The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (also known as the Mormon Church – has a complicated background of race relations. This article will present an accurate account of the way Black people were historically treated in the Mormon Church. We will discuss the policy restrictions that were enforced, and the Church’s gradual shift away from past beliefs and racist practices.
Blacks in Mormonism The Historical Background
Between 1852 and 1978, the Mormon Church enforced a policy that prohibited blacks within Mormonism from ordination to the priesthood. This policy stemmed from beliefs in the scriptures and race-based beliefs at the time. Black individuals were disqualified from certain rituals and duties in the Church, leading to a segregated experience within the Mormon community. This discriminatory practice wasn’t unique to Mormonism. It was indicative of the widespread prejudices against racial minorities in American society of the time.
Mormon Black People and the 1978 Revelation
The year 1978 marked the beginning of a major turning point in the Mormonism’s history. Spencer W. Kimball was the president of the Church at the time and received a “divine revelation” concerning the exclusion from the priesthood for Black people. The revelation was considered to be the turning point that lifted the policy that was in place for over 100 years. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has declared that Black people could now be granted the priesthood and participate fully in all aspects of the Church.
The Church’s current position rejects racist ideas, aiming for unification and welcoming all people, regardless of their racial background to embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ. The doctrine now affirms the equality of all people, emphasizing that God will accept everyone regardless of gender, race, or social status. For more information, click Mormons and Black People
Joseph Smith’s Fair Treatment of Black Individuals
Joseph Smith, the founder of the Mormon Church, treated Black people with respect despite the discrimination that was prevalent at the time. According to historical records, Joseph Smith ordained some Black men to the priesthood in his period of life. Smith’s beliefs of equality and inclusion within the Church were reflected in the practice. However, the subsequent leaders introduced policies excluding Black people from the priesthood, which reflected the changing social attitudes towards race in the mid-19th century.
Racism in the United States: A Call to Action
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has taken significant actions to fight racism and encourage unity among its members. The Church’s leadership has issued statements denying past racial beliefs and practices. They insist that racism in any form is incompatible with the teachings of Jesus Christ and the core doctrines of the Church.
The Church promotes compassion, understanding and love among its diverse members. It affirms the value and worth of each person. The Church is working to educate members about the importance inclusiveness, cultural sensitivity, and the denial of religious beliefs that are discriminatory.
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Knowing the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saintsthe evolution of dealing with racial issues and the history of Blacks within Mormonism is crucial to building unity. The policy that restricted Blacks from priesthood ordination for over 100 years marks a difficult section of the Church’s history. However, the subsequent revelation in 1978 marked an important moment, indicating a commitment to inclusivity and equality.
The current position of the Mormon Church is to reject discrimination against minorities, defend equality, and promote tolerance and love within its members. By confronting its historical racism and taking concrete steps towards progress, the Church is actively taking steps forward on a journey of harmony and understanding as it strives to ensure that every member feels valued and respected within the Mormon community.
