanding of this question. It's God's priesthood. He can give it to, or withhold it from anybody He chooses. If I thought the church was led by men, instead of by God himself, then I might think that they were selfish, or old fashioned, or just wrong. But knowing that the head of the Church is God, I let Him govern His Church any way He so chooses. But from the outside looking in, I know that you might not know that God really is in charge. You might still be suspicious. I can understand that. Still, the true answer is to ask God. If this is truly His church, then we have less objections to Him choosing to run it His way. Still, women in the Mormon church are very active and respected. Pretty much the Mormon church is different in that the members participate in so much. It is not "top down" direction from the priesthood. It's more of a collaboration of all the members learning, growing helping and supporting each other. I don't think that other churches are like that, at least not to this extent. Women serve as Presidents, Counselors, Teachers and (most joyfully) Mothers. The Relief Society is the first and the largest organization of women in the world. My faith is placed in God, and should He choose to extend priesthood to the women of the church, I'm okay with that idea. It's His church, His priesthood, and I will follow Him any way He leads.

Loren B. answered…

Simple stated, women are asked and that's part of the program. Women have a different role in the church, that's true, but that doesn't mean that they aren't equal in righteousness to men. They help build and sustain the church with their own organizations and help those in need. they hold offices in this organization, in fact everything about this organization is done by the women.

It is good to remember that man doesn't use the priesthood to lord over their wives. Their wives are their companions and equals. Men with help from their wives bless the lives of their families and others.

Katie answered…

I love this question, because I know a lot of women can feel as if the LDS church is oppressive, but that isn't the case at all! I am deeply respected and revered as a woman in the church and in my family. I am equal to my husband; not above and certainly not below. Yes, my husband holds the Priesthood and I do not. But I have a sacred responsibility and opportunity that my husband will never hold. I get to work hand-in-hand with Heavenly Father's plan in bringing HIS spirit children to Earth. I believe that Heavenly Father allowing honorable men to hold the priesthood gives balance in directing His children back into His presence. As a woman, it is my sacred duty to raise a child to know our Heavenly Father and it is a man's sacred duty to provide the authority and ability for those children to make the covenants necessary to live with Him again. It allows Man and Women to work TOGETHER in leading God's children back home.

Joni Young answered…

Gordon B. Hinckley, prior President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, said:
“Women do not hold the priesthood because the Lord has put it that way. It is part of His program. Women have a very prominent place in this Church. Men hold the priesthood offices of the Church. But women have a tremendous place in this Church. They have their own organization. It was started in 1842 by the Prophet Joseph Smith, called the Relief Society, because its initial purpose was to administer help to those in need. It has grown to be, I think, the largest women’s organization in the world... They have their own offices, their own presidency, their own board. That reaches down to the smallest unit of the Church everywhere in the world...
“The men hold the priesthood, yes. But my wife is my companion. In this Church the man neither walks ahead of his wife nor behind his wife but at her side. They are co-equals in this life in a great enterprise.”

Krista answered…

The way I have always seen it is, women have been blessed with spiritual intuition. So, essentially, we don't need the Priesthood to administer. We just do it in different ways than the men in serving our callings, taking care of those who need it. Women lead by example and by callings. We are called to lead alongside our Bishoprics/ Branch Presidencies as Relief Society Presidencies. We lead by being Primary (the children) Presidents, Counselors, teachers, leaders, and leading the Young Women. We support our husband's callings. We are not repressed for being women. In fact we are blessed, and are given special treatment!

Liz answered…

While it's true that women don't hold the priesthood in the Mormon Church, we are blessed with the power of the priesthood through our participation in temple ordinances and have access to the priesthood through the men in our homes or in our wards if we are single. I have always felt that I had many opportunities to lead as an LDS women. I have served on Ward Councils for several years and have had the opportunity to voice my opinions and ideas for ward activities, projects, and programs. I currently serve as the "leader" of music activities in my stake, or region.

Jeff answered…

Through modern prophets we understand that the Lord intends for men and women to work together for the salvation of His children, but with distinct responsibilities. He has reserved the Priesthood for His sons and Motherhood for His daughters. Women's bodies are quite literally the vessels of His children before they are born. Men are the vessels of the Priesthood, which is the authority to administer ordinances (like baptism) and preside over the church. The Priesthood should never be viewed as a mark of supremacy or rank, but rather as a duty and responsibility. The Lord has made it clear that His sons and daughters stand before him on equal ground. Women serve alongside the men in the Church, and in positions of tremendous responsibility and influence.

Sandra Morrill Taylor answered…

Women play a great role in the church and in the owrld. We are the ones who teach basic values to our children. We work beside our husbands and we strenthen each ohter as individuals and as families.

Allison answered…

Some women have an issue with the fact that only men hold the Priesthood in the LDS faith, but I never have. Probably because my father was such a loving, kind guy - a little self deprecating - but celebrated his daughters. He once said that women were naturally charitable, whereas men needed the organization of the Priesthood to get them to do good works. In the scriptures, the Lord tells men that that they have no power in the Priesthood if they aren't following Jesus Christ's perfect example anyway, so the Priesthood is merely an outlet of service.
I've been in the church my whole life and the men possessing virtues of kindness, meekness, temperance, brotherhood, love and respect are venerated and have real power - the power to influence for good and to bring others to Christ. The losers are power-hungry, position dropping men who misunderstand their opportunities and misdirect their efforts.
Women hold many positions of leadership. I myself have been a Relief Society President,and am currently President of the Young Women. We do so much on our own, and I find the leadership experiences enriching. When we work together with men, we are successful.
Seriously, this is such a non-issue because the Lord has instituted a perfect organization and I have learned to trust in Him and His perfect systems. Lets just say that the men are always getting rebuked in the church and the women are always getting complimented - back to what my dad used to say...

Dawn answered…

I believe men and women are created equal. I believe that by nature we have different gifts and responsibilities. It is not one of my responsibilities to hold and use the priesthood any more than it is for my husband to bear a child. I know our responsibilities are equally important and necessary. I am grateful for my ability to have and nurture my children.

Aaron answered…

This is a great question. I have always thought that men are given the priesthood to learn to become more like women!

Essentially the Priesthood is the responsibility from God given to men to learn to serve. Through this service men are able to perform ordinances necessary for salvation. But this doesn't mean that women don't have equally important roles, namely the most wonderful and rewarding calling of motherhood.

Camille answered…

God has given each of us jobs to fulfill here on earth. Men do not bear children. They are not being discriminated against, that just isn't their job. We believe that the Lord has appointed men to be the holders of His holy priesthood.

I am a school teacher. I am not the principal. Is my job somehow less valuable than the principal's? I know it isn't, and I have no desire to give up my opportunity to be directly working with children each day. Similarly, I have a job to care and nurture my children, to create happy, successful, caring adults. My job is no less important than my husband's job to preside over our home and bless the lives of others through his priesthood power.

If you look at the Church organization, the Mormon Church has more opportunities to lead than almost any other religion. The Women's Relief Society organization is the largest women's organization in the world, and it is presided over by women at all levels: congregations, areas, states, and countries. We also lead in the Primary (Junior Sunday School) and in Young Women's (for girls 12-18). We preach from the pulpit as often as men do. We pray in our meetings. We serve missions. We are truly viewed as partners in bringing forth Christ's gospel.

Gladys Wigg answered…

Women have lots of jobs in the church that allow us the opportunity to serve. I am happy that the men hold the Priesthood and have that responsibility to serve God. I know that womanhood is sacred, as well, and I have the chance to serve in many ways.

Elizabeth Louise answered…

Women have many divine gifts that do not necessitate holding the priesthood. Women are by their very nature, nurturers and doers of good. Their callings and responsibilities are different and therefore they do not need to hold the priesthood to fulfill them.

Women lead in many positions in the Mormon Church. They lead the womens' organization called the Relief Society. They hold leadership positions for youth groups and childrens' groups. They are leaders in their homes and families and are equal partners with their husbands.

Kristin answered…

This is one of my favorite questions that many people ask, because I'm always so eager to explain it! We believe men and women have different but equal responsibilities. While only men can "hold" the priesthood, numerous church leaders have explained that "men have no greater claim than women upon the blessings that issue from the Priesthood and accompany its possession."
They have also explained that men also NEED the priesthood to make them more compassionate and loving. The Priesthood comes with many responsibilities and duties, and it requires patience, love, and kindness to fulfill them.
Women have many roles in the church and are seen as equal with men. We can teach Sunday School for both adults and children, we head the women's organization Relief Society, offer prayers, give speeches or "talks" in church, and even serve as Cub Scout leaders!
To be more frank, I believe very strongly in the equal rights of women, and those beliefs are not only upheld, but encouraged by the Mormon church. 

Emily answered…

As a women, we don't need to! Women have an innate spirituality already divinely bestowed upon them. They follow the Spirit in their lives as they serve in the church. Women lead in the women's organization, over the children's classes, and teenage girl classes and activities. They also play a critical and active role in the regular councils with local church leaders. Activities, meals, funerals, speaking assignments, service projects, etc are all organized and carried out by women.

G. Smith answered…

Anyone who's spent much time in an LDS congregation knows that if you want something done efficiently, well, and in a spirit of true Christian service, you have only to assign it to the women's organizations, and then stand back out of their way.

Priesthood is sometimes viewed by outsiders (or even some members) as a signal of worth, or rank, or importance. This is, in my view, a fundamental misunderstanding. It is, unfortunately, an all-too-human tendency, as Jesus' experience with the apostles demonstrates:

And there was also a strife among them [the apostles], which of them should be accounted the greatest. But [Jesus] said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. (Luke 22:24-26)

All leadership in the Church is based on a lay clergy--no one becomes a "professional" bishop, priest, or apostle in the Church. There's no course of study that qualifies you for such a role, and one does not put oneself forward for such a calling from our ecclesiastical leaders. ("Ye have not chosen me," Jesus told the apostles, "But I have chosen you.")

So, for most members most of the time (male and female), we will not be in a leadership or prominent role. But, this does not mean we cannot lead or serve--for, the gospel of Christ, true leadership is to be the servant of all. There are far too many needs in and out of the Church for me to personally worry about whether my current efforts are noticed or done in secret. And, in my experience, the women of the Church largely do better than I do at this model of Christian discipleship.

Women do not receive the priesthood for the simple reason that God has not, at this point, called them to that particular duty. For a similar reason, I am not at present a bishop, a priest, or an apostle--I stand ready to serve there or anywhere if asked, but I will not arrogate those positions to myself. Likewise, most women in the Church are eager to do what God calls them to do.

To me, this seems logical. If the priesthood is something besides a mere human conceit or construction, then one cannot have it save from God. And, if the priesthood is only a social idea or way of handing out power, women are better off not being sucked into such pretentions.

This does not mean, however, that women do not contribute to leadership. I meet weekly with wise and capable women whose voices are heard in the councils of Church leaders. The male leaders whom I have had the opportunity to observe closely over many years have, almost without exception, given careful attention to what our sisters in the gospel have observed. Quite simply, the Church cannot function well without the full efforts of everyone, and a willingness to hear wisdom from every and any source.

David answered…

Historically, women have not held priesthood authority in the Church, although at times they have given blessings and participated in priesthood ordinances. I do not know if women will ever have priesthood authority, but I do believe that God grants unto men (and women) according to their righteous desires. Currently, very few women desire the priesthood. Should that change, I would hope that priesthood would be extended to them. But as with all things, the blessings depend on God's will and our desires.

Linda answered…

Heavenly Father's plan includes giving righteous men the priesthood so that they can perform the necessary ordinances and ceremonies essential to completing this journey here on earth. Women also have key roles in Heavenly Father's plan. Mormon women often have leadership positions in the Church particularly in the areas of providing for the spiritual and physical welfare for other families, teaching youth and children, and in supporting the priesthood leaders as they perform their responsibilities. Women are a powerful influence in this world whether it is as community leaders, mothers, business leaders or in less conspicuous social ways such as in families, neighborhoods and in the home. I do not feel undervalued or marginalized because I do not have the priesthood. My role is simply different, yet equally as important. Heavenly Father requires both men and women to serve in His Church. It has been this way since the beginning.

Jolene answered…

Worthy men hold the priesthood which is the power of God. The priesthood is used to bless the lives of others through service. I have had many opportunities to serve in leadership positions as a woman in the church. I have served as the leader of the young women ages 12-18, being over their Sunday instructions and weekly activities. I have served as the leader of women ages 18 and up also overseeing the Sunday lessons, the activities and the welfare of each of the women in our congregation. I have learned the importance of working together with those that hold to priesthood to help all to come unto Christ and lift and serve each other. I have been blessed by serving in these leadership positions and have learned many skills and have loved seeing lives change through the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Deborah answered…

The priesthood is all about service - - caring for the widows, the fatherless, blessing the sick, and so on. Women have those desires and talents naturally. I believe men are given the responsibilities of the priesthood to assist them to develop such compassionate feelings and behaviors, to give them the opportunity to be equal to women in this respect.

Valerie answered…

I have been asked this question multiple times. I am very headstrong and will not let anyone put me under their feet, so to speak. So friends are always asking me how I "cope with being in a male-dominated society". It is really not this way. It's like this; When someone in the church is given a so-called "higher" calling, it is not putting them above others, but giving them the responsibility to serve others. So when a man is given the priesthood, it is now his responsibility to serve those who do not have, or do not need it given to them. Society has put the idea into everyone's heads that the more you are given, the better you are then the rest. This is not the Lord's way of doing things. You are given things, then expected to serve others with them.

Roxanne answered…

That is simply the way the Lord set it up. Just like on a sports team where each person has his role, so it is in the Lord's church. And that's ok! Holding the Priesthood doesn't make one better or more important. Those who hold the priesthood just have certain responsibilities, all of which are meant to bless others- both men and women. Women have so many opportunities to lead and serve in the church as well. The women's and youth organizations are led by female presidencies and women can also serve as teachers, organizers, musicians and so forth. We serve beside the men, not behind or ahead of them. So many of my talents and abilities have been utilized and strengthened by holding different positions in the church.

Chaske answered…

Women lead in the Church through the Relief Society, which is the oldest women's organization in America. They are in turn led by the Priesthood of God! This is the way in which God has designed it to be.

Mary. answered…

I am not going to lie, I used to struggle with this question. All of my extended family either don't attend church anymore or not members of this faith. They think this church puts women down, but it is so the opposite. Men and women have different responsibilities. Women are to care and nurture their children, and men get to serve in a differenct capacity by administering the priesthood. The priesthood is a service that men get to perform for others. They cannot administer the priesthood on themselves, just for others. Men cannot administer the priesthood without Christ-like attributes such as faith, hope, charity, and love. Women get to have these attributes through motherhood and men get to have these attributes through serving through the priesthood.

Lorraine answered…

Several years ago, I was called to a position of some responsibility in my ward. Along with being a great opportunity to serve, it was also a tremendous weight to carry. At the same time, I observed even more closely the service rendered by the bishop and the burdens he shouldered, some of which could not be shared. I was happy in my supporting role and realized that it was the best way for me to serve.

That calling also taught me a very important lesson. Most of the things I wound up doing in a leadership role were things I should have been doing as an ordinary member of the organization. You don't have to have the priesthood or even an official calling to be of service. And, after all, that's what it's really all about!

The priesthood allows men to provide leadership when required and to bless other people's lives. Women can do the same things under the inspired direction of their priesthood leaders. A wise priesthood leader supports and encourages the women around him as they serve in their own callings. It's a beautiful balance, and we're all working together for the same goals.

Nathan answered…

Women don't hold the priesthood because they don't need to. Men need it to be able to work in life, and provide for his family. It isn't their responsibility - it's man's.

Mormon women lead the church because of how we regard them as equals. We need their guidance to in turn provide it to others. They give us insight when we need it, and even when we don't. They are our companions.

However, women have their own organization in the Church that allows them to provide work and service. It is the largest structured organization consisting of just the women in the Church in the world. They have their own offices, duties, and structure, allowing them to influence and provide to the smallest unit of the Church from the Presidency.