The founder of a Mormon women's group who was excommunicated last year is stepping down from the organization.

The Salt Lake Tribune reports that Kate Kelly resigned earlier this week form the executive board of Ordain Women.

Chairwoman Debra Jenson said Friday that Kelly has earned a chance to move forward and focus on other causes.

Jenson says Kelly's work and talent will be missed and that her impact on women in the Mormon community is immeasurable.

Kelly lost her membership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints last year after being found guilty of apostasy, defined as repeated and public advocacy of positions that oppose church teachings.

Ordain Women was founded in 2013 to push for women to be allowed in the all-male lay clergy.

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