The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints – also known as the Mormon Church – has a complex background of race relations. This article is an honest, objective examination of the way in which people were treated by Blacks in the Mormon Church. The article outlines the policies in place and how the Church was able to change its position to decry previous beliefs and practices that are linked to racism.
Blacks in Mormonism History Overview
From 1852 to 1978, the Mormon Church issued a decree which prohibited blacks from Mormonism to be ordained priests. This policy stemmed from the interpretations of scripture as well as the religious beliefs that were prevalent at the period. The black community was not allowed to take part in certain rites or responsibilities of the Church. This resulted in segregation within the Mormon community. It’s important to realize that this discriminatory act was not exclusive to Mormonism It reflected the pervasive racial prejudices that were prevalent in American society during that era.
The Mormon Black Peoples, 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 an “divine revelation” regarding the exclusion of the priesthood of Black people. The revelation was considered to be an important event that reaffirmed a policy in place for more than a century. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has confirmed that Black people are now able to hold the priesthood and fully participate in all aspects of their church.
Today, the Church rejects racism and welcomes all people, no matter their race, to embrace Jesus Christ. The doctrine is now announcing the equality of everyone insisting that God loves everyone, regardless of race, gender, or social class. 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 prejudices prevalent at the time. Historical records indicate that Joseph Smith ordained some Black men to the priesthood in his time. This was in line with Smith’s teachings about equality and inclusion in the Church. The Church’s leaders who embraced Smith’s guidelines imposed policies which barred blacks from priesthood. This reflected the changing attitudes towards race at the turn of the 19th century.
Racism in the United States: A Call to Act
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints leaders have taken important steps to fight racism in the present and work for unity between its members. The Church’s leadership has issued statements in which they denounce previous racial beliefs and practices. They emphasize that racism in any form goes against the principles of Jesus Christ and the core doctrines of the Church.
The Church actively promotes understanding, acceptance, and love within its diverse community, affirming the value and worth of each person. Efforts are made to educate members about the importance of inclusion, cultural sensitivity and to reject discriminatory beliefs.
The conclusion of the article is:
Knowing the background of Blacks in Mormonism and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints the evolution of addressing racial issues is crucial in fostering unity and encouraging equality. The restriction of Blacks from the priesthood for more than 100 years represents a hurtful section of the Church’s history. In 1978, the disclosures about the policy were a turning point, signaling a dedication to inclusion and equality.
The current policy of the Mormon Church is to reject discrimination, promote equality, and promote tolerance and love among its members. The Church has actively moved forward by addressing its past racist prejudices and is making real advancements. It is working to ensure that all members feel welcome and respected in the Mormon community.
