What is Priesthood?

Join Terryl Givens and Jonathan Stapley as we discuss this Big Question, and find the link to watch the livestream here!

We are honored to welcome Jonathan Stapely to join Terryl Givens in an exploration of priesthood within restoration theology. We’ll be exploring questions such as:

• What really is priesthood?

• Is there a difference between ecclesiastical priesthood and temple/familial priesthood?

• What is the relationship between priesthood and priestess-hood?

Whether a lifelong student of doctrine or the newly curious, we hope this conversation will help you engage more deeply with priesthood and its significance.

In-person attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions of these remarkable speakers. It’s an opportunity you won’t want to miss!

Jonathan A. Stapley is an award-winning historian and scientist. He is the author of Holiness to the Lord: Latter-day Saint Temple Worship (Oxford University Press, 2025) and The Power of Godliness: Mormon Liturgy and Cosmology (Oxford University Press, 2018).

We invite you to participate, either in person or virtually, as we discuss some of the most fascinating theological and historical questions that will come up during this year’s study of the Doctrine and Covenants. We hope you find these conversations enriching and supportive as you walk the journey of faith.

If attending Big Questions is cost-prohibitive, please email events@thecompassgallery.com for details on need-based discounts. Standby seating is available for free (subject to availability) to students and young adults.

Stay up-to-date with future Faith Matters events at The Compass by subscribing to our in-person events newsletter:

We are deeply grateful to our Faith Matters donors for providing the financial support that allows us to host events like this—as a thank you, please enjoy access to the livestreams and recordings of this series: