The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is also known as the Mormon Church – has a complicated background of race relations. This article offers an objective, factual look at the treatment of blacks in the Mormon Church. It examines the policies and practices that were put in place and the way in which the Church changed to reject the practices and beliefs that were previously linked to race.
Blacks and Mormonism A Historical Review
From 1852 to 1978, the Mormon Church issued a decree that barred blacks from Mormonism to be ordained priests. This restriction was a result of religious interpretations of scripture and the racial prejudices of the period. Black individuals were disqualified from certain rites and responsibilities within the Church, leading to discrimination in the Mormon community. It’s essential to acknowledge that this discriminatory act wasn’t unique to Mormonism but rather revealed the widespread prejudices against race present in American society in that time.
The Mormon Black Peoples, the 1978 Revelation
In 1978, Spencer W. Kimball was blessed with what Mormons consider to be an enlightenment from God concerning the exclusion of Blacks from the priesthood. This revelation is believed as a turning point that altered the long-standing rule. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints declared that Black people could now be granted the priesthood and fully participate in the activities of the Church.
The Church’s current position rejects racist notions, striving for peace and welcoming all persons regardless of race background to embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ. The Church’s doctrine today affirms all people are equal and focuses on God’s acceptance of all people regardless of race, gender, socioeconomic situation, or other. For more information, click Mormons and Black People
Joseph Smith’s Fair Treatment of Black Individuals
Despite the racial prejudices of his time the Mormon Church’s founder, Joseph Smith, demonstrated fairly fair treatment for Black individuals. Historical records indicate that Joseph Smith ordained some Black men to the priesthood in his lifetime. This practice was consistent with Smith’s stance on equality and inclusion within the Church. But, the next leaders introduced policies excluding Black people from priesthood, reflecting the changing society’s attitudes towards race in the late 19th century.
Racism Resolving it and working towards unity
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is taking important actions to fight racism and encourage unity within its members. The Church leadership has released statements disproving previous racial beliefs and practices. They state that racism of any form is incompatible with the doctrines of Jesus Christ and the core doctrines of the Church.
The Church actively encourages understanding, respect, and love among its diverse membership which affirms the importance and worth of each person. Members are educated about the importance and rejection of prejudiced views, as well inclusion, cultural awareness, and sensitiveness.
The article’s conclusion is:
Understanding the past of Blacks in Mormonism and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints’ development in addressing racial issues is crucial to fostering unity and promoting equality. This unpopular policy, which restricted Blacks being ordained into the priesthood for more than 100 years, has been a significant element of Church history. The revelation of 1978, however, was a significant moment, signaling an embrace of inclusion and equality.
The current position adopted by the Mormon Church opposes racism and promotes equality. It also advocates love and acceptance for all of its members. Through addressing the historical prejudices against race, and taking steps to progress towards equality, the Mormon Church is moving forward toward harmony and understanding.