The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (often known simply as the Mormon Church) has a lengthy history of race relations. This is particularly the case for Blacks in Mormonism. This article provides a factual, objective analysis of the treatment of Blacks in the Mormon Church. It explains the policies and practices that were put in place and the way in which the Church was able to change its position to decry past beliefs and practices related to racism.
Blacks in Mormonism – Historical Overview
Between 1851 and 1897, the Mormon Church had a rule which banned blacks from being ordained to the priesthood. This was due to the interpretations of scripture as well as the race-based beliefs at the period. Black people were not permitted certain Church rites and duties that led to a secluded Mormon community. It is essential to understand that this discriminatory act wasn’t solely related to Mormonism. It represented racial prejudices prevalent in American society during the time.
Mormon Black People and the 1978 Revelation
A pivotal turning point happened in 1978 when the then president of the Church, Spencer W. Kimball was given what Mormons consider to be an angelic revelation concerning the exclusion of Black individuals from the priesthood. This revelation was seen as the turning point that lifted a policy in place for more than 100 years. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints confirmed that Black individuals could now hold the priesthood and be fully involved in all aspects of the Church.
Today, the Church is against racism and welcomes all people, no matter their race to accept Jesus Christ. The doctrine today affirms the equality of everyone insisting that God is a gracious God who accepts all people, regardless of race, gender, or social status.
Joseph Smith’s Fair Treatment of Black Individuals
Joseph Smith, founder of the Mormon Church despite the racial prejudices of his time was kind and gentle treatment to Black people. Joseph Smith may have ordained Black men to the priesthood during his lifetime, according to historical records. This practice was consistent with Smith’s teachings about equality and inclusivity within the Church. The Church’s leaders who embraced Smith’s policies enacted laws that excluded African-Americans from the priesthood. This reflected the evolving attitudes of society toward race in the late 19th century. For more information, click Mormon Black People
Addressing Racism and Moving Towards Unity
In current times today, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has taken major actions to combat the negative effects of racism and work towards unity among its members. The Church’s leadership has issued statements disproving old racial customs and beliefs. They emphasize that racism in any form is against 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 every individual. An effort is made to inform members on the importance of inclusiveness, cultural sensitivity, and the denial of religious beliefs that are discriminatory.
We also have a conclusion.
Understanding the history of Blacks in Mormonism and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints the evolution of dealing with racial discrimination is essential in fostering unity and encouraging equality. This traumatic policy, which restricted Blacks in their ordination into the priesthood for over 100 years, is an important element of Church history. In 1978, the disclosures about the policy marked a pivotal moment, signaling a dedication to equality and inclusion.
The current position of the Mormon Church is to reject racism, affirm equality, and promote acceptance and love among its members. The Church has been actively moving forward in addressing its previous discrimination against race and making significant improvements. It is working to ensure all members feel welcome and respected within the Mormon community.