Carter Hails LDS Priesthood Edict

President Carter Saturday praised the Mormon Church First Presidency for its decision to open the church's priesthood to male blacks.

President Carter, in a telegram to President Spencer W. Kimball of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commended the action for "compassionate prayerfulness and courage "

In action Friday, the church's First Presidency, which includes Presidents N. Eldon Tanner and Marion G. Romney in addition to President Kimball, ended racial restrictions on priesthood membership—a practice dating back to the early days of the Mormon Church.

Friday's announcement said all worthy male members of the church may be ordained to its priesthood "without regard to race or color."

The White House released the text of President Carter's telegram to the LDS Church prophet.

It said "I commend you for your compassionate prayerfulness and courage in receiving a new doctrine. This announcement brings a healing spirit to a world where we seek to remind all men and women that they are brothers and sisters."

No further word about the unprecedented action came from the church Saturday. A Mormon Church spokesman said the church's general authorities feel Friday's statement speaks for itself. No additional statements are planned or anticipated, he said