SALT LAKE CITY — Divorced Mormons and single men 31 and older may now serve as temple ordinance workers, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints confirmed on Wednesday.

Until now, single men could serve as temple ordinance workers through age 30. Women already were eligible to serve beyond age 31.

The updated policy removed a waiting period following a divorce.

The policy was circulated to temple presidents last week. The faith has 157 operating temples.

LDS temple worship differs from Sunday worship. Temples are reserved for members in good standing while anyone can attend Sunday worship services in one of the faith's 30,000 congregations.

Temple ordinance workers can officiate in temple ordinances. They must be endowed, hold a temple recommend and have a recommendation from their priesthood leaders. Mormons are endowed in adulthood. Priesthood leaders give temple recommends to members who have completed the preliminary steps of faith, repentance, baptism and confirmation and who pay a full tithe.

Temples are considered “houses of the Lord,” where the teachings of Jesus Christ are reaffirmed through marriage, baptism and other ceremonies that unite families for eternity.

A senior church leader dedicated the faith's 157th temple in Tucson, Arizona, on Aug. 13.