The story of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints which is often called the Mormon Church, holds a multi-layered story about race relations, specifically with regard to Blacks in Mormonism. This article provides a factual examination of the way Black individuals were treated historically within the Mormon Church. We will discuss the policy restrictions that were enforced and the church’s shift to abandon the past practices and beliefs.
Blacks are part of Mormonism – A Historical Overview
Between 1852 and 1978 between 1852 and 1978, the Mormon Church was able to enforce a rule which barred blacks from Mormonism from ordination to the priesthood. This was due to the interpretations of scripture as well as the racial beliefs of the time. Black people were denied certain Church rites and duties which led to a segregated Mormon community. This discriminatory practice wasn’t unique to Mormonism. It was indicative of the widespread racial prejudices within American society at the time.
Mormon Black People and the 1978 Revelation
In the year 1978, Spencer W. Kimball received what Mormons believe to be a revelation from God regarding the exclusion of African-Americans from priesthood. This was believed to be a pivotal event that lifted an old policy that had been in effect for over 100 years. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has confirmed that Black people can now hold the priesthood and participate fully with all aspects of the Church.
Today, the Church has rejected racism, and welcomes anyone, regardless of their race to accept Jesus Christ. The doctrine affirms equality for all, and emphasizes that God will accept anyone regardless of race, gender, or the status of their social life.
Joseph Smith’s Fair Treatment of Black Individuals
Joseph Smith, founder of the Mormon Church despite the racial prejudices of his time, showed a compassionate and fair treatment of Black people. Joseph Smith is known to have conferred Black people with the priesthood during his time. This was in keeping with Smith’s teachings about equality and inclusion in the Church. The Church’s leaders who embraced Smith implemented policies that barred African-Americans from the priesthood. This reflected the shift in attitudes towards race in society towards race at the beginning of the 19th century. For more information, click Mormons and Black People
Affronting Racism and Moving Towards Unity
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints leadership has taken important steps to fight racism and promote unity among its members. The Church’s leadership has issued statements in which they denounce historical racial practices and beliefs. The Church’s leadership has issued statements disavowing the past race-based beliefs and practices.
The Church aims to promote compassion, understanding and love within its diverse community. It affirms the value and value of each individual. Members are educated about value of and the rejection of opinions that are discriminatory, as well inclusion, cultural awareness and sensibility.
The conclusion of the article is:
Understanding the past of Blacks and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints progress on race is crucial to ensure equality and promote unity. This unpopular policy, which prevented Blacks’ ordination into the priesthood for over 100 years, has been a significant aspect of the Church’s past. The announcements concerning this policy marked a turning point, signaling a dedication to inclusivity and equality.
The current position of the Mormon Church opposes racism and promotes equality. It also advocates the love and acceptance of every member. The Church has been actively moving forward by addressing its past racism and has made significant progress. It strives to ensure that all members feel valued and respected within the Mormon community.