LDS Church Names New Director of Public Affairs

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has named a new managing director of public affairs to oversee its widespread media operation.

The Salt Lake Tribune reports that Richard Eyring Turley Jr., who is the church's assistant historian and recorder, was appointed to the position Tuesday. He will be replacing Michael Otterson, who is retiring. The 60-year-old Turley has spent his entire career working for the church. Throughout the decades, he has supervised the Church History Department and wrote essays exploring Mormon theology and history.

Otterson is stepping down Aug. 31. During his tenure, he managed dozens of staffers around the world. He also launched the church's "I'm a Mormon" ad campaign and wrote defenses for the religion's refusal to ordain woman to its all-male priesthood.