Women and men can serve in Sunday School presidencies, Church of Jesus Christ says

SALT LAKE CITY — Sunday School presidencies of local congregations can now be created of either all men or all women, following an update to the handbook of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released on Wednesday.

A statement from the church said the leadership opportunity was broadened “to improve teaching and learning” in the church. The change went into effect immediately.

In a letter sent to church leaders on Wednesday, the First Presidency said, “If a man is called as Sunday School president, he must hold the Melchizedek Priesthood, and his counselors and secretary must be male members of the ward. If a woman is called as Sunday School president, her counselors and secretary must be female members of the ward.”

Sunday School General President Paul V. Johnson said the change gives bishops additional options to prayerfully consider who should serve.

“At the time of our call as Sunday School leaders in 2024, the First Presidency gave us a charge — as they have done with previous presidencies — to improve teaching and learning in the church. There are many capable women and men who can help strengthen gospel instruction and foster spiritual growth,” President Johnson said.