In Mormonism, priesthood refers to God’s restored authority given to worthy male members. It is viewed as the power to act in God’s name, perform ordinances, and lead within the Church (Gospel Topics: “Priesthood”).
The Aaronic Priesthood is the introductory priesthood for boys twelve and older and for adult male converts. It oversees preparatory duties such as baptisms and administering the sacrament.
The Melchizedek Priesthood is considered the higher priesthood held by worthy adult men. LDS teaching states that this priesthood was restored to Joseph Smith by Peter, James, and John and gives Church leaders the authority to direct the Church and its ordinances (True to the Faith, p. 101).
Biblical Christianity teaches that Jesus Christ alone is our great High Priest, and all believers—male and female—share equally in a spiritual priesthood through him (1 Peter 2:5–9). No special class of men holds exclusive authority to mediate between God and humanity.
